The Growth Formula Nobody Talks About: Retention + ARPU Beats Acquisition

In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Rotella, a product leader who’s helped brands like Weight Watchers, Verizon, and top startups build high-retention, high-ARPU apps that turn downloads into lifelong subscribers. Mike’s obsessed with one thing — making apps people keep using. He breaks down why retention and ARPU growth aren’t outcomes of acquisition — they’re the growth strategy. He’ll share how combining habit-forming design, contextual activation moments, and leveraging AI can turn installs into sustained subscribers — without blowing the budget on ads spend. If you’re building a subscription app, this episode shows you exactly what to do after the install to keep users hooked, engaged, and paying. You will discover: ✅ The growth formula nobody talks about — Retention + ARPU beats Acquisition ✅ How to turn installs into subscribers in the first 24 hours ✅ The habit-loop framework behind top 10% free-to-paid conversion rates ✅ How to show value before the paywall and prevent early churn ✅ How light AI insight amplifies retention Learn More: 📱Abide – Bible, Prayer, Meditation App https://apps.apple.com/us/app/abide-b... 💼 Connect with Michael on LinkedIn   / rotella   Get unlimited access to all of Abide’s meditations and bedtime stories. Get 25% Off Abide Premium! 🚀 https://abide.com/ref/appmasters Join us LIVE and get a chance to win one year of free premium access. ********************************************* SPONSORS The new Appsflyer Benchmarks site Attention mobile marketers! Want to invest smarter? The new AppsFlyer Benchmarks site is here! Check out performance over time across countries, media types, and app categories to find growth opportunities, optimize spend, and see how you stack up. With two years of data, quarterly updates, and an upcoming AI co-pilot, it’s the must-have tool for smarter UA. Check it out today and take the guesswork out of your next move. Check out now: https://tinyurl.com/2mjzyyje ********************************************* 🚀 Launch a high-performing branded Web Shop in minutes—or build a fully custom storefront without the hassle. Xsolla’s modular solution reduces platform fees, supports 1,000+ global payment methods, and ships with built-in LiveOps and customization tools—so every purchase puts more revenue back in your studio’s pocket. Check out now: https://tinyurl.com/43hda5tf ********************************************* Get training, coaching, and community: https://appmastersacademy.com/ Get your app audited: https://appmasters.com/audit/ CONNECT WITH US: Instagram:   / stevepyoung   TikTok:   / stevepyoung   Twitter:   / stevepyoung   Facebook:   / appmastersco   Blog: http://www.appmasters.com/blog ***************