Wow! What a final interview to end Substack Campfire on!
Three things from it blew me away…
#1. It was a tremendous honor to have the co-founder of Substack join us for an interview.
As a creator, there is a huge vulnerability in making one platform your home on the Internet. Like someone who finds it hard to love again after being burned, it’s hard to make a platform you’re home when other platforms have screwed their creators or filled their feeds with surface-level, performative content interspersed with ads.
Substack has done more than any other platform to build trust with its creators:
Substack only gets paid when creators get paid.
Substack allows you to take your subscribers’ emails and subscriptions with you if you ever leave the platform.
Said differently, rather than just talking a big game, Substack has more actual skin in the game than any other social platform. It ONLY succeeds if creators are making money and having a better experience than other platforms.
Talking with a co-founder of their platform takes that trust to a whole other level. Hamish is more than busy with managing Substack’s team and leading the development of the platform. Therefore, it especially means a lot that he would make time for the community.
#2. Substack isn’t just a company. It’s a movement.
It makes all of the difference when you can feel someone’s energy. And what we all felt on the call as well as the interview with
(see interview here) was that the Substack team isn’t just running a company, they are leading a movement that is critical to the future of the Internet.That energy is contagious.
It has pushed Tom and me away from having the typical arms-length platform relationship toward rooting for Substack's success and trying to play a small role in the evolution of the community’s culture.
#3. Substack is extremely thoughtful and smart.
I’ve been a lifelong entrepreneur and creator.
I’ve successfully created articles for over a dozen platforms (LinkedIn, X, Quora, Medium, Substack, Entrepreneur, Forbes, Inc., Fortune, Harvard Business Review, Huffington Post, and many others).
When you’ve been at this for so long, you see lots of patterns and cycles. You also get a feel for what will actually be helpful for creators in the long term and what won’t.
With that said, I have to say that I’m continually impressed by the strategic decisions that Substack makes. And, after listening to Hamish, I can understand why. He’s a very deep and thoughtful thinker. And, you’ll see that for yourself when you watch the interview.
Enjoy!
RECORDING RESOURCES
Presentation Slides
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1dRjyoIcqJgNhoZoe79b9r2i14r9S0v1G4ZEju16bCD8/edit?usp=sharing (toward the bottom)
Resources Shared
Laurie Morin’s Note
Substack Support’s Post: How do I delete a post that I've published?
Substack Campfire’s November Challenge Early Bird Promo
Substack Campfire’s Subscription Plans
Tom Kuegler’s Publication: Mind of a Writer
Substack’s Getting Started Chapter
Sarah Fay’s Publication: Substack Writers at Work
AI Timestamps
(00:01) Future of Internet Monetization Trends
(14:07) Future of Media Monetization Trends
(29:23) Substack's Full Stack Media Ecosystem
(37:47) Building a Full Stack Ecosystem
(43:19) The Future of Substack Collaboration
(50:39) Building a Partnership With Substack
(57:58) Substack Campfire 2.0 Vision Discussion
(01:07:12) Power of Personal Storytelling on Substack
(01:16:14) Substack Community Vision and Growth
(01:26:56) Newsletter Collaboration and Substack Resources
(01:35:33) Writing for Transformative Personal Growth
AI Chapter Summaries
(00:01) Future of Internet Monetization Trends
This chapter focuses on an insightful interview with Hamish McKenzie, co-founder of Substack, discussing the transformative changes occurring on the internet. We explore the shift from an ad-supported, free-information model to a direct subscription model, where content creators can thrive through subscriptions to individuals or small groups. McKenzie reflects on the historical context of this shift, noting how platforms like Spotify, Netflix, and Patreon have normalized paying for content online and paved the way for Substack's model. He emphasizes that while traditional advertising and platform subscriptions will remain, the future of media will increasingly involve direct subscriptions, unlocking new opportunities for creators to succeed.
(14:07) Future of Media Monetization Trends
This chapter focuses on the evolution and future of Substack within the broader media ecosystem. We explore the importance of increasing awareness about Substack and making it more accessible, especially on mobile devices, to reach a larger audience who predominantly use platforms like TikTok and Instagram. We also discuss the challenges traditional media faces in competing with social media, primarily due to the reliance on advertising revenue. By comparing the strengths and weaknesses of traditional and social media, we highlight the need for a new media model that prioritizes quality content and user control, with Substack aiming to fulfill that role. The introduction of Notes and its potential impact on the media landscape is also touched upon, emphasizing the shift towards a more integrated and user-friendly media experience.
