Asheville, North Carolina
Start Your Own
Tiny Magazine
Now you can own and run your very own tiny magazine for Asheville, North Carolina. Create a lifestyle that works for you by earning more and working less. Help and support local business owners in your community while creating long-term, recurring, dependable income for yourself and your family
- Be Your Own Boss
- Flexible & Remote Lifestyle
- Create Great Long Term Relationships
- Work Less - Earn More - Recurring Revenue
Important: This is NOT a franchise offering. You’ll operate independently, under your own brand. You’re not required to use our name, systems, or branding. This is a materials license only, with optional tools and guidance.
HELPING NEW PUBLISHERS MAKE $3K to $5K PER MONTH FROM HOME PUBLISHING THEIR OWN TINY MAGAZINE.
What's In it for You?
Create Positive Media
Build Community
Make Money
Have Fun
LocalsGuide
HyperLocal Publishing Model
Introducing a fun and flexible way to launch your own tiny local magazine—using our optional publishing tools, templates, and training resources. In as little as 30 days, you can be up and running with your own community publication, under your own brand or name of choice.
This is not a franchise. You’ll operate independently, with the freedom to adapt everything to fit your unique style and goals. We provide a toolkit that includes example publishing workflows, marketing templates, and an automated billing system—designed to help you work smarter, not harder. Whether you’re in Asheville, North Carolina, or beyond, you’ll have the resources to create something truly your own.
A successful local micro startup media model is both community-driven and profitable!
Live a good life, have fun... share the abundance!
- Shields Bialasik - Founder & CEO
Asheville, NC
Special Opportunity!
Hi, I’m Shields Bialasik, the creator of LocalsGuide. I appreciate you stopping by and taking the time to learn more.
I’ve put together this page to introduce a limited-use license that gives you access to the tools, templates, and publishing systems I’ve developed over the past 18 years. This is not a franchise—you’ll operate independently, under your own name or brand, with the freedom to adapt the materials however you’d like.
If you’d like to chat and explore whether this creative publishing model is a good fit for your goals, just click the button below to set up a time.
Warm regards,
Shields Bialasik
Founder, LocalsGuide
Asheville, North Carolina
FAQ
Absolutely! While launching a local magazine does require some initial effort and time investment, it can be an incredibly fulfilling and creative endeavor. You’ll want to become familiar with core areas such as:
Business Setup
Local Advertising Sales
Magazine Layout & Design
Basic Operations & Workflow Management
The toolkit we provide includes access to optional templates, example workflows, and video guidance to help you get started. You’re free to adapt everything to your own approach and style, and there’s no required system or brand usage.
With consistency and creativity, many independent publishers have built meaningful projects using this model—and you can too, in your own way.
In general, many independent publishers find that producing a micro magazine can be managed in about 12 to 20 hours per month, depending on your workflow and creative approach. Once local advertising is sold, production tasks often become more manageable, and with experience, the process tends to become smoother and more efficient.
Since you’re operating independently, you’ll have the freedom to set your own pace, adapt your tools, and structure your publication in the way that works best for you.
This model is well-suited for individuals who care deeply about their communities and want to create meaningful, locally focused publications. If you’re passionate about storytelling, local connection, and highlighting the voices of businesses and neighbors, this independent publishing toolkit may be a great fit for you.
By using the materials provided—and adapting them however you choose—you’ll have the flexibility to build something that reflects your values and vision. Whether your focus is creative expression, community service, or sustainable entrepreneurship, this resource supports you in crafting your own path.
Many independent publishers find that with focused time and effort, they can begin setting up their magazine and exploring ad sales within a few weeks. The included toolkit offers optional guidance and templates to help you move at your own pace—some choose to publish their first issue within 30 days, while others take more time to shape their unique approach.
Benefit 1
Unmatched Authority:
Become the go-to source for Local Marketing & Media
Establish yourself as a trusted authority in your community!
Locally Owned
Marketing Focused
Givers - Gain
Quality Not Quantity
Would you spend
$300 to earn $3000?
Local Marketing That Works!
Sell Ads Easily & Quickly
Flexible Tools. Local Ads. Your Way. Use our customizable templates to build ad relationships and structure your publication—no scripts or systems required.
🛒 Sell Your Ads
💰
Turn on Auto-billing
⏰
Run Your Publishing Routine
🎉
Enjoy Your Life!
MODULE 1: Overview & Ethos
Discover the creative and community-driven spirit behind the LocalsGuide publishing model. In the first module of the toolkit, you'll get an overview of the independent publishing approach we've developed—along with optional insights into the strategies and structure that have worked for others. You’re free to adapt, modify, or build your own version entirely. Whether or not you choose to use the LocalsGuide name, the materials are here to support your unique goals and vision.
