Wow! Last month’s “Find Your Tribe” generated over 500 comments!! Seeing you connect with one another absolutely warmed my heart!
Hopefully, those who came in towards the end, can get a chance to join in earlier this time!
“Find Your Tribe” was born because I noticed there were so many interesting people on Substack, but sometimes it’s hard to find and be found by “your people”.
Every month on “Find your tribe! 🔍” you can introduce yourself and spark new connections!
Hi, everyone! Thank you for stopping by "musings by mika" and for joining in!
My name is Mika, I live in New Zealand and I love love connecting with people, I love sharing useful resources, and I absolutely love sharing things in order for people to feel less alone in their journey. (I love that I get to do all three things on Substack!!)
𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁: I gave birth to our fourth child as we inched through rush hour traffic in a tunnel on the way to the hospital! 😨 Don't worry, the car emerged unscathed. Had to switch to an ambulance post-tunnel, where things got a tad messier. 😆
Now that you've picked yourself off the floor....my Subtack (that you're on now) is where I share how I followed my gut and quit my job last year. I also candidly share my journey and learnings of starting Substack with no email list.
People find this post useful: "What do you do if you're not growing as fast as others?"
The traffic was crazy that day and it hasn’t been that backed up since that day.
When I gave birth, my husband was on the phone to the emergency services (back when it was legal to talk in the phone). They asked if the baby was breathing, but all I could say was “she’s so beautiful!” 😆
🤣Wow! I'm just finding this essay, and this really made me laugh. My second child almost arrived in the car on the way to the hospitals. My first son had been a very long labor, but when things got started with my second, they progressed rapidly! I kept asking my husband if he could possibly go any faster. I couldn't even wait for him to finish parking and grab out bags, but hobbled into the ER entrance on my own - they were super-alarmed, "Hold on, you can't have the baby here!" When they settled me onto the bed, the nurse said, "Um, the doc isn't here yet, can you try not to push?" Nope! So we made it, and he was delivered in the hospital bed, but just barely 🤣
I could not believe it was happening. I kept on thinking…surely we will get to the ambulance (since they couldn’t get to us in the tunnel)…but no, our youngest didn’t want yo wait anymore!
Thank you so much for hosting this tribe-finding experiment! That is one helluva birth story, (congrats on making it through without losing all of your marbles)!
Hi all! I’ve been running a little behind all month, but finally made it!
My name is Suzanne and I’m from Texas, USA. I’ve been writing, creating and facilitating wellness workshops, and learning how to live on this earth for about 30 years (ok, learning how to live on this earth for 56 years 🤦🏻♀️)
Surprising fact:
Despite being a holistic wellness guide, energy medicine practitioner, and tai chi instructor, I’m also a licensed firearms safety instructor.
You can find my Substack here https://thelifewalk.substack.com/ Mostly I write about out living authentically, mistakes, challenges, and all 😉
I look forward to connecting with more folks here, and thank you, Mika, for hosting this! 🙏🏻
Hi, all!! My name is Miriam, I live in St. Louis, Missouri, and I'm new to Substack and to motherhood (the latter brought me to the former ;))!
One surprising thing about me is that I used to work at Goldman Sachs despite my dreams of being a novelist or adventurer. This was when I had a lot of student debt to pay off 🙈
I'm a certified Mindfulness & Meditation Teacher, so that informs a lot of my personal essays / reflections, as does motherhood :) I'll likely start to reflect more on my Substack on themes that surround my transition from a high-growth career to motherhood, and just the day-to-day learnings as I navigate this new, lifelong chapter. I'm so excited to connect with a tribe here and to offer mutual support ❤️
Hello, I'm Tony Bleything. I currently lead Experience Design and Human-Centered Design initiatives. My work involves empowering teams to enhance customer-centricity through human-centered design practices. With over 10 years of experience, I've facilitated workshops that foster collaboration and deliver effective solutions for complex challenges. Some of my notable achievements include developing a solution architect certification program and designing a digital literacy survey for our large employee base. Now, I'm looking forward to leveraging my skills in innovation, design thinking, and user experience strategy to help organizations transform their culture, products, and services.
One surprising fact that usually catches people off guard is that I used to be an Anglican Priest for about 15 years. I've since moved into experience design which is something that I had been doing for years in our service designs and programs.
