57: Why I Came Back to Substack — and What It Changed in My Writing
In this episode, I share the winding journey of my relationship with blogging and newsletter platforms, and why I've returned to Substack … for the second time.
You'll hear some useful insights about the common fears writers face when choosing a platform for their writing, and mostly about why it's okay to change your mind, evolve your opinions, and trust your work.
I've learned that changing my mind, pivoting, and shifting direction are part of the work and of trusting myself. Importantly, I know that putting my writing first (no matter where it lives) is what matters most.
This episode takes you on a journey from 2023 through today, when I went back and forth between Substack and my blog (which lives on Squarespace).
Ultimately, I landed on Substack for my primary writing platform. It's simple, community-focused, and a cozy place for writers (but you have to curate it!)
Key Takeaways
Changing your mind is okay: You're supposed to grow and evolve as a writer, human, and creative. No explanations needed.
The platform is not your purpose: The goal is to keep putting your writing out there — don't let overthinking about the platform be a barrier. Simply start.
Start where you can: I love Substack for new online writers because it's free, easy, and focused on writing first.
With Substack, the article IS the email, so you can do double duty and don't need an email service as well (unless you're doing email marketing).
Answers to the top questions business owners have about SEO, what to do with old blogs, and where to start writing if you don't have a business yet.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to How Women Write
00:28 Navigating Writing Platforms — Substack Vs. Squarespace
01:03 The Journey Back to Substack
02:29 Timeline of Blogging Platforms
04:23 Lessons Learned from Platform Changes
06:39 Starting Fresh on Substack
13:49 SEO and Blogging Strategies
15:50 Final Thoughts and Substack Workshop Invitation
Links:
Jacqueline’s author site for speaking and workshops (Author site for speaking and workshops)
Old blogging and programs at theintuitivewritingschool.com
Mariah Magazine (Mentioned SEO expert)
Mariah Magazine's episode on the How Women Write Podcast: 29: SEO's Soulful Side: Mariah Magazine on Aligning Your Business with Search Engines
MissingLettr (Tool for sharing content across social platforms on an evergreen schedule)
Intuitive Writing (Book)
Unfussy Life (Book)
Business Book Exchange (Co-hosted podcast)
