The hottest Social media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 865 implied HN points 14 Jun 25
  1. Meta is launching a new AI feature that shares private conversations from users, which can be quite personal and sensitive.
  2. This tool shows that there's a mix of excitement and concern about privacy on social media, especially with big platforms like Facebook.
  3. It highlights the ongoing struggles we face with technology—balancing connection and privacy in our online lives.
Noahpinion 28412 implied HN points 18 Feb 25
  1. Legacy media often confuses analysis with opinion, missing the need for deeper insights. Readers want clear explanations and forecasts, not just opinion pieces.
  2. Substack and similar platforms allow writers more freedom to explore topics in depth. This contrasts with traditional print media, which usually limits writers, making it harder to provide thorough analysis.
  3. Many people are tired of the constant opinions in the media and prefer thoughtful analysis instead. Legacy publications could become more relevant by shifting focus to this type of content.
Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet 3075 implied HN points 16 Feb 25
  1. Politics today is heavily influenced by the voices and actions of young people online. Social media has shifted how we engage with culture and politics.
  2. There's a loss of hope for a return to traditional norms in politics. The current political landscape is driven more by tech influence than by the values of liberal democracy.
  3. Being a true conservative today means having a respect for the past and a sense of loss about changes happening in society. It's about nurturing values rather than obsessing over power.
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 1761 implied HN points 11 Jun 25
  1. Right wing creators are playing a big role in covering protests in Los Angeles. They're shaping how these events are viewed and discussed online.
  2. Elon Musk recently had a falling out with Trump after supporting him for a long time. Musk's relationship with the MAGA movement is now uncertain.
  3. The break between Musk and Trump shows how tech and politics can conflict, highlighting the changing dynamics in these worlds.
House of Strauss 22 implied HN points 05 Mar 25
  1. Whoever controls Twitter has a big impact on American politics. This platform shapes the information people see and influences public opinion.
  2. The Democrats seem to struggle with their messaging because they don't control Twitter. Their attempts to communicate may be falling flat because they can't get their message out effectively.
  3. Political parties need to adapt to the current landscape, where social media plays a huge role. Right now, Republicans seem to have the upper hand in shaping the narrative and controlling the discussion.
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Don't Worry About the Vase 4211 implied HN points 24 Feb 25
  1. Grok can search Twitter and provides fast responses, which is pretty useful. However, it has issues with creativity and sometimes jumps to conclusions too quickly.
  2. Despite being developed by Elon Musk, Grok shows a strong bias against him and others, leading to a loss of trust in the model. There are concerns about its capabilities and safety features.
  3. Grok has been described as easy to jailbreaking, raising concerns about it potentially sharing dangerous instructions if properly manipulated.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2884 implied HN points 19 Feb 25
  1. The online right is becoming more extreme, which might scare regular people. It's important to notice how this change is happening on social media platforms.
  2. Bullying can happen from both the left and right sides of politics. When some people gain power, they might misuse it to attack others they disagree with.
  3. The extreme views currently gaining popularity online may not align with what most Americans think. Many opinions expressed there could be perceived as crazy or offensive by a wider audience.
Noahpinion 27118 implied HN points 15 Jan 25
  1. TikTok is facing potential shutdown in the U.S. because of a law that requires foreign apps to be sold to American buyers. If the owner doesn't comply, the app could be removed from stores for new downloads.
  2. The Chinese government prefers to control TikTok rather than let it be sold or used freely in America. They believe it's too important to lose, even if it means shutting it down altogether.
  3. Concerns about TikTok focus on privacy issues and how it might be used to spread propaganda. Evidence suggests that the app can suppress negative content about China and promote pro-government views.
Why is this interesting? 8385 implied HN points 24 Jan 25
  1. Check your email settings in Substack if you're not receiving newsletters. Sometimes the settings can change without you realizing it.
  2. Substack's 'smart notifications' can lead to confusion and missed emails. It can send app notifications but not the actual emails from writers.
  3. If you experience issues with Substack emails, switching the notification settings to 'Only in email' can help you start receiving them again.
