This week, we’re taking a break from Office Hours for the July edition of our monthly Shoutout Thread.
We host Shoutout Threads because we know writers want more ways to discover great writing on Substack, and we’re always looking to celebrate writers who are finding a home here. As a writer, it’s beneficial to know other writers—both for collaboration and for inspiration. This thread is a chance for us to get to know one another, and to share what we’ve been reading and inspired by recently on Substack.
To participate, leave a commentbelow and give a shoutout to another writer or Substack you’re enjoying.
Be sure to share the link to the publication of the writer you admire and share a specific reason why you love their work.
Our team will be in the threads today from 10 a.m.–11 a.m. PST / 1 p.m.–2 p.m. EST in discovery and celebration mode with you all.
Tip: Make your shoutout last!Recommendations allow writers to directly endorse each other’s publications on Substack. Writers can select other Substack publications to recommend to new readers, and can add a recommendations list to their publication homepage as a “blogroll.”
So many great reads to explore! If you are new and looking for inspiration for how to use Substack or writers that you might collaborate with, responding to other writes in the thread is a great place to start.
I ask you all to come check out my humble Newsletter, “A.M.’s Newsletter”, because I have an amazing series I call, Horizon Star Walk. On the Planet Oria, Aurora Borealis, Orion Pulsar, Ares Aldrin, and Gemini Taurus are on the run for their illegal activity, the stakes are HIGH for them all. A young Guardian of Oria, Sinsen Orbit, is hunting them down with his Officers backing him up. Will he catch them to be executed before the Queen and King of Oria, or will they successfully escape to Earth? Subscribe to find out!
The team behind substack are unarguably the best when it comes to training on copywriting, I use this wonderful opportunity to say a big thank you to all of you and all substack users who keep these space lively
I'd like to bend the rules a bit and give a shoutout to the people who keep this place running.
It's no secret that Substack had a rough week last week - so this feels like a good time to celebrate something really amazing that Substack does for us writers (one of many things, but this in particular).
Look around this thread, and all the other Office Hours threads, and you see that everyone is different. I don't mean that in the way that gets emptily plastered over inspirational posters - I mean, *really different*. Different topics, ideas, politics, all of it. And yet we're not at each other's throats. (I mean, I don't *think* we are?) By & large, we're not yelling at each other, like everyone is doing on pretty much every other online platform these days. Generally speaking, the tone of threads like this is respectful, interested and helpful, and when there's disagreement, it's the kind that sticks to the point of disagreement instead of collapsing into "you suck" and point-scoring and performative idiot-shaming and all that stuff that makes so much of the internet so utterly exhausting. (Bleargh.)
And I think this is because Katie, Bailey, Jasmine, Helen, Lulu, Dan, Tian, Becca, Ari, Lisa, Christina, all the other folk behind the scenes - and also the folk that are no longer at Substack - have done a truly remarkable job at making this place so welcoming, tolerant, open and, on the whole, fantastically kind. It's one of the things that Substack does best - and it's because these folk are so damn good at their jobs. So I'm raising a glass to 'em. I hope you will too.
(ps. - on the subject of building community, I'm listening to the Audible version of the book Bailey co-authored on the subject: https://gettogether.world/ Already picking up some real gems from it.)
Mike thank you, you are so sweet <3 It's our pleasure. We, too, are in awe of how civil and generous this community is. Thank you writers for showing up for each other as you do!
Haha! I am apparently not in on the “open secret” because I didn’t know Substack had a rough week! But yeah, I agree, I’m loving writing on Substack. I’m still pretty new though, only have a small following and don’t know a whole lot about the larger community, but the tools are amazing! So yeah, huge shout out to Substack crew!
Hi Robin, I'm new, too. And know nothing about a rough week. This week I published my first pieces to Substack. So have no following to speak of. But I am going to keep publishing and building it as I go.
I knew nothing about the rough week either. I started my weekly newsletter about three months ago and still have very few subscribers but am proud of myself for publishing consistently every week. I trust that if I do that long enough and share links on FB and Twitter (where I also have very few followers at this point), over time I will build a following. That has happened with my writing on Medium. Good luck to you and everyone else who is just getting started. Our tribes will find us at some point if we stick with it!
Yes! Do! Also, don’t forget to pick a social media site (I recommend Twitter) and get active. It will help grow your audience! Don’t be aftaid to just focus on one site. I’m on Twitter, FB & Instagram but I mainly focus on Twitter.
I am also new and trying to get my work out there!
If anyone can give more feedback and conversation on how to improve and subscribe to my work I would be more than happy to read, subscribe and share your work as well!
Sherri, I am also brand new to Substack, with no subscribers yet, going slowly and writing pieces and gathering my wits and courage to walk out of the hermit place I have been and into more sharing with others. Scary to step out but also not good to stay hidden. Blessings to you! Wendy at "a bllunt oregon girl"
Welcome to us!! 💐 Yes, it is a process. I had my "profile", I guess that is the word, for almost 2 months or more before I published word 1. And if it had not been for me joining the Hay House Writer's community I still may not have found my voice /courage. The technology part alone still remains a stumbling block. I will subscribe to you. I will be your first :) Blessings to you on your writing journey and knowing that what you have to say matters. 🙏🏻🧡
Sherri, kind thanks for replying back to me. The tech stuff stumps me quite a bit, hence no pictures or photos yet on my site, eventually! I am also a Boomer and turn 70 this Nov. 2022. I am accustomed to being alone, except for my church! Writing is my gift...but the words I share are cautionary, about the darkness of the sexual revolution and my own rebellious, disastrous wanderings away from God. Grateful for Substack. I will subscribe to you site as well!
Robin, I just subscribed (sorry I can’t afford to pay at this point). As a former pastor in a supposedly progressive denomination, I know patriarchy is still alive and well in all churches ( along with racism and homophobia). Glad you’re writing about it. I also have a book recommendation: God is a Black Woman by Christena Cleveland. I am loving it so far, and it’s all about how the cultural perception of God as a white male reinforces patriarchy and racism.
Oh, Thank You! My reading list is long right now, but I will definitely add that one! My reading list right now includes a lot of books dealing with both racial reckoning and patriarchy. I just finished bell hooks' The Will to Change, which deals with both patriarchy and racism, which I cannot recommend enough and Jesus & John Wayne, which I also can't recommend highly enough. I'm working through Talking Back to Purity Culture right now, following which I have Reading While Black, White Fragility, Me & White Supremacy and Bad Fat Black Girl on tap! You know, just a little "light" summer reading!
Oh, that's too bad! I'm working on starting a new podcast and also an in-person series of workshops so I've barely had time to scroll through the Apple News headlines. If it wasn't important enough to make it there, I haven't heard about it!
Substack is trying to sort out its conscience regarding how to respect free speech and hold true sexual predators accountable, esp when those behind the sexual predators make substack a lot of money.
Oh hey, what?!! Okay, now I really gotta Google what’s going on. Yeah, that’s the dilemma for so many businesses. It’s always the shadiest shit that makes the most $$.
Yup, and on substack often it's "controlled opposition." People who pretend to espouse the ideals that those who reject censorship love, but actually they are working for the very people that free speechers most abhor.
Thank you! I'm always honored when men appreciate something I write about patriarchy. I know there is a tendency on the part of some women to assume men are synonymous with patriarchy, but I know it is not true. There is also a tendency to sometimes feel that women who hate patriarchy simply hate men, but, at least in my case, that is also not true.
I believe patriarchy is just as destructive to men as to women. I know that there are men that know and recognize this but there are just as many that get offended because they identify with patriarchy, so they feel any criticism of patriarchy is a criticism of them.
I agree. I also think people need to become more comfortable with criticism and learn to respond less defensively (it's kind of what the show is about?). I found your article to be 100% constructive.
I do very much agree! I see patriarchy as about power-over rather than about gender. It is control-domination, not about what genitalia or gender ID one has...peace.
I agree, but patriarchy is based in the idea that men are supposed to have power over women. It's a system of male supremacy, even if it ends up hurting just as many men as women.
I guess I see Patriarchy in terms of the energy rather than the gender. So it is the negative aspect of masculinity, but it can exist in any gender. And I agree it hurts men as much as women. I have just survived a major sexual harassment issue, but I also know many wonderful men.
100% agree Mike!! The community here on Substack is very welcoming and helpful. I'm also extremely grateful for all the work behind the scenes. It's so very much appreciated! Thank you Substack!!!
Glad to see you here. I saw you a while back. I’m gonna subscribe now. I put out “STONE Email” on Fridays through my newsletter. At times I drop in a movie that I found interesting. It would be good to hear your feedback on them from time.
I totally agree. Substack is simply the BEST platform that I have ever worked with! The ability to satiate several of my creative endeavours - writing, radio (er... podcast) and video is just amazing! And Substack seems super proactive in always adding new tools to help us in our work. Just fabulous!
Agreed. Sometimes I wish I had jumped over a year ago and then I realize that I needed to figure out what I wanted to say first and what kind of writer and audience I wanted to have before making the move, but they have allowed me to speak to all of those needs with their different tools and then keep adding more to make it more complete.
I could not agree more with your comment Mike. I feel the same way about the Substack team. They have created a much needed open atmosphere in this age of unnecessary polarization. I believe new respected institutions must be build to help civil society come out of this social crisis and Substack is surely on the right track to be part of the solution.
Agree totally. I'm so thankful for Substack and especially the work you do in building a community of writers, that's something that has just been so helpful to me.
I agree! And, I like the idea of Shoutouts, as someone who works with kids in the "real" world this is a technique where the newer or more bashful kid can gain a little more self-confidence and or just get to know people they may want to later on introduce themselves to. What I also like about it is it gives newer member/writers like myself a way to get to know more members and get an idea of what they want to read. Or, if they have the confidence they can maybe Shout Out about themselves. That is a technique that is also used in school as well. A personal Shout Out share about something that is important that a student is proud of.
Thank you so much for checking out my newsletter. We are in a strange time, but it’s a pleasure to hear from the individuals trying to fix the problems 🙏☺️
I've been thinking in the past year about how de Tocqueville thought local community associations (and I include journalists and local publications in this) were the glue holding things together. I think he was right....
Thank you so much for checking out my newsletter. We are in a strange time, but it’s a pleasure to hear from the individuals trying to fix the problems 🙏☺️ thanks for subscribing
I love calling the people here "authentic storytellers!" That's my favorite kind of writing to explore (and do) -- just raw, honest stories.
I'm also producing a live storytelling show in D.C. this month that's been inspired by my writing in my newsletter, so I've got storytelling on the brain :D
Good morning everyone! I'll make my own personal shout-outs in a moment, but first I want to shout out ALL of you for regularly making the replies to my encouragement comments so amazing every week!! The way you all show up for each other and for yourselves, asking great questions and urging each other forward, is what encourages ME in my own creative journey. I appreciate you all more than words can express! Keep writing, keep showing up, don't stop! 🌿
I came late to the discussion due to my weekly struggle with finding my way here. I had already written my shout outs, so I could focus on the rest. I just posted them right away, then read S. E.’s post, figured she wouldn’t see it and decided to paste it into a reply to her post.
Usual shout-out to Substack, the blog site on steroids. And the always present and supportive writers who haunt writer’s hour. In particular this week, S. E. Reid, who gets more proactive all the time. Last week she made a suggestion about stifling the Inner Critic, to help open the discussion.
I love Substack and want to join the chorus of people singing the praises of the staff that shows up for the writers day after day. This platform and community owe you so much - thank you!
For my shoutouts, I'd like to mention two newer Substacks that are great for writers:
Stop Writing Alone, https://stopwritingalone.substack.com, which provides lots of great resources and community to writers, including write-ins, writing prompt parties, and discussion about different types of stories and what we can learn from them
Finally, I want to offer a little encouragement to those who aren't seeing their newsletter subscribers grow as fast as they'd like. Keep at it! When I started last year, my first Substack grew very slowly. When people talked about their numbers, I often felt discouraged. But now that first Substack, Story Cauldron, is almost at 500 subscribers and is growing much faster now than I ever could have expected. So to others: keep showing up for your writing, network with other writers, and don't give up!
