Author’s note: Gael and Mark decided to discontinue Authority Hacker because they think the niche site business model is no longer worth pursuing due to recent Google changes.
Instead, if you’re interested in starting an online business in 2025 and beyond, here is my top recommendation.
If you've looked into building an authority website as a way to replace your 9-5 income, you've likely come across Authority Hacker. Their famous course, The Authority Site System (TASS), promises to teach you everything you need to know to create a profitable authority site from scratch.
But does it really deliver on that promise? Can the training actually help total beginners quit their jobs within 12-18 months?
In this extensive Authority Hacker review, I'll dive deep into what TASS 3.0 offers, who created it, what real students say about their experience, whether it's worth the price tag, and plenty more.
By the end, you'll have all the information you need to determine if Authority Hacker's training fits you well. Let's start at the beginning...
What Exactly Is Authority Hacker?
Authority Hacker is an online education company founded by Gael Breton and Mark Webster in 2014. The company provides comprehensive training programs on building authority websites through search engine optimization (SEO).
Their most popular course is The Authority Site System, also known as TASS. Now, in version 3.0 it's designed to teach beginners with zero experience how to research, launch, and grow an authority site from scratch.
An authority site is a content-focused website that targets long-tail, low-competition keywords to rank high in Google and become a trusted resource on a particular topic.
For example, an authority site in the hiking niche would create detailed "best of" articles comparing the top hiking boots, ranking the best national parks for avid hikers, explaining how to train for hardcore backpacking trips, and more.
These sites earn an income mainly through affiliate promotions for relevant products (e.g. linking to hiking boots on Amazon and getting a commission for each sale referred) and displaying ads on the site. However, the focus is on providing high-quality, valuable information first and monetizing second.
The Authority Site System aims to teach you the ins and outs of how to research, build, and grow an authority site from A to Z. They also have more advanced training called Authority Hacker Pro, which is open once or twice a year.
This includes selecting a profitable niche, conducting keyword research, building your site on WordPress, creating quality content optimized for SEO, doing proper on-page optimization, building backlinks, leveraging affiliate promotions, tracking analytics, and scaling the business.
The goal is to take you from zero to having your own authority site built, ranked, optimized, and equipped to start earning a consistent passive income stream within 12-18 months.
Who Are Mark Webster and Gael Breton?
Mark Webster
Gael Breton
Mark Webster has been building successful online businesses since 2008. He specializes in creating efficient systems and processes for authority site-building.
Mark started by building niche sites while working a 9-5 corporate job. Eventually, he was able to quit and focus on his sites full-time. Since then, he's built dozens of authority sites across many different niches.
Gael Breton is an experienced online marketer who has spoken about online business topics at major universities like Oxford, Harvard, and Wharton. He focuses on high-level strategy and planning for authority sites.
Gael has helped small businesses and Fortune 500 companies succeed online over his 10+ year career in internet marketing. He co-founded Authority Hacker with Mark in 2014.
Mark and Gael complement each other nicely with their unique skill sets. They've built authority sites across many different niches, including "Your Money or Your Life" niches like finance and health. Authority Hacker has grown significantly and is now a thriving business.
Both Mark and Gael are well-respected in the authority site-building community. They've been featured on popular industry podcasts like Niche Pursuits and Empire Flippers.
Their expertise comes from building successful sites and continuing to operate them for years after launch. This real-world experience allows them to keep strategies up to date based on constant testing and optimization.
You can watch the video below to get a feel for their teaching style:
What's Included in The Authority Site System 3.0 Course?
The Authority Site System 3.0 course consists of 16 core modules containing over 190 video lessons totaling 100+ hours of training. This makes TASS one of the most comprehensive authority site courses available today.
Here's an overview of what's covered in each of the modules:
Module 1 - The Authority Site System Business Model 101
The course starts with the essentials. In Module 1, you'll learn:
- Exactly how authority sites drive traffic and earn money
- Core concepts of Internet marketing
- SEO fundamentals
- Affiliate marketing basics
- How modern websites are built and hosted
This critical foundation enables total beginners to get up to speed on how successful authority sites work before diving into the specifics.
