Thank you for this explanation; it really does explain a lot. Jenn Budd has been warning this for a while. I'm really disappointed in Substack. When I found it I thought, finally, a place where I can read - read, not hear or watch - other people's thoughts in peace, in my own time, and have my own thoughts in response. Quietly. I almost never watch a video, and rarely listen to them. There are so. many. voices, each louder and more hyperbolic than the other, aggressively demanding ALL my attention RIGHT NOW. Reminds me of a room full of hungry tired 2-year-olds. When I scroll the sound is off, and usually when I see a video I just roll on by. Usually they're not that interesting - talking heads with headphones. I do brake for animals. I'll continue to look for you, Xavier, and open and read what you have to say. On my own time. I appreciate you.
You’ll still get the written word but I understand there’s such a distaste for video some will just ignore the post altogether thinking the transcript is a time stamped mess. For the most part, unless I’m on with another guess there will be little if any ad libbing or improvisation I.e. talking stream of consciousness. That’s difficult to read later on the transcript side and well I’m just not that good at it…I need a script.
Here’s my take: like any platform that starts with good intentions, Substack has possibly had a date with $$$$$$$$$ potential and snorted the line. Once that happens, manipulation starts, and all initial goals—to provide a forum for writers on every subject—turns into $omething else.
People also want to be “entertained.” What better medium than video, complete with theatrics, music, and other tricks to keep their attention (read Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman, who predicted what I’m talking about in the 80s). Add that Tik-tok is up in the air, and you won’t wonder why Substack has moved in that direction.
You are a WRITER. You captured me because you tell the story (receipts and all) but you also MOVE me. That is art (and I’m a creative, so I’m impressed when I can FEEL others).
You write about politics with an artist’s soul and a cop’s brain. That makes you unique. But you write about a hugely dominating subject, the Trump world of politics). And so do LOTS of others (more every day). Add that MSM is dying, and lots of pros like Don Lemon, Jim Acosta and Katie Phang have Substacks, and there’s only so much people can read in a day, so maybe you get lost in the shuffle. Or fewer people see you (which is why re-stacks are so important).
I watched Pinterest go to shit when it monetized. You know my Medium story. My daughter got stopped by Spotify whose founder swore he would never monetize (yeah, right, sure).
I don’t have to tell you what a discipline writing is. My sister would say, “Too many people.” That certainly makes the competition stiffer. And I definitely think the deck is stacked against raw talent, pure talent (you) without a schtick.
I’m sorry your numbers are down. It’s probably some fucking algorithm which makes it nearly impossible—even with your analytical skill—to compete with and stay true to yourself. I stopped writing for this very reason: I’m not hardcore enough to go through what you are and not take it personally. I wish I could help you. I don’t have any clout, though. I won’t play the game. So, I just try to be the cheerleader for people like you and others I respect.
I appreciate your honesty in this age of non-stop lies and spin in politics, and I hope it propels you to the top (if it’s what you want). And I will always read what you have to say because I can FEEL it.
Personally, I prefer to read posts rather than watch videos. Listening to the audio version is my choice for when I don’t have time to sit down and read (or when my old eyes can’t take any more). Thank you for your time and effort. In order to promote the written word I will stop liking videos just because I agree with what’s being shared. A poor compromise, I know.
Marie, I hear you. I’m not going to make you choose between “video” and “reading.” Every video or audio I put out will also come with a clean, journalistic-style article you can read like a normal post, not some ugly transcript dump.
And… I think it’s true about ‘churn’. It truly is not a personal thing. It is all the things your mentioned. I have just that with Bulwark and a couple of others. You should reach out privately to HCR. You know she’s a doll and she would give you some
For my feedback, I’m not on any social media. I get your newsletters/posts (Never know what to call them) in my email. Same with HCR’s, Joyce Vance, Robert Reich and Robert Hubbell. And I do have the Bloomberg app and NYT and Wall St and Semafor and New Republic and AP, but they all come to my email also. I never watch news except maybe PBS news hour, but I am not a video person. When Joyce Vance has a guest or March Elias has a guest, I read the transcript. I know quite well I am not the masses who are on instagram laughing at little short videos, but I do feel it myself that folks are trying to step away a bit because our moronic president and his even more moronic cabinet are breaking us and we don’t want it. So, that’s my little feedback. What about presence on YouTube? Btw, I discovered you from your
Comments on HCR and I think Robert Reich. I’m sorry th sad t life is now pure algorithms.