(29:23) Substack's Full Stack Media Ecosystem
This chapter explores the future enhancements and unique elements of Substack, emphasizing user control and customization. We discuss potential features like integrated live chats, live videos, and improved search capabilities that could enrich the user experience. While many features may seem similar to those on existing social media platforms, the distinctive Substack model—focused on ownership and agency—sets it apart. We draw an analogy to the evolution of electric cars, highlighting how Substack's innovative approach transforms the underlying media landscape, akin to how electric vehicles revolutionize the automotive industry. This shift promises a more efficient, healthier, and user-centered platform for creators and audiences alike.
(37:47) Building a Full Stack Ecosystem
This chapter explores the comprehensive ecosystem Tesla built to support their electric vehicles and draws parallels to Substack's integrated approach to media publishing. We discuss how Tesla not only revolutionized car manufacturing but also created a retail experience, charging infrastructure, and battery production to support their vision. Similarly, Substack aims to provide an all-in-one platform for writers by integrating payment systems, subscription management, CRM, and discovery tools to maximize efficiency and support creators. We highlight the importance of prioritizing platforms that align with creators' success and provide the option to focus attention effectively, thus enhancing the overall experience for both writers and their audience.
(43:19) The Future of Substack Collaboration
This chapter explores the evolution of Substack with a focus on collaboration and community building. We discuss how features like multiple bylines, guest tagging on podcasts, and recommendations enhance discovery and cross-pollination among writers. The conversation highlights the importance of fostering collegiality to counteract the loneliness often experienced by independent creators. We also touch on the significant potential for Substack in the local news sector, emphasizing the need for media entrepreneurs to take the plunge. Additionally, we answer audience questions about desired content types on Substack and reveal the story behind Substack's unique bookshelf and merchandise.
(50:39) Building a Partnership With Substack
This chapter explores the essential traits needed to succeed in the tech startup world, emphasizing talent, courage, and grit. We discuss Substack's significant contributions, including building a unique platform and providing fellowships, legal defense programs, and financial support initiatives. Despite economic challenges in 2022 that required scaling back certain services, the commitment to viewing creators as partners remains strong. We also touch on the broader vision of Substack as a movement, driven by the belief in a better model for creators to thrive and encouraging the community to spread the word about the platform's potential.
(57:58) Substack Campfire 2.0 Vision Discussion
This chapter reflects on our engaging session with Hamish, the co-founder of Substack, who shared insights about the platform's vision and ethos. We highlight key takeaways from the discussion, such as the unique positioning of Substack as a movement rather than just a platform, and the significant positive impact it has had on mental health. We explore the creators' sense of belonging, transparency, and integrity within the Substack community. Tom and I also discuss the contrasting incentives for creators on other platforms like Uber and Twitter, and our appreciation for Substack's creator-focused approach. Finally, we announce an upcoming feedback session to gather more insights from our community on their goals and challenges.
(01:07:12) Power of Personal Storytelling on Substack
This chapter focuses on the announcement of a series of month-long challenges starting from Monday, October 28th to Friday, November 22nd. We emphasize the importance of storytelling, particularly through "mini memoirs," as a cornerstone for future cohorts and community engagement on Substack Notes. Highlighting the profound impact of personal stories, we share examples of deeply moving posts from members like Lori Marin, who wrote about her friendships and a recent loss, and others who recounted significant life moments. These stories not only foster community but also drive subscriber growth, evidenced by Michael Thompson's increase in subscribers from sharing personal notes. The chapter concludes by underscoring the effectiveness of personal memoirs in creating meaningful connections and enhancing community support.
(01:16:14) Substack Community Vision and Growth
This chapter outlines our vision of collaborating with renowned authors like Elizabeth Gilbert, Paul Crenshaw, George Saunders, and Janine Ouellette to create a monthly mini-course and interview series on Substack. We aim to explore their writing processes, learn from their experiences, and foster a supportive community focused on authenticity and personal growth. We also address the challenge of writing vulnerably online, where the pressure of likes and follows can hinder genuine expression. By creating a "story incubator," we hope to provide a safe space for sharing and receiving feedback. We encourage participants to reflect on their experiences, celebrate their achievements, and highlight the value of one-on-one connections. Lastly, we introduce an upcoming thread for participants to share their most proud posts, aiming to spotlight their work to the broader Substack community.
