The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the landscape of content creation, sparking both excitement and trepidation among writers. Platforms like Substack, a pioneer in the newsletter space, find themselves at the crossroads of this technological revolution. Despite not having a formal policy on AI usage, the implications of this shift are significant. As one of the co-founders of Substack, Hamish McKenzie, aptly noted, the AI boom is a “sea change” that writers must reckon with, regardless of their stance on its merits. This calls for a deeper exploration of how writers on Substack are currently harnessing AI and adapting their workflows to maximize productivity and quality.
Writers Embrace AI as a Collaborative Tool
A common theme echoed by Substack authors is their approach to AI not as a replacement but as an assistive tool that enhances their writing process. For instance, David Skilling, the CEO of a sports agency and the mind behind the popular newsletter “Original Football,” characterized AI as a “substitute editor.” This perspective highlights a significant shift in how writers perceive AI—not as a threat to creativity, but as a mechanism to streamline their workflow. Skilling’s enthusiasm for integrating modern productivity tools into business underscores a broader acceptance of AI in creative industries, marking a pragmatic approach to its capabilities.
Subham Panda, who contributes to “Spotlight by Xartup,” corroborates this collaborative sentiment. His team employs AI primarily for image creation and information aggregation, emphasizing that the essence and curation of the content remain firmly in the hands of human writers. This use of AI as a complementary partner enriches the writing process, allowing authors to focus on delivering thoughtful insights while leveraging technology for efficiency.
As the writers navigate the complexities of AI, customization has emerged as a crucial factor for success. Financial entrepreneur Josh Belanger provides an excellent example of this adaptability. Utilizing ChatGPT and Claude, he tailors his approach to content development, crafting personalized AI models that cater to the specific jargon and nuances inherent in finance and trading. This customization is key to mitigating the risk of errors—often dubbed “hallucinations” in AI parlance—ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the content.
Belanger’s method of combining original thought with AI-enhanced editing showcases the possibility of creating a hybrid model where human writers maintain creative control while benefiting from the computational power of AI. This hybrid model allows writers to amplify their productivity while ensuring that the final product remains a reflection of their voice and expertise.
Comparative Landscape: Substack Versus Competitors
While many Substack authors leverage AI for enhancing their writing, it is essential to note the platform’s position relative to its competitors. Notably, recent studies have revealed that about 40% of the content produced on Medium is generated through AI tools. In contrast, Substack maintains a relatively lower incidence of AI-generated writing, suggesting that its community may prioritize authenticity and individual expression over mass automation. This differentiation may attract readers seeking more personalized and thoughtful content, setting Substack apart in an increasingly homogenized digital landscape.
The ongoing conversation about the role of AI in writing raises critical questions about the future of creativity. As technology continues to evolve, writers on platforms like Substack must remain adaptable, leveraging the strengths of AI without sacrificing their unique voices. It is apparent that the relationship between writers and AI is not black and white; instead, it resides within a spectrum of possibilities that combine human insight with technological advancement.
While the ethical implications and potential drawbacks of AI usage in writing must be acknowledged, the current landscape demonstrates that writers can thrive alongside these technologies. By embracing AI as a collaborative tool rather than a competitor, Substack authors are redefining what it means to create compelling content in the digital age.
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