MODULE 2: Business Setup
Module two provides optional guidance on setting up the foundational elements of your independent publishing business. This includes practical tips on areas like business registration, licensing, website setup, email, phone, banking, and more. These resources are offered to support you—adapt them freely to suit your own brand, structure, and local needs.
What Locals Are Saying
I have been impressed with the LocalsGuide as a resource for the Rogue Valley Community and it has done wonders for my business. After my interview and ad I received over 40 client conversations, calls, and/or inquiries about my business just in the first 3 weeks! Now that’s effective advertising!
Green House Cleaning
Eric G.
Ashland Greenhouses loves the connection we make with our community through the LocalsGuide.
Ashland Greenhouses
Sarah - G
One of the main factors in the success of my new business is my work with the LocalsGuide. If you want to see your business grow, LocalsGuide is the way to go.
Barbershop
Matt C.
The interview and adds I had in the LocalsGuide produced far more new clients for me than any other advertising than I have ever done. The interviews are a great way for people to get to know about you and the nature of your business in way that print adds alone could never do.
Animal Kind - Veterinary
Jeffery J, DVM
With one interview and two monthly ads I was set with work for over two years. That is how much of an impact three months with LocalsGuide gave me, I received 25 calls from the interview alone from people who were interested in my services.
Massage Therapist
Christopher N.
My recent feature in the LocalsGuide was a huge success! It gave me the opportunity to share in depth about myself and my healthcare approach, attracting many new patients and an overwhelmingly positive response from our community. Thank you LocalsGuide for providing an intimate and effective way for me to engage our community.
Chiropractor
Dr. Casey
The LocalsGuide published a story about my piano business two years ago, and I am still receiving clients as a result of that article! I received five phone calls the day after the article appeared, and the requests have been occasional but continuous ever since. The LocalsGuide not only generates business, but builds community. I love reading about my neighbors, and everyone I know read that article about me!
Music Instructor
Lisa R.
When Your Advertising Works Too Well...
PLEASE HELP ME: I cannot get my phone to stop ringing. I am a local dog walker… I can only walk 3 to 4 dogs at a time. I thought it would be a good idea to run an ad in the LocalsGuide to increase my business… I have had so many phone calls now I am afraid to answer my phone!!
Local Dog Walker
Alice W.
Benefit 2
Exclusive Content:
Local Content ensures that your publication stands out
with fresh, captivating, and valuable content & insights!
Build long term online equity with every new interview, and article you publish!
Hyperlocal Publishing Model
Never Write A Word?
What if you never had to write a word—unless you wanted to? Our toolkit includes ready-to-use templates you can fully customize or replace. Your magazine, your voice.
Local Media Matters
Local Business Columns
Local Interviews
Community Profiles
Local Podcasts & Webinars - BONUS
MODULE 3: Local Media Creation
Learn how to create compelling local media that truly reflects the voice of your community. Use the LocalsGuide toolkit as a flexible set of resources to help support and enrich your area—on your own terms.
What does a publisher do?
This is the best job in the world...
Sell Advertising
The tiny magazine features 24 specific spots to sell. Once sold and placed onto contract your job is done.
Build Relationships
Not only will you be helping local business owners build great relationships in your community, this will be a great opportunity for you to make new friends as well.
Boost Your Local Economy
Introduce and drive engaged readers to support local businesses that make your town unique.
Coach Business Owners
Not only will you be helping create prosperity for your community you will also be coaching and offering great advice to local business owners.
Support Community Endeavors
Use the power of local media to get behind and support community endeavors.
Benefit 3
Boost Your Influence:
LocalsGuide offers flexible training and resources you can access anytime to support your independent publishing journey.
Simple Design & Layout With:
Magazine School
The Fun Part of The Month
Step-By-Step Online Training
Easy to Use & Straightforward
Pre-made Templates & Designs
Expert Help & Advice
Build long term online equity with every new interview, and article you publish!
MODULE 4: Design & Layout
Magazine School introduces optional templates and tools to help you design and prepare your publication for print—your way, at your pace.
Benefit 4
Automated Billing & Revenue
Never Chase A Past Due Payment
Bill Before You Print
Fully Automated System
Reports & Revenue Planning
Customer Management Made Easy
Billing on Autopilot
Monthly Income
As an independent publisher using the LocalsGuide toolkit, you’ll have access to optional resources designed to support your revenue-building efforts. Understanding key elements like billing routines, rate cards, email reminders, and expense planning can help you structure your magazine in a way that works best for you.