(01:26:56) Newsletter Collaboration and Substack Resources
This chapter explores the exciting collaboration between Tom and myself as we introduce our personal newsletters, Mind of a Writer and Blockbuster Blueprint, alongside Substack Campfire. We discuss the unique offerings of each newsletter, including Tom's vibrant Discord community and monthly note sprints, and my year-long course on creating impactful thought leadership content. We emphasize the value these newsletters provide, including tutorials, templates, and live courses. Towards the end, Kathleen, a newcomer to Substack, asks insightful questions about getting started on the platform and understanding the integration of Substack Campfire with our newsletters, leading to a helpful discussion on navigating this new landscape.
(01:35:33) Writing for Transformative Personal Growth
This chapter celebrates the incredible journey of the writing group, highlighting the deep emotions, vulnerability, and powerful storytelling exhibited by its members. I express my passion for being a writing coach and the transformative power of writing, emphasizing the intrinsic value and personal fulfillment that comes from writing heartfelt stories over monetary gains. The sense of community and the shared experience of bearing one's soul through writing are underscored, along with gratitude for the group's efforts and excitement for future stories. The chapter concludes with a heartfelt thank you and anticipation for the next meeting.
Chat Transcript
Note: Links shared in the chat transcript are moved to Resources Shared above.
00:01:45 Kathleen Thorne: Hello from FL, USA 🤗
00:02:52 Thomas Kuegler: add ❤️
00:02:54 Kristi Keller: Hamish, did you launch Substack when you were 16? Because you look about 24 now 😂
00:03:02 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "Hamish, did you laun..." with ❤️
00:04:35 Ishita: Reacted to "Hamish, did you la..." with 😂
00:04:37 Janet Ridsdale: Apologies for being late
00:07:26 Kristi Keller: I feel like we should have a Substack shop so I can get one of those little orange bookshelves behind Hamish.
00:07:33 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "I feel like we shoul..." with ❤️
00:07:37 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "I feel like we shoul..." with ❤️
00:07:40 Ishita: Reacted to "I feel like we sho..." with ➕
00:08:35 Thomas Kuegler: We definitely need a Substack merch store. 👀
00:08:41 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "We definitely need a..." with 👍
00:08:46 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "We definitely need a..." with ❤️
00:09:04 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "I feel like we shoul..." with ❤️
00:09:49 Teri Leigh: I love the simplicity of this timeline…how the internet started as a place for information, then it became social, then it became commercial, and now it is a blend of all three: information that we pay for directly to the individual that creates it.
00:10:00 Rishabh: Reacted to "I love the simplicit..." with ❤️
00:10:12 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "I love the simplicit…" with ❤️
00:11:12 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "I love the simplicit..." with 👍
00:12:02 Gordon Raup: Replying to "I feel like we shoul..."
What I'd really like is Tricia's library, complete with ladders. ;-)
00:12:40 Katie Bean: Reacted to "I love the simplicit..." with 👍
00:12:50 Kristi Keller: Amen because the Medium model is tired now.
00:12:58 Teri Leigh: Replying to "Amen because the Med..."
agreed.
00:13:14 ARM: Reacted to "Amen because the Med..." with 👍
00:13:23 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "Amen because the Med…" with 👍
00:14:12 Teri Leigh: Thank you for prioritizing ownership for creators and agency for readers.
00:14:20 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "Thank you for priori..." with ❤️
00:14:21 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "Thank you for priori…" with ❤️
00:14:24 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "Thank you for priori..." with ❤️
00:14:44 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Thank you for priori..." with 💜
00:17:04 Tricia Odham: Michael is the Question Master
00:17:07 Katie Bean: Michael is the BEST questioner!
00:17:10 Svetlana Makarova: Is there a goal to get to 100M paid subscriptions on the platform? If yes, what’s your target timeframe?
00:17:12 Katie Bean: Reacted to "Michael is the Quest..." with ❤️
00:17:19 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Michael is the BEST ..." with 😍
00:17:26 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "Michael is the BEST ..." with ❤️
00:17:30 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Michael is the Quest..." with 😍
00:17:35 Kristi Keller: But hey, people are talking about it on TV now so that's not a nothing-burger!!
