Streamlining Eight Publications, Boosting Engagement, And Simplifying Newsletter Ops At Scale

Situation

Andrew Curry, VP of Digital Strategy at Los Angeles Magazine (LAmag), oversees multiple print and digital newsletters under the LAmag brand and its regional extensions (Pasadena, Orange Coast, etc.). As a legacy media organization adapting to modern reader habits, Curry aimed to reduce costs, improve reliability, and boost engagement in an increasingly digital-first environment.

Challenge

LAmag was previously using HubSpot, a platform not designed for high-frequency editorial newsletters. Frequent bugs, saving errors, and limited newsletter-specific functionality created workflow friction and jeopardized campaign accuracy. With eight publications to manage and scale, Curry needed a more reliable, newsletter-first platform that could also justify a better ROI.

Solution

Curry migrated all eight newsletters—ranging from The Daily Brief to Pasadena Special Offers—to beehiiv, citing ease of use, significant cost savings, and strong support. Key features used:

• Polls, A/B testing, and 3D Analytics for engagement and performance optimization.
• Segmentation and conditional content to personalize reader experiences.
• Flexible ad tools and custom design support for monetization and aesthetic consistency.
• Recommendations to cross-promote between publications and maximize growth.
  

Results

• Saved $32,000 annually by eliminating HubSpot costs.
• Increased click-through rates and improved newsletter deliverability.
• Gained more accurate analytics for optimized send times, audience segmentation, and advertiser performance.
• Strengthened monetization through direct sponsorships, customized ads, and embedded audience engagement.