The Honest Broker 54723 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. Social media platforms are becoming less unique and are starting to look and feel the same, just like many malls did. This makes them more vulnerable to losing users.
  2. Just as malls suffered from having too many of them, social media is facing similar issues. People are overwhelmed with options and may start to abandon these platforms.
  3. Both malls and social media platforms attract a lot of unwanted behavior, making it hard to build real communities. They often feel artificial and exploitative rather than supportive.
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 2926 implied HN points 31 May 25
  1. OnlyFans is becoming more popular, with millions of creators joining the platform each year. This increase is leading to more billboards advertising these creators.
  2. Billboards are a smart way for OnlyFans stars to get noticed because they bypass strict online advertising rules for adult content. They can reach a wide audience without being ignored.
  3. Creators have seen big boosts in subscribers from their billboards, showing that this advertising method can really work in gaining attention and revenue.
Read Max 5506 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. Benson Boone's song 'Beautiful Things' has become popular on short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram, even if many people don't know who he is. It's often featured in videos about everyday life or personal stories.
  2. There’s a new genre of music emerging, called 'FYPcore,' which is designed to fit well with the style of videos on platforms like TikTok. This music typically evokes a bittersweet, positive vibe that works well for influencer content.
  3. Short-form social media platforms are changing the music industry by helping songs go viral without needing a dance challenge. This means that more songs could be made specifically for these platforms in the future.
Big Technology 5379 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  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.
Astral Codex Ten 1927 implied HN points 02 Jun 25
  1. There is a weekly open thread where people can discuss anything and ask questions freely. It's a space for open communication.
  2. In-person meetups are happening, giving people a chance to connect with others in the community. This week, there’s a meetup in Berkeley.
  3. Some recent disagreements in discussions are being put to rest, with participants acknowledging they won't continue debating. It shows a willingness to move on and engage in new conversations.
Culture Study 13388 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Social media is losing its value for many people. As it becomes less useful, people are realizing they can spend their time in better ways.
  2. Feeling bored isn't necessarily a bad thing; it can lead to real life experiences and personal growth. When we stop distracting ourselves, we can manage time better and feel more in control.
  3. Our privacy is important and valuable. Enjoying moments without sharing them online can make experiences more meaningful and fulfilling.
Culture Study 1513 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. People can have strong feelings for pets or animals they see regularly, even if they don't own them. It's nice to name them and feel connected to them, like calling a horse you see often by a special name.
  2. These relationships with animals can bring joy and comfort without much risk or commitment. They can make our daily routines feel more special and personal.
  3. Parasocial pet relationships highlight how we can connect emotionally with animals, just like we do with people, even if it's from a distance. It's a fun way to share experiences and stories about our furry friends.
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 3194 implied HN points 27 May 25
  1. Posting on social media during special events is becoming more common, like sharing TikToks during weddings. It shows how people want to capture and share their experiences instantly.
  2. Many businesses are emerging that cater to social media trends, including apps and services that help users create content. This highlights the shift in how we engage with technology and events.
  3. There's a growing trend of influencers and content creators blending personal life with their online presence. It reflects a cultural change where private moments become public content for entertainment.
Don't Worry About the Vase 2060 implied HN points 17 Feb 25
  1. Trust your instincts about people. If something feels off, it's often right to be cautious.
  2. Effective communication is important. It's better to express your true feelings rather than making up excuses.
  3. Having a strong sense of agency can help you take control of your life. Imagining what actions a more capable person would take can inspire you to act differently.
Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet 466 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Astrology is becoming popular again, especially among younger people who use apps for horoscopes. They find it interesting and fun, and it gives them a sense of connection in today's tech-driven world.
  2. Historically, many famous leaders, like Ronald Reagan, have turned to astrology for guidance. This shows that astrology has always held a place in society, despite its ups and downs in popularity.
  3. The market for astrology-related products is growing rapidly. It's expected to double by 2031, indicating a significant rise in interest and belief in astrology as a tool for understanding life.
Culture Study 1833 implied HN points 11 Feb 25
  1. Reddit has many unique and specific communities that allow for thoughtful sharing and discussions. You can find advice and feedback that suits your interests.