00:17:38 Gladys Ato: Hamish so is part of Substack’s big, hairy, scary vision that it will become the ONE platform people go to for entertainment, education, and empowerment through newsletters, video shows, podcasts, etc, thus eliminating the need for separate platforms like Netflix’, Udemy, Spotify, and others?
00:17:45 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "Hamish so is part of..." with 👍
00:18:03 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "Hamish so is part of…" with 👍
00:18:29 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "But hey, people are ..." with 👍🏼
00:18:55 Gladys Ato: Reacted to "Is there a goal to g..." with 👍
00:19:29 Kathleen Thorne: Great idea 🤩🤩🤩
00:19:37 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Great idea 🤩🤩🤩" with 😍
00:20:10 Teri Leigh: Substack is definitely a quality “feeding your mind” platform whereas the other platforms feel like purely entertainment, or targeted how-to (youtube).
00:20:23 Kristi Keller: Replying to "Substack is definite..."
100%
00:21:15 Gordon Raup: Your central Feed-My-Mind app is a great vision statement.
00:21:27 Michael: I have an unstable connection. I probably have to watch the replay.
00:23:06 Ishita: Reacted to "Thank you for prio..." with ❤️
00:23:20 Ishita: Reacted to "Michael is the BES..." with 😂
00:23:28 Chuck: At $5 minimum monthly paid subscription, there is an upper limit to how many creators an individual can afford. What if my stack is only "worth" $.25/month?
00:23:38 Teri Leigh: great metaphor for what social media has done to traditional media. the illness…mental illness and physical illness. thank you for that simple clarity.
00:24:12 Kristi Keller: Replying to "At $5 minimum monthl..."
Have faith that you're worth much more than that!!
00:24:22 Teri Leigh: Replying to "At $5 minimum monthl..."
I agree with Kristi.
00:25:26 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "great metaphor for w..." with 👍
00:25:56 Chuck: Replying to "At $5 minimum monthl..."
But there are also many others who are worth more--a problem for readers as well as creators...
00:26:19 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "Have faith that you'..." with ❤️
00:26:31 Kristi Keller: Replying to "At $5 minimum monthl..."
A problem reframed is an opportunity 😊
00:26:40 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "A problem reframed i..." with 😍
00:27:02 Chuck: Reacted to "A problem reframed i..." with 😍
00:27:16 Kathleen Thorne: New to SubStack- like 10 days and LOVE everything about this platform. Notes allowed me to introduce things about myself to others very quickly! Just love it here! Feel honored to be. Don’t care to be anywhere else ‼️
00:27:25 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "New to SubStack- lik..." with ❤️
00:27:37 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "New to SubStack- lik..." with 🥰
00:27:38 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "New to SubStack- lik..." with 👍
00:27:55 Kristi Keller: And some Nigerian princes 😂
00:28:10 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "New to SubStack- lik…" with ❤️
00:28:16 Gordon Raup: Reacted to "New to SubStack- lik..." with 👍
00:28:17 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "And some Nigerian pr..." with 😂
00:28:37 Christie Sausa: Reacted to "And some Nigerian pr..." with 🤓
00:29:53 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "New to SubStack- lik..." with 😍
00:30:17 MSCM Staff: What type of content/topics is lacking on Substack that you would love to see more of, assuming authenticity and quality in all.
00:30:23 Gladys Ato: I love the evolved perspective of allowing the community to create the culture based on what the community deems valuable.
00:30:36 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "What type of content..." with ❤️
00:30:48 Ishita: Reacted to "I love the evolved..." with ❤️
00:30:54 Kristi Keller: Best point ever!!! Medium has broken so much trust just by not being this transparent. We tried so hard over there to foster the best community but if the platform doesn't help us foster, it's a dud.
00:31:05 Teri Leigh: Substack really is a long-game because trust is something that is built over time. Those other platforms are about quick action.
00:31:13 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "Substack really is a..." with 👍
00:31:30 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "Best point ever!!! …" with 👌
00:31:37 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "I love the evolved p..." with 👍
00:31:51 Teri Leigh: the word TRUST…it’s two Ts - strong boundary letters, with the word “US” in the middle. A boundary around the relationship.
00:32:04 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "the word TRUST…it’s ..." with ❤️
00:32:05 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "the word TRUST…it’s ..." with 👍
00:32:07 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "the word TRUST…it’s …" with ❤️
00:32:08 Gordon Raup: Reacted to "the word TRUST…it’s ..." with 👍
00:32:56 Teri Leigh: I’m so glad live video is coming! I want that feature!!!!
