From 8 million to #21 on Technorati

**SkiRat44** · 10-15-2007, 10:21 AM

You might find this difficult to believe, but 12 months ago I didn’t own my domain name, had never touched a piece of WordPress code and knew nothing about blog design. In other words, everything I’ve done with WordPress and blog design in the past year has been self taught, using trial and error.

So a year ago, I started using Blogger and contacted the person who owned my domain name - BrianGardner.com. It wasn't being used, so I was able to work out a deal with the person owning it - which ultimately worked out.

After a month of using Blogger, I realized that there were limitations, so I quickly jumped on board WordPress, and began tweaking a free theme I downloaded. I ended up releasing a number of themes for people to download, and also created Revolution and Revolution News premium themes as well.

I have gone from #8,000,000+ in Technorati rank all the way to #21, where I am currently at. It has been a fun ride, and I am closing in on the day that I am able to quit my dayjob and work freelance design as I develop my own media company.

One thing that I've learned in my blogging/internet experience, is that it really helps to have friends that can encourage and help you out. I'd like to recognize David Adams from CPA Affiliates as well as Cory Miller from Cory Miller Media for all of the hours you've spent with me online.

**xboxundone** · 10-15-2007, 10:26 AM

thats a great story showing that even those that are just getting started cause rise to the top!!!

**Hobbit** · 10-15-2007, 11:18 AM

Nice. I remember reading about your site on John Chow.

**handsome rob** · 10-15-2007, 01:18 PM

Yea I remember the Revolution theme announcement... nicely done.

**Chantel** · 10-18-2007, 05:02 PM

SkiRat44,

Congratulations on your success. Your story inspires me, so I "backed" you.

Best,

Chantel

**LeeD** · 10-18-2007, 08:33 PM

Very nice work Brian!

**ssetd** · 10-19-2007, 02:46 PM

Your story has been a big inspiration to me, Brian. Thank you, for all you do.

Don

**SkiRat44** · 10-19-2007, 11:16 PM

Thanks to all who have left comments and for the support. Lee, great contest - glad that big Dave told me about it!

**briansol** · 10-22-2007, 06:28 PM

from the first few pages of techno, nearly all are from your theme being used on other sites. i'm curious what your numbers would be with out that. any idea?

not trying to rain down the parade.. just curious

**Scanene** · 10-22-2007, 06:53 PM

You are doing very well. Congrats. You are right: It's great to have extra support from friends and family.

**robtencer** · 11-01-2007, 03:26 AM

did you run a viral link post to get the technorati traffic, or how did you go about getting that many links? that is a crazy amount.

**Sunflyer** · 02-09-2008, 07:07 PM

thats nice to hear. I bought one of your themes btw

**zenithh08** · 02-14-2008, 10:58 PM

I was glad to know about your success story. Congrats from me too.

**fisalnk** · 02-15-2008, 07:01 PM

Congrats! Good inspiration to take...

**Brandon** · 02-16-2008, 03:59 PM

Nice job and beautiful styles

keep it up!

**Lefty.13** · 02-18-2008, 03:15 AM

Incredible story bro.:thumbup:

**zazo** · 03-26-2008, 09:36 AM

Congrats for the achievement mate! well done!

**adrianak** · 03-28-2008, 01:35 PM

Hate to be repetitive but, congratulations. Your story has inspired me to do more with my blog. When I started it I was really excited and wrote every day, it's been months since my last post bc i've been having some problems with some codes but I'm definitely going to take it up again.
I love your designs by the way.

**peterlh35** · 04-17-2008, 04:03 PM

congratz and your story is a great sucess. Keep up the hard work and i know u inspire a lot of people out there that want to do what your doing.

**mg1313** · 06-02-2008, 02:00 AM

I like the design of your site. Very nice! Congrats for your fun ride

! Keep it going....