Working directly with founders on strategy, positioning, and financial planning at this stage could make a huge difference in turning passion into a sustainable business.
Exactly. The creator economy is maturing fast, what was experimental is now institutional, and building a sustainable business requires strategy, positioning, and financial rigor.
Thanks John, another excellent post. The Snapchat spotlight strategy is very interesting. Do you think you could see something similar happening on Substack where those writers with large audiences got access to more advanced features? I think as things stand some of the bestsellers do get access to new features in advance but I wonder if it's something that would be rolled out across the board?
Working directly with founders on strategy, positioning, and financial planning at this stage could make a huge difference in turning passion into a sustainable business.
Nailed it my friend. Per usual. Any tips you would offer to fellow builders?
Fascinating read! I’ve never seen it broken down like this. I would agree that I’m playing (and have been playing) the long game.
The goal: help creators build sustainable businesses with strategy, positioning, and financial planning
Creator economy history now ! Thanks John - your research and content is always top notch 🤓
Exactly. The creator economy is maturing fast, what was experimental is now institutional, and building a sustainable business requires strategy, positioning, and financial rigor.
This is excellent, and I can only agree with your statement that these are wonderfully interesting times to be alive.
Thanks John, another excellent post. The Snapchat spotlight strategy is very interesting. Do you think you could see something similar happening on Substack where those writers with large audiences got access to more advanced features? I think as things stand some of the bestsellers do get access to new features in advance but I wonder if it's something that would be rolled out across the board?
John, your research is wonderful, I enjoy what you are doing. This article showcases the useful clarity you bring.
Without an operating cadence, creativity often turns into pressure instead of expression.
This weekly posture supports each voice differently:
Nurturers protect emotional energy and sustainability.
Guardians appreciate repeatable rhythms and clarity.
Creatives feel safer to explore within light structure.
Connectors stay grounded in shared purpose and audience.
Pioneers maintain momentum without burning ahead of themselves.
Holding all five keeps creation human rather than extractive.
It feels like tending a fire rather than striking matches each week.
Attention keeps it alive, not intensity.