On the issues around Substack

Sometimes we have to use crappy tools for a bit until we get better options

So there’s quite a bit of back and forth out there regarding people using Substack. Most of it revolves around the very legitimate problem they have with monetizing transphobic authors.

Short version- I’m aware of the issue. There’s an issue around finding a functional platform that has good tools, allows for future paid options, and helps build community. Bluntly put, I’d like to eventually make money off my writing. Which means using effective tools and platforms to facilitate that process.

Last and very much not least, there’s the issue of how much labor goes into establishing new spaces. I’ve got learning disabilities that include processing disorders, which on a good day make it hard to learn new systems. On top of that, I have long COVID. I get exhausted after a certain level of energy use and faceplant for a day or so. With Twitter imploding, I’m learning a new platform, and tying to re-engage on an older one. Plus generate new creative output and do a very emotionally taxing day job.

I don’t have the energy to expend on building a platform from the ground up. Not right now. So for long form writing, this is the initial landing spot. It’s a compromise for now, not forever.