A few more tidbits for the algorithm discussion: a friend on my distribution list said they used to consult for Medium and confirmed nobody inside knows how the platform "works." Only Obama and bullshit artists were making any money.
Also, stats:
On Substack, so far this post has 388 views, 345 unique opens and a 76% open rate. Substack says open rates of 50-60% are very good.
On Medium, a shorter version of this post got two views, zero reads, but one fan. The fan wasn't even a follower of mine. They appear to have stumbled across the post because I tagged...wait for it...algorithms.
Alright pal, I REALLY like what you're doing--most especially, the palpable sense that I'm hearing the authentic voice of a real person. If I want to write a note directly to you, how would you like it? I have Twitter but don't like it, would prefer email if that's okay (and I use the Substack app now, which seems to preclude direct responses.) You can drop me a note at tompendergast@gmail.com if you wish.
Damn. It me. I am seen. 💯 Am I doing internet props right? Similar journey to yours. Swirling in the angst over what my Substack is. Should be. Color me inspired. Not sure if that’s one Crayola does. Currently in an IHOP airport bar and nodding vigorously thanks to feeling the tumblers click into place and the Bloody Mary. Thanks for sharing this.
I second every single thing you've said about Medium. That matched my experience. Some of those competitive writers on Medium are also quite thin-skinned about being called out on factual errors, and will--well, let's just say the nastiest experience I've had with another writer was over on Medium, and that was over calling out an error of fact, not grammar. I just got the vibe of constant in-fighting and nope, I'm not one of those writers.
I'm also with you about the paywall and charging. Glad to meet you (came in via notes, am subscribing).
A few more tidbits for the algorithm discussion: a friend on my distribution list said they used to consult for Medium and confirmed nobody inside knows how the platform "works." Only Obama and bullshit artists were making any money.
Also, stats:
On Substack, so far this post has 388 views, 345 unique opens and a 76% open rate. Substack says open rates of 50-60% are very good.
On Medium, a shorter version of this post got two views, zero reads, but one fan. The fan wasn't even a follower of mine. They appear to have stumbled across the post because I tagged...wait for it...algorithms.
Thanks everyone for reading!
Go Amran! I laughed at your description of being a Kroger clerk vs working in corporate America.
Algorithms are the worst, can confirm.
Love your writing! And love that your living your own unique awesome life.
Thanks for confirming algorithms can be evil. I too pulled my writing from Medium--am enjoying your posts!
Alright pal, I REALLY like what you're doing--most especially, the palpable sense that I'm hearing the authentic voice of a real person. If I want to write a note directly to you, how would you like it? I have Twitter but don't like it, would prefer email if that's okay (and I use the Substack app now, which seems to preclude direct responses.) You can drop me a note at tompendergast@gmail.com if you wish.
Hey, what's your novel about??? Or can you point me to the post you wrote that already answered that question? I'm new. 😁👍
Damn. It me. I am seen. 💯 Am I doing internet props right? Similar journey to yours. Swirling in the angst over what my Substack is. Should be. Color me inspired. Not sure if that’s one Crayola does. Currently in an IHOP airport bar and nodding vigorously thanks to feeling the tumblers click into place and the Bloody Mary. Thanks for sharing this.
Okay, I'll "stick around".
Mostly just because - I like your style !
I second every single thing you've said about Medium. That matched my experience. Some of those competitive writers on Medium are also quite thin-skinned about being called out on factual errors, and will--well, let's just say the nastiest experience I've had with another writer was over on Medium, and that was over calling out an error of fact, not grammar. I just got the vibe of constant in-fighting and nope, I'm not one of those writers.
I'm also with you about the paywall and charging. Glad to meet you (came in via notes, am subscribing).