Hey there, and welcome! I’m Michel (Mike) Snook, the founder and primary voice behind The Smart Affiliate. I’ve been deep in the trenches of online business and affiliate marketing since 2009. Over the years, I’ve just about seen it all—from incredible systems and programs that delivered, to plenty that fell flat. Through all those ups and downs, I’ve learned what truly works and what’s just noise in this ever-evolving digital landscape.
I lean into the more technical side of things, thanks to my background in electronic technology and computers (I also hold degrees in management and small business ownership). And fair warning: I’m pretty direct. I’ve been called brutally honest—some might even say pessimistic—but I see myself as a realist.
My journey to online success has definitely been a roller coaster, complete with thrilling highs and frustrating lows. My best earning years were 2010 and 2016, both times as an affiliate marketer. I’ll admit, many of my stumbles came from chasing “shiny objects,” spreading myself too thin, and being reluctant to invest in proven tools due to recurring fees.
But here’s the kicker: I’ve realized that the effort you put into any business—online or off—is exactly what you’ll get out of it. If you’re not willing to invest in yourself and your business, who else will?
Now, I’ve got solid systems in place and I’m focusing on a select few affiliate programs (like Amazon and eBay). My goal as founder of The Smart Affiliate is to share my real-world experiences with you, helping us grow together. I’m genuinely glad you’re here and invite you to join me on this journey!