One of the things that I’m struck by when I’m on Substack is that it’s not just for hyper young creators. In fact, Substack is a platform that attracts a much older user than regular third party platforms. There are several reasons why I think this is the case. Substack is a beautiful mix of analog long-form written content. Then there’s the digital interface-GenX isn’t intimidated by the use of digital platforms because many of the massive platforms we use were made by GenXers (for good and for bad).
Substack, more than any other platform that I’ve been on celebrates the learned and lived experiences of the creators that find themselves on the platform. They are thoughtful, share content filled nuance and wisdom often guides there content and conversations. GenX the often forgotten generation is a contradiction. Some GenX women are finally in the end stages of having late in life babies, other folks are celebrating that their kids are flying the coop or have been on their own for years. Some GenXers have grandkids. This multi-layered lived reality provides a lot of content that these creators can draw from. Substack is perfect for GenX creators. Don’t believe me? I have a few more points to make.
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Creators Getting Paid
Helping Black, Brown and Allied Content Creators who’re creating spaces, services and communities that otherwise wouldn’t exist strategize how to earn money with their work. This is done through sharing case studies, conversations and tools developed by other creators who are earning money serving similar communities.
Start using the Creators Getting Paid resource today to build a better brand. Head to creatorsgettingpaid.com/newsletter to start learning from successful content creators how to better monetize your brand.
Show Notes
The GenX don’t give a shit ethos thrives in a space like Substack. They can experiment, connect with other creators and be their creative selves. At the same time not having to deal with learning a complicated tech stack that may feel intimidating to some.
So far, I haven’t observed the ageism that I’ve seen in digital spaces where younger creators have shown up on the platform first. It feels like the opposite on Substack. But it’s also a place where:
- People’s lived experiences are a key part of building impactful brands and learned knowledge is a value add on the platform. I’m subscribed to Dan Rather’s newsletter and he’s 93 years old (not a GenXer)
- While GenXers are notorious for being individualistic and anti-everything. Substack is a great place for collaborative projects, connection and fostering an age balanced creative community that can be a bit more challenging to find on other platforms. I think as GenX ages, a need to connect with others on a deeper level is emerging. People joke a lot about being forgotten but…that kind of sucks.
- Cross generational connection-More than anything, the cross-generational respect and comraderie is a huge part of building healthy and sustainable brands on the platform.
- Substack’s Multi-Media Tech Stack-There’s so much that a creator can work with on the platform.
- Notes-A more cerebral alternative to Twitter/X
- Video content can be added
- Audio content can be recorded
- Written content can be added (and is prioritized)
- Monetizing via paid subscribers is straightforward.
- People see themselves in the other creators on the platform and it’s a beautiful thing.
- Have family
- Don’t have family
- Dealing with parents
- Aging related issues
- These creators don’t have to hide any part of themselves they can let all hangout, embrace their whole selves and grow their creative work.
Put simply, Substack offers a great space for GenX content creators and community builders to build “the thing” in public.
The Pacing of the Substack Platform
There is still a sense of whimsy for creators on the Substack platform. I don’t feel like I have to show up all day in order to be seen. People pop in and out based on their bandwidth and creative energy. I do want to point out that things will change as the platform settles into its ideal business model.
- If you’re still thinking about moving from TikTok to Substack go to https://creatorsgettingpaid.com/moving-from-tiktok-to-substack/
- And listen to the episode
- Are you wondering if you https://creatorsgettingpaid.com/should-you-start-a-newsletter-on-substack/
- Listen to this episode
- And are you confused as to weither or not https://creatorsgettingpaid.com/should-you-have-a-substack-and-a-website/
- I discuss that in this episde
If you’re a GenX community builder or content creator, Substack may be a good space to grow part of your community.
Keep Me in Mind
Are you looking for a Keynote Speaker or Workshop Facilitator? I would love for you to keep me in mind. I’m a frequent speaker and panelist at content creator industry events such as Podcast Movement, FinCon and Denver Start Up Week. I love creating an engaging, fun and informative experience for attendees. Last year I had a blast as the keynote speaker at the Black Podcasters Association’s Summer Picnic in Brooklyn. Email me at: th*****************@***il.com I’m would love to set up a time to discuss your needs and would be happy to send over my one-pager before our conversation.