Niche Finder
Niche Finder GPT helps you find and identify profitable, low-competition niches aligned with your interests and skills. Niche Finder makes discovering your ideal business niche simple (requires ChatGPT Plus subscription).
Module 2 – Finding niches
Next is the all-important process of identifying potentially profitable niches for your authority site. In Module 2, you'll learn:
- How to brainstorm niche ideas aligned with your interests and skills
- Where to research popular niches online
- How to compile a list of promising niches for further research
Niche selection is vital to success, so Authority Hacker dedicates several modules to this process.
Module 3 – Qualifying Niches
You now have a broad list of potential niches. Module 3 shows you how to qualify them to identify the very best opportunities.
- Evaluating niches for estimated traffic potential
- Finding sites ranking well for niche keywords
- Estimating keyword competitiveness and cost-per-click
- Assessing seasonality, growth trends, and link opportunities
- Researching social communities and credibility factors
- Final niche selection based on extensive research
These rigorous qualification steps will save you months of wasted effort by picking a winning niche from the start.
Module 4 – Planning Your Site
With your niche selected, Module 4 guides you through planning out your site in detail before development begins.
- Researching competitor sites for insight
- Identifying affiliate programs and product keywords
- Brainstorming cornerstone content and mapping your site
- Creating a complete site blueprint to follow
Again, Authority Hacker focuses heavily on in-depth planning and research to set you up for long-term success.
Module 5 – Setting Up Your Site
Now, it's time to put that blueprint into action. Module 5 walks you through getting your authority site online:
- Registering a domain and getting hosting
- Installing WordPress and setting it up properly
- Choosing an optimized theme for your niche
- Configuring essential plugins like Rankmath
- Setting up Google Analytics, Search Console, and other necessities
Even tech newbies can follow along to get their site live by the end.
Module 6 – Branding Your Site
An authority site needs more than just a generic template theme. Module 6 dives into creating a unique brand:
- How to choose complementary colors and fonts
- Designing a custom logo with Canva
- Creating branded images and graphics
- Applying branding across your site for a consistent look
Get ready for a site that looks professionally designed, even if you have zero graphic design experience.
Module 7 – Setting Up Posts and Pages
With the branding set, Module 7 focuses on structuring your site content using proven templates.
- Setting up site navigation menus
- Configuring blog post layouts
- Creating templates for key pages like Contact, About Us, Disclaimer, etc.
- Structuring posts and pages for growth
Following Authority Hacker's optimized templates will streamline your content creation process.
Module 8 – Creating Info Content
Now, it's time to start adding actual content. Module 8 reveals how to create the most valuable "informational" articles:
- Different types of informational content
- How to structure questions and list-based articles
- Following Authority Hacker's proven templates
- Guidelines for satisfying and helpful content
Informational content builds authority and traffic without needing to monetize directly.
Module 9 – Writing Content, Step by Step
Module 9 gives you an over-the-shoulder look at the entire process of researching, writing, and editing your first authority site articles:
- Step-by-step demonstration from start to finish
- Where to research related articles and videos
- How to plan the article structure
- Tips for writing the introduction and conclusion
- The editing process to polish your work
These lessons aim to make quality content creation accessible for all.
Module 10 – Optimizing and Publishing Content
Your content isn't done once it's written. Module 10 dives into optimizing each piece of content for SEO:
- Setting accurate meta titles and descriptions
- Structuring URLs for keywords
- Adding images and graphics
- Interlinking to related content
- Proper use of headings, tables, and other HTML
- Publishing and indexing content the right way
On-page optimization is critical for search engines to understand and rank your articles.
Module 11 – Initial Link Building
The focus shifts to link building in Module 11. You'll learn three proven tactics:
- Guest posting outreac
- HARO links from reporters
- Skyscraper content and outreach
Gaining backlinks remains crucial for SEO rankings, making this TASS 3.0 module incredibly valuable.
