The hottest Publishing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

In conversation with Michael Marshall Smith.

Development Hell • 335 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The post discusses a conversation with Michael Marshall Smith on various topics like writing, television, and the creative life.
  2. The author shares a personal anecdote about discovering a book that caught their attention at a bookstore.
  3. To continue reading the post, there's an option for a 7-day free trial subscription to Development Hell.

TERRAFORM: An essay collection about the future of our planet

The Novelleist • 195 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. TERRAFORM is an essay collection where six writers discuss how we can shape the future of our planet. It'll be published online and also in a print pamphlet.
  2. You can support this project by buying a digital or print version for $5, which helps pay the writers and fund future projects.
  3. There will be a discussion event about the essays on July 23rd, and anyone can join for $10, while paid subscribers can participate for free.

13 Medium Publications That Can Nominate Your Stories for A Boost

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 419 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🚌 Education Publishing
  1. Medium has a Boost Program where selected stories get more exposure. This is great for writers who want their work to be seen by more people.
  2. There are 62 Community Nominators who can suggest stories for Boosting. Joining the right publications can help writers get their stories nominated.
  3. Writers can reach out to specific Medium publications to get their stories reviewed and potentially Boosted. Each publication has its own focus, so it's important to match your story with the right one.

vrk the marketer

vrk loves paper • 139 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. The main goal is to create a magazine called Pouch, but the bigger dream is to develop software called Pouch Studio for paper lovers. This software will help people easily make both paper and digital crafts.
  2. Marketing Pouch is challenging, and the author is trying different methods like Instagram, featuring creators, and attending fairs to spread the word and build a community around paper crafting.
  3. The author wants to make a fun, engaging magazine to support paper enthusiasts while learning more about design and marketing. Feedback from readers is important to know if Pouch is succeeding.
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We are banning slop from The Dossier

The Dossier • 142 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
📰 News Publishing
  1. The Dossier is committed to removing low-quality or misleading content, referred to as 'slop', from its publication. This is to help readers find valuable and accurate information.
  2. The focus will shift from chasing clicks and analytics to providing meaningful stories and insights that educate and engage readers at a deeper level.
  3. Moving forward, The Dossier aims to be a reliable source for unique knowledge and ideas, ensuring the content is thoughtfully curated for subscribers.

The end of the live streamer mega deals

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Many livestreamers who signed huge contracts with platforms like YouTube and Mixer are now returning to Twitch as their contracts end. It shows a shift back to where they started, highlighting the unpredictable nature of streaming deals.
  2. Podcasts, especially video podcasts, are growing in value and popularity. They offer creators a chance to reach more people and compete better with big media, but they still aren't fully recognized by traditional media companies.
  3. Apple TV+ is cleverly marketing its shows by giving away earlier seasons for free on platforms like Roku. This approach can attract new subscribers and create buzz for upcoming seasons, but not all streaming services are doing this.

How writers and creators are using the Substack app to publish from anywhere

Substack • 605 implied HN points • 20 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Publishing
  1. The Substack mobile editor is now available for Android, allowing writers to publish posts from anywhere. This lets users share their ideas whenever inspiration strikes, whether they're on the move or relaxing at home.
  2. Since launching the mobile editor, many creators are posting from unexpected places, which adds a fun and personal touch to their writing. They have shared personal stories and insights while being in unique locations.
  3. The app aims to keep improving its features and matching the web editor's capabilities. This means users can look forward to more tools and options to enhance their writing experience on mobile.

Starting a Substack

My Home Office Hacks • 10 implied HN points • 26 Jan 26
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Treat a Substack like self‑publishing: building it doesn’t automatically bring readers, so you must actively market and consistently work to grow an audience.
  2. Right after publishing, post a Note and share your issue on your social channels; also subscribe to and recommend other Substacks to get visibility and attract curious readers.
  3. Good content starts with genuine interest, your own voice, and a clear point of view; stories build trust and engagement, and free subscribers can become paid ones later.

Publication Is Not the Point of Writing

The Fairest Writer • 2 HN points • 17 Sep 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Writing should be about improving your skills, not just getting published. Focusing on growth makes you a better writer.
  2. Publication is just an indicator of your writing ability, like a chess rating. It’s not the main goal; getting better is.
  3. It's important to write for yourself and learn, rather than stress about where you’ll get published. The right opportunities will come when you improve.

