Love the breakdown Mack. As someone who currently runs an arts business that operates on a subscription model, I fully understand and appreciate the dynamic behind re-thinking ongoing value. And you've shared a really timely reminder too; I've also been thinking about the evolution of my Substack, and sensing what is that ongoing value that I can provide. For people who follow what is essentially 'ideas and new / different perspectives', how might that look as a 'service' that people feel happy to pay for?
Hey Scott, that’s an interesting question. My suggestion would be pick 2-3 main areas or types of people or something to focus those ‘new ideas’ and sparking curiosity. Maybe you focus on how certain industries could do this, or certain types of people, or….
I think focusing on what group you want to help will really help you establish authority with that group. You have a talent of helping people think about problem solving in a different way, what groups do you want to help? I would identity those groups and focus on how your talents help them.
Thanks for the thoughts Mack. If I may 'yes, and' on top of what you suggested, I think it's further identifying when people need problems solved in a different way, and how does that manifest.
It theoretically should look like people who are experiencing problems in a regular, consistent way, and wondering what else could be done. Alternatively, 'thinking different' has to demonstrate / inspire an improvement to an area that's relevant to the groups I'm trying to help.
I suspect a major part of that journey is really just 'niching down' and picking something that works for a single group first, then expanding on to others.
Subscription models have really taken off! It makes sense—people are drawn to convenience and the ability to customize what they’re getting. The examples of Dollar Shave Club and FabFitFun show how businesses can create loyal customers through tailored services, but what’s really striking is the focus on building community. That's the magic isn't it?
That’s what takes these brands beyond just a transactional relationship. When it comes to Substack, applying those same principles—personalization, tiered subscriptions, and creating a real sense of community—can really make a difference. It’s all about connection!
Happy Tuesday evening, Neela! I agree with you, it's not just personalization, but also utilizing engagement to drive personalization. The engagement leads to a better understanding of the subscriber, which leads to increased levels of personalization. Which leads, in theory, to happy subscriber! Appreciate you reading and sharing and comment and being awesome and supportive as only you can be!
Do you have any thoughts on the subscription tracker apps that are now popping up drawing attention to the hidden expenses of multiple subscriptions that people often forget about? (Rocket Money, Bobby, Subby, PocketGuard, etc.)
There was a point a few years ago that I had to really go back and manage my subscriptions because they were getting a little out of hand. That experience has made me think a little bit more about signing up for new ones when given the opportunity. I also think there's a whole other subscription pricing strategy conversation we could have on this topic!
Hey Jack! I actually just read something about these on here somewhere, or maybe it was when researching this article. I think they are a great idea, and smart companies will remember to be in frequent contact with subscribers to make sure they understand the value they are getting, and also to get feedback on how they can give subscribers even more value. Such trackers will hurt companies that aren’t staying in regular contact with their subscribers, but those companies likely don’t deserve them anyway 🫣
Love the breakdown Mack. As someone who currently runs an arts business that operates on a subscription model, I fully understand and appreciate the dynamic behind re-thinking ongoing value. And you've shared a really timely reminder too; I've also been thinking about the evolution of my Substack, and sensing what is that ongoing value that I can provide. For people who follow what is essentially 'ideas and new / different perspectives', how might that look as a 'service' that people feel happy to pay for?
Hey Scott, that’s an interesting question. My suggestion would be pick 2-3 main areas or types of people or something to focus those ‘new ideas’ and sparking curiosity. Maybe you focus on how certain industries could do this, or certain types of people, or….
I think focusing on what group you want to help will really help you establish authority with that group. You have a talent of helping people think about problem solving in a different way, what groups do you want to help? I would identity those groups and focus on how your talents help them.
Thanks for the thoughts Mack. If I may 'yes, and' on top of what you suggested, I think it's further identifying when people need problems solved in a different way, and how does that manifest.
It theoretically should look like people who are experiencing problems in a regular, consistent way, and wondering what else could be done. Alternatively, 'thinking different' has to demonstrate / inspire an improvement to an area that's relevant to the groups I'm trying to help.
I suspect a major part of that journey is really just 'niching down' and picking something that works for a single group first, then expanding on to others.
My first start up was subscription boxes! Haha 15 years ago! I can’t believe how much it’s grown.
Megan I feel like you have done a little bit of everything! And everywhere!
hehe. what a strange trip it's been. I didn't follow rules but i did have adventures.
Happy Tuesday evening Mack
Subscription models have really taken off! It makes sense—people are drawn to convenience and the ability to customize what they’re getting. The examples of Dollar Shave Club and FabFitFun show how businesses can create loyal customers through tailored services, but what’s really striking is the focus on building community. That's the magic isn't it?
That’s what takes these brands beyond just a transactional relationship. When it comes to Substack, applying those same principles—personalization, tiered subscriptions, and creating a real sense of community—can really make a difference. It’s all about connection!
Thank you for sharing :)
Happy Tuesday evening, Neela! I agree with you, it's not just personalization, but also utilizing engagement to drive personalization. The engagement leads to a better understanding of the subscriber, which leads to increased levels of personalization. Which leads, in theory, to happy subscriber! Appreciate you reading and sharing and comment and being awesome and supportive as only you can be!
Great recap, Mack!
Do you have any thoughts on the subscription tracker apps that are now popping up drawing attention to the hidden expenses of multiple subscriptions that people often forget about? (Rocket Money, Bobby, Subby, PocketGuard, etc.)
There was a point a few years ago that I had to really go back and manage my subscriptions because they were getting a little out of hand. That experience has made me think a little bit more about signing up for new ones when given the opportunity. I also think there's a whole other subscription pricing strategy conversation we could have on this topic!
Hey Jack! I actually just read something about these on here somewhere, or maybe it was when researching this article. I think they are a great idea, and smart companies will remember to be in frequent contact with subscribers to make sure they understand the value they are getting, and also to get feedback on how they can give subscribers even more value. Such trackers will hurt companies that aren’t staying in regular contact with their subscribers, but those companies likely don’t deserve them anyway 🫣