The hottest Communication Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Coleman Hughes: I Just Did Therapy in Public

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1089 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Self-help Mental health Philosophy Communication Personal Growth
  1. There are four desires that can lead people off track: power, wealth, pleasure, and honor. Focusing too much on any of these can harm your life.
  2. Self-reflection is important, and sometimes we need to ask ourselves what we truly value. This can lead to better understanding and happiness.
  3. Therapy can be helpful for specific issues, but doing it in a group or public setting can bring different insights and challenges. It’s about connecting deeply with our thoughts and feelings.

Walk Away

Points And Figures • 1279 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Negotiation Leadership Communication Political strategy Conflict resolution
  1. In negotiations, it's important to be willing to walk away if the terms aren't right for you. This shows that you have confidence and won't settle for less than you need.
  2. Understanding the other side's perspective and reading the situation correctly can help you negotiate better. It's crucial to know who the decision-makers are during the process.
  3. Sometimes, negotiations can drag on too long, and if you sense it's not going well, it might be smart to walk. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to bail if the deal feels wrong.

The Price of Mass Amusement

After Babel • 3023 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Technology Communication Society Philosophy
  1. Instant information from TV and social media can be misleading. It distracts us from understanding the real world and makes us think we know things when we actually don't.
  2. Mass amusement has replaced deep thinking and discussions. We're more focused on having fun than on meaningful conversations or learning.
  3. Today's media not only entertains us but also shapes our thoughts and connections. We need to be careful about how we engage with these technologies so we don't lose our ability to think critically.

If You’re New to Data, Read This Before You Build Anything

SeattleDataGuy’s Newsletter • 365 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Data science Communication Career growth Technical Skills
  1. It's better to work with other experienced engineers early in your career. This way, you can learn from their decisions and improve your skills more quickly.
  2. Don't get distracted by flashy tech trends or buzzwords. Focus on solving real business problems instead of getting caught up in the hype.
  3. Communication is key in data roles. Make sure you understand your audience and always lead with the main point when sharing your work.

Cities are routers in network society

Subconscious • 988 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society Urbanism Technology Communication
  1. Cities act like routers in our connected world, linking people and resources together. They help create community and make life easier.
  2. Internet and networks change how power and information flow. Unlike old broadcast systems that focus on a center, networks spread connections widely.
  3. With new technology, many people are becoming digital nomads. They can work from anywhere, making cities hubs for gatherings and shared experiences again.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

A Chatbot Coined A Phrase I Really Like. Am I Allowed To Use It?

Singal-Minded • 470 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Ethics Research Methods Writing Philosophy Communication
  1. AI can help generate new ideas and phrases that may not have been used before. Sometimes, the phrases created by AI can resonate and feel relevant in discussions.
  2. Using phrases created by AI raises questions about ownership and credit. Writers might wonder if they can use these phrases without considering who actually came up with them.
  3. The phrase 'confirmatory research theater' highlights an important issue in research, where studies might look rigorous but really just confirm what researchers wanted to prove all along.

From Anxiety to Animosity: How Social Media Damages Relationships

After Babel • 2854 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Human Relationships Communication Psychology Digital Life
  1. Social media can actually make our relationships weaker instead of stronger. When we communicate too much and too quickly, it can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.
  2. Building real friendships takes time and careful communication. If we rush this process or share too much online, it can damage the trust that's needed for deeper connections.
  3. While social media can help us connect with people and find communities, it can also make us feel overwhelmed and stressed. Spending more time on face-to-face conversations might be a better way to strengthen our bonds.

No More Forms to Fill Out

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Education Communication Innovation
  1. Filling out forms is a common part of life, but it often feels outdated. Instead of forms, we could use conversations with AI to make communication easier.
  2. Using AI like Claude, teachers can upload their syllabi and have an interactive conversation to turn their ideas into structured course content. This way, the process becomes more collaborative and flexible.
  3. This new method allows for ongoing adjustments and real-time feedback, leading to a stronger connection between the content and the user's needs. It's not just about filling out information, but working together to create something meaningful.