I'm new to substack, but I will be posting on generative ai as a way of increasing team effectiveness, design thinking as a mindset to enhance innovation.
Hello, Spiritual Entertainer here. Joined substack recently, passionate about growing together with other sincere Spiritual seekers. I write about Spiritual Awakening, Religion, philosophy, ancient esoteric and occult knowledge, nature, spiritual psychology and anything doing with knowing oneself.
I, too, am an author & this is a new platform for me. I have let go of so many others for a variety of reasons. This is a new chance to create something better, brighter, more beautiful- and doing all of it here🔆
I believe in growth, specifically mine, but others also. Here’s to a new day, & a brighter tomorrow for everyone🔆
Fun fact about me: I'm relearning my first language French. I grew up in Canada but later moved to the U.S and completely forgot the language I grew up with.
Salaam everyone, I’m late to the conversation it seems. I’m new to substack but starting up a personal memoir / reflections publication. People are usually surprised to know that I’m from the sunny Maldives 🇲🇻 ☀️ I’m mostly going to be writing about my faith as a Muslim, happiness, self creation and other everyday musings in the life of a young adult. I love the sense of community on Substack!
Hi world! I am Julianna. 💖 I am a 23 year old American living out of my car while road tripping Australia. (I’m doing the whole lap over the course of the year!!) People would be surprised to learn that I am not scared of the Aussie spiders :).
I write about life — mostly my spiritual realizations and growth since entering the world as an official adult post-grad. I also run a creative community focused on connecting with oneself/being present through creativity !!
comment # 224 - Hi folks. We are American ex-pats living in Mexico, have a long and somewhat compicated history, another story for another time. Adventurous spirits, we are parents, and step-parents of 7, grandparents of 14, both of writers with different styles and genres. I'm relatively new on Substack, slow start and that's OK. Have been writing for different reasons and purposes for a very long time, (I am 87, S is 76.). Today I posted a piece about why we write that just emerged this morning, like a new agg laid. We'll see what happens to that! Not concerned a whole lot about growin as fast as others but still learning, growing and changing, All about change, thrive on it. I just keep on being and doing what I am, where I am with what I have. Substack posts are at "From Both Sides Now". Thanks for the invitation to stop by along my way.
I'm a illustrator from somewhere destination Sweden. And have ADHD & ASD. (what is ASD? Autism Spectrum Disorder) I just suck at introducing myself so this will do 😁
What is the surprising fact about me? Well when I tell people that I have ADHD & ASD they always get surprised. Because you cant see it on the out side. 🤷♂️
I write about art & health pretty much. Writing about the ups and downs for trying to reach my dream job, but having my ADHD, ASD and mental health in the way.
Hi! I’m Victoria. I’m a mother of two in College and happily married approaching 60 and retirement! I live in California. Contemplating courage to start writing on Substack “Wanderings to 60”. Not many know I own a solar panel manufacturing plant in Texas and that I love astrology and continue to learn more daily! I’m galactically convinced our chart is a mathematical approach to life and this year focused on moon transits, phases and energy!
I am obsessed with astrology and have been getting really into the moon phases lately… the Libra full moon/eclipse next week is highly anticipated and I can’t wait to work with its energy!!
Hi everyone! I’m Jemima! A new mum of two under two. I live in São Paulo, Brazil! I LOVE supporting and encouraging other new mums which is why I started New Mums Room. I’m a creative through and through, writer, singer, designer but mainly just a writer and content creator now. I’m a self-proclaimed ‘Minister of Encouragement for New Mums.’ Haha.
Surprising fact: My husband and I packed up everything and moved to Brazil based on God’s leading, with an infant and heavily pregnant. We didn’t know anyone here.
Hi Mika (and everyone else!) I’m pretty new to Substack and reading through these is so fun.
I’m a toddler mom and social media pro (co-owner of an agency) trying to finish my first novel in the in-between spaces. I live in Denver but am originally from Hawaii.
I spent my first couple months here experimenting with different forms to see what I want my newsletter to be, and ultimately settled on a weekly-ish lyric essay + grab bag of recommendations loosely themed to tie into the essay—“mining my memory for good stories, and my algorithm for good recommendations.”
In previous lives, I was a child actor, a competitive rhythmic gymnast (yes, with the ribbons and stuff) and a much cooler version of myself. I’d love to connect with other writers, especially those working on a first novel!