I think the biggest thing is to just keep writing. Beyond that, getting to know other writers is helpful because they can help promote your Substack through shoutouts like this and the official Recommendations system (which has brought me a bunch of new subscribers). Depending on your content and audience, you might find success by seeking out like-minded Facebook groups or subreddits, but that will vary - I have great success doing that with my history Substack but not so much with my fiction/storytelling one. Some people do collabs or make business cards to hand out to real people, or try other forms of marketing. The best suggestion I have is to try everything that seems to fit for you, and see what works.
Hi Brad! Happy Thursday to you as well! So my dad found his November '94 issue when he was Editor In Chief at New Country with Lynyrd Skynyrd on the cover, and there is a feature on Terry McBride! (As well as Mark Chestnutt and Emmylou Harris.)
Thank you for this Jackie! I think it's best to just keep your eye off the numbers and churn out writing and build community. That's really what I'm writing for anyway: community! I'm excited to network with folks here and am grateful it's so easy to do in this space.
This is exactly how I'm feeling now. Over a year of consistent writing and I have 17 total followers. It can be draining. I hope that one day it'll pay off. Unlike mediums like YouTube, "going viral" doesn't seem commonplace here. Slow and steady wins the race they say, but man it can be frustrating sometimes. I appreciate the optimism, and hope it plays out nicely for my blog
You're not the only one who feels this way. It's like a marathon, I mean the writing engagement with Substack. You just keep going on. It's like life, really.
I'm in my 70's and write an eclectic newsletter about a writer's life in my southern (Tasmania) isle. I haven't had a huge new following (although old followers from my blog were divinely loyal and migrated over) but those who are new to it are engaging and for that I'm grateful and it's been worthwhile doing.
I think the thing is to have no expectations - at least I don't. I'm happy also to keep it free - I'm not famous so who would pay for my thoughts and observations? Numbers are a complication I can do without.
But it's been really worthwhile doing Substack for the newsletters that I now personally follow. They're like breaths of fresh air, making my skin tingle as I see life through their lenses:
It can be difficult if you are a niche writer. I'm in the same boat, I also have a narrow field of interest and don't expect to see explosive growth. I take the attitude that it's more about engaging the readers I do have over the long term. That makes the effort worthwhile. Big numbers aren't the be-all of success although I'm sure they are nice to have.
Goiing viral also has a lot to do with format. I've yet to see anything in long written format go viral except maybe Harry Potter fan fiction. It's uncommon for writing to get that kind of coverage. Video watching is easy, it takes no effort, it's easy to share that and get enthusiasm from people you've shared it with too.
Thank you for pointing that out! It is true that it is so much easier to go viral with a 15-second TikTok that an essay that takes 10 minutes to read! I am thankful that I have a number of readers who take the time to read my essays with how short attention spans are these days...
Campfire Notebook: brynphd.substack.com (a blend of curiosity and creativity, of science and the sharing of science.)
Subject Headings: alisonburnis.substack.com (the life of a medical librarian, expertly written, who talks about her vision challenges and other intriguing topics)
The Bus: thebus.substack.com (combination of science/historical info plus other good stuff)
Mondays: Atlantic Canada Monday: interviews with interesting Atlantic Canadians that I’ve been able to connect with on social media (mainly Twitter). This month I also did a fun group interview with two other Substackers who are based in Atlantic Canada, we traded questions with each other.
Wednesdays: writing about some other topic of interest: creativity, learning, cognition, writing… the “brainy day” - this week featured the start of a series about paper based knowledge management tools, starting with the venerable commonplace book
Fridays: me sharing links to other great articles, newsletters or websites that I’ve enjoyed, things I think you’d also enjoy, the “linky day”
Weekends (optional): whatever comes to mind that I think is important or interesting to share. I might publish fiction at some point, too.
And, as you are seeing today (Thursday) I might publish extra stuff outside of the normal rhythm.
I’m happy with the growth in Month 2:
Traffic (hits) - the number of times people read part of the newsletter
Month 1: 474 visits
Month 2: 2000+ visits - 400%+ increase
Subscribers (e-mail subscribers only):
Month 1 to Month 2: 300% increase in subscribers from 20 to 60 (I’ve added 7 more in the past week so at 67 now)
These are not huge numbers compared to a lot of other newsletters out there but things are heading in the right direction! My goal is to hit 300 subscribers by end of 2022!
Check the newsletter if you haven’t already! Always happy to chat and connect with other Substackers.
Hi Holly! Great news. Give your son an “attaboy” for me! I am glad you found an affordable facility. Mine was bare bones, but the important qualities are a welcoming and caring staff and what we discover about ourselves therein.
When I returned to college to major in Alcohol and Other Drugs Studies, I had a textbook, *Loosening the Grip,” that I gave to my mother who gratefully consumed it and found it quite useful for understanding what had happened to her baby boy and how to support my new life going forward.
It is still available online and inexpensive. When I got home from treatment, I went to a used-book store and bought all the biographies of recovering people that I could find.
More later. I intend to follow the folks who are writing about “addiction.” Perhaps we can get our own tab and share ideas/news/tips & tricks, encouragement etc.
More later. I intend to follow the folks who are writing about “addiction.” Perhaps we can get our own tab and share ideas/news/tips & tricks, encouragement etc.
Thanks for that book recommendation, Pete! While I've worked hard to give my boys freedom to pull away from their mama so they may grow into healthy young men, I am always trying to be a better version me for them (and myself). I look forward to reading it.
On a serious note---that's pretty tough stuff and if you're looking for some reading recommendations, I'd be happy to help point you to some things that helped me
It's tough stuff for sure! I'm thankful for a great facility (and my ability to pay them without eating ramen or beanie weenies every meal!) and for numerous friends who understand the power of story. Please do send any recommendations you have!
One thing I have wondered about is if we addiction/recovery people could get our own tab on the Discover page? I think we end up in various categories but it would make us easier to find for sure
Mmmm that's so interesting and such a good point! I write essays about recovery from mental illness, but also often just essays about my life, and I have never been sure whether to label myself as more self-help, culture, personal essay/memoir....
I wonder if maybe a more general "Self Help" tab the 'Stack suits might find "more better"!! It also helps keep the "addiction/recovery" topic a little more subdued and privacy-protected, and less "out there," while hopefully being easily found under a larger banner.
To be frank, I think part of the problem is that people tend to want to hide us in the self-help section. That's why my podcast is called "Breakfast with an Alcoholic." It's a diagnosis, not a badge of shame. Sorry to get preachy, but have some strong feelings on the topic.
Not at all....trying to help in a lane I'm not in....'Stack and how they collate! I hear the concern about the "burying in Self-help," and I appreciate what appears to be a boldness and honesty in your approach. Keep at it, and if I were you, I might try to talk to a 'Stack suit or two to hear 'em out about coverage on the main page, etc. for you and other recovery writers!
Indeed. Shame is a killer. Literally. Just ask Prince. Oh, that’s right. He flew right past a hospital on his way home from Atlanta, because he had made a big deal about not using “drugs,” and would have been ashamed if the news got out. I wrote a few blog posts about that in my old blog. I’ve been wondering what to bring forward from that and “shame” is a universal concern.
I just re-posted three of my old blog posts regarding Shame’s role in robbing the world of an awesome talent.
This is my first attempt to “promote” Merlin’s Newsletter, so let me know if you can not find those posts.
Hi Matt, I am brand new to Substack and exploring the Shoutout Thread section to listen and learn! I greatly appreciate your writing about this vital subject and ministering to others in challenge. I am glad there is a sobriety community on Substack. With the huge amount of stress in the world more than ever before (2022), a place of support and community is essential. I think we all tend to seek places to stem the tide of stress and pain and find temporary solace in substances, acts, conditions, etc. (alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling, power or influence, etc.) For myself, I was addicted to marijuana for over three decades, LONG before all this "medical marijuana" stuff. Running from dealer to dealer, freaking out when the plastic bag was empty, spending money I did not have and seeing that partially contribute to debt that later overwhelmed me. That led to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, five long years of payments and severe curtailing of my fun. Likely saved my life, however, and God indeed works in mysterious ways! I am debt free and 100% sober in all ways since 2002. Blessings to all efforts to find the narrow path! I write about my own tumultuous life and journey through the disaster of the sexual revolution and what I learned, "what not to do!". Sincerely, Wendy Williams ("a blunt oregon girl")
I'd like to shout out the Fictionistas Substack. It's a wonderful, growing community of fiction writers here on Substack. Big thanks to Jackie Dana and Geoffrey Golden for organizing Fictionistas! If you write fiction, check it out! You'll meet some awesome writers and pick up lots of useful information about writing fiction on Substack.
Also, I have a question about polls. Wondering if polls are supported in email, or if they're just available to readers inside the app and on the Web? Anyone have any insight into that? Reason I ask is that one of the Substacks I read had a poll that didn't appear in the email, but it was there in the app.
I've been thinking about following Fictionistas--I am writing fiction as my paid project on my 'stack, and and I've seen Fictionistas referenced frequently in shout outs and otherwise, but I've been intimidated by Discord. Just occurred to me while reading your comment that I don't have to join Discord to subscribe so there you have it, one sub from me. Thank you!
Joining us is as simple as subscribing to the Substack. While we sometimes have discussions over on Discord, most of what happens is on the Substack itself and in our monthly-ish Zoom calls. And we'd be glad to have you!
And as someone who rarely uses Discord, let me just add that the group is very friendly there too and you can usually pop in and find help with whatever hurdle / question is standing in your way.
I looked into discord and it wasn’t for me either. But there are other more traditional avenues to connect with the fiction community if that’s your goal. Good luck!
I’ve discovered so many great new reads through fictionistas! Plus, I enjoy the tips from member writers, which are often substack-specific, with creative ways for fiction writers to make use of the platform.
I've used Polls a couple times, now, and am in the process of a new one at the moment. There's two choices at the bottom of the actual poll form when you click the "poll" button at the top of the navigation bar. One says "only to paid subscribers," and the other says, "all subscribers who can see this post."
I use that second one, 'cause most of my subscribers are freebies. My understanding is that the poll can just be seen by 'Stacker subscribers, and I think, only in their e-mail. I just mention to my subs that Polls are an extra exclusive perk to being a subscriber!
Welcome Front Row & Backstage, if you want to get past the rope line to exclusive interviews with recording artists, and music discovery, analysis, and commentary! Subscribe, and you'll get to see some upcoming polls in action! How's that..............subtle enough?😎🎵🎶😁
Thanks, but I'm asking about how readers see polls. I don't see it in the email version of the story, but I do see it on the Web and desktop. So looking for clarification from @Substack here.
Hey everyone! I have a Substack called The Freelance Parent. I launched it in the pandemic when work went quiet and I felt quite isolated. I wanted to find a way to reach other freelance parents or just parents and create a space to share stories, advice and feature other experts. I'm now two years in and have met so many people through it. I am keen to grow though and want to start to think out of the box on new ways to collaborate. I'm planning a series on rejection and how negative things shape our careers so if anyone has anything interesting to add to that topic, please get in touch!
We should do a cross promotion. My newsletter, My Home Office Hacks, falls right in line with your theme. Here's a link. Check it out. https://iworkfromhome.substack.com/publish. Joe
7. Recommentunde - activist, comedian and TV host Baratunde Thurston shares his thoughts on race, culture, politics, and technology - https://newsletter.baratunde.com/
8. Wellness Wisdom by Patricia Mou - features some beautiful writing on wellness start-ups, personal development, and philosophy - https://wellnesswisdom.substack.com/
This month I’m shouting out two talented fiction writers and one total hack.