RIP Skype

The PhilaVerse • 123 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Communication Software Platforms User Experience Data Management
  1. Microsoft is shutting down Skype on May 5, 2025, after more than two decades of service. They are focusing on Teams now for communication.
  2. Users have 10 weeks to move their data from Skype to Teams or export their information. After that, user data will be kept until the end of 2025 before it is deleted.
  3. Skype had a big drop in users, going from 300 million at its peak to only 36 million daily users by 2023, which is why Microsoft made this decision.

Gen Z, Social Media is Optional

After Babel • 3383 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Youth Trends Social media Mental health Communication Technology impact
  1. Gen Z has the option to live without social media. It's not a must to be connected online all the time.
  2. Choosing to step away from social media can lead to better sleep, creativity, and stronger relationships with loved ones.
  3. There are practical methods to help people quit social media, like gradually reducing use and focusing on real-life connections instead.

4 Strategies To Elevate Your Communication Style From Engineer To Leader

SeattleDataGuy’s Newsletter • 412 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
💼 Business Leadership Communication Data Strategy Consulting
  1. When communicating with non-technical stakeholders, focus on the impact of your work rather than the technical details. Using clear language helps everyone understand why your projects matter.
  2. Highlight the risks of inaction to motivate decision-makers. Making them aware of potential costs or missed opportunities can encourage them to prioritize your recommendations.
  3. Use analogies relevant to your audience to make complex ideas easier to grasp. Relating technical concepts to familiar ideas can help build understanding and trust.

We All Work for the Same Boss Now

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 950 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Information Digital Culture Media Communication
  1. Technology can bring both good and bad changes, but we need to be aware of both sides. It's important not to worship or destroy new technology, but to think critically about its impact.
  2. Our current tech revolution, like the past ones, may lead to losses and hardships for many people, even as it also creates new opportunities. It's crucial to recognize that upheaval can be part of progress.
  3. The way we understand technology's role in society has shifted over time, and we must learn from history to navigate current challenges. We can't ignore the potential threats that come with new advancements.

Condensing The Iceberg

Adjacent Possible • 458 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Information Theory Attention Economy Media Studies Digital Culture Communication
  1. We're living in an era where our attention is a limited resource. Phones and social media have become really good at grabbing our focus because they filter information in ways that many find appealing.
  2. Understanding how information is condensed is important for both writers and readers. When writers filter vast amounts of content, they create a clearer picture for readers, but it can be challenging for people to delve deeper into topics.
  3. There are costs to the way we consume information today. It can be harder to concentrate on long texts because of the quick, bite-sized content we're used to. Finding ways to balance skimming and deeper engagement with information is crucial.

If You Can’t Be a Bridge, Be a Lighthouse

The Engineering Leader • 79 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💼 Business Leadership Management Communication Team Building Organizational Change
  1. Being a lighthouse means providing guidance and clarity when things are uncertain. Just like a lighthouse helps ships find their way, leaders should offer support to their teams during tough times.
  2. Leaders should empower their teams by encouraging autonomy and trust. This builds confidence and helps team members feel respected and capable in their roles.
  3. Consistency and integrity are key traits of a good leader. Like a lighthouse that shines every night, leaders should align their words and actions to build trust with their teams.

Two stupid facts that rule the world

Experimental History • 27646 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Writing Opinions Society Communication
  1. There are many people in the world, and they are all different. It's impossible to please everyone, and that's okay.
  2. Getting hate or criticism is normal when you reach many people. Instead of worrying, realize it's just part of the game.
  3. You don't need a huge audience to succeed. Even a small group of passionate readers can make a big impact.

local man sends 2nd email after 1st only gets 3 responses

Both Are True • 102 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Creativity Communication Self-reflection Community Personal Growth
  1. Sometimes, when reaching out, we can feel anxious if we don't get the responses we expect. It's normal to worry about how others perceive us.
  2. Sending a follow-up message can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity to express yourself honestly. You might be surprised by how good it feels.
  3. Being open about our imperfections can help reduce feelings of shame. It's better to be genuine than to strive for a perfect image.

