Why I’m Moving My Author Newsletter to Substack — And Why You Might Consider It Too
If you’re an author juggling multiple platforms for your newsletter, blog, and social updates, you know how overwhelming it can be to keep everything in sync. That’s why I’ve decided to make a change — I’m shifting from using the WordPress newsletter plugin to Substack as the new home for my writing, publishing tips, and social media insights.
Why Substack? It’s more than just a newsletter tool. It’s an open platform that combines blogging, email, and audience building — all in one place. Unlike traditional email platforms like MailChimp or MailerLite, Substack offers a public-facing feed that functions almost like a blog, but with the power of email delivery. Readers can follow, share, and even discover you through Substack’s built-in recommendation network.
Let’s look at the comparison
Substack
Pros: Open platform, built-in audience discovery, simple monetization (paid subscriptions), and a clean, writer-first interface.
Cons: Limited email design customization, not ideal for heavy visual branding or automation-heavy campaigns.
MailChimp
Pros: Robust automation, extensive template design, detailed segmentation, and analytics.
Cons: Higher learning curve, costly as your list grows, no open platform for discoverability — readers must already be on your list.
MailerLite
Pros: More affordable than MailChimp, easy-to-use automation and landing pages, good for small to mid-sized lists.
Cons: Still email-list centric, limited in audience discoverability, and separate from your blog unless integrated.
For authors, especially indie authors and content creators, Substack offers something fresh — the chance to grow your list organically within the platform. It’s easy to share posts across social media, and readers can engage right on the page. Substack also lets you manage multiple “sections,” so I can keep my writing updates, social media advice, and publishing tips organized within one central publication.
I’ll be sunsetting my old WordPress email system soon, and I invite you to check out the new space on Substack. Whether you’re looking to simplify your workflow or connect with a broader community, this platform is worth a look.
You can subscribe to my new publication Write, Publish and Thrive by Jolene the Author — where authors come to learn, share, and grow.
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