First, Shoutout to FRESH MEAT by Maegan Heil! She’s an emerging fiction writer with an edgy, distinctive voice. Her newsletter shares in-progress pieces “ready for the chopping block.” Leans dark and deranged. Key post: https://maeganheil.substack.com/p/dont-tell-mom
Second, Shoutout to Fiction Deficit Disorder by Kris Mole! A keen, “cheeky” observer, his serialized memoir is written in an elegant, efficient voice. Key post: https://krismole.substack.com/p/rose
Finally, Shoutout to my dark humor newsletter, Field Research by Amran Gowani, which just wrapped up month two! I’m very excited about the progress so far and I’ve got loads of ideas for future posts. Most popular in June: https://agowani.substack.com/p/a-fatalists-guide-to-fathers-day If this piece strikes your fancy, please check out the rest of my archive and consider a free subscription. Fair warning: my sense of humor is an “acquired taste.” 😊
As for FRESH MEAT, Maegan's Substack deserves all the attention, subs, praise and whatever else comes with it. Love Maegan's writing, never fails to entertain (and make you think at the same time). So let me add my own recommendation to yours.
And you already know I like yours too. But don't want it to sound like I'm just saying it cos you bigged me up first. But yea, you know. x
shannanmartin.substack.com - I joined Substack for Shannan Martin's The Soup (witty, authentic, and full of heart--can't wait for her book Start with Hello to be released this Fall), but I've also discovered other newsletters I am digging.
dinneralovestory.substack.com - If Andy's Fried Potatoes and an MVP Potato Salad don't reel you in, then maybe the Batched Cocktail will!
theisolationjournals.substack.com - My brother has leukemia, and I'll be donating my stem cells to him in a couple of weeks. Suleika helps me see the world from a patient's point of view. I've already gotten some great ideas of how I can help my brother in even better ways.
brentandmichaelaregoingplaces.substack.com - I discovered this one a week or so ago. So far I've read two well-written, fabulously-researched articles: one on medical tourism and one on Sarajevo's abandoned Olympic bobsleigh run. I've enjoyed them so much that I'm considering becoming a paid subscriber.
One day I'll get over that feeling I feel in my stomach when someone says, "Hey, I subscribed." :) I hope you enjoy reading, but if you don't...that's okay too! Suleika was one of my first subscriptions, and I have read every newsletter I've received.
Hehe, I hear ya. The Isolation Journals was a gift to me after I was released from the hospital last summer. If it wasn't for that, I might not have even discovered Substack!
I’d like to shout out Rebecca Davey’s Observables. https://observables.substack.com/ Not only is she offering thoughtful and humorous life observations, she is constantly elevating other writers and their work!
As an Asian woman/POC, I'd like to shout out to my own substack --> minhdang.substack.com <-- I write about adulting and perspective of a 23 year old Vietnamese living in America.
I am VERY OPEN to any recommendations of substacks written by Asian writers (I am following some POC writers already but found it a bit harder to find Asian writers on here) I read about culture, story telling but also business, tech and cooking.
Thanks for being here Minh! Our recent What to Read was with simi Shah, who writes Trailblazers, a publication sharing stories of pioneering South Asians and their journeys into leadership roles.
There's quite a lot of good writing on Substack by Asian Americans! You can always use our search to browse around (https://substack.com/search/%22asian%20american%22 for example). Here are some folks I know and love as well
Shout out of congratulations to Elle Griffin at https://ellegriffin.substack.com/ on the publication of her new book, Obscurity. I love that the book was serialized on her Substack and can now be purchased as a Kindle or hardcover book. No matter if everyone read the serialized version, readers will often want the "souvenir" of the published copy as well. I put my order in!
It will be great if SubStack can hang in there through these times and continue to offer the diverse, common sense forum for all the opinions and multiple theorizing and thinking/writing you have already achieved. Keep up the great work. It is and will remain worth it. It’s about interdependence - hopefully we can continue to prove this.
Protecting space for open exchange of ideas is so important - and it will help if free speech communities hold true predators accountable, as you know this has been an issue. I believe it's vital that we prove to the world that free thought can also be compassionate action.
Hi all. I’ve just passed my one year anniversary posting serialized fiction on The Water Is So Wide. It’s been a slog gaining subscribers, but I try to return periodically to this thought: my first novel and half of my second are now extant: up on Substack for anyone to view, written the way I want, written as well as I can, and looking the way I want to present them. If I get hit by a bus tomorrow, an important part of me, my work, will remain. And that is something. As this is Shout Out Week, I will mention Fictionistas (https://fictionistas.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav) as a great resource for all fiction writers. A new substack that I just came across is also worth taking a look at: A Special Place in Hell (https://aspecialplace.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav): Witty, cordial, free thinking conversations.
Congrats, Julie! I'm doing something similar by posting my favorite "scenes/chapters" from a novel that I wasn't able to get picked up by an agent. Nice to put the work into the public domain. I'll check out your newsletter! Also just subscribed to Fictionistas!
I feel you with that one. sometimes you need to just back yourself and put it out there. I"m doing the same with my short fiction. It's nice to know it's brought joy to someone and found it's audience regardless.
I'll give a shoutout to a recent subscription, and that's for Caribunkle by Tom Pendergast over at https://tompendergast.substack.com/. He is writing a serial right now, but also includes short stories and essays. His top post A Car Went Into Lost Lake (https://tompendergast.substack.com/p/a-car-went-into-lost-lake-) is such a fun read. Good luck Tom! I hope you get lots of new subscribers.
As far as myself, you can find me over at Future Thief (https://brianreindel.substack.com). I'm only 2 subscribers away from 100, and I would love a few more speculative fiction short story lovers to join. It's free to read and I've built up a nice archive so far over the last 4+ months.
Thanks a lot Brian for the Shoutout, I’m definitely enjoying your work as well ... and you’ve helped me see that this little corner of Substack is a good place to learn more about what people are doing and maybe try some new stuff myself.
Shoutout to Dia Becker of Broke but Moisturized for her most recent newsletter on indulgence and the pampered life. It was a vision. 🤌🏾🤌🏾 Her writing stands in its vulnerability with grace.
Oh wow, thanks so much Mark! I've only just transferred my subscriptions over to this account, and haven't announced mine to the world yet - so thank you so much for the leap of faith! What a wonderful community Substack is :)
My shoutout today is to the Substack team. I needed a platform like this to pivot my writing and feel empowered. There’s no other site like it, and I’ve only just scratched the surface. Thank you for all you do to hear us and encourage our growth as partners. P.S. And here’s to hoping for more opportunities for new and eager Substackers like me to find mentors and accountability partners!
A huge shout out to Carrie Newcomer and her Substack page A Gathering of Spirits! If you enjoy folk music, poetry, and readings her page is amazing! carrienewcomer.substack.com
I really like this and it's beautiful writing. What a great idea this is to share and get to see all these various and different newsletters. Reminds me of the "Cool Site of the Week" in the mid-1990s :-) Subscribed to this one, thank you!
I enjoy reading smart and funny TV criticism, so I was happy to recently discover a newsletter called "tv i say w/ ashley ray." Ashley tells us what she's watching and why, in addition to longer critiques on specific shows. Very entertaining read!
I'd like to shout out Julie at Run to Write - https://juliebhughes.substack.com/ - for setting up a space to write together online. I didn't make it, but I love this idea.
"How About This" https://howaboutthis.substack.com/ Mark Dykeman always has something interesting to share about both the digital and physical world.
"Fictionistas" https://fictionistas.substack.com/ If you're a fiction writer looking for a place to hang your hat, this community might just be what you're looking for. Lots of great information on writing as well as monthly meetings to discuss all the ins and out.
https://joycelinehan.substack.com consistently offers obscure and underappreciated songs ( and some background info) you will invariably share with a friend. It's like having a Substack dj
I want to shout out the legend himself Edwin Dorsey! He runs the Bear Cave and Idea Brunch.
For this I will focus just on the Bear Cave. The Bear Cave looks in corporate misconduct. The free version is very interesting and the paid is even better. I have recommended the newsletter to multiple of my non-financial interested friends and now they are big fans of the publication.
Edwin breaks down what companies are doing wrong from all angles and reminds me constantly what to steer clear from. Please check it out and let me know what you think!
Very interesting. I hadn't heard of this one. I'm a former corporate guy turned full-time writer and my contemporary fiction focuses heavily on corporate malfeasance and corruption. Definitely checking this out.
A newer science-oriented site I'm following is https://drerinmac.substack.com/ -- what I like is the perspective of someone with feet firmly in both the science and entertainment fields. And a Star Trek insider, which I love reading about.
And then for astronomy news and explanations I've been checking in with Phil Plait's https://badastronomy.substack.com/ and previous blogs for years.
I'm always up for supporting good popular science writing!
Phil Plait is a legend. A LEGEND. I'm glad he's on here, flying the flag so...um, flappily. (?) Every issue of his newsletter has at least one moment where my jaw drops.
Another good science newsletter, not on Substack, is https://www.sciof.fi/. Maddie knows her stuff.
I write Humbly Bumbling. The topics vary, but I try to write everything through the lens of a Christian, father and husband.
I like Coffee & Covid (coffeeandcovid.com) Jeff does a wonderful job of rounding up the latest news from the perspective of a lawyer, Christian, and conservative.
And finally, I have also enjoyed "Life in the Schratz Lane" by Paul Schratz who writes about the declining state of journalism and the impact it has on the erosion of our fundamental freedoms of conscience, religion, and expression.
One of my absolute favorites is Hunter Harris and her newsletter Hung Up! Not only does she constantly make me laugh with her unstoppable sense of humor, keeping up on her newsletter also helps me keep up on the world!
I work in marketing for a body care company by day and often partner with my social manager for content ideas. The problem for me is I quite frequently take personal social media breaks, which means I miss out on the day-to-day banter, new meme formats, and things going on in the celebrity world. Hunter's newsletter is the perfect amount of quip and resources for me to stay up to date even when Twitter is deleted off of my phone – a super specific reason to love it but valid nonetheless!
Hunter's commentary is such a bonus, she is quippy and smart - never rude or unrelatable in her approach. I don't even know what her voice sounds like but in my head I read her content like we are besties; she genuinely connects with her audience in such a seamless way!
I've been appreciating "Gilby's Pop Culture Roundup" lately https://gilby.substack.com/ mainly for his carefully curated songlists.
Recently, he answered one of Kevin Alexander's "What're You Listening to Lately" questions on Kevin's "On Repeat" https://thekevinalexander.substack.com/ by including a song on his Spotify playlist that I enjoyed so much, I did a deep dive into the song ("Heartbeat") and artist (The Midnight), publishing it yesterday (Wed)!
Such is the value of open eyes, open ears, and the willingness to let fellow 'Stackers influence you! Of course, I gladly planted links to both Kevin's and Gilby's 'Stacks in my post, inviting readers to subscribe!😁🎵🎸🎶
Highly recommend checking out Geoffrey Golden's Adventure Snack. Always fun, always poking at the edges of interactivity in the context of a newsletter. Innovative and bite-sized. https://adventuresnack.substack.com/
My newsletter is Aging Well News (https://agingwell.news/). I offer tips and helpful hints for older adults, care providers, and concerned loved ones who wish to live their best life after retirement age.
I have a fairly newly created Substack called Thea Chops Books: I just published my 2nd post today. I'm an author of children's rhyming story books that have messages of equality, inclusivity and acceptance in them. As a result of writing the books I've become an activist for equality. Not what I set out to do but certainly something I enjoy and completely believe in!
I'd like to give a shout out to The Flock with Jennifer Crichton https://jennifercrichton.substack.com who writes beautifully about daily news from a feminist and intersectional perspective.