Frameworks for Managing Up as a Software Engineer

High Growth Engineer • 624 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Software Engineering Management Career development Communication Trust Building
  1. Building trust with your manager is essential. Focus on being sincere, reliable, caring, and competent in your work.
  2. You need to speak your manager's language. Understand their goals and priorities to communicate effectively and prevent misunderstandings.
  3. Regular updates matter. Create a system for updates that keeps your manager informed without overwhelming them, ensuring that every communication is valuable.

How I Write

Democratizing Automation • 395 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Writing Communication Creativity Learning
  1. Writing improves with practice and prioritization. The more you write, the better you get at it.
  2. Finding your passion and voice is key to writing well. When you write about what you love, it becomes easier and more enjoyable.
  3. AI tools can support writing, but they also make it harder for new writers to learn. With auto-complete options, it takes more effort to become a good writer.

The Seminar Continues

In My Tribe • 182 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🚌 Education Psychology Personality Sociology Learning Communication
  1. Personality psychology helps us understand people better. It looks at how we predict and explain behaviors, which is important for our relationships.
  2. The Big Five model is a more reliable way to measure personality than older methods like Myers-Briggs. It uses continuous traits instead of strict categories.
  3. While personality traits can be stable over time, we can develop skills that help us function better, even if our core traits don't change much.

300 words for 300 posts

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 283 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Creativity Personal Growth Communication Community
  1. Having a regular writing practice helps keep creativity flowing. It's a great way to express thoughts and connect with others.
  2. Quality doesn't always need to be perfect; what's important is to keep sharing. Sometimes, just getting your ideas out is the best part of the process.
  3. Building a community around your work can lead to unexpected friendships and opportunities. Engaging with your audience is rewarding and fulfilling.

Ask Me Anything (2/2025)

Astral Codex Ten • 7433 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Society Communication Art Philosophy
  1. Subscribers can ask questions during the AMA, but only they can comment on the responses. It's a way to engage the paid supporters more directly.
  2. Some questions won't be answered, like those asking for medical advice or trying to get a controversial statement. It's about keeping it respectful and on topic.
  3. The host plans to keep up with questions until they feel like stopping, so there's a willingness to engage as long as it's productive.

Stop Telling Aliens We’re Here

Yascha Mounk • 1718 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🔬 Science Astrobiology Ethics Technology Philosophy Communication
  1. Some scientists are broadcasting messages to possible aliens, but this could be very dangerous for humanity. We don't know if aliens would be friendly or hostile.
  2. If aliens are able to contact us, they would likely be more advanced than us in technology. This raises concerns about their intentions and what could happen if they come here.
  3. Deciding to contact aliens should be a choice made by everyone, not just a few scientists. It's important to consider the potential risks before making such a drastic move.

The 6 New Rules of Communicating

The Honest Broker • 19582 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Communication Leadership Media Society Conversation
  1. People trust leaders more when they sit down and have casual conversations instead of standing up and giving speeches. It makes things feel more relaxed and real.
  2. Speaking with people instead of at them is important. Using everyday language and being informal makes communication more friendly and relatable.
  3. Storytelling and humor are better than just giving quick soundbites. People enjoy hearing real stories that connect with them on a personal level.

The Best Podcast of All Time!?

The Society of Problem Solvers • 299 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Communication Entertainment Culture Health
  1. Many health issues like heart disease and anxiety are rising because of the poor quality of our food and medical advice. We need to pay attention to what we eat and who we trust for health advice.
  2. The current food system is corrupted, and we should look for alternatives that prioritize nutritious and safe options. It's important to demand transparency in what we consume.
  3. Society should focus on effective solutions to our problems rather than just discussing them. We can make a change by working together and valuing results.

