If you’re struggling on Substack, you’ll want to save this. 📌

Here’s what I’d do if I had to start a brand-new Substack today with no audience:

1. Niche down by pain point, not topic.

   Don’t write about “marketing.” Instead, write for creators who feel invisible online.

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2. Use Notes as your daily growth engine.

   Comment. Restack. Reply. Publish. The algorithm favors creators who engage like humans.

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3. Write 1 post per week that solves a real problem.

   Make your content actionable, shareable, and easy to finish.

   Forget “thought leadership.” Aim for helpful.

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4. Add a simple paid tier.

   Don’t overthink it. Offer early access, behind-the-scenes, or subscriber-only posts. Invite your early fans to be founding members.

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5. Launch a tiny product.

   Even a $19 workbook or 60-minute workshop builds trust and revenue. Don’t wait for the “perfect” idea, just start.

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6. Collaborate like it’s your full-time job.

   Find 3–5 like-minded creators and grow together. Shout each other out. Do guest posts. Host free sessions.

   Substack grows faster when it’s not a solo sport.

You don’t need luck, funding, or a huge audience to get started.

You need a system, a story, and the courage to show up consistently.