A monthly telephone conference that the list owner organizes in order to bring together your list membership for networking exchange and added value. Sharing information on your list which can't be found anywhere else without significant cost. Setting up a positive set of beliefs that your list will share, and using your list to debate and shape the beliefs or convictions of your list community. Anything which generates exclusivity for your list members. Lower list attrition, which means you'll keep your members longer.
More members posting means more unique perspectives.
The list owner is highly regarded and respected as the leader of this community vs. being just a regular list moderator. Higher quality and much more qualified list member, which raises the value of the discussion. Increased value of your list as an asset. So, before you send me all kinds of feedback, saying cults are bad, I beg to differ. You can create a positive cult in a highly engaged email list community which is very beneficial for the list owner, list member and list advertiser because you have integrity and know your guiding purpose is to provide value for others.