Key word is like you said transcripts. My workflow I’ve been rehearsing and refining this week is research and write up then rundown/linkup for reading on air then transcribed and formatted into a readable transcript for my reading audience which reads more like an article than a time stamped heavy transcript.
I find it hard to pay attention to podcasts. Actually, they annoy me. A few are fine but a steady diet is not for me. I prefer to read a piece, not have it read to me.
Mind you, I'm not againsty podcasts. But I am against an author being forced to join podcasting more for the benefit of the hosting platform than the author. Seems like that dynamic ought to be reversed.
Some thoughts. I seldom watch the videos because I just don't have that much time. I HIGHLY VALUE what you write but I've come to a place where I have to cut costs as well as cut the amount of time I spend reading. Part of that is a mental health issue (maintaining sanity when the world is upside down), but it's also reality in that my family and friends need attention, too. And finally, many authors are writing about the same issues with somewhat similar "takes" on what's occurring. I am also devoting part of my day to making calls and writing letters. And I'm retired so you'd think I had all the time in the world for this but I just don't.
Thank you for being a committed WRITER! The videos that I see from people I like, are hard to read as transcripts, I have found myself not watching, I much prefer to read a reasoned, thoughtfully put together piece rather than a talk-y, chatty, 'here's what I think at this moment' about (whatever!). The video conversations rarely deliver as transcripts because of their fluffy nature, so to me it feels like a waste of time. There are only a few, where the conversation is mapped out what they will talk about and careful listening on the part of the participants makes coherence happen. I also heard that substack is being sold (or has been sold) to a company that is favored by people whom I really do not have much time for (neo-nazis, etc..), and is looking to monetize the big followings on substack. Quickly done vids and light frosting for supper anyone? Nope not for me. I will read thoughtfully written pieces that can be read and are meaningful way after they are written too. Thank you for writing and thinking your way through what you post.. it makes a difference.
As time permits I look and listen to quite a few blogcasts or whatever they're called...videos, by people like Brian Tyler Cohen, David Packman, and so on, but as a Canadian with limited resources I don't feel, as much as I'd like to, that I can subscribe to them. I subscribe to the people who WRITE. And I like David Frum's in depth analysis, an exception to the rule I'm about to provide, and it is this: Capitalism is a race to the bottom, a need to maximize return on investment, then cater to the lowest common denominator, aka the majority. Listening is easier than reading and we are are genetically programmed to look at each other (the smart podcasters look straight at the camera even though that is not a two-way view) but the problem is that in trying to create "content" there is an awful lot of simplistic rhetoric, shouting (dare I say Americans are almost as fond of shouting as of shooting, or does that sound like your typical smug anti-American Canadian...I hope not...if I were really anti-American I'd not be in support of the Resistance Movement, and I surely am). Plus repetition and exaggeration bordering, at times, on hyperbole...and indeed, being hyperbolic in terms of titles. Here's an idea: Outlaw the word "bombshell" in reference to anything other than the shell of a bomb (are they really so crustaceanistic?). I am an artist as are you, but we could hardly be more different and still inhabit a shared ecosystem (the lower Great Lakes one, as defined by ecologists). We're as different as black and white, um, which we are. So yeah...as one used to not catering to the marketplace I hear ya, but X, unlike you I have no family to support...I have an adopted family, but the household is, barring your leader triggering a world war/great depression, self-sufficient...not rich, but with smart management no kid is going to go without a team uniform or class outing as there is no such kid. So I'm happy that I'm now a paid subscriber even though I don't know how to or have time to use all the bells and whistles that go with it, I DO want an autographed copy of the book...that is for sure. Like Celia and others, I'm here for you; I want to READ you, and I don't make predictions but if I did I'd say that you will be a very successful writer in the not all that distant future.
I am stunned by the response to this post. Stunned Stunned. After the dead in the water slump I’ve been in for 2 weeks this is just astonishing….(I’m looking at my analytics)…Not one person has said…oh great can’t wait for the video. Huuuuuuuuuum maybe we need to get the attention of the Substack mugshots on this…..huuuuuuuuum.
Thank you for this explanation; it really does explain a lot. Jenn Budd has been warning this for a while. I'm really disappointed in Substack. When I found it I thought, finally, a place where I can read - read, not hear or watch - other people's thoughts in peace, in my own time, and have my own thoughts in response. Quietly. I almost never watch a video, and rarely listen to them. There are so. many. voices, each louder and more hyperbolic than the other, aggressively demanding ALL my attention RIGHT NOW. Reminds me of a room full of hungry tired 2-year-olds. When I scroll the sound is off, and usually when I see a video I just roll on by. Usually they're not that interesting - talking heads with headphones. I do brake for animals. I'll continue to look for you, Xavier, and open and read what you have to say. On my own time. I appreciate you.
