The Business of Email: How Substack Changed Everything
The Colin and Samir Show
Nov 05
The Business of Email: How Substack Changed Everything
The Business of Email: How Substack Changed Everything
The Colin and Samir Show
Nov 05
Email is quietly becoming one of the most powerful tools for creators to build independent businesses, bypassing social media algorithms and reclaiming control over their audience relationships. In this conversation, a rising voice in the newsletter world shares how she transitioned from traditional media to forging her own path—using nothing more than a compelling perspective and an inbox.
Rachel Karten’s journey from Bon Appétit to building 'Link in Bio' on Substack illustrates a broader shift in the creator economy: writers are increasingly choosing independence over institutional platforms. With over 105,000 subscribers, Rachel leveraged Substack’s network effects and direct monetization to grow sustainably. The discussion highlights how email fosters deeper, algorithm-free connections, allowing creators to cultivate parasocial bonds through consistent, opinion-driven writing. While AI and video present new frontiers, long-form writing remains vital for authenticity. Direct audience support—not ads—is now the foundation of sustainable creative work. However, challenges remain for niche or 'delightful' newsletters in highly competitive spaces. Ultimately, Substack empowers creators to prioritize value and connection over scale, redefining what it means to build a media career on one’s own terms.
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05:56
60% of free subscribers came from Substack's network in 90 days
13:31
13:31
Newsletters thrive on personal voice and consistency to build reader loyalty
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16:17
Direct subscriber revenue is reshaping creator sustainability
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19:04
Audience is the boss in direct creator relationships
31:59
31:59
People follow individuals, not brands or formats.
40:04
40:04
Rachel refuses to return to a big media company due to independence.
