probably the stupidest part of being a “growth strategist” for substackers is how much I wince at those two words together. I have a deep resistance (hostility?) toward growth for the sake of growth. I don’t f*ck with most growth hackers, gurus, and strategists (although some of them are truly wonderful). as I get clearer on why I love this work so much, despite everything I just wrote, I realize that i’m working with a grander definition of “growth.” growth in authenticity, in craft, in honesty, in nuance, in alignment. the question “how can I grow my newsletter?” becomes, “what happens when I work on my creativity so deeply and in such true alignment that my project naturally expands?”

I don’t know. maybe that’s what it takes for some of the traditional “strategy” to come into play and really work. like, yeah we’ll talk about producing really tight, readable, enjoyable, creative work. we’ll talk about fun, advantageous collaborations and we’ll find the right lit mags to submit to. we’ll brainstorm exciting new formats for your work and we’ll even optimize shit. but my clients have a WHY, too. a beating heart. a bigger dream. a commitment to internal AND external growth.

I just had to say that! if you made it this far, thanks for reading and uhhh yeah that’s it! okay i’m embarrassed now i’m just gonna press post and get back to work kbye!