Sundry complaints

Disaffected Newsletter • 1518 implied HN points • 14 Aug 24
🕹 Technology User Experience Interface Design Digital Literacy Social Trends Communication
  1. User interfaces have become harder to understand. Instead of getting better, they are now filled with confusing icons without clear labels.
  2. Each company has its own symbols, making it tough for users to know what actions to take. There's no common language for things like saving or moving to the next step.
  3. People are using softer words for tough topics, avoiding direct terms like 'money.' This change makes conversations about real issues less clear.

The one framework every engineer should know

High Growth Engineer • 3744 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Engineering Software Problem Solving Communication Frameworks
  1. The MECE principle helps you organize your thoughts clearly. It stands for Mutually Exclusive and Collectively Exhaustive, which means breaking down problems without overlap while covering all possibilities.
  2. Using MECE in interviews shows your problem-solving skills. Instead of jumping straight to the answer, outline different approaches and explain your reasoning to demonstrate structured thinking.
  3. Applying MECE during team communication helps keep everyone on the same page. Whether it's giving updates during an investigation or explaining a process, a clear structure makes it easier for others to understand.

Celebrating One Year of The Soul of Civility - A Special Giveaway!

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 259 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Civility Social norms Public Discourse Literature Communication
  1. The book 'The Soul of Civility' explores how civility can help us get along better, especially during tough times. It encourages respectful conversation even with people we disagree with.
  2. Many important people have praised the book, highlighting its impact and importance for today's society. This recognition shows that the message of civility is resonating widely.
  3. The author has traveled far and wide to discuss civility with various audiences. These talks are helping spread the idea of civil dialogue and connection in a divided world.

Let's Talk DeepSeek, AI, Etc. on Big Technology's New Discord Server

Big Technology • 5379 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Discord Communication Social media Technology News
  1. A new Discord server has been launched for Big Technology's paid subscribers. It aims to create a space for discussions about recent tech news.
  2. The Discord will allow members to share ideas and communicate more easily. It's a chance to connect with each other and tackle current tech stories together.
  3. If you're a paid subscriber, you can join through a special link. If you want to participate, signing up will give you access to the Discord server.

Crisis CEO

Points And Figures • 1172 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crisis Management Communication Media Relations Social media Public Perception
  1. Musk handled a crisis well by communicating clearly and quickly. He used social media to share important updates and information.
  2. His approach focused on transparency, which helped counter misinformation from the media. This made it easier for the public to trust what Tesla was saying.
  3. Effective crisis management involves understanding the situation and reacting swiftly. Musk's method showed how to turn a potentially negative event into an opportunity to build trust.

I Salute You, Saluting Face Emoji 🫡

Did Someone Say Emoji? • 281 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🎭️ Culture Emoji Communication Internet Social media
  1. The saluting face emoji 🫡 is a way to show presence and agreement. It can be used sincerely or sarcastically, making it versatile in conversations.
  2. Saluting has various cultural meanings and styles across different countries. The emoji represents a blend of these styles without favoring any one tradition.
  3. Emojis, like the saluting face, can express a mix of emotions. This emoji fits many situations, from respectful gestures to playful communication.

An open letter to 56 people I know

Sasha's 'Newsletter' • 4473 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Friendship Self-reflection Personal Growth Communication
  1. It's important to recognize and appreciate the goodness in yourself, even if it's hard to see. Everyone has value, and it's essential to remind ourselves of that.
  2. Friendship can deeply impact our lives, providing support during tough times and helping us grow. A genuine connection can make us feel normal and understood.
  3. We often admire others for their unique talents and perspectives, which might inspire us to reflect on our strengths and insecurities. It's great to have people in our lives who challenge and motivate us.

