Ben Thompson is a trailblazer in subscription-based newsletters, earning millions with his platform, Stratechery. He shares insights on how to monetize writing effectively and discusses the business models behind successful online content. Thompson reflects on his unique writing process, emphasizing discipline, passion, and the need for consistent quality. He also highlights the evolving media landscape, where one-person media companies are thriving against larger firms, and offers strategies for cultivating a loyal audience through genuine engagement.
Consistent and high-volume content production is vital for writers to gain exposure, improve their craft, and enhance credibility.
Targeting specific audiences with tailored content helps ensure effective communication, making articles resonate better with the intended readers.
Creating a conducive writing environment and setting daily deadlines fosters productivity, accountability, and a flow state for more effective writing.
Deep dives
The Importance of Volume in Writing
Producing a high volume of written content is essential for success as a writer. Consistent output over time allows for greater exposure and the ability to refine one's craft. A significant body of work not only attracts a wider audience but also builds credibility over time. Writers should prioritize regular production, as it increases the chances that their best work will be discovered and appreciated.
Understanding Audience and Writing Types
Writers should distinguish between different types of content tailored to specific audiences. Articles intended for a general audience require a more comprehensive and engaging opening, while updates for paying subscribers can assume a higher level of prior knowledge. This targeted approach helps writers communicate effectively, ensuring that the content resonates with the intended readers. Crafting pieces that tell compelling stories enhances engagement and retention.
Writing Process and Flow State
Achieving a flow state is crucial for effective writing, allowing ideas to flow seamlessly from mind to paper. Writers often experience difficulty starting, particularly when they struggle to find the right hook for their opening. Creating a conducive environment free of distractions is vital for maintaining focus and fostering creativity. When in the right mindset, the writing process becomes more manageable and fluid, increasing productivity.
The Role of Deadlines in Productivity
Setting daily deadlines can be a powerful motivator for writers to produce content consistently. The pressure of a deadline encourages focus and creativity, compelling writers to overcome procrastination. This approach not only boosts productivity but also instills a sense of accountability, as writers are tasked with delivering quality work regularly. Establishing a structure based on routine can lead to long-term success and improvement in writing skills.
Engagement Through Storytelling
Incorporating storytelling elements into writing can significantly enhance a reader's engagement. Effective pieces often weave narratives that captivate readers, making complex information easier to digest. Presenting ideas through relatable anecdotes or personal experiences helps to foster a connection with the audience. Writers should consider their narrative approach to ensure that their articles resonate and leave a lasting impact.
The Value of Revisiting Past Work
Writers benefit from revisiting and building upon their previous works, creating an evolving body of knowledge. This practice allows for continuous improvement and the refining of ideas based on new insights or experiences. Writers should embrace the iterative process of content creation, treating each piece as an opportunity to enhance their understanding of a topic. Acknowledging past fallacies or misjudgments while clarifying their current position reflects growth and deepens reader trust.
What if writing a newsletter could pay your rent? Well, it can. And today, you’re going to learn how.
Ben Thompson makes millions of dollars a year with his writing. He’s the OG of subscription-based newsletter writers. Maybe that’s your dream, too, but you’re plagued by questions like: “What should I write about?” “What’s my business model?” “How do I make my first dollar online?” We’re so glad you asked; because Ben has the answers. In this episode, you’ll learn his exact playbook for how to monetize your writing — not just for right now, but also for the future.
Ben’s blog, Stratechery, is the OG of subscription-based newsletters and actually inspired the creation of Substack. If you’ve ever wondered what a day-in-the-life of someone who makes millions of dollars writing looks like, now’s your chance.