One year of my work, printed

The Novelleist • 510 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. A yearly collection of writing is printed to show the progress and creativity of the author. It's exciting to see your work in a real book format.
  2. The 2024 volume has a unique design inspired by the idea of creating connected communities. It reflects deep themes about society and its future.
  3. The author offers subscriptions for collectors to receive this printed work, along with other benefits at a lower cost this year.

A Note on Literacy from Brother Martin XoPo

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 345 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Literacy is changing in our fast-paced world. It's important to keep up with how people read and share information.
  2. New publications, like The Metropolitan Review, are trying to bring fresh ideas to the boring literary scene. They aim to shake things up and inspire new conversations.
  3. Engaging with technology and machine evolution is crucial for the future of reading. We need to blend the old ways with new innovations to thrive.

Two Upcoming Workshops

Nice Try • 79 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🚌 Education Publishing
  1. There are two writing workshops coming up in New York City. One is a ten-week course for intermediate and advanced writers, and the other is a three-day intensive for novel writing.
  2. The ten-week workshop will help writers improve their skills from individual sentences to complete stories. It costs $550 and runs from May 7 to July 9.
  3. The three-day workshop focuses on editing and finalizing a complete manuscript. It costs $1800 and will take place on August 16-18.

Google opens another traffic spigot for publishers

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 449 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Google Discover is now a major source of traffic for publishers, but it may lead to less meaningful connections with their audiences. Publishers often end up serving low-quality ads to visitors who leave quickly.
  2. Podcasters are looking to change the trend of having the same guests on many shows to make interviews more unique and engaging. Many hosts are tired of recycled content that doesn’t stand out.
  3. Apple is starting to sell ads in Apple News directly, which could mean more revenue for publishers. This shift may help Apple balance its user privacy principles with the need to generate advertising income.

Welcome to the Provost Dungeon

ailogblog • 139 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🚌 Education Publishing
  1. Bureaucracy is essential for large organizations to manage data and control, but it can hinder community-building, and many share grievances about bureaucratic systems.
  2. Generative AI has the potential to transform bureaucratic processes in universities, leading to anxiety and excitement among bureaucrats, requiring a shift towards positive and pragmatic change.
  3. Educational bureaucracies can benefit from design thinking, incremental experiments, and a hybrid persona of intellectual-bureaucrat to create better structures that support teaching and learning.

An easier way to publish, mobile editor, search Notes, and more

Substack • 620 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Publishing
  1. Publishing on Substack is now much simpler, making it easier to create posts and gain subscribers without any complicated setup.
  2. You can now use Substack's mobile app to write and edit posts directly from your phone, which is great for staying connected while on the go.
  3. Finding specific topics in Substack Notes is easier now, as they added a search filter to help you explore more content across the platform.

This New Internet Thing, Chapter 27

Life Since the Baby Boom • 461 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Reading stories in parts, or serials, is a fun and old tradition. It keeps people coming back for more every week.
  2. Working at big companies can feel familiar, but it often involves juggling different cultures and opinions, especially when many companies team up.
  3. People in tech often have strong opinions about new products, and convincing them can be tough, but it's important to stay confident and informed.

Pathless Path as Accidental Antimeme | #301

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 150 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. Some ideas are hard to spread and often stay in private conversations. These 'antimemes' might take longer to get noticed but can still have a deep impact on individuals.
  2. Going viral can sometimes seem appealing, but seeking broad attention often leads to simple answers that don't challenge deep thinking. It's better to focus on creating meaningful, nuanced content.
  3. Building genuine relationships and engaging in thoughtful discussions can be more valuable than chasing a large audience. Authentic connections help spread ideas more effectively over time.

On the cesspool of elite journalism

Unreported Truths • 28 implied HN points • 09 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. A prominent political reporter crossed clear ethical lines by having intimate relationships with people she covered, betraying colleagues and sources and harming private individuals.
  2. Her memoir avoids real accountability, leans on celebrity name‑dropping and insider gossip, and comes off as self‑pitying rather than reflective.
  3. The fallout — weak sales, damaged reputation, and job loss — shows how personal misconduct and elite media culture can sink careers and erode trust in journalism.