00:32:56 Gladys Ato: YES to live video!
00:33:50 Teri Leigh: “your delightful and interesting mind”
00:33:59 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "“your delightful and..." with ❤️
00:34:11 Kathleen Thorne: Really agree with that about notes and absolutely LOVE it! Thank you sooooo much 🙏
00:34:16 Ishita: And I also think it's not that difficult to cultivate this 'trust'. You just have to be yourself. I have been fiercely myself only on Substack. It's been great! So thank you for that.
00:34:28 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "“your delightful and..." with 😍
00:34:29 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "And I also think it'..." with ❤️
00:34:44 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "And I also think it'..." with 😍
00:35:00 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "And I also think it'..." with 😍
00:35:02 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "And I also think it'…" with 😍
00:36:32 Helena Kurcab (Jacci): Sorry, late here so have to leave. Hope there will be a replay. Thanks so much.
00:36:44 Rodney Daut: Reacted to "Sorry, late here so ..." with ❤️
00:37:03 Thomas Kuegler: Replying to "Sorry, late here so ..."
We’ll publish the replay tomorrow Helena!
00:38:54 Teri Leigh: That model of only getting paid if the creator gets paid and giving freedom to leave reminds me of the employer model of making it such a great place to work that employees can leave, but they don’t want to…and everyone’s goal is to make the organization a better place for all.
00:39:12 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "That model of only g…" with 😍
00:39:29 Kristi Keller: Replying to "That model of only g..."
I was literally just thinking the same.
00:39:35 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "I was literally just..." with ❤️
00:41:51 Gladys Ato: Reminds me of Jensen Huang with NVIDIA
00:44:21 Kristi Keller: "Readers from the wild" 😁 My favorite line from this whole chat
00:44:29 Teri Leigh: Reacted to ""Readers from the wi..." with ❤️
00:45:47 Laurie Morin: Reacted to ""Readers from the wi..." with 😍
00:46:05 Kathleen Thorne: Too many rules and regs in other platforms. Love it here so much. Tell everyone I know about it 😉
00:46:15 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "Too many rules and r..." with 👍
00:47:45 Gordon Raup: Hamish, 1). how many developers do you have?
00:48:15 Gordon Raup: 2) Does Substack make money? If not, how badly are you losing money?
00:49:01 Teri Leigh: This whole conversation gives so much hope. There really are great people in this world working to create great spaces where people can celebrate and support the greatness in each other. Thank you. 🙏
00:49:09 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "This whole conversat..." with 💜
00:49:15 MSCM Staff: Thank you
00:49:26 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "This whole conversat…" with 💜
00:49:39 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "This whole conversat..." with 👍
00:51:05 Brenda Ammon: I heard Michael mention a model for 1:1 coaching? is substack set up for that now?
00:51:19 Michael Simmons: Brenda - it’s in beta
00:51:42 Ishita: Reacted to "Brenda - it’s in ..." with ❤️
00:51:47 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "Brenda - it’s in bet…" with ❤️
00:51:53 Brenda Ammon: Thank you Michael. I would be willing to be part of the beta
00:52:09 Brenda Ammon: Reacted to "Brenda - it’s in bet..." with ❤️
00:52:48 Kristi Keller: Replying to "Thank you Michael. ..."
Ditto
00:52:57 Teri Leigh: yes please. how do we get to be part of the beta for 1-1 coaching? I would like to be part of that…as someone who has used multiple 1-1 coaching platforms for 20 years.
00:53:10 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "yes please. how do w..." with 👍
00:53:14 Svetlana Makarova: I’d love that
00:53:24 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "yes please. how do w..." with 👍
00:53:25 Svetlana Makarova: Reacted to "yes please. how do w..." with 👍
00:55:19 Chinmayan McGraw: Wonderful helpful and heartwarming program!!
00:55:36 Svetlana Makarova: Replying to "Thank you Michael. ..."
Same
00:55:42 Svetlana Makarova: Reacted to "Thank you Michael. ..." with ❤️
00:55:50 Brenda Ammon: Grit - love that inspiration from Hamish. Perseverance for the long run to stay at it and stick it through. -
00:56:52 MSCM Staff: How are the analytics of fiction looking like on Substack? Where are we on the demand vs supply continuum?