Hi Everyone…I am actively looking for interesting writers supporting healthy vegan lifestyles, all things food and cooking and anything creative or entrepreneurial. Some interesting current finds are:
I write VeganWeekly. My aim is to inspire people to cook healthy vegan food each week. I share weekly recipes with detailed instruction. I am a professional chef and food educator…I am also experienced in making a healthy lifestyle change as a result of serious health issue. https://myfreshattitude.substack.com/
I am actively looking for other writers who may be interested in working on collaborative projects. I’m open to pursuing anything that is mutually beneficial.
I would like to offer a heartfelt thanks to the Substack team. Since I started my newsletter in May, the entire process has worked flawlessly. That is obviously due to the professionalism of the Substack staff.
My newsletter, Talking Seriously, focuses on politics and legal issues. Therefore, I would like to recommend Bari Weiss' Common Sense and The Dispatch. Both are thought-provoking, well-written, and fair-minded.
There are SO MANY cool people writing fascinating Substacks about so many things, but I have really been loving Hidden History lately. I love learning about forgotten or erased histories--that's part of why I write Unruly Figures, which looks at historical rule-breakers--and that's exactly what Hidden History focuses on. Check out "The Tragic Lives of Concubines in Ancient China" https://thehiddenhistory.substack.com/p/the-secret-lives-of-concubines-in
It's a newsletter about Star Wars books. I am a crazy big Star Wars fan so I was really excited to find it and I have never subscribed to something so quickly, lol! If you're a fan of a galaxy far, far away check it out!
I have been following the Bittman Project (https://www.bittmanproject.com/) not so much because I love the topic but in order to see how other Substack authors who offer discussion threads only for paying subscribers manage the details of the dynamics. If anyone has other suggestions for Substacks to follow that are well-written and generate discussions that only paying subscribers get access to, I'd appreciate it. This is what I'm up to with my own Substack, Introvert UpThink (https://www.introvertupthink.com).
So many great reads to explore! If you are new and looking for inspiration for how to use Substack or writers that you might collaborate with, responding to other writes in the thread is a great place to start.
Also checkout:
- The Substack app - https://substack.com/app
- The discover page - https://substack.com/discover?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav
- Other writers profiles, you can see what they are reading! - https://on.substack.com/i/43125842/writer-and-reader-profiles
The Substack team is signing off but we will be back next week for Office Hours to help answer your questions about substack.
Happy reading,
Katie, Bailey, Sergey, Michelle and The Substack Team
I ask you all to come check out my humble Newsletter, “A.M.’s Newsletter”, because I have an amazing series I call, Horizon Star Walk. On the Planet Oria, Aurora Borealis, Orion Pulsar, Ares Aldrin, and Gemini Taurus are on the run for their illegal activity, the stakes are HIGH for them all. A young Guardian of Oria, Sinsen Orbit, is hunting them down with his Officers backing him up. Will he catch them to be executed before the Queen and King of Oria, or will they successfully escape to Earth? Subscribe to find out!
The team behind substack are unarguably the best when it comes to training on copywriting, I use this wonderful opportunity to say a big thank you to all of you and all substack users who keep these space lively
Thanks once again!
Thank you for all you do, Substack team!!!
Thank you team, for everything you are doing for us. We see it, it's appreciated.
So helpful, thank you for all you do, your advice and support!:)
I'd like to bend the rules a bit and give a shoutout to the people who keep this place running.
It's no secret that Substack had a rough week last week - so this feels like a good time to celebrate something really amazing that Substack does for us writers (one of many things, but this in particular).
Look around this thread, and all the other Office Hours threads, and you see that everyone is different. I don't mean that in the way that gets emptily plastered over inspirational posters - I mean, *really different*. Different topics, ideas, politics, all of it. And yet we're not at each other's throats. (I mean, I don't *think* we are?) By & large, we're not yelling at each other, like everyone is doing on pretty much every other online platform these days. Generally speaking, the tone of threads like this is respectful, interested and helpful, and when there's disagreement, it's the kind that sticks to the point of disagreement instead of collapsing into "you suck" and point-scoring and performative idiot-shaming and all that stuff that makes so much of the internet so utterly exhausting. (Bleargh.)
And I think this is because Katie, Bailey, Jasmine, Helen, Lulu, Dan, Tian, Becca, Ari, Lisa, Christina, all the other folk behind the scenes - and also the folk that are no longer at Substack - have done a truly remarkable job at making this place so welcoming, tolerant, open and, on the whole, fantastically kind. It's one of the things that Substack does best - and it's because these folk are so damn good at their jobs. So I'm raising a glass to 'em. I hope you will too.
(ps. - on the subject of building community, I'm listening to the Audible version of the book Bailey co-authored on the subject: https://gettogether.world/ Already picking up some real gems from it.)
Heart is warm and fuzzy <3 Thank you Mike
Mike thank you, you are so sweet <3 It's our pleasure. We, too, are in awe of how civil and generous this community is. Thank you writers for showing up for each other as you do!
Thank you for what you do. :)
Haha! I am apparently not in on the “open secret” because I didn’t know Substack had a rough week! But yeah, I agree, I’m loving writing on Substack. I’m still pretty new though, only have a small following and don’t know a whole lot about the larger community, but the tools are amazing! So yeah, huge shout out to Substack crew!
Hi Robin, I'm new, too. And know nothing about a rough week. This week I published my first pieces to Substack. So have no following to speak of. But I am going to keep publishing and building it as I go.
I knew nothing about the rough week either. I started my weekly newsletter about three months ago and still have very few subscribers but am proud of myself for publishing consistently every week. I trust that if I do that long enough and share links on FB and Twitter (where I also have very few followers at this point), over time I will build a following. That has happened with my writing on Medium. Good luck to you and everyone else who is just getting started. Our tribes will find us at some point if we stick with it!
Yes! Do! Also, don’t forget to pick a social media site (I recommend Twitter) and get active. It will help grow your audience! Don’t be aftaid to just focus on one site. I’m on Twitter, FB & Instagram but I mainly focus on Twitter.
Hi Robin and Sherri!
I am also new and trying to get my work out there!
If anyone can give more feedback and conversation on how to improve and subscribe to my work I would be more than happy to read, subscribe and share your work as well!
Hi Katy, just read your first post. Like your "voice." I'm in!
Thank you Kris!
I enjoy the title of yours, will read and subscribe! 🙂
Sherri, I am also brand new to Substack, with no subscribers yet, going slowly and writing pieces and gathering my wits and courage to walk out of the hermit place I have been and into more sharing with others. Scary to step out but also not good to stay hidden. Blessings to you! Wendy at "a bllunt oregon girl"
Hi Wendy,
Welcome to us!! 💐 Yes, it is a process. I had my "profile", I guess that is the word, for almost 2 months or more before I published word 1. And if it had not been for me joining the Hay House Writer's community I still may not have found my voice /courage. The technology part alone still remains a stumbling block. I will subscribe to you. I will be your first :) Blessings to you on your writing journey and knowing that what you have to say matters. 🙏🏻🧡
Sherri, kind thanks for replying back to me. The tech stuff stumps me quite a bit, hence no pictures or photos yet on my site, eventually! I am also a Boomer and turn 70 this Nov. 2022. I am accustomed to being alone, except for my church! Writing is my gift...but the words I share are cautionary, about the darkness of the sexual revolution and my own rebellious, disastrous wanderings away from God. Grateful for Substack. I will subscribe to you site as well!
Robin, I just subscribed (sorry I can’t afford to pay at this point). As a former pastor in a supposedly progressive denomination, I know patriarchy is still alive and well in all churches ( along with racism and homophobia). Glad you’re writing about it. I also have a book recommendation: God is a Black Woman by Christena Cleveland. I am loving it so far, and it’s all about how the cultural perception of God as a white male reinforces patriarchy and racism.
Oh, Thank You! My reading list is long right now, but I will definitely add that one! My reading list right now includes a lot of books dealing with both racial reckoning and patriarchy. I just finished bell hooks' The Will to Change, which deals with both patriarchy and racism, which I cannot recommend enough and Jesus & John Wayne, which I also can't recommend highly enough. I'm working through Talking Back to Purity Culture right now, following which I have Reading While Black, White Fragility, Me & White Supremacy and Bad Fat Black Girl on tap! You know, just a little "light" summer reading!
I had to Google it. Was in the dark too.
It's been in the news. Was mentioned here last week during office hours, too. Apparently some people were let go.
Oh, that's too bad! I'm working on starting a new podcast and also an in-person series of workshops so I've barely had time to scroll through the Apple News headlines. If it wasn't important enough to make it there, I haven't heard about it!
You're not alone, Robin! I, too, must have missed that inter-office memo!! Welcome to the 'Stack, and may your work reach new and rapid heights!🤗👍
Thanks!
Substack is trying to sort out its conscience regarding how to respect free speech and hold true sexual predators accountable, esp when those behind the sexual predators make substack a lot of money.
Oh my ... sounds like a storyline for SVU. I will google this, now.
Or come visit my page
Oh hey, what?!! Okay, now I really gotta Google what’s going on. Yeah, that’s the dilemma for so many businesses. It’s always the shadiest shit that makes the most $$.
Yup, and on substack often it's "controlled opposition." People who pretend to espouse the ideals that those who reject censorship love, but actually they are working for the very people that free speechers most abhor.
Loved your write-up about Under the Banner of Heaven, Robin.
Thank you! I'm always honored when men appreciate something I write about patriarchy. I know there is a tendency on the part of some women to assume men are synonymous with patriarchy, but I know it is not true. There is also a tendency to sometimes feel that women who hate patriarchy simply hate men, but, at least in my case, that is also not true.
I believe patriarchy is just as destructive to men as to women. I know that there are men that know and recognize this but there are just as many that get offended because they identify with patriarchy, so they feel any criticism of patriarchy is a criticism of them.
I agree. I also think people need to become more comfortable with criticism and learn to respond less defensively (it's kind of what the show is about?). I found your article to be 100% constructive.
Thank you so much! That means a lot!
Destructive to patriarchy. Constructive to the human race.
I do very much agree! I see patriarchy as about power-over rather than about gender. It is control-domination, not about what genitalia or gender ID one has...peace.
I agree, but patriarchy is based in the idea that men are supposed to have power over women. It's a system of male supremacy, even if it ends up hurting just as many men as women.
I guess I see Patriarchy in terms of the energy rather than the gender. So it is the negative aspect of masculinity, but it can exist in any gender. And I agree it hurts men as much as women. I have just survived a major sexual harassment issue, but I also know many wonderful men.
100% agree Mike!! The community here on Substack is very welcoming and helpful. I'm also extremely grateful for all the work behind the scenes. It's so very much appreciated! Thank you Substack!!!
Glad to see you here. I saw you a while back. I’m gonna subscribe now. I put out “STONE Email” on Fridays through my newsletter. At times I drop in a movie that I found interesting. It would be good to hear your feedback on them from time.
That's great! Thank you :)
Agreed, I have nothing but good things to say about this platform and the people I’ve interacted with on it.
Agree! I feel so lucky to be part of this community!
Thank you Mike, this means so much to hear! We feel incredibly lucky to be part of & work with such a supportive, empathetic community.
I totally agree. Substack is simply the BEST platform that I have ever worked with! The ability to satiate several of my creative endeavours - writing, radio (er... podcast) and video is just amazing! And Substack seems super proactive in always adding new tools to help us in our work. Just fabulous!
Agreed. Sometimes I wish I had jumped over a year ago and then I realize that I needed to figure out what I wanted to say first and what kind of writer and audience I wanted to have before making the move, but they have allowed me to speak to all of those needs with their different tools and then keep adding more to make it more complete.
I could not agree more with your comment Mike. I feel the same way about the Substack team. They have created a much needed open atmosphere in this age of unnecessary polarization. I believe new respected institutions must be build to help civil society come out of this social crisis and Substack is surely on the right track to be part of the solution.
Well said. I love that there is such a great infrastructure to afford everyone the possibility to share what gives them joy.