Hi, all! I'm Kim from Pennsylvania, USA. I'm a full-time graphic designer & illustrator at Crayola. The last few years, I have been reconnecting with my inner artist child and rediscovering the joy of creative play in my personal time.
1. Monthly creative play (last month I had fun combining my love of reading cozy fantasy & baking)
2. Any resources and tips that have been helpful in my journey
3. A reflection question for your own Inner Artist
Surprising fact about me: In Kindergarten, I wanted to dress up as a classic vampire for Halloween, so my awesome mom helped my dye my hair black, paint my face white, and make a costume complete with cape and fake teeth. I didn't want to add any fake blood though because that's too scary. No one recognized me and they thought I was absent at school that day for awhile, until they did a head count. I love that I wasn't afraid to be weird and different. 😂
Hi everyone 👋🏼 I’m Darla, an Indigenous American living in Costa Rica since 2011. I’m a spiritual worker, ancestral healer and Hekatean and have been writing about land-based spiritual practices but recently switched focus to teach the creative journaling and “mystic record-keeping” system I created to prioritize my spiritual development and experiences in the midst of domestic life.
As I say in my short description: come for the guides, tutorials, and the geeking out on pens and planners — stay for the magic and ritual ✨
Surprising fact: I once got to wish Robert Redford “ Happy Birthday” over the phone. It was in my previous life as a radio journalist and we were interviewing him on our show and that day happened to be his 74th birthday 🎂
I just subscribed! I love what you’re all about. I’ve been camping for most of the past 5 months, so I’ve become aligned with nature in a way I never have before, and it’s really opening my eyes to land-based spiritual practices. I am so excited to look into your creative journaling
I'm late to the party, but I'm Christine, I live in NJ on a hobby farm with my two wild sons and tech nerd husband. I'm a hospital chaplain, spiritual director and Presbyterian minister.
Surprising fact: I worked as a bouncer at a night club - The Lizard Lounge.
Hi there, I'm Claudia, a German who lives in the German-speaking part of Italy (South Tyrol) to which I moved after living 14yrs in San Francisco. I love to inspire people to slow down and rush less so they can better live, care and connect.
Surprising fact: I lived 2 yrs in Tokyo and absolutely loved it, even though my “happy lifestyle” is a quiet, green, non-busy environment.
I do have to say, Japan is on my list of future travel and I grew up in San Francisco. I look forward to reading and enjoying your writings on Substack!
Hi Suzanne....How fun that we have both a SF and Japan connection (even if you haven't been to Japan...but having a strong interest counts ;-). I lived for 14yrs in SF and for 2 yrs in Japan. Loved both experiences A LOT. Nice meeting you! And thanks for subscribing. Looking forward to your posts....and I like the title LifeWalk....indeed, life is a walk...
There are so many things I love.... as I really love the traditional Japanese culture/philosophy....but if I have to say one best thing...phew... not easy. Perhaps the fact that it is SO DIFFERENT to our "western" world (European/American/Australian). That's the part I enjoyed while living there. Being surrounded by completely different kind of language, visuals, food, behavior, concepts...
I’ve started a newsletter to help EVERYDAY WORKING CLASS PEOPLE WHO MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN FINANCE understand the more about the non-shouting stuffs about crypto like which product is receding funding, where to obtain funding for products, and how people are daily making money, not the speculators but real people and are sharing their How tos.
Please I need feedback in the area of:
▶️Does my substack Content fit into what you read earlier as my target audience? (Working class-Busy but curious or interested in finance or investments)
▶️If A above is not fitting, what would you suggest would fit such an audience
▶️If A is not fitting, who do you think should be my target audience if I leave it just the structure is
▶️Would you want to collaborate via subscription swaps, recommendations etc
▶️what features or actions do you think I should take to increase my subscribers to 1k faster but engaging
I would really appreciate some feedback, that would be a great way to start our connection:
Hello wonderful people! My name is Shinjini and I’m from New Delhi, India. I write Studio Diaries. It’s a weekly invitation into my art studio: I share pages from my mixed media art journal, works in progress, process videos, and notes on the creative process. I’d love for you to drop by for a visit!
Fun fact: I’ve gone most of my life believing I couldn’t draw a stick figure to save my life. To now be able to call myself an artist is absolutely wild!