00:57:19 Tricia Odham: Beautiful baby
00:59:00 Brenda Ammon: Love that. A movement. Not a corporation.
00:59:02 Kathleen Thorne: Word of mouth is the best advertisement for this movement
00:59:02 Kristi Keller: That's the best word you could have used, Hamish. A movement! The way our community functions, it's definitely that.
00:59:10 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "That's the best word..." with ❤️
00:59:13 Ishita: Reacted to "yes please. how do..." with 👍
00:59:20 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "Word of mouth is the..." with 👍
00:59:24 Ishita: Reacted to "That's the best wo..." with ❤️
00:59:32 Ishita: Reacted to "Love that. A move..." with ❤️
00:59:55 Teri Leigh: I think the world needs to move more towards community and movement and away from corporate and commercial. I’m so glad you/we are here.
00:59:58 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "That's the best word..." with ❤️
01:00:00 Janet Ridsdale: Thank you!! ❤️
01:00:00 Brenda Ammon: What is the one thing that differentiates Substack- creatives as owners?
01:00:12 Tricia Odham: Thank you!
01:00:21 Prajna O'Hara: I have put this on my card as local people that I meet have not heard of Substack — we chat, they look it up. I can now call it a MOVEMENT.
01:00:25 Kristi Keller: And thank you for providing the space for us to build livelihoods!
01:00:31 Brenda Ammon: Goos bumps at the opportunity
01:00:47 Brenda Ammon: Thank you Hamish.
01:00:52 Teri Leigh: thank you Hamish
01:00:52 Gladys Ato: Thank you Hamish for your insights!
01:00:57 Laurie Morin: Thank you for the inspiration
01:01:00 Chinmayan McGraw: Thank you my friends!!!
01:01:03 Kathleen Thorne: Thank you beyond words
01:01:06 Jared Davis: Thank you!
01:01:18 Janet Ridsdale: Wow!!
01:01:19 Ishita: What a guy
01:01:22 Brenda Ammon: That was awesome!!!
01:01:24 Kathleen Thorne: Wow wow wow ‼️‼️‼️
01:01:31 AJ: Reacted to "I think the world ..." with ❤️
01:01:41 Brenda Ammon: Creators as owners
01:01:44 Kristi Keller: The transparency
01:01:49 Chris Landriau: Electric car metaphor
01:01:49 Laurie Morin: Inspired by the vision
01:01:49 Kristi Keller: Is incredible
01:01:51 Brenda Ammon: A Movement
01:01:52 Ishita: So much more trust & confidence to go all in
01:01:54 Chinmayan McGraw: Fantastic interview! Good job Michael!
01:01:55 Janet Ridsdale: Warm and fuzzy
01:01:57 Tricia Odham: Impeccability, trust, integrity, transparency
01:01:57 Thomas Kuegler: The way that Hamish called Substack a movement more than a platform or a business.
01:01:59 Gladys Ato: Eager for the possibilities here which are all around global impact
01:02:02 Kathleen Thorne: A TRUE sense of belonging 🤗
01:02:04 Christie Sausa: It sounds really exciting but I’m still overwhelmed with my Substack so not as excited as I should be lol. 🙂
01:02:11 Ishita: Reacted to "The way that Hamis..." with ❤️
01:02:13 Veronika Vrábel Porteš: Electrical cars metaphor
01:02:15 Prajna O'Hara: Long run to build trust - to belong
01:02:16 Teri Leigh: #1 takeaway…what I already knew…substack is different than anything out there. The founder is focused on community and movement and working together as partners with all creators.
01:02:27 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "#1 takeaway…what I a..." with 👍
01:02:39 Chris Landriau: Where exactly SS stands as a business model compared to traditional and social media
01:02:39 Tricia Odham: Replying to "It sounds really exc..."
What's holding you up the most?
01:02:50 Brenda Ammon: True sense of belonging . I like the metaphor of Tesla creating an industry with completely different power source.
01:02:55 Teri Leigh: TRUST!!!
01:03:00 Brenda Ammon: Reacted to "TRUST!!!" with ❤️
01:03:09 Teri Leigh: I think SS is the first online place where I feel 100% TRUST
01:03:13 Kristi Keller: Wait a minute...are we a cult??? 🤣 We all bought in.