Couldn't agree more here - Substack team has done a phenomenal job in community building!
Couldn’t agree more, Mike!
Agree totally. I'm so thankful for Substack and especially the work you do in building a community of writers, that's something that has just been so helpful to me.
Melanie, I've really been enjoying what I've read on The Turnstone to date!
Thank you, I really appreciate that
Agree! Well said!
I agree! And, I like the idea of Shoutouts, as someone who works with kids in the "real" world this is a technique where the newer or more bashful kid can gain a little more self-confidence and or just get to know people they may want to later on introduce themselves to. What I also like about it is it gives newer member/writers like myself a way to get to know more members and get an idea of what they want to read. Or, if they have the confidence they can maybe Shout Out about themselves. That is a technique that is also used in school as well. A personal Shout Out share about something that is important that a student is proud of.
Well said, Mike!
Shout out to all those writers who are sharing their passion on the platform.
I joined for the political commentators, but stayed for the authentic storytellers on this platform.
💛 authentic storytellers 💛
I loved clean money, dirty cheese. I'm stoked to see what you write about next!
Right!!! 🔥
What a great newsletter, I'm subscribing! As someone who started out in journalism, I feel what you're saying on the struggles of local news.
Thank you so much for checking out my newsletter. We are in a strange time, but it’s a pleasure to hear from the individuals trying to fix the problems 🙏☺️
Also started in journalism. I think the corporate press has lost touch with what readers actually are interested in hearing.
I've been thinking in the past year about how de Tocqueville thought local community associations (and I include journalists and local publications in this) were the glue holding things together. I think he was right....
Thank you so much for checking out my newsletter. We are in a strange time, but it’s a pleasure to hear from the individuals trying to fix the problems 🙏☺️ thanks for subscribing
So well said, and I just subscribed to yours!
Thank you, subscribed to your newsletter, too, it looks great and I'm digging in!
I'm checking out Risk Musings!
Thank you, Mark!
Thank you so much!
I love calling the people here "authentic storytellers!" That's my favorite kind of writing to explore (and do) -- just raw, honest stories.
I'm also producing a live storytelling show in D.C. this month that's been inspired by my writing in my newsletter, so I've got storytelling on the brain :D
Enjoying your newsletter, Aaron!
Thank you so much! You have no idea how much this means.
Oh, I'm excited about your newsletter and I'm subscribing!
Oh wow, thank you so much for the support! 🙌🏾
Yeahhhhhhh!
Good morning everyone! I'll make my own personal shout-outs in a moment, but first I want to shout out ALL of you for regularly making the replies to my encouragement comments so amazing every week!! The way you all show up for each other and for yourselves, asking great questions and urging each other forward, is what encourages ME in my own creative journey. I appreciate you all more than words can express! Keep writing, keep showing up, don't stop! 🌿
I came late to the discussion due to my weekly struggle with finding my way here. I had already written my shout outs, so I could focus on the rest. I just posted them right away, then read S. E.’s post, figured she wouldn’t see it and decided to paste it into a reply to her post.
Usual shout-out to Substack, the blog site on steroids. And the always present and supportive writers who haunt writer’s hour. In particular this week, S. E. Reid, who gets more proactive all the time. Last week she made a suggestion about stifling the Inner Critic, to help open the discussion.
So good to see your words here every time, S.E.! You radiate positive energy. Thank you.
You all are appreciated and thank you very much for the constant effort and support!
The Wildroot Parables? I gotta get me some of that!
New here but glad to see this ♡
Thank YOU!
I love Substack and want to join the chorus of people singing the praises of the staff that shows up for the writers day after day. This platform and community owe you so much - thank you!
For my shoutouts, I'd like to mention two newer Substacks that are great for writers:
Stop Writing Alone, https://stopwritingalone.substack.com, which provides lots of great resources and community to writers, including write-ins, writing prompt parties, and discussion about different types of stories and what we can learn from them
Sprinkled Inspiration, https://sprinkledinspiration.substack.com, which offers daily writing prompts to spark new ideas for fiction, memoir, and poetry writers.
Finally, I want to offer a little encouragement to those who aren't seeing their newsletter subscribers grow as fast as they'd like. Keep at it! When I started last year, my first Substack grew very slowly. When people talked about their numbers, I often felt discouraged. But now that first Substack, Story Cauldron, is almost at 500 subscribers and is growing much faster now than I ever could have expected. So to others: keep showing up for your writing, network with other writers, and don't give up!
Hi, I found this advice so helpful thank you!! Do you have any tips for starting out? How to you build your subscribers?
I think the biggest thing is to just keep writing. Beyond that, getting to know other writers is helpful because they can help promote your Substack through shoutouts like this and the official Recommendations system (which has brought me a bunch of new subscribers). Depending on your content and audience, you might find success by seeking out like-minded Facebook groups or subreddits, but that will vary - I have great success doing that with my history Substack but not so much with my fiction/storytelling one. Some people do collabs or make business cards to hand out to real people, or try other forms of marketing. The best suggestion I have is to try everything that seems to fit for you, and see what works.
Thank you so much! This was so helpful! I am just about to read/subscribe to your own and your recommendations☺️❤️
Great recs! Thank you Jackie, and I'm subscribing to yours as well.
Hi Jess, you new subscriber, you!! Happy Thursday behind the rope line!!🤗🎵🎶🎸😁👍
Hi Brad! Happy Thursday to you as well! So my dad found his November '94 issue when he was Editor In Chief at New Country with Lynyrd Skynyrd on the cover, and there is a feature on Terry McBride! (As well as Mark Chestnutt and Emmylou Harris.)
Wow, that's cool! Thanks for checking in, Jess, and a big Texas "howdy" to your dad for me! Cheers!--Brad
Thank you for this Jackie! I think it's best to just keep your eye off the numbers and churn out writing and build community. That's really what I'm writing for anyway: community! I'm excited to network with folks here and am grateful it's so easy to do in this space.
This is exactly how I'm feeling now. Over a year of consistent writing and I have 17 total followers. It can be draining. I hope that one day it'll pay off. Unlike mediums like YouTube, "going viral" doesn't seem commonplace here. Slow and steady wins the race they say, but man it can be frustrating sometimes. I appreciate the optimism, and hope it plays out nicely for my blog
You're not the only one who feels this way. It's like a marathon, I mean the writing engagement with Substack. You just keep going on. It's like life, really.
I understand what you say.
I'm in my 70's and write an eclectic newsletter about a writer's life in my southern (Tasmania) isle. I haven't had a huge new following (although old followers from my blog were divinely loyal and migrated over) but those who are new to it are engaging and for that I'm grateful and it's been worthwhile doing.
I think the thing is to have no expectations - at least I don't. I'm happy also to keep it free - I'm not famous so who would pay for my thoughts and observations? Numbers are a complication I can do without.
But it's been really worthwhile doing Substack for the newsletters that I now personally follow. They're like breaths of fresh air, making my skin tingle as I see life through their lenses:
https://davidmichie.substack.com/
https://www.wavesandwords.com.au/
https://news.lettersofnote.com/
https://maggiemackellar.substack.com/
https://tomryan.substack.com/
https://therealemilyinparis.substack.com/
https://alicegriffin.substack.com/
https://writereverlasting.substack.com/
https://fromsweden.substack.com/
https://seatocity.substack.com/
https://kristinnicholas.substack.com/
https://curiouselder.substack.com/
https://thisdaysjoy.substack.com/
It can be difficult if you are a niche writer. I'm in the same boat, I also have a narrow field of interest and don't expect to see explosive growth. I take the attitude that it's more about engaging the readers I do have over the long term. That makes the effort worthwhile. Big numbers aren't the be-all of success although I'm sure they are nice to have.
Goiing viral also has a lot to do with format. I've yet to see anything in long written format go viral except maybe Harry Potter fan fiction. It's uncommon for writing to get that kind of coverage. Video watching is easy, it takes no effort, it's easy to share that and get enthusiasm from people you've shared it with too.
Thank you for pointing that out! It is true that it is so much easier to go viral with a 15-second TikTok that an essay that takes 10 minutes to read! I am thankful that I have a number of readers who take the time to read my essays with how short attention spans are these days...
Good luck Jackie and thanks for those recommendations, checking them out!
Substacks that I recommend and enjoy:
Campfire Notebook: brynphd.substack.com (a blend of curiosity and creativity, of science and the sharing of science.)
Subject Headings: alisonburnis.substack.com (the life of a medical librarian, expertly written, who talks about her vision challenges and other intriguing topics)
The Bus: thebus.substack.com (combination of science/historical info plus other good stuff)
The Fyve Spot: markfyve.substack.com (good slice of life stuff)
Infinite Loops: infiniteloops.substack.com (two inspiring quotes, daily)
Personal Brag:
I’m now in Month 3 of publishing How About This. All I can say about Month 2 is: very satisfying growth!
Here’s what you can expect during a typical week at How About This (howaboutthis.substack.com):
Mondays: Atlantic Canada Monday: interviews with interesting Atlantic Canadians that I’ve been able to connect with on social media (mainly Twitter). This month I also did a fun group interview with two other Substackers who are based in Atlantic Canada, we traded questions with each other.
Wednesdays: writing about some other topic of interest: creativity, learning, cognition, writing… the “brainy day” - this week featured the start of a series about paper based knowledge management tools, starting with the venerable commonplace book
Fridays: me sharing links to other great articles, newsletters or websites that I’ve enjoyed, things I think you’d also enjoy, the “linky day”
Weekends (optional): whatever comes to mind that I think is important or interesting to share. I might publish fiction at some point, too.
And, as you are seeing today (Thursday) I might publish extra stuff outside of the normal rhythm.
I’m happy with the growth in Month 2:
Traffic (hits) - the number of times people read part of the newsletter
Month 1: 474 visits
Month 2: 2000+ visits - 400%+ increase
Subscribers (e-mail subscribers only):
Month 1 to Month 2: 300% increase in subscribers from 20 to 60 (I’ve added 7 more in the past week so at 67 now)
These are not huge numbers compared to a lot of other newsletters out there but things are heading in the right direction! My goal is to hit 300 subscribers by end of 2022!
Check the newsletter if you haven’t already! Always happy to chat and connect with other Substackers.
Great shoutouts! Thanks for being here
Thanks for all of the great work done by the Substack team!
What an awesome list. Thank you for such a thoughtful contribution!
Thanks for all of the great work done by the Substack team!
Thanks for this list! I just subscribed - so you can count me in for your next growth spurt!
Wow, greatly appreciated, you are too kind!
Infinite loops—so good!
Yes, I really dig receiving these during the day.
Thank you, Mark!
Welcome and thanks for your support!
Look forward to reading more & connecting, #AtlanticCanada is the place to be @Mark
Hey Paul, thanks for stopping by, hope you enjoy it!
Been reading a lot of sobriety related newsletters recently. For those curious, I would definitely recommend “Thanks For Letting Me Share.”
https://thanksforlettingmeshare.substack.com/
I love Thanks for Letting Me Share, It's one that I actually look forward to and skip past the others to read.
You are super kind and love you, too!!
Also love Holly Whitaker's Recovering! https://hollywhitaker.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav
Oooh this is cool, thank you!
Thanks for sharing...like, really! My son is 6 weeks sober, and I am CONSUMING all things recovery-related right now.
You’re welcome! FWIW I’m someone’s son who has 6 years sober. So it is possible.
All the best!
Hi Holly! Great news. Give your son an “attaboy” for me! I am glad you found an affordable facility. Mine was bare bones, but the important qualities are a welcoming and caring staff and what we discover about ourselves therein.
When I returned to college to major in Alcohol and Other Drugs Studies, I had a textbook, *Loosening the Grip,” that I gave to my mother who gratefully consumed it and found it quite useful for understanding what had happened to her baby boy and how to support my new life going forward.
It is still available online and inexpensive. When I got home from treatment, I went to a used-book store and bought all the biographies of recovering people that I could find.