Bring Back Meeting In Real Life

Many Such Cases • 3876 implied HN points • 30 May 24
🎭️ Culture Dating Social norms Technology Communication Relationships
  1. Meeting people in real life is important for dating. We should go back to how relationships used to form through friends and social gatherings.
  2. Technology has made dating complicated. We often get overwhelmed by online options and forget to connect with people around us.
  3. It's time to face our fears about dating. We need to be more open and willing to talk to others, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

How to Dress Like a Gentleman—And Why

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3783 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Style Identity Communication Gender
  1. Dressing well shows that you care about your appearance and how you present yourself. It's not childish; it's actually a sign of maturity.
  2. A good wardrobe can make a big difference in how you're perceived, especially in professional settings. Wearing a suit and tie can elevate your status.
  3. Transitioning from a uniform to formal wear can be challenging, but it’s important to adapt to new environments and expectations. Knowing how to dress for the occasion is key.

Found in Translation

Seven Senses • 439 implied HN points • 25 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Communication Society Traditions Relationships
  1. Friendship can look very different depending on where you are from. For example, friendships in the US can be more open but less deep than in many European cultures.
  2. The pace of life affects friendships too. In some places, like France, people take their time to enjoy meals and socializing, while in the US, there's often a hurry to get things done.
  3. Cultural norms shape how we see friendships. In some cultures, having a few close friends is valued, while in others, people might have many acquaintances but fewer deep connections.

If You Do This, Your Emails Might Be Rude

Granted • 16931 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
💼 Business Communication Etiquette Networking Collaboration Feedback
  1. Don't require acknowledgment that an email was received. It can come off as needy or paranoid.
  2. Instead of directly asking someone to share your content, explain why it might interest them. They're more likely to share it out of genuine interest.
  3. When seeking feedback, focus on asking for advice on a specific issue rather than expecting a detailed critique.

“Do You Do Lawns Too?”

Remarkable People • 559 implied HN points • 14 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Racism Identity Self-Improvement Communication Life lessons
  1. It's important not to look for problems where there may be none. Sometimes people mean well, and we might misinterpret their intentions.
  2. Taking the high road means responding calmly and graciously instead of reacting with anger. It's usually a better choice.
  3. We should give others the benefit of the doubt. Not every comment is meant to offend, and it's good to approach situations with openness.

Data and communication are gold

Your Local Epidemiologist • 2389 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Data Integrity Communication Epidemiology Biosecurity
  1. Public health data is crucial for keeping people safe and informed. When this data is lost or manipulated, it poses a serious risk to health and safety.
  2. Changes in government orders are causing confusion and delays in data reporting, affecting how health agencies communicate important health information.
  3. Local health departments and universities are still working to share necessary health updates while federal agencies face challenges. Staying informed through local sources is key during this instability.

⤴⤵ Up Wing/Down Wing #28

Faster, Please! • 1005 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Space Data Communication
  1. New chips using fiber optics can transfer data way faster, which may cut down AI training times and save energy. This could really speed up tech advancements.
  2. Businesses are finding out that human skills are still important when using AI tools. People are getting new jobs related to organizing data so AIs can work better.
  3. SpaceX is becoming super important for US defense technology. Its innovations may give the US an advantage over rivals like China in military capabilities.

I want to destroy the words "interesting" and "sparkly"

SPARC '24 JC Blog • 239 implied HN points • 01 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Social Dynamics Communication Language Identity Self-Expression
  1. Labeling people as 'interesting' or 'sparkly' creates unfair categories, dividing them into 'worthy' and 'unworthy' of attention. Everyone deserves to be heard, regardless of how they are labeled.
  2. People are shaped by their environments and contexts. Just because someone doesn't seem exciting in one setting doesn't mean they lack worth or potential in another.
  3. It's important to recognize that qualities like 'sparkly' can be brought out in everyone. Instead of limiting perceptions, we should foster a mindset that encourages growth and exploration in all individuals.