It takes a lot for me to download a new app. My brain can’t handle the constant code-switching between 95 apps a day. But when some of my favorite writers started publishing their work on Substack, I gave in. Not to sound dramatic, but Substack is like a breath of fresh air after walking out of a smoke-filled, stale, sour and sticky bar that is the majority of social media platforms right now. It gives you hope that we are still capable of thoughtful, diverse discourse online beyond 140 characters. I unwind every night by reading an article or two from my favorite authors, creators, and thought leaders in from every space. I’ll share a few of the Substack subscriptions I’m loving.
What is Substack?
At it’s core, Substack is a subscription network. For most creators, you’ve got an option for free or paid. Personally, I love that it allows me to directly support artists for their work. It functions as a hybrid between social media, RSS feed, and newsletter platform. For me, it gives me an opportunity to directly support and connect with creators I want to hear more from. Substack an article titled “An App to Take Back Your Mind” digging into the intentionality with how they built their platform.
Whether you’re new to the platform or have been around for a while, here are a few of my favorite Substack subscriptions you should check out!
Simple and Intentional Living
I’ll talk a little bit more about this in a future blog post, but the act of slowing down, simplifying life, and living more intentionally is a major pillar of my life right now. These Substack subscriptions give me small reminders each week.
- Tea Notes: I love anything Erin writes. It oozes mindfulness and simplicity – things I could use more of in my life. I particularly look forward to her series “A Week in Objects.” It’s only a few snapshots of unassuming, simple objects throughout the week that brings her joy. Nothing more. And that’s the perfection of it.
- Clarity with Cory Allen: Cory’s bio says, “I write slow thoughts for fast times. Offering inspiring words on mindfulness, mental clarity, and self-belief.” I have nothing to add – his Substack is exactly that.
Food & Drink
Would it be a post by me if it didn’t mention food? Definitely not.
- Mostly French by Makenna Held: Did you know there is a cooking school run out of Le Pitchoune, Julia Child’s summer home in the south of France? Whether its recipeless cooking or building businesses, Makenna defines her own paths as she goes, rather than the “cis-het patriarchy kinda way” in her own words.
- Longer Tables with José Andrés: Not does he own two-Michelin star restaurants, but one of Time’s Most Influential People for his humanitarian work. His newsletter is a blend of recipe inspiration, seeing other cultures through cuisine, and the healing power of food.
- La Briffe by Ruth Reichl: Ruth’s book Save Me the Plums is one of my all time favorite memoirs. Her ability to communicate exactly what that dish tastes like leaves you salivating. This newsletter is a bit about food, but mostly about life.
Love, Healing, and Spirituality
An integral part of my journey right now is about healing and these are the authors I turn to when I’m in need a bit of encouragement.
- Love Letters by Elizabeth Gilbert: Did I watch and read Eat Pray Love over and over in preparation live that unemployed, European nomad life? 1000% yes. But, it’s her thoughts on self-love and creativity that I can’t get enough of.
- Gratitude Journal by Alex Elle: I’ve been a big fan of Alex Elle ever since I heard her talk about her book How We Heal on the We Can Do Hard Things podcast. Her writing on healing, self-love, joy, and manifestation is exactly what I need right now. I inhale everything she writes.
- Elevate with Yung Pueblo: You might have seen his poetry and writing on Instagram. I know I’ve shared a few thoughts from him! His work is thought-provoking, healing, deep, and without judgment. On his Substack he delves even further into his favorite topics: personal transformation, healing, relationships, and emotional maturity.
Other Substacks I Love
For so many, it’s difficult to pin point the Substack newsletter to one category.
- The Weekly Page by Dani Bruflodt: I initially thought about labeling this one a productivity newsletter (and it is) But, really you never know what you’re going to get which is the magic. Lately, it’s been everything from a COVID/baseball metaphor to makeup tips to international coworking sessions, and I love it!
- Things That Don’t Suck by Andrea Gibson: If you need a good cry, start here. Andrea’s writing on grief, live, and love makes you laugh one minute and weep the next.
I’m still exploring and finding new creators to follow every week. I’m sure I’ve missed some amazing ones!
So, you’ll have to tell me. Are you on Substack? Which Substack subscriptions am I missing?
Miss my last post on burnout? I shared what burnout was like over the past couple years including why this time was different.
Note: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you! I only feature things I truly love.
