Why Some Emails End Up in Spam (And What You Can Do About It Today)

Have you ever wondered why some emails charm their way into your subscriber’s inbox while others vanish into the dreaded spam folder?

This isn’t a mystery…it’s strategy.

And if you’re a content entrepreneur, your email approach needs to be just as intentional as your social media or podcast content.

Because when you hit send, it should land.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I share how email compliance, sender reputation, and delivery strategy are evolving...and what business owners must do to keep up.

Content Entrepreneurs: You’re Running an Email Business, Too

You may not call yourself a “content entrepreneur,” but if you’re publishing podcasts, creating videos, blogging, or running any sort of consistent email newsletter…you are one.

You’re building a brand. You’re delivering value. And you’re showing up consistently.

And just like any entrepreneur, how you distribute that content matters.

Free Email Accounts Aren’t Enough Anymore

One of the biggest missteps I see?
Sending bulk emails from a free Gmail account.

If you’re still emailing your list from [email protected], it’s time for an upgrade.

This isn’t just about looking professional (though that matters)…
It’s about deliverability.

You need a branded domain email (like [email protected]) to be seen as a legitimate sender...by inbox providers and your audience.

Deliverability Depends on Trust (and Tech)

To keep your emails out of spam and in front of your audience, you need to set up three key pieces of infrastructure:

• SPF (Sender Policy Framework)
  

• DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)
  

• DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication Reporting and Conformance)

These might sound technical, but your email platform...whether it’s MailChimp, ActiveCampaign, AWeber, or ConvertKit...usually walks you through setup.

Think of them as your email passport and visa. They confirm your identity every time your email shows up at someone’s inbox door.

Build a Healthier Email List (Even if It’s Smaller)

Let’s bust the myth: a huge email list is not the goal.

An engaged list is.
And that means…

• Keeping your spam rate under 0.1%
  

• Making it easy for people to unsubscribe
  

• Removing cold subscribers regularly

If someone hasn’t opened in 6+ months, they’re not your audience. Let them go.

Don’t take it personally...you only want your true fans and buyers on your list.

Tools That Keep You Out of the Spam Folder

• Use a reputable email platform like ActiveCampaign or ConvertKit
  

• Set up domain authentication with SPF, DKIM, and DMARC
  

• Monitor your sender reputation with tools like Google Postmaster
  

• Verify new subscribers to keep bots off your list
  

• Make unsubscribing easy...don’t make people jump through hoops
  

• Run re-engagement campaigns before removing inactive subscribers

Why Email Strategy Still Matters

Social media platforms are always changing.
Your followers could disappear with a single algorithm update or platform pivot.

But your email list?
That’s yours.

It’s a direct line to the people who have already said, “Yes, I want to hear from you.”
Protect that. Respect that. And make sure your emails are built to arrive and convert.

Final Thought

If you’re creating content…
You’re already putting in the work.

Make sure it reaches the people who need it most.

That starts with treating your email list like the powerful business asset it is...and giving it the strategy, systems, and structure to grow with you.

Want help strengthening your list or choosing the right email platform?
Let’s talk. I can walk you through it.

Visit katiebrinkley.com to get started.

And don’t forget to listen to the full episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing for a deeper breakdown of everything we’ve covered here.