I started my list from 0 to over 200 in 2 months by joining jv giveaway events I joined around 4 close together and paid to upgrade so that I could offer 3 reports and not need to promote the event too much Then when I got to around 200 I continued with giveaways without paying to upgrade and was then able to promote the events to my list. Now I also do adswaps with other list owners
i can not find the "subscribe" button.. I have to look for it.... make it bigger?? ideally you place your opt-in forms where your "feedback" is .. and it will stay on top of the screen all the time
contests and free stuffs could be great ones to attract visitors initially, thereafter it is content that matters.
PPC is very good too. You have to test first and be very careful but is real good to drive targeted traffic.
There are many ways to create free subscribers list..The best way is to start a contest on your site or offer an e-book to your customers..