Hamish McKenzie, the co-founder of Substack, is voicing his thoughts on the current media landscape, labeling it as the most significant disruption since the printing press. He mentions how social media has contributed to a chaotic environment where political movements thrive by exploiting attention in various ways. McKenzie talks about how Substack has played a role in this media revolution, with prominent figures leaving traditional networks for the platform’s independence.
The dominance of Donald Trump in the news is also highlighted by McKenzie, who acknowledges the toxic environment created during the Trump era. He points out that big-name journalists are now opting for independence and leaving mainstream media jobs for platforms like Substack, a trend he calls the Substack Era. Former Fox News colleagues like Chris Wallace and Megyn Kelly have ventured into independent media, indicating a shift away from legacy networks with corporate constraints.
McKenzie emphasizes the success of niche sites on Substack and the potential for writers and podcasters to connect directly with their audience. He mentions that many users on the platform have reported a six-figure income, even allowing free access to their content in the hope of converting freeloaders into paying subscribers over time. The versatile nature of Substack enables individuals to pursue other jobs while maintaining a successful presence on the platform.
Some notable figures like Chris Cillizza have ended up on Substack after being laid off at traditional media outlets, finding a new platform to express themselves and engage with an audience. McKenzie speaks of the evolving political culture that mirrors the chaos in media culture, emphasizing the need to move away from the current trend of opponents being humiliated instead of engaged with in dialogue. Substack has become a popular choice for journalists and politicos seeking a deeper connection beyond the noise of the Trump era.
McKenzie delves into the success of popular Substack accounts, citing examples such as Letters from an American and Broken Palate. He mentions familiar names like Michael Moore, Allen West, the Bulwark, and Robert Reich among the top Substack creators, with a variety of niche sites catering to different interests. The idea that Substack is revolutionizing the media and political landscape is further explored, with the platform attracting subscribers looking for a more intimate and direct connection beyond mainstream news.
In conclusion, McKenzie’s observations on the media disruption caused by platforms like Substack serve as a reflection of the changing landscape in journalism and politics. The rise of independent creators and the success of niche sites on Substack point to a shift away from traditional media outlets with corporate constraints. The Substack Era represents a new era of media connectivity, with journalists and politicos finding a home for their work and engaging with audiences in a more direct and personalized manner.