You’ll still get the written word but I understand there’s such a distaste for video some will just ignore the post altogether thinking the transcript is a time stamped mess. For the most part, unless I’m on with another guess there will be little if any ad libbing or improvisation I.e. talking stream of consciousness. That’s difficult to read later on the transcript side and well I’m just not that good at it…I need a script.
That is exactly it… room of screaming hungry two years olds, and you are right, they really are not interesting. Read in quiet and decide.
Same here.
Ditto!
Here’s my take: like any platform that starts with good intentions, Substack has possibly had a date with $$$$$$$$$ potential and snorted the line. Once that happens, manipulation starts, and all initial goals—to provide a forum for writers on every subject—turns into $omething else.
People also want to be “entertained.” What better medium than video, complete with theatrics, music, and other tricks to keep their attention (read Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman, who predicted what I’m talking about in the 80s). Add that Tik-tok is up in the air, and you won’t wonder why Substack has moved in that direction.
You are a WRITER. You captured me because you tell the story (receipts and all) but you also MOVE me. That is art (and I’m a creative, so I’m impressed when I can FEEL others).
You write about politics with an artist’s soul and a cop’s brain. That makes you unique. But you write about a hugely dominating subject, the Trump world of politics). And so do LOTS of others (more every day). Add that MSM is dying, and lots of pros like Don Lemon, Jim Acosta and Katie Phang have Substacks, and there’s only so much people can read in a day, so maybe you get lost in the shuffle. Or fewer people see you (which is why re-stacks are so important).
I watched Pinterest go to shit when it monetized. You know my Medium story. My daughter got stopped by Spotify whose founder swore he would never monetize (yeah, right, sure).
I don’t have to tell you what a discipline writing is. My sister would say, “Too many people.” That certainly makes the competition stiffer. And I definitely think the deck is stacked against raw talent, pure talent (you) without a schtick.
I’m sorry your numbers are down. It’s probably some fucking algorithm which makes it nearly impossible—even with your analytical skill—to compete with and stay true to yourself. I stopped writing for this very reason: I’m not hardcore enough to go through what you are and not take it personally. I wish I could help you. I don’t have any clout, though. I won’t play the game. So, I just try to be the cheerleader for people like you and others I respect.
I appreciate your honesty in this age of non-stop lies and spin in politics, and I hope it propels you to the top (if it’s what you want). And I will always read what you have to say because I can FEEL it.
Love this, debra, well said:
"You write about politics with an artist’s soul and a cop’s brain."
Personally, I prefer to read posts rather than watch videos. Listening to the audio version is my choice for when I don’t have time to sit down and read (or when my old eyes can’t take any more). Thank you for your time and effort. In order to promote the written word I will stop liking videos just because I agree with what’s being shared. A poor compromise, I know.
Marie, I hear you. I’m not going to make you choose between “video” and “reading.” Every video or audio I put out will also come with a clean, journalistic-style article you can read like a normal post, not some ugly transcript dump.
Disheartening that Substack is working so hard to shape its audience, rather than respecting the audience’s natural choices.
Indeed.
Wow! I thought I was the only one who preferred to read in depth analysis rather than listen to talking heads! I’m not alone!
And… I think it’s true about ‘churn’. It truly is not a personal thing. It is all the things your mentioned. I have just that with Bulwark and a couple of others. You should reach out privately to HCR. You know she’s a doll and she would give you some
Added advice.
For my feedback, I’m not on any social media. I get your newsletters/posts (Never know what to call them) in my email. Same with HCR’s, Joyce Vance, Robert Reich and Robert Hubbell. And I do have the Bloomberg app and NYT and Wall St and Semafor and New Republic and AP, but they all come to my email also. I never watch news except maybe PBS news hour, but I am not a video person. When Joyce Vance has a guest or March Elias has a guest, I read the transcript. I know quite well I am not the masses who are on instagram laughing at little short videos, but I do feel it myself that folks are trying to step away a bit because our moronic president and his even more moronic cabinet are breaking us and we don’t want it. So, that’s my little feedback. What about presence on YouTube? Btw, I discovered you from your
Comments on HCR and I think Robert Reich. I’m sorry th sad t life is now pure algorithms.