Module 12 – Affiliate Setup
It's time to start earning! Module 12 reveals how to integrate affiliate marketing:
- The pros and cons of various affiliate programs
- Signing up for affiliate accounts
- Following program terms to avoid bans
- Reviewing affiliate disclosure practices
- Linking to affiliate offers properly
You'll learn how to choose the right high-paying affiliate programs and avoid getting blacklisted with this insightful training.
Module 13 – Writing and Optimizing Commercial Content
Module 13 expands on monetization with "commercial content" designed to convert readers into buyers.
- Product reviews, comparisons, and roundups
- Headline and content templates proven to sell
- Structuring articles to maximize conversions
- Optimizing commercial content for organic and affiliate traffic
Commercial content earns you affiliate income while also building more authority.
Module 14 – Advanced Tactics
With the core training complete, Module 14 offers an a la carte selection of advanced lessons like:
- Hiring freelance writers
- Automating content creation
- Building private blog networks
- Implementing conversion rate optimization
- Email list building
- Selling your authority site
Pick and choose tactics to scale your earnings even further.
Module 15 – Becoming an Authority
Finally, Module 15 reviews how to track your progress and continue growing your site after completing The Authority Site System 3.0:
- Creating tracking spreadsheets
- Joining advanced Facebook groups
- Setting up monthly monitoring
- Reinvestment strategies and content outsourcing
- Continuing your authority site education
- Avoiding burnout with sustainable systems
Authority sites require ongoing care and feeding. These strategies will keep you thriving long-term.
Bonuses Included
In addition to 15 core modules, The Authority Site System also includes some incredibly helpful bonuses:
- New Site To-do System: Always know exactly what task you should focus on next using our done for your new site to-do list.
- The Templates Library: Downloadable templates for content, outreach emails, spreadsheets, and more to shortcut your efforts.
- The E-E-A-T Blueprint: Prevent Google Core Updates penalties and showcase your expertise to Google.
- Software Discounts: Exclusive deals on essential tools like Ahrefs and Elementor so you can save money.
- Authority Hacker Support: Get direct access to their world-class support team of marketers if you have any questions.
- Members-Only Community: Connect with thousands of site builders, ask questions, follow case studies, and get help.
- Free Lifetime Updates: Always stay up to date as strategies evolve with free access to new training videos.
These bonuses add tremendous value on top of the core training, especially the private Facebook group, which we'll discuss more in a bit.
What Format Is The Training In?
The Authority Site System course includes two key components:
1. Video Lessons
Each module contains step-by-step video lessons walking you through that section. Mark and Gael explain concepts clearly using over-the-shoulder demonstrations.
The production quality is excellent. You can download any lesson to watch it offline, too.
2. Action Items Checklist
A built-in "Project Manager" feature provides an action-step checklist for completing tasks after each video.
This ensures you take action on your site as you go through the lessons rather than just passively watching. Accountability is so valuable.
The Project Manager also lets you track your progress with due dates for major milestones within the course.
The blended video lessons and action checklists provide a cohesive learning experience. You'll not only gain knowledge but see tangible progress on your authority site each time you log in.
Who Is The Authority Hacker Training For?
The Authority Site System course is intended for:
- Complete beginners looking to replace their income with an authority site
- People who have dabbled with authority sites but struggled to gain traction
- Intermediate site owners earning up to ~$5k/month who want to optimize and scale up
The core strategy focuses on building a "Stage 1" authority site centered around organic search traffic and affiliate income. This model can reliably produce $2k-10k monthly within 12-18 months.
Advanced tactics introduced later can push earnings up to $10k/month (Stage 2 & Stage 3) and beyond. But TASS starts with the essentials beginners need while leading up to more sophisticated strategies.
That said, the course is comprehensive, with over 190 video lessons. While designed for beginners, having some familiarity with WordPress, SEO basics, and online business does help.
