I love seeing people who have success like this and then go on to share it.
But so much of this advice seems to only be applicable for people who are using Substack to sell something or, at least, deliver tactical advice.
I wish there was more advice on how to grow for those of us who are using Substack not to sell but to write serious content that exists just to entertain or spark thought!
Thank you Rena, and I hear you completely. You’re absolutely right — a lot of advice out there leans heavily toward selling. But growth isn’t only for sellers.
What I’ve seen is: whether you’re selling or simply writing to spark thought, the approach to visibility can be deeply aligned. It’s about trust, resonance, and emotional framing. I’ll actually be writing more on that soon — especially how to grow without selling.
I love your passion and authenticity Meena. But how does it apply to someone who is selling their stories. Once I cross fully over into my next step as an artisan author perhaps I can offer more but for now I am selling my stories and you're right - I am just like everyone else - so how does a storytelling person become a standout when story is everywhere?
Kate, thank you your words mean more than you know. That line: “how does a storytelling person become a standout when story is everywhere?” is everything.
Here’s what I’ve found: it’s not just story, it’s story with a signature. The way you carry a moment, the emotional architecture behind your words that’s what people come back for.
I’d love to explore this more with you if/when you’re ready because there’s absolutely a way for authors and storytellers to build magnetic visibility without becoming someone else.
That’s okay Meena. I admire your dedication. I am not trying to be a “success” on SubStack I just like to write and read here as another arrow in my quiver of creative pursuits across several platforms - this one is new. I believe it does take dedication to reach your level of success in what you do. I realised the other day I am already enough as I get to live my dream life of travelling and talking to the people that buy my books face to face - small, humble but satisfyingly real - but love your work and it’s hard work - stay well x.
I love seeing people who have success like this and then go on to share it.
But so much of this advice seems to only be applicable for people who are using Substack to sell something or, at least, deliver tactical advice.
I wish there was more advice on how to grow for those of us who are using Substack not to sell but to write serious content that exists just to entertain or spark thought!
Thank you Rena, and I hear you completely. You’re absolutely right — a lot of advice out there leans heavily toward selling. But growth isn’t only for sellers.
What I’ve seen is: whether you’re selling or simply writing to spark thought, the approach to visibility can be deeply aligned. It’s about trust, resonance, and emotional framing. I’ll actually be writing more on that soon — especially how to grow without selling.
Appreciate you for voicing this. It matters.
I love your passion and authenticity Meena. But how does it apply to someone who is selling their stories. Once I cross fully over into my next step as an artisan author perhaps I can offer more but for now I am selling my stories and you're right - I am just like everyone else - so how does a storytelling person become a standout when story is everywhere?
Kate, thank you your words mean more than you know. That line: “how does a storytelling person become a standout when story is everywhere?” is everything.
Here’s what I’ve found: it’s not just story, it’s story with a signature. The way you carry a moment, the emotional architecture behind your words that’s what people come back for.
I’d love to explore this more with you if/when you’re ready because there’s absolutely a way for authors and storytellers to build magnetic visibility without becoming someone else.
That’s okay Meena. I admire your dedication. I am not trying to be a “success” on SubStack I just like to write and read here as another arrow in my quiver of creative pursuits across several platforms - this one is new. I believe it does take dedication to reach your level of success in what you do. I realised the other day I am already enough as I get to live my dream life of travelling and talking to the people that buy my books face to face - small, humble but satisfyingly real - but love your work and it’s hard work - stay well x.
Great Meena
Thanks Recep