More later. I intend to follow the folks who are writing about “addiction.” Perhaps we can get our own tab and share ideas/news/tips & tricks, encouragement etc.
More later. I intend to follow the folks who are writing about “addiction.” Perhaps we can get our own tab and share ideas/news/tips & tricks, encouragement etc.
Thanks for that book recommendation, Pete! While I've worked hard to give my boys freedom to pull away from their mama so they may grow into healthy young men, I am always trying to be a better version me for them (and myself). I look forward to reading it.
On a serious note---that's pretty tough stuff and if you're looking for some reading recommendations, I'd be happy to help point you to some things that helped me
It's tough stuff for sure! I'm thankful for a great facility (and my ability to pay them without eating ramen or beanie weenies every meal!) and for numerous friends who understand the power of story. Please do send any recommendations you have!
I'm Thanksflms@gmail.com --send me an email and I'll try to point you in some right directions.
Love the recommendations. Subscribed.
I just subscribed to you---you had me laughing just reading the "About." Plus, we're Badger Buddies.
Wow. Super humbled.
On Wisconsin!
Thanks for sharing! Just what I needed.
How did you find this publication?
One thing I have wondered about is if we addiction/recovery people could get our own tab on the Discover page? I think we end up in various categories but it would make us easier to find for sure
Mmmm that's so interesting and such a good point! I write essays about recovery from mental illness, but also often just essays about my life, and I have never been sure whether to label myself as more self-help, culture, personal essay/memoir....
I realize there aren't an infinite number of tags or space available. Still, if they were going to make a special exception for someone...
I wonder if maybe a more general "Self Help" tab the 'Stack suits might find "more better"!! It also helps keep the "addiction/recovery" topic a little more subdued and privacy-protected, and less "out there," while hopefully being easily found under a larger banner.
To be frank, I think part of the problem is that people tend to want to hide us in the self-help section. That's why my podcast is called "Breakfast with an Alcoholic." It's a diagnosis, not a badge of shame. Sorry to get preachy, but have some strong feelings on the topic.
Not at all....trying to help in a lane I'm not in....'Stack and how they collate! I hear the concern about the "burying in Self-help," and I appreciate what appears to be a boldness and honesty in your approach. Keep at it, and if I were you, I might try to talk to a 'Stack suit or two to hear 'em out about coverage on the main page, etc. for you and other recovery writers!
“It's a diagnosis, not a badge of shame.”
Indeed. Shame is a killer. Literally. Just ask Prince. Oh, that’s right. He flew right past a hospital on his way home from Atlanta, because he had made a big deal about not using “drugs,” and would have been ashamed if the news got out. I wrote a few blog posts about that in my old blog. I’ve been wondering what to bring forward from that and “shame” is a universal concern.
I just re-posted three of my old blog posts regarding Shame’s role in robbing the world of an awesome talent.
This is my first attempt to “promote” Merlin’s Newsletter, so let me know if you can not find those posts.
(I’m and Oldie, but Newbie)
I write about sobriety and addiction myself and wanted to connect with the greater sober community here on Substack.
I believe I found this publication specifically because someone else I followed did a podcast with him.
Hi Matt, I am brand new to Substack and exploring the Shoutout Thread section to listen and learn! I greatly appreciate your writing about this vital subject and ministering to others in challenge. I am glad there is a sobriety community on Substack. With the huge amount of stress in the world more than ever before (2022), a place of support and community is essential. I think we all tend to seek places to stem the tide of stress and pain and find temporary solace in substances, acts, conditions, etc. (alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling, power or influence, etc.) For myself, I was addicted to marijuana for over three decades, LONG before all this "medical marijuana" stuff. Running from dealer to dealer, freaking out when the plastic bag was empty, spending money I did not have and seeing that partially contribute to debt that later overwhelmed me. That led to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, five long years of payments and severe curtailing of my fun. Likely saved my life, however, and God indeed works in mysterious ways! I am debt free and 100% sober in all ways since 2002. Blessings to all efforts to find the narrow path! I write about my own tumultuous life and journey through the disaster of the sexual revolution and what I learned, "what not to do!". Sincerely, Wendy Williams ("a blunt oregon girl")
I love you, too! I was just on my way down to post about you so that you'd feel obligated to say nice things about me. But you beat me to it!
Ha ha! I’ve won this battle, but the war continues.
I feel like someone has an especially challenging Alcoholic Lightning Round coming up soon...
I'd like to shout out the Fictionistas Substack. It's a wonderful, growing community of fiction writers here on Substack. Big thanks to Jackie Dana and Geoffrey Golden for organizing Fictionistas! If you write fiction, check it out! You'll meet some awesome writers and pick up lots of useful information about writing fiction on Substack.
https://fictionistas.substack.com/
Also, I have a question about polls. Wondering if polls are supported in email, or if they're just available to readers inside the app and on the Web? Anyone have any insight into that? Reason I ask is that one of the Substacks I read had a poll that didn't appear in the email, but it was there in the app.
I've been thinking about following Fictionistas--I am writing fiction as my paid project on my 'stack, and and I've seen Fictionistas referenced frequently in shout outs and otherwise, but I've been intimidated by Discord. Just occurred to me while reading your comment that I don't have to join Discord to subscribe so there you have it, one sub from me. Thank you!
Joining us is as simple as subscribing to the Substack. While we sometimes have discussions over on Discord, most of what happens is on the Substack itself and in our monthly-ish Zoom calls. And we'd be glad to have you!
And as someone who rarely uses Discord, let me just add that the group is very friendly there too and you can usually pop in and find help with whatever hurdle / question is standing in your way.
I looked into discord and it wasn’t for me either. But there are other more traditional avenues to connect with the fiction community if that’s your goal. Good luck!
No need to join the Discord, just subscribe and join our monthly meetings!
I’ve discovered so many great new reads through fictionistas! Plus, I enjoy the tips from member writers, which are often substack-specific, with creative ways for fiction writers to make use of the platform.
I've had Fictionistas on my radar for a while. Just subscribed!
Awesome! Hopefully, you can join a meeting. We try move times around to accommodate varying schedules and different times zones.
Thanks Michael!
I've used Polls a couple times, now, and am in the process of a new one at the moment. There's two choices at the bottom of the actual poll form when you click the "poll" button at the top of the navigation bar. One says "only to paid subscribers," and the other says, "all subscribers who can see this post."
I use that second one, 'cause most of my subscribers are freebies. My understanding is that the poll can just be seen by 'Stacker subscribers, and I think, only in their e-mail. I just mention to my subs that Polls are an extra exclusive perk to being a subscriber!
Welcome Front Row & Backstage, if you want to get past the rope line to exclusive interviews with recording artists, and music discovery, analysis, and commentary! Subscribe, and you'll get to see some upcoming polls in action! How's that..............subtle enough?😎🎵🎶😁
Thanks, but I'm asking about how readers see polls. I don't see it in the email version of the story, but I do see it on the Web and desktop. So looking for clarification from @Substack here.
I have been enjoying reading A grain of salt by Kate Raphael https://kateraphael.substack.com & Joy Soldier by Sarah Wood https://joysoldier.substack.com
I can resonate with a lot of their writing as a female 20 something navigating professional life, relationships and honing my outlook on life :)
Thank you so much for the shoutout! It means a lot :)
Of course, keep up the good work :D
Yes — +1 to Kate's publication. Always great.
+1 to A Grain of Salt!
Trying all three of these, including yours, Minh!
Thank you Mark, appreciate it!
Hey everyone! I have a Substack called The Freelance Parent. I launched it in the pandemic when work went quiet and I felt quite isolated. I wanted to find a way to reach other freelance parents or just parents and create a space to share stories, advice and feature other experts. I'm now two years in and have met so many people through it. I am keen to grow though and want to start to think out of the box on new ways to collaborate. I'm planning a series on rejection and how negative things shape our careers so if anyone has anything interesting to add to that topic, please get in touch!
Thanks for joining today, Cat!
Do you have any other writers on Substack you love that you want to shoutout as well?
Yes I've given a shout out to Sophia Waterfield in a separate comment. Her newsletter Paranting is great!
Hi, Cat.
We should do a cross promotion. My newsletter, My Home Office Hacks, falls right in line with your theme. Here's a link. Check it out. https://iworkfromhome.substack.com/publish. Joe
Love it! What a beautiful idea!
Hi Cat, I'm about to head to your page. I'm not a parent but I do babysit and enjoy kids so I'm excited to read about the topic.
I have tons of 'negative' stories concerning career rejection as well as auditioning / trying out for things and not getting parts I've wanted...
how my failures and sadness have pushed me to go elsewhere in life, sometimes taking me farther than I was before.
Would definitely be interested in collaborating with you!!!
I subscribe to over 20 Substacks. Here are my favorites:
1. The Intrinsic Perspective by Erik Hoel - insightful essays that bridge the cultures of the sciences and humanities - https://erikhoel.substack.com/
2. Story Club with George Saunders - feels like being in a creative writing masterclass - https://georgesaunders.substack.com/
3. Fintech Blueprint by Lex Sokolin - my #1 resource for all things crypto, defi and Web3 - https://lex.substack.com/
4. Eric Newcomer - great insights on Silicon Valley and tech startups - https://www.newcomer.co/
5. Not Boring by Packy McCormick - fun read about business trends and insights - https://www.notboring.co/
6. Frontier Psychiatrists - written by psychiatry leaders shaping the future of mental health - https://thefrontierpsychiatrists.substack.com/
7. Recommentunde - activist, comedian and TV host Baratunde Thurston shares his thoughts on race, culture, politics, and technology - https://newsletter.baratunde.com/
8. Wellness Wisdom by Patricia Mou - features some beautiful writing on wellness start-ups, personal development, and philosophy - https://wellnesswisdom.substack.com/
George Saunders is a national treasure. Great recs.
This month I’m shouting out two talented fiction writers and one total hack.
First, Shoutout to FRESH MEAT by Maegan Heil! She’s an emerging fiction writer with an edgy, distinctive voice. Her newsletter shares in-progress pieces “ready for the chopping block.” Leans dark and deranged. Key post: https://maeganheil.substack.com/p/dont-tell-mom
Second, Shoutout to Fiction Deficit Disorder by Kris Mole! A keen, “cheeky” observer, his serialized memoir is written in an elegant, efficient voice. Key post: https://krismole.substack.com/p/rose
Finally, Shoutout to my dark humor newsletter, Field Research by Amran Gowani, which just wrapped up month two! I’m very excited about the progress so far and I’ve got loads of ideas for future posts. Most popular in June: https://agowani.substack.com/p/a-fatalists-guide-to-fathers-day If this piece strikes your fancy, please check out the rest of my archive and consider a free subscription. Fair warning: my sense of humor is an “acquired taste.” 😊
Thanks for being here Amran and for your shoutouts!
omg as someone who also writes a lot about being a dad in a way that's been described as an acquired taste, I am so pumped to read ur work!
Awesome! Welcome aboard!
Yes to FRESH MEAT!
Thank you for the shoutout, Amran, appreciate it.
As for FRESH MEAT, Maegan's Substack deserves all the attention, subs, praise and whatever else comes with it. Love Maegan's writing, never fails to entertain (and make you think at the same time). So let me add my own recommendation to yours.
And you already know I like yours too. But don't want it to sound like I'm just saying it cos you bigged me up first. But yea, you know. x
Thanks, Kris!
I believe I'm a subscriber, looking forward to more!
You are! Welcome to the show! Hope you're enjoying the posts so far.