  2. While Reddit is not perfect and can have its issues, it generally has good moderation that helps keep conversations on track.
  3. The dedication of many Reddit users often leads to valuable interactions and support within the platform's various subreddits.
Life Since the Baby Boom 461 implied HN points 18 Feb 25
  1. Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have changed how fact-checking is done on their platforms. Instead of having official fact-checkers, they are relying on community input.
  2. Many suggested corrections on these platforms seem to just be people having different opinions. Often, they don't provide clear facts and can be more about arguing than informing.
  3. The interaction with these community notes doesn't seem to attract much attention. Most users appear to prefer the regular replies over community notes, which might indicate a lack of interest in these corrections.
The Honest Broker 7513 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. Nextdoor can be useful for getting local alerts, especially in emergencies. However, it might not always provide timely information when you need it.
  2. Many users ignore alerts from apps like Nextdoor because they often send old or irrelevant notifications. This can create a false sense of security and put people at risk.
  3. It's important to question whether the information we receive from neighborhood platforms is reliable. If we learn to overlook their messages, we could miss crucial updates.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 12326 implied HN points 08 Jan 25
  1. Less censorship on social media could lead to a wider spread of misinformation. Some people are worried about what this means for public discourse.
  2. The New York Times comments section shows a divide among readers on the issue of free speech, with many expressing fear over less content moderation.
  3. Critics of social media platforms often focus on their role in political events, showing how media coverage can shape public opinion about these companies.
Michael Shellenberger 2214 implied HN points 28 May 25
  1. The US is denying visas to foreign officials who try to censor American social media. This means that if someone from another country tries to limit free speech online, they may not be allowed into the US.
  2. This new policy also applies to the families of these officials. So, not only the person who censors but their immediate family could be affected.
  3. The US sees protecting free speech as an important part of its foreign policy. This move is part of a larger effort to fight against what they call the global censorship-industrial complex.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1335 implied HN points 11 Feb 25
  1. Elon Musk's DOGE initiative brought back a staffer who resigned after making racist posts online. This decision was based on a poll where most respondents agreed with his reinstatement.
  2. The backlash against 'woke culture' is linked to reactions against public figures losing their jobs over offensive past statements. Many incidents involved celebrities and public figures being fired for things they said or did online.
  3. As younger people in the DOGE initiative are heavily active online, more controversial past comments may emerge. This raises concerns about the kinds of people joining government positions and their influence.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 11159 implied HN points 07 Jan 25
  1. Mark Zuckerberg's call for free speech suggests a conflict between the U.S. and other countries over censorship laws. This highlights the challenges tech companies face globally.
  2. Zuckerberg believes the U.S. has a strong foundation for free expression, but countries like Europe and China are enforcing more censorship. This creates a tough environment for innovation.
  3. The recent changes in speech laws and agreements may lead to more battles over free expression. Zuckerberg's insights indicate that discussions on these topics are becoming more urgent.
Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way 2817 implied HN points 10 Oct 24
  1. Some believe that the Biden administration has ongoing control over social media platforms like Twitter/X, keeping a level of censorship in place.
  2. There seems to be significant involvement from various government agencies in discussions about topics like election fraud on social media.
  3. Recent social media posts gained massive traction, with millions of impressions, highlighting a strong public interest in these controversial topics.
Noahpinion 17353 implied HN points 16 Dec 24
  1. Many young Americans are moving away from platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. They are using social media less, possibly because they prefer real-life interactions or find these platforms unhealthy.
  2. The rise of drones is changing our lives and making us more vulnerable. As drones become more common, people are realizing the potential threats they pose to safety and privacy.
  3. Asian voters are increasingly leaning towards the GOP in elections. Key issues driving this shift include concerns about crime, inflation, and educational opportunities.
Read Max 7376 implied HN points 10 Jan 25
  1. Mark Zuckerberg is changing how Facebook moderates content to align with current political views, saying they will reduce censorship for more free expression.
  2. His new image, including a gold chain and different style choices, hints at a shift towards more conservative values, which could attract a different kind of employee.