What?! It was very popular when I grew up in Sweden. One person thinking about a word. Draws few lines to indicate how long it is. And for every wrong answer you draw line to "hanging an man". 😝
Hi Shinjini— i’m just starting to share my creative spiritual journaling (haven’t posted pics yet) and I relate a bit to your fun fact — the idea I might be a “creative” is wild to me 😆
Thank you Mika, for this opportunity to cross-pollinate.
…briefly introduce yourself 😊
Aloha! I am Jessica Shepherd, and I live in Honolulu, Hawaii. I am an author of 5 books thus far (including an oracle deck) -all in the metaphysical, astrological and spiritual realms. I was led to these topics trying to solve the puzzle of myself: I had a mystery illness at age 17 which didn’t leave me alone for many years. Questions have, ever since, fueled my spiritual explorations and my writing.
…Answer this month’s question: “What is one thing someone would be surprised to learn about you?”
Perhaps the above!
Or, that I used magic to attract a book deal, as well as my Soul Mate.💫🙏
Or, that I am an artist, just for my own JOY, and my paintings and drawings adorn my home.
Or, that I am an extremely creative person.
Or, that I find the question: What do you do?, very difficult to answer, as I contain multitudes!
Leave a link to your Substack and the two or three topics you write about 🔗
I relate to so much of your answer here 😊… not surprised at all by the magic (it’s real 😉). Love Hawaii, have visited a few times 🌴. I look forward to reading your writings as they seem very in line with my own! Mahalo, for your creativity and your joy!
Hi Jessica, nice to meet you! We’re in the same “magic” and spiritual corner of substack ✨ i’ve been apprenticing in spiritual work of one form or another for almost 2 decades and now i’m teaching. I live in Costa Rica. Darkmoonalmanac.substack.com
Haha, I didn’t know there was a magical corner of Substack! Nice to meet you as well. 🤗 I read you your post on the Moon, it sounds like you’ve studied astrology as well. Costa Rica sounds perfect for teaching retreats. Do you do those?
I definitely can relate to not knowing how to condense what I do in a palpable short sentence when people ask me what I do? Or what I've been up to?
As a hobby, I've always loved painting a picture of my friend's future soul mate. It's super fun and I get pretty detailed. (And they've been pretty accurate so far. 😉✨)
Mika, that’s quite a skill you have! I’ve never heard of painting pictures of future soul mates. It’s almost fantastical. Very cool. Yes, to: What do you do? I’ve settled on “I’m a creative person.” Still it’s always a bit uncomfortable for me to say, since the world tends to be so linear and likes to put people in 📦.
Hi wonderful people. My name is Ami and this is my first month on Substack. I write Finding Inner Pizza. It is all about finding joy. I’d love for you to drop by and enjoy a slice!
My name is Rey. I write about self-discovery, non-binary gender identity, martial arts, and living my unconventional best life.
Surprise fact: I almost got kicked in the ribs by a horse one time when I was feeding the horses at my neighbor's house as a teenager. The horse and I were both very frustrated with each other, and she wheeled around and kicked towards me with both back feet. Even as I was shocked and terrified, I realized she had pulled the kick short, taking care of me and not intending to actually hurt me. My knees buckled and I sat down in the dirt, feeling grateful to be alive.
Really looking forward to getting to know people. Thank you for this Mika.
My name is Tara and I live in the UK and love all things words.
Surprising fact - most people have no idea that questions like this make me freeze and panic 😆 But now I understand why thanks to Clifton Strengths which has given me so much insight to myself and why my brain never stops whirring.
I’ve just started a new Substack Elder & Wild, which is about the things I love, mainly nature, books, and writing. After years of wanting to do some nature writing, I’ve finally published my first piece today and feeling slightly proud.
Words are so powerful, and i've found that my greatest limiting factor in career development and also personal development are the words i use to speak to myself. I tend to keep myself from developing because of the self-limiting comments I make about myself through the course of a day.
Welcome welcome!! I hope you enjoy yourself on Substack and you feel to just express yourself! Let me know if you need any resources, I’ve collected a big list.
