The hottest Community Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics
Anima Mundi 164 implied HN points 12 Dec 25
  1. The world is going through not just a crisis, but a transition. We need to focus on how we can build better relationships with each other and the environment.
  2. We can learn from successful small-scale practices that prioritize care and regeneration. These practices show that working together and sharing resources can help us thrive.
  3. It's important to pay attention to what care looks like in our lives. Simple acts of kindness can create stronger communities and help us notice the connections we often overlook.
Breaking the News 897 implied HN points 12 Jul 25
  1. The Wonderful Company is helping improve education in California's Central Valley by supporting local charter schools. These schools focus on fitting their curriculums to the needs and culture of their communities.
  2. Programs at these schools aim to prepare students for college early and make higher education feel accessible. Students even take college-level classes while still in high school.
  3. The schools also emphasize health and community support, offering services like free meals and medical clinics. This approach aims to tackle local issues like obesity and access to healthcare.
City Quitters 1558 implied HN points 10 Nov 23
  1. Yuichiro, a young farmer, is working to keep his family's tangerine farm alive while blending old traditions with new ideas. He believes that the younger generation can help revive rural areas in Japan.
  2. Many young people today are moving away from big cities like Tokyo, seeking a slower and more balanced life in the countryside. Programs are in place to encourage this shift, but a change in values is also needed.
  3. Yuichiro is reconnecting with his family's roots, sharing knowledge and creating community ties. He shows that living closely with family can foster a rich and meaningful life for everyone involved.
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Lit Mag News Roundup 884 implied HN points 08 Feb 24
  1. Plagiarism in writing is deceitful and can harm an author's reputation.
  2. Being honest and true to your own words is crucial as a writer.
  3. Confronting plagiarism issues can be challenging but necessary for maintaining integrity in the writing community.
Blackbird Spyplane 2218 implied HN points 19 Sep 23
  1. The B.L.I.S.S. List provides recommendations on beautiful life-impoving staples.
  2. The list includes various items like incense, socks, bar soap, lip balm, and more.
  3. The recommendations are carefully curated and not influenced by sponsorships.
The Commonplace 1768 implied HN points 13 Oct 23
  1. Publishing online comes with immediacy and pressure for coherence.
  2. Writers often process thoughts slowly and may stay silent during major events.
  3. Engaging with diverse newsletters can offer insights on various topics like books, urban planning, and history.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2026 implied HN points 18 Feb 25
  1. Two Australian nurses were caught on camera saying they wouldn't help Israeli patients and even suggested they deserved to die. This shocking behavior raises serious concerns about medical ethics.
  2. Many Muslim community leaders in Australia have publicly defended the nurses' remarks, which has alarmed many people and sparked discussions about antisemitism in society.
  3. The situation highlights a troubling trend where extremist views seem to gain support in certain communities, raising fears about the spread of hate and discrimination.
The Lunacian 230 implied HN points 28 Nov 25
  1. You can create your own accessory design and submit it for a chance to win AXS prizes and have your design featured in The Codex.
  2. To enter, come up with an original idea, name your accessory, and fill out a Google Form by December 11th.
  3. Judges will look for unique designs that fit the Axie universe, and winners might see their designs turned into real items for the game.
Odds and Ends of History 804 implied HN points 01 Aug 25
  1. Ebbsfleet is a unique example of a new town in Britain that can teach us both what to do and what to avoid when building new communities. It's important to learn from past successes and failures.
  2. New towns should be built close to transport links, like train stations, to make them accessible and attractive to residents.
  3. Proper planning is crucial. If new towns are poorly designed, like too car-centric or isolated, residents can feel disconnected and unhappy.
Letters from Fiddler's Greene 1729 implied HN points 16 Sep 23
  1. In a 'Zombie World', humans are divided into zombies, resistors, and skeptics in a political dynamic.
  2. The decline in traditional family structures and values contributes to social issues and cultural conflicts.
  3. Facing a changing world, it's important to focus on real work, hard conversations, and securing what is good.
The Novelleist 912 implied HN points 30 Jun 25
  1. Rewilding means restoring nature and biodiversity on a large scale. This can start at home, focusing on planting native species and fostering local wildlife.
  2. Humans can play a positive role in nature, rather than being a destructive force. By forming strong relationships with ecosystems and local communities, we can support a healthier planet.