Recommendations

My Home Office Hacks • 5 implied HN points • 09 Feb 26
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Substack’s recommendation feature makes it easier for readers to find useful newsletters and helps publishers grow their audiences.
  2. Several prominent newsletters offering endorsements include Overoptimize, Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter, RolePulse, and Thoughts From A Digital Mom.
  3. Recommended Stacks to follow include Workspaces, Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter, Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends, and The Minimalist Author HQ.

2024 Year-End Writing Round-Up

Counter Craft • 361 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The writer saw significant growth in their newsletter, which now has over 18,000 followers. It's nice to see how readers appreciate their work.
  2. They plan to publish a novel called 'Metallic Realms' in 2025, mixing genres like sci-fi and autofiction. They seem excited about this project.
  3. The writer shares valuable writing advice, emphasizing the importance of finishing projects and offers thoughts on writing techniques and publishing myths.

How I Learned To Read Books Again

Everything Is Amazing • 1194 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Reading can be a way to find solace in difficult times and rediscover empathy and kindness.
  2. Struggling with reading can happen due to life circumstances, but it is possible to regain the ability over time.
  3. Consider investing time and effort into re-learning activities that are important to you, even if it feels self-indulgent at first.

Why the largest creators are bypassing traditional book publishers

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 374 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. Many big creators are skipping traditional book publishers. They can earn much more money by self-publishing their books instead.
  2. Companies are starting to focus more on engaging their subscribers through mobile apps. This helps keep people interested and less likely to cancel subscriptions.
  3. Creators like Kai Cenat are making huge money through platforms like Twitch. This shows how individuals can now earn as much as, or more than, traditional celebrities.

Year In Review

Notes from a Small Press • 16 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The small press published thirteen books across genres this year, and the 50 Maps series were the clear top sellers.
  2. The backlist now drives a significant share of revenue, with several older titles selling steadily and newer books showing long-term staying power.
  3. The press is growing operationally—it now has two full-time salaried editors—and it has an active acquisitions pipeline plus plans to meet prospective authors at upcoming conferences.

Diary Entry #1: Early Numbers

Shades of Greaves • 216 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Social media followings are crucial for authors as publishers consider the 'platform' when deciding on book deals.
  2. Self-publishing a book involves challenging odds, as most books sell fewer than 300 copies in their lifetime.
  3. Tracking and analyzing book sales data is essential for authors in understanding promotional tactics' effectiveness and areas for improvement.

Will AI-Written Books Destroy Publishing?

Notes from a Small Press • 23 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. It's hard to find reliable ebook editions of classic books online, with many low-quality versions flooding sites like Amazon. This long-standing issue shows that poor quality content has always existed, even before AI.
  2. AI can't replace human authors because you can't copyright a book without a human behind it. Reputable publishers will still focus on quality and likely avoid purely AI-generated work.
  3. While some authors might use AI as a tool for writing and editing, it's not a new problem for publishing. There's always been a mix of good and bad quality books, and AI doesn't change that.

7 Embarrasingly Wrong Predictions about the Future of Books

Litverse • 319 implied HN points • 31 Dec 22
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Books have not necessarily gotten shorter as predicted due to digital influence. In fact, the average book length has increased.
  2. The envisioned innovative ways for writers to monetize books, such as through related content packages and modular literature, have not been widely implemented.
  3. The shift towards short stories as a marketing tool and the importance of visibility from magazines and e-zines over cash prizes did not become mainstream trends as predicted.

One year of Substack Notes—now with video and external embeds

Substack • 702 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Publishing
  1. Substack Notes has grown significantly over the past year, attracting many new subscriptions for writers. This shows how important online conversations are for discovering and sharing content.
  2. Writers can now share their notes outside of Substack by embedding them on other websites. This helps their work reach a bigger audience and gain more recognition.
  3. Substack is focused on empowering creators by giving them control over their content and revenue. Unlike traditional social media, most money earned goes directly to the writers.