I write about the integral roles of circadian and quantum biology in the childbearing year 🧡 and I recently found out I have broken into the top 100 in Parenting here on Substack after more than 2 years of dedicated publishing. I’m proud of my work, and after all these posts, still have so much fascinating information I’m dying to share. With 4 babes at home and a perinatal wellness and doula business locally, it’s quite a different pace to step into some quiet time to read and write on Substack and I’m really grateful for all they (and the community here of awesome folks like you!) do to encourage my research and work.
Hi everyone! Thank you for creating this fabulous tradition, Mika! THIS is the kind of cocktail party I'd go to (without the cocktails, of course).
I'm Kelsey. I write Find Your Awesome with Kelsey Abbott and my mission is to help people remember who they really are so they can increase the joy, ease, abundance and fun in their lives. I write about Human Design in real life and mindful, joyful living. I also have a brand new substack about food (all gluten-free and whole food plant-based) called Find Your Awesome Sauce. Here they are:
You might be surprised to learn that I was in the circus! When I was a kid, I dreamed of going to Clown College. That didn't happen, but in 2019, I got pulled into the ring to participate in a "spaghetti western" segment of the circus. This wasn't a volunteer thing, but as soon as they said they were bringing a couple audience members into the ring, I knew it was happening.
I am the Chief Product Officer for Sporcle. If you are asking WTF is Sporcle, no worries. It is a trivia company. If you are saying WTF is a trivia company, no worries. We do daily quizzes on our site, have a few apps, and run pub trivia across the USA.
𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁: My dad was fairly on in years when I was born. So my go-to fun fact is that I can say my dad defused bombs in WWII.
😊 Hi Everyone! I’m Via, author of Film Flavor, a newsletter surveying Food in Film and all things flavorful. In addition to being a writer, I am an NYU-film alum and cog in the filmmaking industry machine, as well as an avid break-baker and bread-eater. Needless to say, all epicures, cinephiles, foodies, and culture-addicts are welcome at Film Flavor!
⛳️ One thing someone would be surprised to learn about me? Let’s see… I’ve got a twin?
(I remember in my first class, freshman year of college, the professor asked everyone to share one interesting fact about themselves. A young woman ahead of me said she had a twin, and the professor just about ripped her to pieces. “You have a sister? That’s the most interesting thing about yourself that you can share?” In that moment, I said a silent farewell to my once tried-and-true icebreaker — it was no longer going to cut it.) So, I will say… Oh, dear… I was an extra / background actor in the historic film “Now You See Me” (2013) which currently holds an esteemed 51% on Rotten Tomatoes! Is that interesting enough?!
Those not turned off by the precious display of self-esteem above can find my work at Film Flavor here:
Wild. I just saw DUNE last night and I was chomping down some popcorn and turned to my wife and said - why is this a thing? Not complaining, but how did popcorn become the thing to eat at movies?
Hi All! I'm Faye, and I write Faye Moves. As you may be able to glean from the title, I am quite passionate about movement. But not in the, "go to the gym to get a workout over with" or "obligatory run to make up for dessert last night," sense (been there, done that).
What people might be surprised to learn about me is that I used to be the shyest, most creatively and sexually repressed woman I'd ever met. I wouldn't dance or sing or even really laugh wholeheartedly, and I was mortified of my body. Wanted absolutely nothing to do with it.
Inviting a sense of curiosity and playfulness to my movement practice has been the salve to my years of abusive relationships with my body, and with men. Through much experimentation and self inquiry I have come to experience movement (and strength & fitness) as fundamentally creative endeavors that are best led by the curiosity of the body, and if done with purpose, I believe our movement practices can free us from societal conditioning, and lead us to profound love, nourishing relationships with our bodies, transcendent pleasure, and deeply rooted connections with Self.
I also believe our relationships with our bodies are the foundation for our relationships with our whole lives, and thus, our ability to move (how free are we?) is the foundation for our ability to express our creative potential - to become.
You could say the art of becoming (what many call embodiment practice, but i think that word is kinda overused) is what I'm really here to share. It is a lot easier to understand what I share by doing it versus speaking about it though 😹. Here is an example of the kinds of practices I share: https://fayemoves.substack.com/p/mapping-the-territory-of-our-bodies
On my blog I talk a lot about my philosophy & practice of movement (yes I could talk about this for multiple lifetimes) and share creative/exploratory movement and writing prompts with the purpose of inviting you to experience parts of yourself your want to become more of. I also share plenty of poetry and personal essays/musings on my journey of transformation. So, that's enough I think!