Key word is like you said transcripts. My workflow I’ve been rehearsing and refining this week is research and write up then rundown/linkup for reading on air then transcribed and formatted into a readable transcript for my reading audience which reads more like an article than a time stamped heavy transcript.
I find it hard to pay attention to podcasts. Actually, they annoy me. A few are fine but a steady diet is not for me. I prefer to read a piece, not have it read to me.
Mind you, I'm not againsty podcasts. But I am against an author being forced to join podcasting more for the benefit of the hosting platform than the author. Seems like that dynamic ought to be reversed.
Some thoughts. I seldom watch the videos because I just don't have that much time. I HIGHLY VALUE what you write but I've come to a place where I have to cut costs as well as cut the amount of time I spend reading. Part of that is a mental health issue (maintaining sanity when the world is upside down), but it's also reality in that my family and friends need attention, too. And finally, many authors are writing about the same issues with somewhat similar "takes" on what's occurring. I am also devoting part of my day to making calls and writing letters. And I'm retired so you'd think I had all the time in the world for this but I just don't.
Thank you for being a committed WRITER! The videos that I see from people I like, are hard to read as transcripts, I have found myself not watching, I much prefer to read a reasoned, thoughtfully put together piece rather than a talk-y, chatty, 'here's what I think at this moment' about (whatever!). The video conversations rarely deliver as transcripts because of their fluffy nature, so to me it feels like a waste of time. There are only a few, where the conversation is mapped out what they will talk about and careful listening on the part of the participants makes coherence happen. I also heard that substack is being sold (or has been sold) to a company that is favored by people whom I really do not have much time for (neo-nazis, etc..), and is looking to monetize the big followings on substack. Quickly done vids and light frosting for supper anyone? Nope not for me. I will read thoughtfully written pieces that can be read and are meaningful way after they are written too. Thank you for writing and thinking your way through what you post.. it makes a difference.
It's simple - Keep the transcripts and you keep me!
As time permits I look and listen to quite a few blogcasts or whatever they're called...videos, by people like Brian Tyler Cohen, David Packman, and so on, but as a Canadian with limited resources I don't feel, as much as I'd like to, that I can subscribe to them. I subscribe to the people who WRITE. And I like David Frum's in depth analysis, an exception to the rule I'm about to provide, and it is this: Capitalism is a race to the bottom, a need to maximize return on investment, then cater to the lowest common denominator, aka the majority. Listening is easier than reading and we are are genetically programmed to look at each other (the smart podcasters look straight at the camera even though that is not a two-way view) but the problem is that in trying to create "content" there is an awful lot of simplistic rhetoric, shouting (dare I say Americans are almost as fond of shouting as of shooting, or does that sound like your typical smug anti-American Canadian...I hope not...if I were really anti-American I'd not be in support of the Resistance Movement, and I surely am). Plus repetition and exaggeration bordering, at times, on hyperbole...and indeed, being hyperbolic in terms of titles. Here's an idea: Outlaw the word "bombshell" in reference to anything other than the shell of a bomb (are they really so crustaceanistic?). I am an artist as are you, but we could hardly be more different and still inhabit a shared ecosystem (the lower Great Lakes one, as defined by ecologists). We're as different as black and white, um, which we are. So yeah...as one used to not catering to the marketplace I hear ya, but X, unlike you I have no family to support...I have an adopted family, but the household is, barring your leader triggering a world war/great depression, self-sufficient...not rich, but with smart management no kid is going to go without a team uniform or class outing as there is no such kid. So I'm happy that I'm now a paid subscriber even though I don't know how to or have time to use all the bells and whistles that go with it, I DO want an autographed copy of the book...that is for sure. Like Celia and others, I'm here for you; I want to READ you, and I don't make predictions but if I did I'd say that you will be a very successful writer in the not all that distant future.
I agree with many here regarding videos or actually READING - for most of the same reasons.
I'm glad you will continue your "good works" - I learn things here that just dont exist in other "venues". It's appreciated!
Ditto! I want to READ the information, not watch creators acting out their opinions. Keep writing for us Luddites!!!
I really don’t like or want video , so I appreciate that you will keep the written content. I have been sharing your work on Spoutible.
I wish you the best.
I am stunned by the response to this post. Stunned Stunned. After the dead in the water slump I’ve been in for 2 weeks this is just astonishing….(I’m looking at my analytics)…Not one person has said…oh great can’t wait for the video. Huuuuuuuuuum maybe we need to get the attention of the Substack mugshots on this…..huuuuuuuuum.
Let's talk about it on the #FridayPowerLunch this week: https://tinyurl.com/FPL2026a