Byrne Hobart: How to Write a High-Value Newsletter for 50,000+ Readers
Dec 13, 2023
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Byrne Hobart, a writer with a Substack following of over 50,000 Silicon Valley thinkers, shares his insights on crafting high-value newsletters. He discusses the art of balancing writing with a full-time job and highlights the importance of a disciplined routine. Byrne emphasizes the role of storytelling and context in engaging readers, and how unique writing niches can enhance creativity. He also explores the critical nature of work ethic versus talent, illustrating how dedication fuels success in the literary ecosystem.
Writing a newsletter allows you to establish expertise in a specific niche by providing valuable insights and information.
Embracing uniqueness and cultivating an unconventional culture can attract attention and foster creativity.
Having a structured system to track and organize ideas is crucial for efficient writing and idea generation.
Deep dives
The power of narrowing down topics in newsletters
Writing a newsletter allows you to choose a specific and narrow topic, positioning yourself as an expert who has thoroughly explained that particular subject. By focusing on a niche area, you can provide valuable insights and information that others might not have covered. This requires a lot of effort and dedication, but it allows you to stand out and be the go-to source for that specific topic.
The value of being unique and weird in company culture
Companies should embrace uniqueness and cultivate a more unconventional culture. Being different and embracing weirdness can attract attention, spark creativity, and create a distinct identity. When working in an industry or company, if you find yourself mentally designing an elaborate project or game related to it, it indicates a deep level of engagement and immersion in the subject.
The importance of note-taking and organizing ideas
Having a system to track and organize ideas is crucial for effective writing. This system may include a central file with a long list of ideas, ranging from simple topics to more complex ones. Some ideas may require further research, accumulating additional information, while others can be immediately turned into a post. By having a structured approach to note-taking and idea organization, the writing process becomes more streamlined and efficient.
The significance of the last important piece of information
Being the first to report on a big story or event may be challenging, but there is always demand for the last important piece that provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the topic. This offers an opportunity to provide a unique perspective and shed light on the true meaning and implications of the story. In the world of newsletters, the last important piece can hold great value and attract engaged readers.
Importance of working hard and being among the best
The podcast episode emphasizes the significance of working hard and striving to be among the best in a particular domain. It suggests that putting in effort is a key factor in achieving success and that even talent takes a backseat to work ethic in most cases. The episode encourages focusing on a narrow topic or area where one can potentially work the hardest and have a competitive edge. The speaker also highlights the importance of balancing work with family and avoiding distractions, such as social media, in order to maximize productivity.
The value of feedback, conversations, and writing prolifically
The podcast episode discusses the benefits of receiving feedback, engaging in conversations, and writing prolifically. The speaker highlights that feedback from readers and conversations with knowledgeable individuals within a given field can provide valuable insights and help refine ideas. They also emphasize the importance of choosing a diverse social group that stimulates interesting and thought-provoking discussions. Additionally, the episode encourages consistent writing as a way to consistently generate new ideas, improve writing skills, and create a substantial body of work that can resonate with readers over time.
Byrne Hobart has a Substack following of over 50,000 subscribers, consisting of some of the smartest people in Silicon Valley — startup founders, venture capitalists, hedge fund managers, you name it. Come learn how he produces high-density, high-insight ideas so consistently.
