On today’s episode, James discusses Bank Robbing & Copywriting with Greg Ellis. Greg had a unique experience of copywriting in prison. Tune in to his inspiring story, and listen for some classic insights that you too can apply in fundraising!
Off to Copywriting
Greg hails from New Hampshire. After graduating from college, he worked for Senator Humphrey. One of his colleagues then referred him to Eberle Associates.
That’s when he started in direct mail fundraising. He got hired as copywriter despite his lack of experience.
Robbing Out of Sight
Despite his success at Eberle Associates, Greg tended to an addiction. He spent his earnings to keep up with it. He eventually got fired out of the company.
Unfortunately, Greg found it difficult to leave drugs. He needed money to maintain it. Inspired by a book he read, he decided to rob banks.
He did so for around ten times until the police finally caught him. Consequently, he served his sentence for 16 years.
Writing Against Drugs
Greg wrote copies while in prison. He is thankful to Declan Bransfield of Eberle Associates for the writing assignment he had. He was pleased to help someone avoid a miserable future in prison.
James recalls writing against drugs. Nowadays, it’s more difficult to craft such messages in direct mail. According to Greg, there has been a change in attitude for the last 5 to 10 years.
To hear about Bank Robbing & Copywriting with Greg Ellis, download and listen to the entire episode.
If you’re short on time, here are the highlights of Bank Robbing & Copywriting with Greg Ellis:
About Greg Ellis (00:24)
Copywriting in prison (4:35)
Importance of a good devil (17:16)
File segmentation (25:34)
Implementing techniques (30:31)
Expert vs jack-of-all-trades (36:40)
Piece of advice (41:22)