01:03:17 Chinmayan McGraw: I am now a total believer…with much deeper trust…extremely impressed with Hamishs passion, integrity and wisdom!!
01:03:24 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "Wait a minute...are ..." with ❤️
01:03:30 Brenda Ammon: Reacted to "Wait a minute...are ..." with ❤️
01:03:30 Ishita: Reacted to "I am now a total b..." with ❤️
01:03:31 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Wait a minute...are ..." with 😍
01:03:41 Gordon Raup: The observation that all other social media has an incentive to replace creators with AI, but Substack doesn't.
01:03:44 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "I think SS is the fi..." with 😍
01:03:46 Teri Leigh: Like Tom, I am ALL IN on SS
01:03:47 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "I am now a total bel…" with ❤️
01:03:52 Veronika Vrábel Porteš: Reacted to "Where exactly SS sta..." with 👍
01:04:11 Teri Leigh: My mental health has drastically improved since I started on SS
01:04:15 Brenda Ammon: I like how Hamish deferred to us as the responsible ones
01:04:20 Ishita: Also the way he said that as creators you have the power to shape the culture & what you want to see. AMEN
01:04:27 Kristi Keller: Reacted to "My mental health has..." with 👍
01:04:38 Kristi Keller: Replying to "I like how Hamish de..."
So much THIS
01:04:49 Brenda Ammon: Reacted to "Also the way he said..." with ❤️
01:05:11 Ishita: Reacted to "Wait a minute...ar..." with ❤️
01:05:30 Ishita: Reacted to "The observation th..." with ❤️
01:05:37 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "Also the way he said..." with ❤️
01:05:54 Teri Leigh: Reacted to "I like how Hamish de..." with ❤️
01:06:02 Chinmayan McGraw: I am all in!
I am on substack or working on my newsletter most of everyday because of the love and good energy here…
This is a home for my heart!
01:06:37 Prajna O'Hara: Reacted to "I like how Hamish de..." with ❤️
01:07:46 Prajna O'Hara: Reacted to "I am all in!
I am ..." with ❤️
01:08:42 Prajna O'Hara: I’m organizing my life to be here more as I feel the potential unlike anything else, all that was said is unique and powerful!
01:08:57 Prajna O'Hara: Reacted to "So much THIS" with ❤️
01:09:31 Prajna O'Hara: Replying to "My mental health has..."
I can feel that transformation coming and moving all in to be less split.
01:09:39 Ishita: ALL HEARTSSSSS
01:09:43 Teri Leigh: I agree. All the stories shared here, it feels like I have a ton of new best friends. I know I could call any one of you and say hey…I am not okay and I need your help…and you would all show up for me.
01:09:49 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "I’m organizing my li..." with ❤️
01:09:55 Ishita: Reacted to "I agree. All the s..." with ❤️
01:09:58 Christie Sausa: Reacted to "I agree. All the sto..." with 🤓
01:11:01 Teri Leigh: YAY to storytelling focus!!!
01:11:53 Katie Bean: Yes Laurie's note yesterday brought me to tears
01:12:14 Tricia Odham: So touching
01:12:44 Ishita: So much love to you Laurie for sharing this with us. <3
01:13:30 Teri Leigh: love you Laurie!
01:14:06 Laurie Morin: Thanks to @Thomas Kuegler and @Michael Simmons and everyone here for creating a trusting place for sharing personal stories.
01:14:36 Michael Simmons: Reacted to "Thanks to @Thomas Ku..." with ❤️
01:16:14 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "YAY to storytelling ..." with 😍
01:16:22 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Yes Laurie's note ye..." with 💜
01:16:34 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "love you Laurie!" with 💜
01:16:51 Christie Sausa: Reacted to "Thanks to @Thomas Ku..." with 🤓
01:16:59 Svetlana Makarova: Reacted to "Thanks to @Thomas Ku..." with ❤️
01:17:01 Ishita: Reacted to "Thanks to @Thomas ..." with ❤️
01:17:35 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "Thanks to @Thomas Ku..." with ❤️
01:21:10 Thomas Kuegler: For sure
01:21:11 Brenda Ammon: yes
01:21:15 Christie Sausa: Yes, I agree. After having success on Medium the last year, it’s tough to transition somewhere where I feel like I’m not connecting with anyone lol (laugh out loud because this is embarrassing).