Billing Routines & Reminders
Rates Cards & Subscriptions
Email Templates & Reminders
Expense Management & Planning
MODULE 5: Local Sales & Billing
Explore strategies for understanding your audience, positioning your publication for ad sales, and clarifying your value to local businesses. The toolkit includes examples and insights you can adapt to fit your unique approach and goals.
Benefit 5
Work Independently, Anywhere:
Design your own schedule and work environment—whether from home or a local workspace. The toolkit supports a flexible approach that fits your lifestyle.
Advertiser Exclusivity
Relationship Building
Local Market Mindshare
Expert Positioning
Expert Positioning
LocalsGuide interviews, articles and webinars position you as the local expert, all the while giving you a consistent and powerful local platform through which to reach your audience.
Attention & Engagement
Local readers give their highest attention to your monthly publication. They grow to love, trust and depend on it as a valuable resource guide.
The Riches are in the Niches...
We are not focusing on creating thousands... of useless magazines... NO, we are creating a limited edition of a highly sought after local resource guide.
Local Marketing Secrets Methods:
REVEALED
We don’t rely on gimmicks. We focus on delivering thoughtful, consistent content that highlights local businesses and keeps readers engaged—earning genuine attention and trust from the community.
EXCLUSIVITY
Our model allows you to offer limited ad space per category—helping maintain value for participating businesses and encouraging early placement.
Relationship Building
We build great relationships period! Customers get to know and trust advertisers. Advertisers experience successful marketing in LocalsGuide.
Mindshare
Consistent, long-term exposure helps local advertisers stay top-of-mind—building trust and strong community presence over time.
MODULE 6: Local Marketing Experts
LocalsGuide offers a focused approach to local marketing that can benefit both independent publishers and the businesses they serve. The toolkit includes optional resources to help you understand and communicate this value effectively—adaptable to your own goals, brand, and style.
Benefit 6
Attention to Detail
Amplify your voice and impact in community by publishing
positive media that is interesting, engaging and valuable.
Never Under Estimate Profit Margin
Although some magazines may promote their extensive page count, we prioritize our valuable free time and strive for a profitable outcome.
Create A Superior Product
From Start To Finish
Print on glossy, double-sided paper for a polished look—just one of many ways to create a standout publication that fits your vision.
MODULE 7: Printing
Finding a reliable printer is important—and our toolkit includes recommendations to help you get started.
MODULE 8: Distribution
Once your publication is printed, it’s time to share it with your community. This module offers optional guidance on developing a distribution plan—including example routines and mapping tools you can adapt to fit your goals and location.
Benefit 7
Unlock High Earning Potential:
Your potential earnings depend on factors like how many editions you choose to run, your advertising approach, time commitment, and local connections. Results will vary based on your unique effort and strategy.
Build long term online equity with every new interview, and article you publish!
Local Online Directory
Worldwide Audience
Extend the reach of your print publication by linking it to an online local directory. Use it to share interviews, articles, and features—while building your email list and engaging readers through a newsletter or social platforms at your own pace.
Clean & Organized Design
Easy To Manage & Maintain
Monetization Opportunities
24x7 Sales Availability
MODULE 9: Online Directory
Encourage readers to connect with your publication online and explore ways to expand your reach through digital channels. Optional tools and ideas for online engagement and monetization are included to support your goals.
Women's Guide
Health & Wellness Guide
Green Guide
Artisan's Guide
Senior Living Guide
Kids & Teens Guide
Tourism Guide
Adventure Guide
Benefit 8
Exclusive Marketing Advantage
Built for your community, your way.
*Optional exclusivity may be available through a separate agreement.
Unlock Exclusive Opportunities
By licensing the LocalsGuide toolkit, you join a group of independent creators using shared resources to build meaningful local publications. Each publisher brings their own voice, goals, and vision to their community.
Get Support - Stay Independent
As a license holder, you’ll have access to new tools and resources as they’re developed. Our goal is to offer flexible materials that support your unique approach while encouraging positive local impact.
Why Asheville, NC is a great location:
Asheville is a city that embraces and celebrates entrepreneurs!
Asheville, NC is a town that celebrates Local.
Asheville, NC is building for the future.
Asheville, NC embraces the benefits of high tech while maintaining a high quality of life.
Asheville, NC has a strong support for the arts including…
The Asheville, NC business community is supported by a robust chamber of commerce which will plan an essential part in helping get you out into the community and introducing you to clients.
Territory & Income
You choose where and how you publish. Income potential depends on your approach, effort, and community connections—results may vary.