  3. It's important to protect and empower Indigenous communities who have historically cared for the land. Their knowledge and connections can help in rewilding efforts, making conservation more effective.
Breaking the News 1051 implied HN points 10 Jun 25
  1. Lost Hills is a small town in California's Central Valley that represents a mix of agriculture, immigration, and community challenges. It produces a significant amount of food but struggles with economic inequality.
  2. The town is seeing positive changes due to investments in community services, such as a pedestrian bridge and better housing options. Philanthropic efforts are helping to improve education and overall quality of life for residents.
  3. Local schools focus on building trust with families and adapting to their needs, providing a range of support services. This helps create a sense of community and fosters success for students from diverse backgrounds.
Comment is Freed 76 implied HN points 18 Jan 26
  1. Labour is shifting toward a communitarian approach with Pride in Place, aiming to rebuild local civic life instead of just delivering top-down, technocratic fixes.
  2. Evidence from Big Local shows long-term, flexible, community-led funding that protects local space, follows local instincts, and helps projects spread can grow social capital, improve outcomes, and attract more investment even with modest per-person spending.
  3. Top-down managerial programmes can upgrade buildings and services but struggle to create lasting community power or emotional buy-in, so Pride in Place should avoid reverting to technocracy and prioritise methods that build pride, agency and momentum.
Culture Study 2372 implied HN points 07 Jan 25
  1. The classifieds section connects readers from all over the world, allowing them to share services and create groups like book clubs.
  2. People can post about services they offer, skills they want to share for free, or projects they're proud of to gain support and praise.
  3. This space encourages readers to find recommendations, make new friends, or even trade items, creating a supportive community online.
Chris Arnade Walks the World 2678 implied HN points 11 Dec 24
  1. McDonald's serves as a community hub for many Americans. It provides a comfortable place for people from all walks of life to gather and connect.
  2. Political figures like Trump tap into McDonald's popularity to resonate with average voters. His love for the franchise makes him seem relatable and down-to-earth.
  3. Many people facing challenges, like mental illness, find safety and social interaction in McDonald's. The staff and regulars often look out for each other, creating a supportive environment.
Culture Study 2231 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. People are feeling overwhelmed by negative news and events. It's tough to stay positive when everything seems so heavy and scary.
  2. Discussing feelings and finding community can help ease the weight of these emotions. Connecting with others can bring comfort during hard times.
  3. There will be an advice session focused on culture and community. Sharing experiences can be an antidote to the negativity.
Maybe Baby 2845 implied HN points 10 Nov 24
  1. Cleaning can be a way to cope with feelings of anger and frustration. Taking action, like organizing your space, can help you feel more in control.
  2. Being part of a community can help reduce feelings of isolation. Simple interactions, like greeting neighbors or attending local events, can bring joy and connection.
  3. Leaving your comfort zone is important for personal growth. Taking small steps to engage with the world outside can lead to better mental health and a sense of belonging.
The Novelleist 76 implied HN points 06 Jan 26
  1. Office Hours are moving to Zoom on Fridays from 1–2pm Mountain Time as an experimental change.
  2. Drop in anytime during that hour to talk about projects, research, or whatever’s on your mind.
  3. There’s an in-person option in Salt Lake City if you message to arrange it, and registration/access to the session links is for paid subscribers.
Airplane Mode with Liz Plank 884 implied HN points 18 Jan 24
  1. The privatization of stress theory highlights how mental wellness is viewed as an individual issue rather than a societal one.
  2. The cycle of stress privatization traps individuals in jobs that make them miserable, perpetuating a harmful system.
  3. Individualized causes and cures for stress fail to address the systemic issues and lack of public mental health support.
Creating Value from Nothing 212 implied HN points 13 Nov 25
  1. Helping others is important, especially in tough times, like the elderly man who lost his wife. A friendly gesture can mean a lot.
  2. Care workers and support staff play a crucial role in people's lives. They provide comfort and support when it’s needed most.
  3. It's not just a job to fill shifts; the work we do impacts real lives, especially for those who have experienced loss and need compassion.
Culture Study 2500 implied HN points 03 Dec 24
  1. The community has raised over $5,000 to help refugee families settle into their new homes, aiming for at least $10,000 to cover more essential items.
  2. There’s a fun gift concierge thread where community members can get personalized gift suggestions for their loved ones based on their unique tastes.