Let's get right to the shoutouts!
shannanmartin.substack.com - I joined Substack for Shannan Martin's The Soup (witty, authentic, and full of heart--can't wait for her book Start with Hello to be released this Fall), but I've also discovered other newsletters I am digging.
dinneralovestory.substack.com - If Andy's Fried Potatoes and an MVP Potato Salad don't reel you in, then maybe the Batched Cocktail will!
theisolationjournals.substack.com - My brother has leukemia, and I'll be donating my stem cells to him in a couple of weeks. Suleika helps me see the world from a patient's point of view. I've already gotten some great ideas of how I can help my brother in even better ways.
brentandmichaelaregoingplaces.substack.com - I discovered this one a week or so ago. So far I've read two well-written, fabulously-researched articles: one on medical tourism and one on Sarajevo's abandoned Olympic bobsleigh run. I've enjoyed them so much that I'm considering becoming a paid subscriber.
Such a lovely set of recommendations, thank you <3
Agree on Brent and Michael's newsletter. Just dove in yesterday, and they are living the dream!
Right?! #goals
seriously! I can't with their Croatia trip.
And now you've made me search their archives and look at Croatian Fish Market photos. My eyes! My eyes!
Hi Holly! Great list, and I'm also a major fan of Suleika. I just subscribed to yours as well.
One day I'll get over that feeling I feel in my stomach when someone says, "Hey, I subscribed." :) I hope you enjoy reading, but if you don't...that's okay too! Suleika was one of my first subscriptions, and I have read every newsletter I've received.
Hehe, I hear ya. The Isolation Journals was a gift to me after I was released from the hospital last summer. If it wasn't for that, I might not have even discovered Substack!
Wow, Holly, just wow. All the best to you and your brother.
Thanks! Turns out I am a perfect match, and we're ready to get this show on the road!
That's so WONDERFUL!!! :D :D :D
Keep up your good work, Holly!
Wow, these are great. Thanks for sharing!
I’d like to shout out Rebecca Davey’s Observables. https://observables.substack.com/ Not only is she offering thoughtful and humorous life observations, she is constantly elevating other writers and their work!
Good Enough? More like Great Enough. Subscribed!
Backatcha!
that's such a good publication title !! subbing
As an Asian woman/POC, I'd like to shout out to my own substack --> minhdang.substack.com <-- I write about adulting and perspective of a 23 year old Vietnamese living in America.
I am VERY OPEN to any recommendations of substacks written by Asian writers (I am following some POC writers already but found it a bit harder to find Asian writers on here) I read about culture, story telling but also business, tech and cooking.
Thanks for being here Minh! Our recent What to Read was with simi Shah, who writes Trailblazers, a publication sharing stories of pioneering South Asians and their journeys into leadership roles.
https://on.substack.com/p/what-to-read-simi-shah
Ooh I like this!
There's quite a lot of good writing on Substack by Asian Americans! You can always use our search to browse around (https://substack.com/search/%22asian%20american%22 for example). Here are some folks I know and love as well
https://thecosmoscarepackage.substack.com/
https://halfcastewoman.substack.com/
https://ampleroad.substack.com/
https://aimeeliu.substack.com/
https://chaoyangtrap.house/
https://hotthaikitchen.substack.com/
https://tway.substack.com/
Thanks for sharing Bailey!
Kana Chan writes about her daily life in Kamikatsu, Japan’s first zero-waste village. Highly recommend!
https://tendinggardens.substack.com/
thank you, just subscribed! :-)
I enjoy Hopemail from Melinda Yeoh (she's from Malaysia just moved to Portugal). Thoughts on life plus her wonderful art.
https://hopemail.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav
Just subscribed, looks intriguing from a fellow traveler :) Thank you Melanie
HI Minh, I am half Japanese from Tokyo, nice to meet you!
Hi Olga, great to meet you! This is wonderful learning about all the Asian writers/spaces on here :) It's great to find community
Shout out of congratulations to Elle Griffin at https://ellegriffin.substack.com/ on the publication of her new book, Obscurity. I love that the book was serialized on her Substack and can now be purchased as a Kindle or hardcover book. No matter if everyone read the serialized version, readers will often want the "souvenir" of the published copy as well. I put my order in!
Wow, thank you so much Denise! You just made my whole day!!! Actually, week!!!
I'm excited to read your book!
Plus she's expert at thinking about new methods for commercializing in the current ecosystem. A must follow for fiction writers.
Wow, thank you so much!!
We love Elle!
It will be great if SubStack can hang in there through these times and continue to offer the diverse, common sense forum for all the opinions and multiple theorizing and thinking/writing you have already achieved. Keep up the great work. It is and will remain worth it. It’s about interdependence - hopefully we can continue to prove this.
Protecting space for open exchange of ideas is so important - and it will help if free speech communities hold true predators accountable, as you know this has been an issue. I believe it's vital that we prove to the world that free thought can also be compassionate action.
Checking your newsletter, KW!
Agreed. I think a lot of tech sector companies are preparing for hard times right now. Hopefully we can weather the storm together
Checking out your newsletter, Cole!
I love that Tegan & Sara's Substack isn't some lame low-effort cash grab. They've clearly invested a ton in it, and I find it delightful.
This is so cool, I had no idea they even had one.
Link? Would love to read!
https://teganandsara.substack.com/
Ooooh. Subbed!
Yay thank you! ♡
Hi all. I’ve just passed my one year anniversary posting serialized fiction on The Water Is So Wide. It’s been a slog gaining subscribers, but I try to return periodically to this thought: my first novel and half of my second are now extant: up on Substack for anyone to view, written the way I want, written as well as I can, and looking the way I want to present them. If I get hit by a bus tomorrow, an important part of me, my work, will remain. And that is something. As this is Shout Out Week, I will mention Fictionistas (https://fictionistas.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav) as a great resource for all fiction writers. A new substack that I just came across is also worth taking a look at: A Special Place in Hell (https://aspecialplace.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav): Witty, cordial, free thinking conversations.
Congrats, Julie! I'm doing something similar by posting my favorite "scenes/chapters" from a novel that I wasn't able to get picked up by an agent. Nice to put the work into the public domain. I'll check out your newsletter! Also just subscribed to Fictionistas!
Thanks. Fictionistas is very helpful.
Hi Julie,
I feel you with that one. sometimes you need to just back yourself and put it out there. I"m doing the same with my short fiction. It's nice to know it's brought joy to someone and found it's audience regardless.
Congratulations on your anniversary! And I agree. It just feels so good to have the work out and in the world (and out of our heads!)
Thanks. I remember seeing you on Twitter a year or two ago talking about the feasibility of serializing one's fiction. I took it to heart!
Wow, so cool. I guess Twitter does work 🤣
Thanks for the Fictionistas shoutout! We're glad to have you!
Substack Grow has been keeping me busy!
I've been cracking up at Alex Debrenko during Substack Grow: https://botharetrue.substack.com/
Looking forward to taking pop culture seriously with The Metropolitan https://www.themetropolitan.uk/
And I'm quickly becoming a superfan of Nita Jain's tips for thriving: https://nitajain.substack.com/
i love to see you here Natasha! Shoutout to Theory Gang: https://theorygang.substack.com/
Oh Dionne ! I adore you! Look at us building multi-platform community!
I recommend Dionne on my Substack. She's the sweetest, most beautiful soul. https://dionne.substack.com/
you are so darling! thank you! 💜
Followed Nita over from Medium. Fantastic, well researched work that always leaves you just a little smarter.
Hi, Kevin! How'd your interview go (briefly...I know this ain't the time nor place)? Mine's tomorrow!!!😎🎵🎶😊
Thanks for asking! It went really well! Very nice guys and it became an easy conversation between 3 music nerds.
Good luck tomorrow!
Glad yours rocked....we'll talk later, and share success stories! David Cassidy rules! (sorry, just getting warmed up)!!😁🎶🎵🎸👍
AHHH NATASHA THANK U
I'll give a shoutout to a recent subscription, and that's for Caribunkle by Tom Pendergast over at https://tompendergast.substack.com/. He is writing a serial right now, but also includes short stories and essays. His top post A Car Went Into Lost Lake (https://tompendergast.substack.com/p/a-car-went-into-lost-lake-) is such a fun read. Good luck Tom! I hope you get lots of new subscribers.
As far as myself, you can find me over at Future Thief (https://brianreindel.substack.com). I'm only 2 subscribers away from 100, and I would love a few more speculative fiction short story lovers to join. It's free to read and I've built up a nice archive so far over the last 4+ months.
Thanks a lot Brian for the Shoutout, I’m definitely enjoying your work as well ... and you’ve helped me see that this little corner of Substack is a good place to learn more about what people are doing and maybe try some new stuff myself.
Shoutout to Dia Becker of Broke but Moisturized for her most recent newsletter on indulgence and the pampered life. It was a vision. 🤌🏾🤌🏾 Her writing stands in its vulnerability with grace.
https://brokebutmoisturized.substack.com/
Shoutout to Ravi Rajan of Hidden History who always illuminatessome fascinating corner of the history books.
https://thehiddenhistory.substack.com/
Also, I’d be nowhere without the people who continue showing up for me and support me.
T Van Santana of Adventures in Secrecy with T Van Santana
Geoffrey Golden of Adventure Snack and Fictionistas
Jackie Dana of Story Cauldron, Unseen St. Louis, and Fictionistas
Kevin Alexander of On Repeat
Adetokunbo Abiola of Adetokunbo Sees
Fog Chaser of Fog Chaser
Kate Raphael of A Grain of Salt
…So many more!
You all make this community better. Thanks for your encouragement, support, engagement, retweets… you’re the best!!
I appreciate you, Chevanne. Your writings have always been a source of deep meditation.
You are too kind. 😊
Agree. These are some great folks!
delicious list! thank you!
You're awesome, Chevanne!
🥰 Thanks!
Appreciate you, Chevanne!
I LOVE having Frank + Feel in my inbox, with her brilliant newsletter: https://frankandfeel.substack.com/?r=2cn9a&utm_medium=ios
And am also thrilled to see Bess Kalb launch The Grudge Report, because I devoured Nobody Will Tell You This But Me earlier this year! 🔥
Checking out Frank + Feel and yours too, Ellie!
Oh wow, thanks so much Mark! I've only just transferred my subscriptions over to this account, and haven't announced mine to the world yet - so thank you so much for the leap of faith! What a wonderful community Substack is :)
This was such a hoot - https://besskalb.substack.com/p/an-author-names-her-summer-reading
omg so good
My shoutout today is to the Substack team. I needed a platform like this to pivot my writing and feel empowered. There’s no other site like it, and I’ve only just scratched the surface. Thank you for all you do to hear us and encourage our growth as partners. P.S. And here’s to hoping for more opportunities for new and eager Substackers like me to find mentors and accountability partners!
<3
A huge shout out to Carrie Newcomer and her Substack page A Gathering of Spirits! If you enjoy folk music, poetry, and readings her page is amazing! carrienewcomer.substack.com
Love the kindness I've seen over there!
She’s amazing. She writes all her own songs and poetry too. Her passion is to heal the world. I absolutely love her!!
I really like this and it's beautiful writing. What a great idea this is to share and get to see all these various and different newsletters. Reminds me of the "Cool Site of the Week" in the mid-1990s :-) Subscribed to this one, thank you!
Someone definitely needs to revive the "Cool Sight of the Week"
Thanks! It looked great and I susbcribed!
Big fan of hers! I didn't know she had a Substack. Just subscribed.
I enjoy reading smart and funny TV criticism, so I was happy to recently discover a newsletter called "tv i say w/ ashley ray." Ashley tells us what she's watching and why, in addition to longer critiques on specific shows. Very entertaining read!
https://ashleyray.substack.com/
The weekday watchlist spreadsheets are so detailed and cool!
They take me back to the glory days of TV Guide!
Oh my God. Subscribing. This is right up my alley!
Her 90 Day Fiance recap (via Vulture mag I believe) is also so so so good!
omg 90 Day Fiance is in the thread!!
I'd like to shout out Julie at Run to Write - https://juliebhughes.substack.com/ - for setting up a space to write together online. I didn't make it, but I love this idea.
What a cool concept!