Live video, Substack Summer Recaps, and new tools and features

Substack • 432 implied HN points • 24 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Publishing
  1. Substack now offers live video features, allowing creators to host events and engage directly with subscribers. This could help users connect better with their audience and share real-time updates.
  2. Publishers can edit images directly from the post editor, making it easier to manage visuals. This update simplifies the process of adding or modifying images in posts.
  3. Category tabs have been introduced to help readers find relevant content easily. This makes it simpler for subscribers to explore topics they are interested in.

This Substack Writer Accidentally Enabled The Paid Button - Here's What Happened!

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 459 implied HN points • 11 Jan 23
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Substack allows anyone to create a newsletter quickly and easily, which can lead to significant earning potential. It's a great way for writers to share their work and connect with readers.
  2. Alicia Kennedy's story shows that even a simple mistake, like accidentally enabling the paid subscription option, can turn a hobby into a source of income. She built a successful newsletter with thousands of subscribers and made over $2,000 a month.
  3. Starting a newsletter can open up many opportunities, like connecting with publishers or getting recognized by major media outlets. Even a small following can lead to financial gain and personal growth in the writing field.

confessions of a ghost writer: part 1

Tumbleweed Words • 3 implied HN points • 16 Feb 26
⚔ Fiction Publishing
  1. A secret sexual relationship with a teacher led to serious social fallout, expulsion from school, and a long silence that shaped the young person’s life.
  2. Reading and writing became an essential escape and lifeline, giving focus, purpose, and a route into higher education and a craft.
  3. Educational institutions and the literary world felt exclusionary and agenda-driven, and class and racial identity intensified a sense of not belonging, so leaving the local environment became the main goal.

How writers and creators are using Notes to reach more subscribers

Substack • 516 implied HN points • 11 Jul 24
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Posting three or more thoughtful notes can lead to 50% more subscribers when launching your Substack. It's a powerful way to connect ideas and people.
  2. Notes can be used to experiment with content and get quick feedback from your audience. This helps you develop ideas that your subscribers will like.
  3. Sharing personal stories and engaging with your community through Notes helps build trust and a stronger relationship with your readers.

Genre Grapevine on F&SF

Genre Grapevine • 196 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. British author's association with a fascist party raises questions in the F&SF community.
  2. Editorial and management issues at F&SF magazine are brought to light.
  3. Calls for accountability and transparency from the publisher of F&SF in handling the situation.

Top Links 594 American consumers flipflop. Questioning the savings glut & the strain of too much scientific publishing.

Chartbook • 286 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
💰 Finance Publishing
  1. American consumers are uncertain about their spending and saving habits right now. It shows there's a lot of confusion about the economy.
  2. There's a discussion about whether there's too much focus on saving money in the economy. Some believe this could be a problem.
  3. The volume of scientific publishing is increasing, and this might be causing stress for researchers. It's important to find a balance in how much gets published.

Asimov Press' Latest Book, Encoded in DNA

Asimov Press • 277 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🔬 Science Publishing
  1. Asimov Press has released a new book that is both in print and encoded in DNA. This is a unique way to merge traditional reading with cutting-edge technology.
  2. The book includes essays on technology and science fiction stories, exploring both current and future innovations. It is made with contributions from various companies to store the DNA safely.
  3. There are pre-order options available for the book, including a DNA capsule with a printed copy. They only made 1,000 capsules, so people are encouraged to order soon.

Scatterbrain: a letter from the end of times

The Leftovers • 119 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The author reflects on their writing journey in 2023, touching on the challenges and aspirations of writing for a living but not yet making enough income from it.
  2. The author shares their top ten favorite pieces written in 2023, discussing various topics from AI in art to the struggles of indie writers in the literary world.
  3. Predictions for 2024 include memoirs and Substacks created by AI, highlighting the evolving nature of technology's impact on self-expression and literature.

Building the next generation of media brands on Substack

Substack • 593 implied HN points • 10 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Publishing
  1. Substack has introduced new themes and search options to help creators customize their publications. This means writers can make their sites look different and more engaging.
  2. Improved search features allow readers to find specific content quickly. Now, they can easily search for topics or authors across all posts.
  3. The Bulwark, a successful Substack publication, moved its entire site to Substack to take advantage of these new features and saw a significant increase in subscribers and revenue.