Grateful for the work and the words here. I came for the poetry (and Patti Smith) and fell down the rabbit hole -sometimes I think I’m in wonderland, sometimes startled, sometimes console, always fascinated, mostly it’s delight.
Absolutely! It's empowering to see independent creators thriving and being able to reach a wider audience while also being fairly compensated for their work. The rise of platforms like Substack truly shows that we, the creators and consumers, have the power to shape and influence media in our own hands. We are indeed the media now, and that is a powerful and exciting evolution
I started the Coppell Chronicle on Substack after one of Coppell’s two weekly newspapers shut down. After 3.5 years, I’m knocking on the door of the 1,000-paid-subscribers threshold. My goal is 3,000 paid subscribers, because the last time one of our city council elections went to a runoff, 3,000 voters turned out.
What I have noticed is it all depends on what you write. I prefer writing fiction and not all people want to read fiction. So therefore I don't have that many paid subscribers.
I discovered Bob from his searing account of the dreadful treatment he got from his employer, and knowing a thing or two about that (and having a warm place in my heart for the Davis/Sacramento area) , I pitched in. What I didn't expect was how quickly I've become attached to Bob's writing. A star. is born, at a time when we need voices like Bob's more than ever.
I love Bob's attitude. As a fellow writer in my 70's, he is inspirational. I just started my Substack and am just realizing the freedom it brings to just write what you are interested in.
"The most meaningful thing for me is the opportunity to continue writing my column on a regular basis and engage with readers all across the country and, literally, the world." - hear hear, Bob!
Thank you for this inspiring Q&A, Hannah and Substack, and thanks for introducing me to yet another great newsletter to subscribe to
How do you write everyday? How do you develop a following? Do you lean on politics, social problems, or none of the above? I only have one subscriber? I feel like I haven't figured it out. Please offer sage advice. I sincerely need honest help.
I write compulsively on whatever seizes me. I don't know how many subscribers I have because my goal isn't to build subscribers, but to get whatever is bouncing around in my head out onto paper or screen. I'm also technologically challenged so half the time I can't even find my own substack to post what I've written. This is just my own opinion, but whatever you love doing, do it because you love it, not for subscribers, money, fame, celebrity etc.
The point about being honest and truthful to your real opinions: pure gold. It’s hard for many of us — who likes to offend? — but I really think it’s key to pursuing truth and meaning in real life.
“Is that a sandwich shop?” 😂 No, but it should be!
"SUBSTACKS: Come for the good sandwiches, stay for the great reads." 😉😬📚
I think we're onto something here!
It would be a cafe/bookstore/writers haven.
Brilliant!
Sandwiches and books are two of my favourite things!
"Substack Sandwich: Where Every Bite Tells a Story"
Bob is a legend! The talent on substack is also off the charts, which leads to more audience and compensation for all. We are the media now.
Grateful for the work and the words here. I came for the poetry (and Patti Smith) and fell down the rabbit hole -sometimes I think I’m in wonderland, sometimes startled, sometimes console, always fascinated, mostly it’s delight.
Yes!
Absolutely! It's empowering to see independent creators thriving and being able to reach a wider audience while also being fairly compensated for their work. The rise of platforms like Substack truly shows that we, the creators and consumers, have the power to shape and influence media in our own hands. We are indeed the media now, and that is a powerful and exciting evolution
I started the Coppell Chronicle on Substack after one of Coppell’s two weekly newspapers shut down. After 3.5 years, I’m knocking on the door of the 1,000-paid-subscribers threshold. My goal is 3,000 paid subscribers, because the last time one of our city council elections went to a runoff, 3,000 voters turned out.
1000 paid already! Wow, I have 1! Fair play to you 🙌🏻
What I have noticed is it all depends on what you write. I prefer writing fiction and not all people want to read fiction. So therefore I don't have that many paid subscribers.
Crush it, Dan
You got this Dan!
I discovered Bob from his searing account of the dreadful treatment he got from his employer, and knowing a thing or two about that (and having a warm place in my heart for the Davis/Sacramento area) , I pitched in. What I didn't expect was how quickly I've become attached to Bob's writing. A star. is born, at a time when we need voices like Bob's more than ever.
Thanks a million, Annette
Such a nice story about how difficult moments can be catalyst for positive change, congrats Bob!
I love Bob's attitude. As a fellow writer in my 70's, he is inspirational. I just started my Substack and am just realizing the freedom it brings to just write what you are interested in.
Very inspiring! I showed this to my mother and she is considering a new Substack column, too!
"The most meaningful thing for me is the opportunity to continue writing my column on a regular basis and engage with readers all across the country and, literally, the world." - hear hear, Bob!
Thank you for this inspiring Q&A, Hannah and Substack, and thanks for introducing me to yet another great newsletter to subscribe to
Substack is getting better by the day 🧡
Inspiring on so many levels! Thank you for this.
kudos to Bob 💪🏼
thanks for sharing, Hannah
🙏🏼
such an inspiration! Thank you for the interview!
How do you write everyday? How do you develop a following? Do you lean on politics, social problems, or none of the above? I only have one subscriber? I feel like I haven't figured it out. Please offer sage advice. I sincerely need honest help.
I write compulsively on whatever seizes me. I don't know how many subscribers I have because my goal isn't to build subscribers, but to get whatever is bouncing around in my head out onto paper or screen. I'm also technologically challenged so half the time I can't even find my own substack to post what I've written. This is just my own opinion, but whatever you love doing, do it because you love it, not for subscribers, money, fame, celebrity etc.
I write a for an hour or so everyday
Wow! This is incredibly inspiring... Go Bob!!!
Go Bob!!
The point about being honest and truthful to your real opinions: pure gold. It’s hard for many of us — who likes to offend? — but I really think it’s key to pursuing truth and meaning in real life.
Better to offend than to stay ignorant.
Agreed. And better to offend than to lie.
What a refreshing story!
Love this