  3. Zuckerberg seems to be learning from Elon Musk by taking a more outspoken and partisan approach, which may help him gain support and defend against criticism.
benn.substack 5421 implied HN points 10 Jan 25
  1. Moving large amounts of gold or money isn't easy, as it requires trust and logistics, unlike digital transactions which can be done quickly with a few clicks.
  2. In our digital world, many people feel disconnected from reality, as they spend so much time on their devices and forget the hard work behind everyday things.
  3. Natural disasters can't be controlled or fixed with technology; they remind us that no app can change the basic laws of nature or the complexities of life.
After Babel 2854 implied HN points 03 Feb 25
  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.
Unreported Truths 40 implied HN points 12 Jun 25
  1. Some writers use AI to create many posts quickly, which can spam your inbox. This is seen as a bad shift in how content is created.
  2. Real engagement comes from genuine writing. The writer promises to share meaningful content without relying on AI or spammy tactics.
  3. The writer values the community built around their work and encourages everyone to support it by subscribing, ensuring quality over quantity.
Culture Study 5988 implied HN points 12 Jan 25
  1. Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni became part of a media storm over their movie 'It Ends With Us'. Each accused the other of bad behavior on set, shaping how people saw them, especially online.
  2. TikTok has a huge influence on how celebrities are perceived today. Unlike traditional media, TikTok users create narratives that can quickly spread and affect a celebrity's image.
  3. The power of publicity in Hollywood is shifting. Celebrities can now use social media to shape their narratives, but they can also fall victim to online campaigns that expose their flaws, as seen with Lively.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 15168 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. Justin Trudeau is trying to discuss women's rights and progress but faces challenges due to political tensions with the U.S.
  2. The situation is tense because Donald Trump has threatened Canada with tariffs, affecting their trade relationship.
  3. The ongoing conflict between Trudeau and Trump has become a spectacle, drawing public attention and commentary.
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 2776 implied HN points 16 May 25
  1. Meta platforms, like Facebook and Instagram, are dealing with a huge problem of scams, with many advertisers promoting them. This is partly due to the rise of cryptocurrency and AI.
  2. Despite employees reporting these scams, Meta has been slow to act because they prioritize ad revenue over user safety. They allow scammers to continue operating for too long before taking action.
  3. Scams on Facebook are affecting vulnerable people, including workers in Southeast Asia who are often trapped in abusive conditions. This brings up serious concerns about the ethics of the platform's operations.
Culture Study 11413 implied HN points 15 Dec 24
  1. Many people are feeling tired of posting on social media because the online environment has become more hostile and less rewarding. It's starting to feel like it takes more energy than it's worth.
  2. As social media platforms change, people are reconsidering how they share their lives. They want to avoid negativity and are opting for smaller, more private circles for sharing.
  3. There's a big difference between feeling seen online and actually being seen in real life. Real connection and vulnerability are harder to achieve on social media.
After Babel 3383 implied HN points 23 Jan 25
  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.
Big Technology 7380 implied HN points 20 Dec 24
  1. Some companies might decide that generative AI isn't right for them, leading to at least one big name publicly quitting it in 2025. It's important for businesses to find what works for them.
  2. Social media may start feeling less relevant as platforms focus less on real news and engage more with content they think will grab our attention. This shift could make important global events seem distant.
  3. Brain-computer interface technology could gain more attention in 2025 as it continues to develop, possibly helping people with disabilities. This could spark new conversations around its potential benefits.
Rob Henderson's Newsletter 643 implied HN points 29 May 25
  1. The author shares their best tweets that are exclusive to subscribers. These tweets include personal thoughts, observations, and opinions.
  2. Subscribers can find insights that are informal and quirky, providing a more personal touch.
  3. The collection highlights the author's unique perspective and offers a chance for readers to connect with their ideas directly.
Conspirador Norteño 36 implied HN points 28 Feb 25
  1. False claims were spread about Twitter users being part of a pro-Ron DeSantis group, but there was no real evidence to back this up.
  2. These misleading stories originated from a blog by a Republican, and later Democrats used them to accuse other users without proof.
  3. The misinformation keeps spreading, showing how easy it is for false narratives to be believed and shared, especially on social media.