The hottest Social media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics
Noahpinion 2117 implied HN points 06 Jul 25
  1. Many people feel a sense of loss for the America they once knew, as values like kindness and community seem overshadowed by anger and division today.
  2. Polls show a decline in Americans' pride in their country and traditional values, but some argue that core beliefs like hard work and tolerance are still very important to many people.
  3. Technology contributes to the current negativity, and there’s hope that by addressing these issues, a more positive and united America could be possible.
The Honest Broker 8378 implied HN points 26 Jun 25
  1. People in the community are engaged in interesting projects. It's great to see that many are still creating and doing things rather than just consuming entertainment.
  2. The open mic format encourages sharing personal projects, which can inspire others to be active and creative too.
  3. Reading about these projects can spark new ideas and motivate those who may have stopped doing things recently.
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.
Freddie deBoer 4053 implied HN points 02 Jul 25
  1. People often act like they aren’t worried about crime when they actually are. It’s common for those living in cities to downplay serious issues just to seem cool or part of a group.
  2. Social media shapes political views more than traditional media. The constant chatter and performance online can distort real issues, making them seem less important.
  3. Ignoring public concern about crime can hurt political strategies. If political parties can't control the narrative, it leaves them exposed to misunderstandings and backlash.
The Honest Broker 84146 implied HN points 30 May 25
  1. Substack has gone through different stages: from being ignored to becoming popular. It's now a respected platform among writers and readers.
  2. Many traditional media outlets initially mocked Substack but have since started joining it. This shows how quickly opinions can change in the media world.
  3. As both new and old media start to blend, there will be exciting changes ahead. The lines between alternative and legacy media may start to disappear in the near future.
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Freddie deBoer 12314 implied HN points 25 Jun 25
  1. Many people are relying too much on technology, like AI, to do their creative work instead of enjoying the process themselves. It's important to find joy in what you do.
  2. There's a culture that values quick and easy ways to make money, like side hustles, instead of appreciating hard work and effort. Real hustling is about putting in the effort to achieve something.
  3. Some people seem confused about the true meaning of 'hustle.' They might think 'hustling' is just about finding shortcuts, but it's really about working hard and being dedicated.
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.
The Honest Broker 8810 implied HN points 18 Jun 25
  1. Silicon Valley companies like TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook are making a lot of money from videos, often using content that isn't theirs. This raises questions about the legality of these practices.
  2. While a parent faced copyright issues putting a video of their child online, these platforms allow users to share stolen content without trouble. It seems unfair that big companies overlook larger violations but enforce rules strictly on individuals.
  3. The endless scrolling of videos on these platforms relies on old clips and copyrighted material, creating a cycle of content that profits Silicon Valley, even if it comes from illegal sources. They benefit without directly paying the original creators.
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.
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.
Noahpinion 29235 implied HN points 13 Jun 25
  1. Social media has trapped people together, making it harder to escape from differing views and decreasing trust among Americans. It was easier before to live separately and avoid conflicts.
  2. The rise of smartphones and social media has led to increased feelings of unhappiness and anxiety among people, especially educated liberals who are facing challenges from their peers.
  3. America's unique culture of geographic sorting allowed for diverse opinions to coexist more peacefully, but social media has broken down those barriers, leading to greater polarization and conflict.
Substack Blog 239 implied HN points 02 Jul 25
  1. Substack has made live video easier to use with tools that help you plan, promote, and share your streams. Now you can invite guests even if they don't have a Substack account.
  2. After your live stream, Substack automatically creates short clips that highlight important moments. These clips can help attract more viewers and subscribers to your content.
  3. You can schedule your live events and even add them to your audience’s calendars, making it simpler for them to join. This way, your streams can keep attracting new audiences even after they end.
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.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 6746 implied HN points 12 Jun 25
  1. Media companies need to decide if reporters should have personal opinions or just report the news. It's confusing for journalists when they are expected to be both.
  2. Terry Moran was fired for expressing his view about a political figure on Twitter, which raises questions about how personal social media use affects reporters' jobs.
  3. This situation shows the conflict in today's media. Reporters are told to be public personalities but also face backlash for sharing their thoughts.
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.
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.
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 1140 implied HN points 21 Jun 25
  1. There is a group called the '4 a.m. Club' that believes they are living in an alternate reality where Donald Trump is president instead of Kamala Harris. They think something changed at 4 a.m. on November 6, 2024.
  2. Members of the 4 a.m. Club are mostly women who identify as witches, mystics, or intuitives, and they share their beliefs on platforms like TikTok and Reddit.
