Substack

Substack is a platform that enables writers and creators to publish newsletters and monetize them directly through paid subscriptions. It has become a major player in the independent media space, known for its simplicity and focus on writer autonomy.

• Founded in 2017 by Chris Best, Jairaj Sethi, and Hamish McKenzie.
• Allows writers to set up subscription-based newsletters with built-in payment processing.
• Has attracted high-profile writers like Matt Taibbi, Glenn Greenwald, and Bari Weiss.
• Offers a 'Substack Pro' program that advances money to writers in exchange for a share of future revenue.
• Has faced controversy over content moderation policies and the hosting of controversial figures.

Substack is an online platform that lets writers publish newsletters and monetize them through paid subscriptions. Founded in 2017, it became prominent for hosting independent journalists, essayists, and commentators who left traditional media to write directly to readers.

• Founded in 2017 by Chris Best, Hamish McKenzie, and Jairaj Sethi.
• Headquartered in San Francisco, California.
• Takes a 10% cut of paid subscription revenue, with payments processed via Stripe.
• Offered large upfront advances to recruit notable writers through a program called Substack Pro, which drew controversy.
• Expanded beyond newsletters to include podcasts, video, a social feed called Notes (launched 2023), and a mobile app.