Newbies may feel overwhelmed learning internet marketing concepts and technical site skills simultaneously. The Project Manager checklist aids progress for all skill levels.
If you're willing to hustle through the steep learning curve, you can go from zero to a thriving authority site business, even if you're starting from scratch. TASS will teach you what you need to know.
But how much effort does it actually take?
How Much Work Is Involved?
Let's get this out of the way upfront:
Building a profitable authority site is not easy, nor a get-rich-quick scheme.
Depending on your skillset, expect to put in 10 or more hours of work per week for at least six months.
This involves tasks like:
- Conducting extensive niche research
- Creating and publishing content
- Optimizing pages for SEO
- Manual outreach for backlinks
- Testing different affiliate products
- Staying up to date with Google algorithm changes
Patience and persistence are required, especially in the beginning stages.
But here is the good news:
The upfront work pays off exponentially over time. The goal is to build an asset that generates income passively month after month.
Authority Hacker teaches you to do the work smartly as well. You're given shortcuts and templates, so you don't have to reinvent the wheel for every site task.
The training also covers outsourcing parts of the process to freelancers once you have some revenue coming in.
Overall, expect an intense learning curve for at least 3-6 months. But with consistent effort, you gain the skills and systems needed to make this a highly profitable business.
Next, let's look at what real students have to say...
Authority Hacker Reviews: What Do Actual Students Say?
The general consensus from TASS students is very positive overall. Here are some observations from looking at various Authority Hacker reviews and testimonials:
- Most reviewers say the training is comprehensive and easy to understand, even for total beginners.
- Numerous students report earning anywhere from $500 to over $50k per month using the TASS training.
- People highlight the active private Facebook group and helpful support team as significant benefits.
- Regular course updates keep the training relevant as Google's algorithms change.
- Critics mainly cite that building an authority site takes consistent time and effort. But Authority Hacker sets clear expectations that this is not a get-rich-quick scheme.
Here are a few excerpts of reviews from real TASS students:
"I'm just starting out, and my site is still far from being profitable, but I genuinely believe that taking this course has been one of the best investments I've made. The training provides a wealth of useful skills that cover everything you need to know to start an affiliate marketing website."
"We purchased and worked our way through the Authority Hacker affiliate marketing course at the recommendation of a friend. I believe they have updated and changed some of the content since then.
However, it was an incredibly comprehensive course that covered everything, from settling on a niche, building a website, how SEO works, link building, key websites to be aware of (Google Analytics and Ahrefs, etc), and how to write good content."
"I've loved the Authority Hacker course and found it super helpful and exciting. It might sound odd, but I was reassured that the guys are a little nerdy and not overly 'slick'. Mark and Gael are great presenters and very clear, but also genuine affiliate marketers and not flashy YouTubers."
Most critical reviews seem to come from people who expect to get rich instantly without consistent effort. But Authority Hacker is clear from the start that you should expect to work hard for at least 12 months before seeing significant income.
With over 13,000 students, hundreds of video testimonials, and many documented case studies, the training can work well if you apply it correctly.
Here's what Thomas Smale, the Chief Executive at FE International, the largest website broker had to say in his Authority Hacker Review.
"After selling hundreds of millions of dollars of websites across over 600 transactions, I can say one thing: The websites that come from members of the Authority Hacker courses are consistently high quality both from their content and link profile.
This makes it extremely easy for us to offer Authority Hacker students 6- or 7-figure exits from their sites if they want it, as our success rate selling Authority Hacker members' sites is 94.1%, which is well above the industry average."
Next, let's look at the all-important question of cost.
How Much Does The Authority Hacker Training Cost?
The Authority Site System is currently discontinued starting in 2024.
Considering you get full lifetime access to the training, free updates, and a bunch of bonus resources, the price is fair compared to the immense value delivered.
While not exactly cheap, the cost is likely less than what you would spend for a single university class yet provides far more practical skills.
For context, here's how TASS compares to other popular authority site courses:
- Affiliate Lab by Matt Diggity: $997
- Project 24 by Jim Harmer $499 / year
- Adam Enfroy's Blog Growth Engine $1,497
So, the Authority Site System is priced competitively for the amount of content and value provided.