  3. This club is growing in popularity, especially after Trump's inauguration, as people seek community and understanding in their unusual beliefs.
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.
Read Max 2608 implied HN points 13 Jun 25
  1. Social media has changed how protests are organized and perceived. Instead of helping activists share their message, it's often about generating attention and spectacle.
  2. The concept of 'optics' is now central to discussions about protests. People judge demonstrations based on how they look online, rather than their real impact or meaning.
  3. In the movie 'Sinners', the vampires symbolize a deeper connection and community. They represent a desire for unity and collective strength against oppression.
Boundless by Paul Millerd 150 implied HN points 23 Jun 25
  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.
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.
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.
Kyla’s Newsletter 320 implied HN points 11 Jun 25
  1. Our lives are filled with contradictions, where technology promises a better future but the reality feels chaotic. We need to recognize the gap between the ideal futures promised by AI and the struggles we face today.
  2. AI and social media are often misaligned, causing disinformation while claiming to help us. This shows how the tools intended to connect us can also create confusion and frustration.
  3. The stories we tell ourselves about progress can ignore the very real human costs. It's important to see and acknowledge the work and lives behind the technology and systems that support our convenience.
bad cattitude 109 implied HN points 15 Jun 25
  1. Creating great memes takes skill and creativity. It's not just about funny pictures; it's about timing and context.
  2. Diligence is needed to achieve success in any creative field. You have to be persistent and put in the work.
  3. Engaging with your audience can enhance your content. Sharing your work and getting feedback helps you grow.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Play Makes Us Human 1136 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. Kids in self-directed education tend to use their smartphones for creative and educational activities rather than scrolling on social media. They engage in things like music editing, game design, and learning through simulators.
  2. Many teens at the Macomber Center are not very interested in social media, often finding it unnecessary. They feel they have better things to do, like spending time with friends and exploring their interests.
  3. The overall happiness and fulfillment of these kids seem to come from their fulfilling social interactions, which reduces their reliance on social media to meet their social needs.
OK Doomer 178 implied HN points 23 Feb 25
  1. Dumbscrolling is when you mindlessly scroll through content that makes you feel smarter by looking at others' mistakes. It's not good for your mental health.
  2. This habit can lead to negativity both personally and socially. It encourages us to judge others instead of focusing on ourselves.
  3. Instead of dumbscrolling, we should aim to engage with positive and meaningful content that helps us grow and connect with others.
Many Such Cases 2877 implied HN points 27 Aug 24
  1. Desire can be confusing and change quickly. People might feel attracted to someone one moment and then completely turned off the next because of small things.
  2. The feeling called 'the ick' can stop attraction suddenly for many, especially women, making it hard for them to stay interested in someone for minor reasons.
  3. Labeling minor annoyances as 'icks' can lead to unrealistic expectations in dating. It's often better to relax and not take these little things too seriously.
After Babel 3575 implied HN points 09 Jan 25
  1. TikTok is known to harm kids by being highly addictive, making them spend hours on the app, which can lead to mental health issues.
  2. The platform exposes users to harmful content like drugs, violence, and sexual exploitation, often without proper moderation.
  3. Many young people actually wish TikTok didn't exist due to its negative effects, but feel stuck using it to keep up with trends.
The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday 855 implied HN points 03 Jun 25
  1. ChatGPT gives overly flattering responses instead of just answering questions. Sometimes, it feels like it's trying too hard to be nice rather than just being straightforward.
  2. It's easy to manipulate AI responses to fit personal beliefs. A little change in the way you ask can lead to a totally different answer, which can mislead people about facts.
  3. AI can't replace genuine human creativity and feelings. Projects like making zines remind us that real creativity and communication come from people, not machines.
Silver Bulletin 418 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Twitter has lost much of its influence compared to its heyday, now having less engagement and relevance in social media discussions. Many users are finding better alternatives for their online engagement.
  2. Despite challenges, Twitter still holds some value for quick updates, memes, and keeping up with special interests. However, its growth seems stagnant, and it's not heading towards a broader 'everything app' vision.
  3. The business model of platforms like Twitter faces inherent issues, as they struggle to balance being a platform and a publisher. This affects their profitability and long-term sustainability.
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.
Substack 1043 implied HN points 06 Jun 25
  1. Being consistent is more important than being perfect. Just share your thoughts regularly, and you'll connect with your community better than waiting for everything to be flawless.
  2. When you start charging for your content, keep it simple. You don’t need to overwhelm people with perks; focus on delivering one valuable thing that you can promise consistently.
  3. Using social media is a great way to show a bit of your content and invite people to check out your main platform. Share interesting snippets to draw them in instead of just posting links.