86 Comments

I feel the same way as you about the loss of Google Reader. I was a blogger back then too and the community aspect of blogging seemed to die then. Or at least made it much harder

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As someone also new to substack, this post is very helpful and interesting. I have been absolutely loving my newly carved out time in the mornings to sit and read substack posts and now write my own. It's just a lovely place to be :)

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"I like who I am on this platform" _ I loved reading this because I feel it too.

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I’ve been on here less than a week, and I’ve already been flamed by someone who didn’t like that I asked an honest question about his post complaining about his job. My question? Why do you do it then? And I was deemed ‘cynical’ for asking. I thought Substack wasn’t social media, but apparently I was very wrong.

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This is so encouraging to read - I'm really excited by Substack too and the warmth of the community here!

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I have also just subscribed this morning to Substack. I discovered it quite by accident , and oh, what a joy! I am not a published writer, but I write most days even just for a few minutes. I'm looking to launch a few things out into literary space (if I am brave enough) and I am hoping Substack is a effective way to do this, and also receive feedback . Thank you for your post. I'm looking forward to reading your work!

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New to Substack myself! This lends such encouragement! Curious about the short guide to going on a personal retreat (downloadable PDF)- where could I get a copy?

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Hi, I've referred my entire writing group to your Way of The Fearless Writer and will also tell them about your substack posts. Your prompts are really fun and helpful and I have posted a few of the results on my page (particularly enjoyed 'what is in your pocket' and had my writing group do it last night).

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Thanks for sharing your learnings. I think the community factor is amazing on here!

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I launched my newsletter here last summer and have been enjoying the pressure and forced habit-building that inherently comes with writing on a public platform. It's helped me immensely in unexpected ways as I'm learning more about myself through sharing my work and perspectives than I originally expected. Your observation about most of your readers coming organically from within the Substack platform is dead-on. I've noticed this as well and it's why I am committed to interacting with others here. I love this community so much. There is a sense of mutual encouragement and positivity that I don't see on other social media platforms.

Beth, your work is fantastic and you have a new subscriber here. I'm looking forward to reading more!

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I just came across your post about the heart-shaped pancake and couldn’t help but add my own recently found heart-rock in the sand. I loved reading about your journey and experience here and found that I can relate to the positive vibe that you feel. I am also a Substack newbie, and so I look forward to reading more about your experiences and insights. Thanks for your candid writing!

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I’m really struggling with Substack. I have posted things but no likes or comments so I assume I’m doing something wrong? Technology and me really don’t work

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I’ve been here 2 years and it has been glorious for a food writer especially in my gluten-free baking niche. This really is a kind and supportive community that I’m grate for every day!

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Thanks from a newer, newbie!

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So great to hear how much you're enjoying the platform (and also to see how fast your publication has grown -- those stats are amazing!). I'm with you on Substack feeling "like the beginning of a beautiful friendship." I love the feeling of community here and how intentional the platform feels compared to many others. Thanks for sharing these reflections!

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Winter Writing Sanctuary- @BethKempton

Hi Beth, I’m grateful to be starting your winter writing sanctuary. I loved the warm welcome video of tips and the first two exercises. I’m sharing on here as I don’t use Facebook. I hope this is the best place to share, - here is my writing piece - a cinquain from Invitation B:

Up, Up,

Up, up, and up

The steps to top of St

Paul’s Cathedral. Breath-taking view.

London.

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