Big-name anchors going independent, making money in the Substack era

Hamish McKenzie, the co-founder of Substack, has recently made a bold statement about the current state of media, declaring that we are experiencing the most significant disruption since the printing press. According to McKenzie, this disruption is responsible for everything from strained neighborly relations to the political chaos that surrounds us.

In today’s world, McKenzie argues, we are faced with a chaotic environment where social media dictates the narrative and shapes political movements. The relentless pursuit of attention, whether positive or negative, has led to the rise of political figures who thrive on creating moral panics and inciting outrage through their online presence. We have transitioned from a time of inspirational leadership to one dominated by provocative tweets and emoji-laden discourse.

The influence of media disruption is evident in the way that Donald Trump continues to dominate the news cycle, both positively and negatively. With his frequent appearances on cable news networks and his active presence on platforms like Truth Social, Trump has harnessed the power of media attention to maintain his relevance in the political landscape.

Substack, the platform co-founded by McKenzie in 2017, has played a significant role in reshaping the media landscape. Journalists and media personalities are increasingly choosing to go independent, leaving behind traditional media outlets in favor of the freedom and flexibility offered by Substack. High-profile figures like Chris Wallace, Megyn Kelly, and Chuck Todd have all made the transition to independent platforms, recognizing the limitations of legacy media and embracing the opportunity for direct engagement with their audience.

The success of Substack is not limited to established media personalities. Niche sites and independent creators have found a home on the platform, with many achieving six-figure incomes while offering free content to attract subscribers. The subscription-based model allows creators to monetize their work while maintaining a direct connection with their audience.

McKenzie’s vision for Substack as a platform for independent voices has resonated with a wide range of creators, from former network anchors to niche bloggers. The platform’s success has prompted other media figures to explore independent ventures, recognizing the value of direct engagement with their audience in an era of media disruption.

While some may question the comparison to the Gutenberg press, McKenzie’s assertion that we are living through a transformative period in media and politics is hard to ignore. The rise of Substack and similar platforms has opened up new possibilities for creators and consumers alike, offering a glimpse of a future where media is more decentralized and individual voices hold greater sway.