01:21:18 Teri Leigh: I wrote into the void and lived in the vulnerability hangover for 20 years! then I joined Substack and this group
01:21:19 Prajna O'Hara: Oh yes
01:21:24 Tricia Odham: yes yes yes
01:21:25 Christie Sausa: Reacted to "I wrote into the voi..." with 🤓
01:21:29 Ishita: Always :p
01:21:52 Kathleen Thorne: Have tried to delete post but did not work. Any advice?
01:22:31 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "I wrote into the voi..." with 💜
01:22:36 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Oh yes" with 💜
01:22:41 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "yes yes yes" with 💜
01:22:45 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Always :p" with 💜
01:23:14 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "So much love to you ..." with 💜
01:23:18 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "So touching" with 💜
01:23:30 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "Hey Kathleen! This a…" with ❤️
01:23:31 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "I agree. All the sto..." with 💜
01:23:32 Tricia Odham: Michael and Tom are perfect combination of mind and heart - thank you for holding space for us.
01:23:40 Christie Sausa: Reacted to "Michael and Tom are ..." with 🤓
01:23:43 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Michael and Tom are ..." with 😍
01:23:54 Janet Ridsdale: Reacted to "Michael and Tom are ..." with ❤️
01:24:15 Ishita: Reacted to "Michael and Tom ar..." with ❤️
01:24:20 Christie Sausa: So Saturday’s thread is still yet to be published? Sorry, I’m hoping I didn’t miss something.
01:25:30 Janet Ridsdale: Thank you so much ❤️
01:26:05 Laurie Morin: I love the direction you are heading. Thank you so much for creating the space for personal storytelling.
01:26:10 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "I love the direction..." with ❤️
01:26:11 Kathleen Thorne: Reacted to "I love the direction…" with ❤️
01:26:56 Thomas Kuegler: This means a lot to us Laurie. We’re really hoping this move is something that people in the community really want. It feels really good to us!
01:27:38 Teri Leigh: I love that you keep the threads and chat open between the challenges.
01:28:37 Thomas Kuegler: There’s the link y’all if you’re not part of the community and want to check out the discount code
01:29:17 Teri Leigh: YES! to sub-grouping and keeping things feeling small!
01:29:18 Svetlana Makarova: Already subscribed to it and looking forward to being on this journey with you guys!
01:29:31 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "YES! to sub-grouping..." with 👍🏼
01:30:21 Prajna O'Hara: Great new direction — mini stories. Love this. Thank you for your incredible support!
01:31:24 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Great new direction ..." with 😍
01:31:43 lauren: Need to drop off now, but this was a great interview and follow up chat - really interesting session. Thanks all!
01:31:58 Ishita: Reacted to "Need to drop off n..." with ➕
01:32:14 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "Need to drop off now..." with ❤️
01:32:15 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "Great new direction ..." with 😍
01:32:33 lauren: Replying to "Need to drop off now..."
PS would love to connect on Subtack - I write The Navigation 🙂 🧭
01:32:36 Ishita: Tom & Michael, thank you so much! You guys do complement each other a lot. I appreciate you both so much. <3
01:32:40 Thomas Kuegler: Reacted to "Tom & Michael, thank..." with ❤️
01:32:57 Laurie Morin: Reacted to "Tom & Michael, thank..." with 💜
01:32:59 Prajna O'Hara: Reacted to "PS would love to con..." with ❤️
01:33:36 Laurie Morin: Sorry, my dogs are demanding dinner. Thanks again for a great session and sprint.
01:34:08 Prajna O'Hara: Reacted to "Sorry, my dogs are d..." with ❤️
01:34:14 Katie Bean: thanks so much 🙂 <3
01:34:59 Janet Ridsdale: Reacted to "Sorry, my dogs are d..." with ❤️
01:35:18 Jared Davis: Thank you so much everyone! This has been/is/and will continue to be an epic community
01:35:47 Brenda Ammon: I agree Jared. Tom and Michael are incredible teachers.
01:36:00 Tricia Odham: Reacted to "https://substack.com..." with ❤️
01:36:03 Gladys Ato: Thanks all for today’s treat and for this experience!
01:37:47 Janet Ridsdale: Amazing thank you ❤️
01:38:58 Kathleen Thorne: Totally agree so much growth! Blood, sweat and lots of tears too
01:39:24 Chris Landriau: Thanks!
The Hamish McKenzie (Substack Co-Founder) Interview