Authority Hacker also occasionally offers discounts of up to 60% off for TASS. So, if budget is a concern, signing up for their email list to get notified of deals can help lower the investment.
Just don't expect the huge discounts to happen frequently.
There are no upsells pushed after signing up, either. The only potential additional purchases some students opt for are tools like:
- Hosting, if you don't already have one.
- Ahrefs: $99+/month for keyword research and link building
- Elementor Pro: $180/year for site builder features
But these services are optional, not requirements. You can find free alternatives to start.
What's The Refund Policy?
The Authority Site System course comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
According to Authority Hacker:
We offer a 30-day "no questions asked" money-back guarantee. If you join today, you can try the whole program for 30 days and then decide if you want to keep it.
If you don't get life-changing value out of the course, if you don't have time to implement it, or even if you don't like the font we use in the lessons, we will give you a full refund.
So you can go through the entire course, implement what you learn, and still request a refund within 30 days without any pushback. Authority Hacker's generous refund policy allows you to test drive the training practically risk-free.
Just note that any optional tool subscriptions you purchase must be canceled separately per those companies' policies.
Authority Hacker Course Alternatives
Authority Hacker is arguably the most polished and comprehensive authority site course. But it's not the only option.
Here are a few of the top Authority Hacker alternatives to consider:
Affiliate Lab
Created by expert affiliate marketer Matt Diggity, Affiliate Lab focuses on advanced affiliate monetization strategies. It's less hand-held for beginners compared to TASS.
Project 24
Project 24 (Income School) by Jim Harmer and Ricky Kesler takes a simplified approach to authority sites, focusing more on YouTube. It also covers remote work.
Blog Growth Engine
This course, created by Adam Enfroy, reveals unconventional tactics that skyrocketed his income. It's better for intermediate bloggers.
Read my Blog Growth Engine review.
Each Authority Hacker alternative has pros and cons compared to TASS. Do your due diligence to assess which training style and monetization focus best match your goals and learning preferences.
Is Authority Hacker Worth It In 2025? Final Verdict.
So what's the final verdict?
Is Authority Hacker's Authority Site System training worth your precious time and hard-earned money in 2025?
After extensive research and direct experience with the course, my opinion is...
Absolutely, 100% yes.
Assuming you're willing to hustle, TASS provides tremendous value and can easily pay for itself many times over through the income your authority site earns.
The Authority Site System is worth it because:
- It's still the most comprehensive beginner authority site course available. The step-by-step lessons leave no stone unturned.
- Mark and Gael are real experts who walk the talk. Their continued success speaks for itself.
- Thousands of students have achieved results using the training. Proven to work.
- Incredibly generous refund policy means you can risk-free test drive the whole course.
- Ongoing updates are included for life.
- The cost is reasonable compared to the tremendous ROI for your future business.
If you want to build a real, thriving long-term business online...
And if you're willing to put in consistent effort for 12+ months...
Authority Hacker provides the roadmap and skills you need for ongoing success.
Just don't expect overnight results. Stick with the process, implement what you learn, and your authority site can replace your income on auto-pilot.
The time and effort required is temporary. However, the business asset and income potential is limitless.
Overall, The Authority Site System stands out as a top-notch authority site course that can make any beginner into a thriving expert. I highly recommend checking it out.
Ready To Get Started With Authority Hacker?
Hopefully, this review gave you a comprehensive inside look at what Authority Hacker's training offers.
To recap, you'll gain access to:
- 15 core course modules
- 190+ step-by-step video lessons
- Action checklists guiding you along
- Niche research and content templates
- Entry into the private TASS Facebook group
- Discount codes and other exclusive bonuses
Plus, with Authority Hacker's generous refund policy, you get 30 days to go through the full course risk-free.
Keep hustling, and remember that consistency pays off exponentially. Wishing you massive success on your authority site business journey!
