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Top stories for bloggers, newsletter writers, and content creators.
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If there is an article you think should be included in this roundup, please reply with a link. |
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No. 1: WordPress Challenges Substack on Fees
According to Paved, WordPress is making a serious play for newsletter creators—and if you're chipping away at Substack's 10% fee, it might be time to pay attention. With built-in email tools, paid subscription support, and zero fees on higher-tier plans, WordPress now offers more control over content, audience, and revenue. The setup is simple, importing from Substack is smooth, and your newsletter lives right on your site. Substack still wins for ease, but WordPress gives savvy creators better margins and long-term flexibility. If you're earning or planning to, the math might push you toward switching. It's about owning more and keeping more.
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No. 2: YouTube Shorts Revenue Matches Long-Form
YouTube Shorts is finally pulling its weight, according to Variety. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan says revenue per hour for Shorts now matches—or beats—long-form video in several countries, including the U.S., thanks to better ad tech and soaring viewership. For creators, that's a green light to double down. YouTube also rolled out a podcast leaderboard (Joe Rogan takes the crown), more tools for podcasters, and deeper living room integration. Podcasts now draw over a billion monthly viewers on the platform. And with TV screens overtaking mobile and AI-fueled features like Dream Screen, YouTube is positioning itself as the king of all media—for creators and advertisers alike.
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No. 3: Meta Powers Main Street Marketing
Meta isn't just running a tech company—it's the backbone of Main Street marketing, according to a NetInfluencer article. Meta's ad-driven ecosystem pumped $548 billion into the U.S. economy last year, supporting 3.4 million jobs. Nearly 21 million American businesses—mostly small shops and solo operators—use Facebook to sell, promote, and connect. Around 19% make at least a quarter of their monthly sales through digital channels. AI is gaining ground too, with 2.9 million businesses using Meta's AI tools for ad creation, customer service, and productivity. With ad impressions and pricing both on the rise, Meta's platforms remain a reliable revenue lever.
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No. 4: Trust and Targeting Beat Size
Bigger isn't better in affiliate marketing—targeted and trusting beats massive and lukewarm every time. A small, focused email list built around a clear interest—backed by content that delivers real value and honest recommendations—can drive far more conversions than a bloated list of random subscribers. Folks subscribe for insight, not a sales pitch. When they believe your picks are legit, they'll click, again and again. Whether it's gadgets, gear, or guides, relevance and trust are the real revenue engines. Chasing scale without alignment might fill your list, but it won't build your business.
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No. 5: Build Smarter, Burn Out Less
Burnout isn't a badge of honor—it's a sign something's off, according to Teachable. Most creators aren't lazy; they're overloaded. If you're feeling the pressure, there's a better approach. Focus on fewer platforms with proven ROI, then milk your best content across formats. Automate the grunt work. Own your email list and community to dodge algorithm chaos. Collaborate with folks to tap new audiences. Set real boundaries and track what matters. And most importantly—turn your repeatable knowledge into evergreen products that sell while you rest. It's about working smarter, not just longer, so you can build something that lasts without burning out in the process.
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