  3. The joy of giving and supporting small businesses through thoughtful gift giving can really make a positive impact, especially during the holiday season.
Castalia 979 implied HN points 02 Jan 24
  1. Substack should focus on great writing. The platform needs more individual voices and unique styles, rather than just advice and shortcuts among writers.
  2. People need to realize that publishing isn't the only measure of quality. A lot of interesting writing is happening outside traditional outlets, and more folks should engage with that.
  3. It's important for Substack to keep supporting free speech. This allows for a more open and creative environment where writers can express themselves freely without unnecessary moderation.
Culture Study 2449 implied HN points 08 Dec 24
  1. The Rancho Gordo Bean Club sends members surprise shipments of unique legumes along with recipes, creating excitement and community around cooking beans.
  2. Freshness is key for Rancho Gordo beans, as they only sell beans that are two years old or less, which makes them easier and quicker to cook.
  3. The Bean Club has grown massively, but the founder prioritizes quality and community, with a focus on maintaining a special experience for members.
Philosophy bear 92 implied HN points 07 Jan 26
  1. An offer to help writers promote their work by sharing notes, adding them to recommended lists, or reposting excerpts, while making no promises about results.
  2. A candid admission of sometimes feeling overlooked mixed with gratitude for past breaks and a commitment to pay those chances forward by giving others opportunities.
  3. A clear invitation for writers to post their work in the comments so it can get extra visibility and help make the talent market feel less lonely.
Astral Codex Ten 2821 implied HN points 28 Oct 24
  1. People are questioning the optimism around solar power's future, showing that not everyone agrees on its potential. This discussion is happening after a recent conference.
  2. There's a bootcamp for learning about quantitative trading happening soon, but it's not designed to make you rich or improve job prospects in that field. It's more for those who just want to learn out of interest.
  3. The host is planning to limit advertising for events unless they're really important. This is to keep things focused and avoid overwhelming everyone with promotions.
Seven Senses 979 implied HN points 27 Dec 23
  1. Home can mean many things, like where we were born, grew up, or where we currently live. It can feel confusing and different for everyone.
  2. Finding home is often more about the connections we build with people and the experiences we share than a physical address.
  3. The search for home may never fully end, and it's a natural feeling for many. It's about creating a sense of belonging wherever we go.
The Discourse Lounge 189 implied HN points 20 Nov 25
  1. Commercial upzoning can impact local businesses and institutions, like museums, that give the community unique experiences.
  2. Habitot Children’s Museum is an important place for kids and has faced challenges due to changes in the area.
  3. Supporting local pop-up services and charities can help keep valuable community resources available for families.
Day One 918 implied HN points 06 Jan 24
  1. Building mastery requires changing your daily routine and habits to achieve big goals in 2024.
  2. Utilize the Doorway principle like ancient fishermen did, where the warm water meets the cold, to catch opportunities and everyone.
  3. Participate in valuable virtual Bootcamps to gain clarity of purpose, acquire high-income skills, and grow an online brand/business.
Simon Owens's Media Newsletter 199 implied HN points 14 Nov 25
  1. Francesca Donner felt there weren't enough female voices in mainstream media, so she decided to create her own space.
  2. She launched an online magazine called the Persistent, which is all about women writers and perspectives.
  3. Francesca wants to build a strong community through her magazine and is thinking carefully about putting content behind a paywall.
Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky 131 implied HN points 19 Dec 25
  1. People who have near-death experiences often report calm, acceptance, or vivid spiritual sensations, which suggests the brain may have ways to ease the transition even if the exact causes aren’t proven.
  2. Much of the fear around death comes from the unknown, worries about meaning, pain, and being alone, so talking openly and making end-of-life plans can reduce suffering for both the dying and their loved ones.
  3. Dying can be improved by expanding palliative and hospice care, creating kinder, more beautiful environments, and offering emotional support like end-of-life doulas, volunteer companions, Death Cafés, and carefully studied therapies (including psychedelics) to ease pain and anxiety.
Thing of Things 805 implied HN points 18 Jan 24
  1. Effective altruist culture should prioritize spending resources efficiently for doing good.
  2. Career opportunities in effective altruism should be based on merit and skills, not connections or social status.
  3. Maintaining transparency and accountability is crucial for building trust and ensuring the effectiveness of organizations in the effective altruism movement.