Asheville, North Carolina
Population 95,000+ - Residents
Asheville, North Carolina
Benefit 9
Get The Winning Advantage
Locally Focused & Hyperlocally Targeted
Audience Directed
Targeted Content
Local Market Mindshare
Expert Positioning
Independent Media
Become the local media mogul of your town by giving a voice to the people who matter. Recognize small businesses that make a difference and highlight interesting aspects that make a community great.
The Power of Free Local Publications:
Explore the impact of free local magazines! These publications, readily available professional offices, restaurants and high traffic locations around town , not only provide captivating content but also offer a golden opportunity for brand exposure.
Play The Long Game
Local Media Mogul
As a license holder, you’ll receive access to new tools as they’re created. Our flexible resources are designed to support your unique approach and amplify your local impact.
Add New Guides As You Want to Grow
10 Additional Guides Ad-Ons
Expand Your Marketing Reach
Offer Interesting Community Insights
Address Important Community Interests
MODULE 10: Growing Your Guide
Learn practical strategies to manage your revenue and expenses effectively. Our optional resources explore topics like profit margin, cash flow, and customer retention—giving you insights to shape your magazine around your goals, whether you choose to grow or keep it simple.
Benefit 10
Small But... Mighty
The 10 Big Myths TO AVOID About Local Magazines
1) Nobody Reads Print Anymore
Fact: You CAN engage audiences with print media. Print magazines are still widely read and greatly appreciated by people of all ages.
2) Community Magazines Don't Make Money
Fact: You CAN turn a local community magazine into a highly profitable business when priced and sold properly.
3) Local Media is Locally Owned
Fact: You CAN meet or match the interests or needs of a community, as a local person, better than the corporation that typically owns so-called local media.
4) You Need a lot of Advertisers to Make a Profit
Fact: You CAN make a nice profit in a local magazine, with fewer advertisements. You simply need an effectively-priced product with a strong value proposition.
5) You Need to Be A Writer or Journalist to Publish
Fact: You CAN create content for a successful local magazine without being a great editor, writer, or journalist. You simply need to know how to delegate, have good organizational skills, and have a plan to succeed.
6) You Need to Be a Designer To Put Together a Magazine
Fact: You CAN design and publish your own local magazine without a graphic design background. You simply need to hire out the design work or find an easy-to-use online program to help you do the work.
7) Printing is Complicated and Not Affordable
Fact: You CAN print your magazine in a simple, affordable, and accessible way. It’s possible to remotely publish your magazine, and then have it drop-shipped to a final location for distribution.
8) Creating Content Takes A Lot of Time
Fact: You CAN create content for your local magazine both quickly and easily.
9) There Is No Space for Me - Another Magazine Already Exists
Fact: You CAN create your own local magazine and succeed even if there are other local magazines in your town.
10) Magazines Are Hard To Make
Fact: You CAN have the life you want with plenty of free time and flexibility while publishing your own magazine. You will be your own boss and create your own schedule.
Could This Be The Right For You?
10 Reasons to Start
Your Own Tiny Magazine
Start With A Good Plan
Stay focused on the most important tasks at hand. Save money, save time, and achieve your objectives by creating and adhering to a solid plan.
Find A Good Mentor
Surround yourself with experienced and supportive individuals. Then, take active steps towards developing your community magazine.
Discover Your Purpose
Use your magazine as a platform and venue to help and support the best that your community has to offer.
Claim Your Space
Empower local business owners and community members to have their own voice and to tell their own story through your hyperlocal community magazine.
Give Community A Voice
A world in which people can tell their own stories is a good world. Empower your community with a magazine that supports a diverse and unique voice.
Take Leadership
Become a local leader and make a difference in your community with your newfound voice and platform.
Have Freedom to Travel
You only need two things. A good laptop and stable internet connection. With these two things you can work from anywhere in the world.
Be Your Own Boss
Decide how and when you work. Spend time with your family. Set your own schedule and deadlines.
Assemble Your A Team
Set the standard of excellence for your community by acknowledging and celebrating outstanding achievements in business, leadership, and civic responsibility.
It’s Your Turn Now
Take it and run with it to build your own local magazine.
Let's Get Started
Schedule a Call
Talk to an expert and let's decide if this opportunity is right for you.
Claim Your City
Once you have an idea it is time to connect the dots and create a plan.
Online Training
With your plan in place it's time to roll Up Your Sleeves & Get the Job Done.
Start Publishing
Now that your Love Nest is created it is time to ritualize, personalize and grow.
Learn More About
Asheville, NC - Inquiry
Interested in this opportunity? Let’s Talk. Please fill out the form below to setup time to talk with Shields Bialasik and decide if this opportunity is right for you.