The Paywall Paradox
Why My Content Will Always Be Free
I'm exhausted by paywalls. You probably are too.
We've all experienced it - an enticing headline catches your eye, you read a few tantalizing paragraphs, and then... the content fades into the background behind a bold request to start a subscription.
Just as we now juggle dozens of streaming services for movies and TV shows, we face the same fragmentation for written content across the internet. A few dollars here, a few dollars there. It adds up quickly, and soon you forget exactly who and what you're subscribed to. Your bank statement becomes a graveyard of recurring charges for publications you barely remember signing up for.
Why I'm Going Against the Grain
This is precisely why I've structured my Substack differently. While the platform is designed to encourage creators to put their best content behind paywalls, I've chosen another path.
Yes, I do have a paid tier, but it's currently undergoing an intentional revision - one that might surprise you. I'm actually redesigning it to make people think twice about paying for content that genuinely needs to flow from my heart to your inbox without barriers.
Breaking the Monetization Mindset
Going against the mainstream is fundamental to who I am. While the creator economy buzzes with talk about optimizing monetization strategies and "valuing your work," I'm happily headed in the opposite direction.
Don't get me wrong - I believe creators deserve to be compensated fairly for their work. But I also believe that sometimes the most valuable ideas need to flow freely, without financial barriers restricting who can access them.
My Promise to You
The core of this Substack will always remain free. The thoughts, insights, and perspectives that I feel compelled to share won't be hidden behind a paywall. When something is actively on my heart that needs to pour from my fingers into words, I want it to reach everyone who might benefit from it.
While others rave about monetizing their newsletters, I'll be over here focusing on connection first, trusting that the right model will follow.