Oooooh I wish I could tag Terrell in this. Probably right/write up his alley! You might like his Substack too: https://www.thehalfmarathoner.com/
Shout out to:
https://joycecaroloates.substack.com
https://thewaterissowide.substack.com
https://melissaannobrien.substack.com
http://lilikoiwrites.substack.com
https://lizadonnelly.substack.com
OOO! More serialized writing with The Water is So Wide. We did a roundup of other serialized writing on Substack https://on.substack.com/p/serialized-classics
Great!
I'll check it out!
Thanks so much!
I have two great shout-outs:
"How About This" https://howaboutthis.substack.com/ Mark Dykeman always has something interesting to share about both the digital and physical world.
"Fictionistas" https://fictionistas.substack.com/ If you're a fiction writer looking for a place to hang your hat, this community might just be what you're looking for. Lots of great information on writing as well as monthly meetings to discuss all the ins and out.
Thanks Mark!
https://joycelinehan.substack.com consistently offers obscure and underappreciated songs ( and some background info) you will invariably share with a friend. It's like having a Substack dj
Oh my! Definitely subscribing to this one. I love discovering new (old) music!
cool...thanks for this one!
Pretty confident you'll dig it
I want to shout out the legend himself Edwin Dorsey! He runs the Bear Cave and Idea Brunch.
For this I will focus just on the Bear Cave. The Bear Cave looks in corporate misconduct. The free version is very interesting and the paid is even better. I have recommended the newsletter to multiple of my non-financial interested friends and now they are big fans of the publication.
Edwin breaks down what companies are doing wrong from all angles and reminds me constantly what to steer clear from. Please check it out and let me know what you think!
https://thebearcave.substack.com/
Edwin is so sharp with his strategy. We did an interview with him a while back if you'd like to check it out https://on.substack.com/p/going-paid-the-bear-cave
I've seen it! He's the real deal
Very interesting. I hadn't heard of this one. I'm a former corporate guy turned full-time writer and my contemporary fiction focuses heavily on corporate malfeasance and corruption. Definitely checking this out.
A newer science-oriented site I'm following is https://drerinmac.substack.com/ -- what I like is the perspective of someone with feet firmly in both the science and entertainment fields. And a Star Trek insider, which I love reading about.
And then for astronomy news and explanations I've been checking in with Phil Plait's https://badastronomy.substack.com/ and previous blogs for years.
I'm always up for supporting good popular science writing!
Phil Plait is a legend. A LEGEND. I'm glad he's on here, flying the flag so...um, flappily. (?) Every issue of his newsletter has at least one moment where my jaw drops.
Another good science newsletter, not on Substack, is https://www.sciof.fi/. Maddie knows her stuff.
Ah, love this! Thank you for the rec :)
These are great!
Hi all!
I write Humbly Bumbling. The topics vary, but I try to write everything through the lens of a Christian, father and husband.
I like Coffee & Covid (coffeeandcovid.com) Jeff does a wonderful job of rounding up the latest news from the perspective of a lawyer, Christian, and conservative.
Also, you cant go wrong with the Bad Cat
https://boriquagato.substack.com/
And finally, I have also enjoyed "Life in the Schratz Lane" by Paul Schratz who writes about the declining state of journalism and the impact it has on the erosion of our fundamental freedoms of conscience, religion, and expression.
https://paulschratz.substack.com/
Hi everyone, I'd like to give a shoutout to all the Guest Writers who have shared a meaningful movie on "moviewise: Life Lessons From Movies":
Luiza Beirão Campos
Arjun Agarwal
William Collen
Will Dowd
Andrew Heard
Art A.
Mike Baron
Rufat Rassulov
Aman Arora
You can read their posts and find links to their newsletters here:
https://moviewise.substack.com/s/-guest-posts
Also, if you'd like to be a Guest Writer, please see:
https://moviewise.substack.com/p/be-our-guest
When my production is finished, count me in!
I've really been loving Kelton's Substack, Shangrilogs. https://shangrilogs.substack.com/
Beautiful photos, thoughtful writing, a great perspective, and just an all-around pleasure to read!
Great one! Thanks for being here
Right back at you! I love So Relatable. https://sorelatable.substack.com/
One of my absolute favorites is Hunter Harris and her newsletter Hung Up! Not only does she constantly make me laugh with her unstoppable sense of humor, keeping up on her newsletter also helps me keep up on the world!
I work in marketing for a body care company by day and often partner with my social manager for content ideas. The problem for me is I quite frequently take personal social media breaks, which means I miss out on the day-to-day banter, new meme formats, and things going on in the celebrity world. Hunter's newsletter is the perfect amount of quip and resources for me to stay up to date even when Twitter is deleted off of my phone – a super specific reason to love it but valid nonetheless!
Hunter's commentary is such a bonus, she is quippy and smart - never rude or unrelatable in her approach. I don't even know what her voice sounds like but in my head I read her content like we are besties; she genuinely connects with her audience in such a seamless way!
Forever a subscriber, forever better for it! ♡
Hung Up: https://hunterharris.substack.com/
Hunter rules!
Seconding this shoutout!
What a cool idea to do the shoutouts!
I’m new to substack and enjoying the journey so far. Been enjoying Simon Jones shares about writing fiction on substack e.g. https://simonkjones.substack.com/p/structuring-serial-fiction-on-substack
Welcome to Substack! And great shoutout
Thank you!
Thanks, Sid!
I've been appreciating "Gilby's Pop Culture Roundup" lately https://gilby.substack.com/ mainly for his carefully curated songlists.
Recently, he answered one of Kevin Alexander's "What're You Listening to Lately" questions on Kevin's "On Repeat" https://thekevinalexander.substack.com/ by including a song on his Spotify playlist that I enjoyed so much, I did a deep dive into the song ("Heartbeat") and artist (The Midnight), publishing it yesterday (Wed)!
Such is the value of open eyes, open ears, and the willingness to let fellow 'Stackers influence you! Of course, I gladly planted links to both Kevin's and Gilby's 'Stacks in my post, inviting readers to subscribe!😁🎵🎸🎶
Seconded for On Repeat.
Don't overlook Gilby's, Chevanne! You might find a new fave 'Stack!🤠
Okay, I’ll check it out.
Highly recommend checking out Geoffrey Golden's Adventure Snack. Always fun, always poking at the edges of interactivity in the context of a newsletter. Innovative and bite-sized. https://adventuresnack.substack.com/
Thanks for being here Simon! I saw you got a shoutout from a new writer
Thanks for letting me know, Katie! :)
Adventure Snack is always surprising and fun!
Hello everyone, I write Desk Notes, which focuses on writing, literature, and travel. Here is one of the most popular recent issues:
https://charlesschifano.substack.com/p/a-difficult-time-writing
And here are two other newsletters that I would definitely recommend:
The Intrinsic Perspective: https://erikhoel.substack.com/
The Commonplace: https://thomasjbevan.substack.com/
Ooh — just subscribed to Desk Notes. You got me at lit + travel.
Thank you and I hope that you enjoy—let me know what you think.
Checking these out, Charles!
I appreciate receiving your Friday letters (they do feel like letters in ways that many newsletters don't), so thank you for writing them.
That's great to hear—thank you.
Hi Everyone,
My newsletter is Aging Well News (https://agingwell.news/). I offer tips and helpful hints for older adults, care providers, and concerned loved ones who wish to live their best life after retirement age.
Like many other readers: four of my favorites are
YouTopian Journey - https://youtopianjourney.substack.com/
Constant Commoner - https://ramonagrigg.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav
Writer Everlasting -https://writereverlasting.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2-nav
Leaves - https://sharronbassano.substack.com/
Thank you, you rock!
Evening all!
I have a fairly newly created Substack called Thea Chops Books: I just published my 2nd post today. I'm an author of children's rhyming story books that have messages of equality, inclusivity and acceptance in them. As a result of writing the books I've become an activist for equality. Not what I set out to do but certainly something I enjoy and completely believe in!
I'd like to give a shout out to The Flock with Jennifer Crichton https://jennifercrichton.substack.com who writes beautifully about daily news from a feminist and intersectional perspective.
Welcome to Substack!
Hi Everyone…I am actively looking for interesting writers supporting healthy vegan lifestyles, all things food and cooking and anything creative or entrepreneurial. Some interesting current finds are:
Dianne Jacob – she sets the bar high when it comes to learning how to write about food. https://diannejacob.substack.com/
Veronique Gautier-Simmons – she supports yoga and breathwork and new to substack https://yogaforms.substack.com/
Fiona Beckett – over 30 years as food/wine journalist https://fionabeckett.substack.com/
I write VeganWeekly. My aim is to inspire people to cook healthy vegan food each week. I share weekly recipes with detailed instruction. I am a professional chef and food educator…I am also experienced in making a healthy lifestyle change as a result of serious health issue. https://myfreshattitude.substack.com/
I am actively looking for other writers who may be interested in working on collaborative projects. I’m open to pursuing anything that is mutually beneficial.
I've been enjoying Lit Mag News Roundup, which provides information and insight about submitting to literary journals and all things publishing. https://litmagnews.substack.com/?utm_source=%2Fsettings&utm_medium=reader2-nav
I would like to offer a heartfelt thanks to the Substack team. Since I started my newsletter in May, the entire process has worked flawlessly. That is obviously due to the professionalism of the Substack staff.
My newsletter, Talking Seriously, focuses on politics and legal issues. Therefore, I would like to recommend Bari Weiss' Common Sense and The Dispatch. Both are thought-provoking, well-written, and fair-minded.
There are SO MANY cool people writing fascinating Substacks about so many things, but I have really been loving Hidden History lately. I love learning about forgotten or erased histories--that's part of why I write Unruly Figures, which looks at historical rule-breakers--and that's exactly what Hidden History focuses on. Check out "The Tragic Lives of Concubines in Ancient China" https://thehiddenhistory.substack.com/p/the-secret-lives-of-concubines-in
Hi everyone! I'm Mike and I write Books on GIF, where I use animated GIFs to review books.
I'd like to shout out a brand new book newsletter: Space Wizards Book Club https://spacewizardbooks.substack.com/
It's a newsletter about Star Wars books. I am a crazy big Star Wars fan so I was really excited to find it and I have never subscribed to something so quickly, lol! If you're a fan of a galaxy far, far away check it out!
Your Substack is super creative. What a great approach to book reviews!
Thanks, Jeff!
Wow what a great pub, Mike! Thanks for joining us today <3
Thanks, Bailey! The thread is always good to see what folks are creating!
Shoutout to all the newsletters about growing your newsletter!
https://pau1.substack.com/ is a favorite
https://newslettertosocials.substack.com/
https://newslettertosocials.com/
This should be near the top of the posts here. So good. Thank you for sharing.
Lots of great shout-outs! Hope I can share more than one from my writing group:
Leftovers: https://lachrista.substack.com
Found Poems: https://foundpoems.substack.com/
Goodwin Reads: https://goodwinreads.com/
Animal Eats: https://theanimaleats.substack.com/
Hello Universe: https://hellouniverse.substack.com/
Eighty Four: https://eightyfour.substack.com
Private Market: https://peggyvandeplassche.substack.com/
All of these writers inspire me!
~Graham
Great ones! Thanks for sharing, Graham
Wow, what a wonderful assortment!
I have been following the Bittman Project (https://www.bittmanproject.com/) not so much because I love the topic but in order to see how other Substack authors who offer discussion threads only for paying subscribers manage the details of the dynamics. If anyone has other suggestions for Substacks to follow that are well-written and generate discussions that only paying subscribers get access to, I'd appreciate it. This is what I'm up to with my own Substack, Introvert UpThink (https://www.introvertupthink.com).
Anne Helen is another great one to check out for how she uses discussion threads! https://annehelen.substack.com/. As is Virginia Sole Smith https://virginiasolesmith.substack.com/
introversion is a topic very dear to me!