Hi Faye! I love this and have shared somewhat of a similar journey with movement! I’m a meditation teacher and the main work I do is all about reconnecting with and learning to listen to our bodies so this resonates so much. Excited to check out your Substack!!
Beautiful! What a joy to meet you Amanda <3 I'm looking forward to reading your substack too. Mindfulness is the foundation of the movement practice for me, with pleasure, purpose and power as the building blocks
Hi everyone. I am Catriona. I write 'Notes from Saving the World.' It is about the systems of power which shape our lives, through the lens of twenty years working in the aid sector. I write on travel, inner journeys, creativity, being a woman, climate and land rights.
One surprising fact: I speak 6 languages including Burmese 😊🙏🏻 as I lived for around 8 years in Myanmar with my work. I am a bit rusty as I haven’t been back since the pandemic. It was a very rewarding language to learn and it gave me a new lens to see language/words.
I love Burma...travelled their for 3 weeks! Amazing that you learned the language....which gives you a different layer into understanding the country and their culture. Very true that learning other languages provides such a different lens into the usage of language, words, culture etc. Nice to find you here.
Thank you Claudia and how beautiful you have visited Myanmar. It is an unique place and I am sure traveling you got to connect to the culture and people. Lovely to meet you here.
Thank you Mika. Although one of the reasons i started my newsletter is to grapple with being in a purpose led industry 😂 so - I also speak French and Spanish, Italian, I used to speak Arabic but I mostly forgot it. And I am now in my second year of learning my native Scottish Gaelic. I am loving that as it helps me understand my home more. The only language I learned in a classroom is French. Everything else I learned more informally. I think I have a brain which remembers letters and sounds. I am not good with numbers though 😂 What about you?
Hi everyone! I'm Kaitlyn—a Canadian living in Thailand for the past 7 years. I always knew I would leave my small hometown since I was young, and continued to follow my heart ever since!
Someone may be surprised to learn that I was part of the flight crew who flew "The Amazing Race Canada" contestants from Yellowknife to Whitehorse. For the Canadians in the room—it was the season with Hal and Joanne from "BodyBreak." 🤣
Hi Mika, love your story! I almost had my daughter in the hospital car park! 🙈 Anyway, I’m Kate, and one thing that surprises people is that I have a degree in Zoology! 🐘🦁🐒🪲
Here I write Letters from Therapy, to nourish your soul, accept yourself and find deeper meaning. I posted about our shadow side today! 👀 https://lettersfromtherapy.substack.com 💫
Kate! I have a Masters degree in marine biology. I studied dolphins, coral reef fish and killer whales. I love that we both started with animals and moved into helping humans
Hmmmm. I think people would be surprised to know my great-grandparents had 17 children (no twins). Luckily they did, as my grandmother was no. 15. If they stopped sooner, I wouldn't be here. 😊
I write about books, life, food, and pop culture (but mostly about the show Lost). Looking forward to discovering other like-minded people.
Hello everyone! My name is Nicola de Vera. I am a queer writer born and raised in Manila, Philippines, but now living in Los Angeles — basically trading one city of tropics and traffic jams for another.
One surprising fact about me is that I have a strong baking compulsion. I just have to bake on weekends! Similar to writing, I find it to be a very healing and restorative activity, especially to manage my anxiety — and I get the benefit of delicious baked goods for the rest of the week too. A win-win in my book.
My Substack newsletter is called “So, Long Story Short.” I write 100-word stories and also offer a behind-the-scenes look at my original works of short fiction published in literary magazines and journals.
I have been writing on Medium for a while, but I am new to Substack. I’d love to connect with more writers here — especially those interested in short fiction! ✍️
Apart from the blog vs newsletter format, there are two striking differences, in my opinion.
First, having a niche seems more suited to Substack than Medium. Here, people are subscribing for a specific reason and the writer must stick to that topic because that’s what the audience expects from them. If you’re writing primarily about AI, you can’t randomly send an email about your baking escapades, no matter how good of a baker you are. Your subscribers didn’t sign up for baking content; they want to learn about AI. Whereas in Medium, you can write about anything you want and still succeed.
Second, the subscription format of Substack seems to build a more loyal reader base than Medium, where many accounts “follow-for-follow” as a growth strategy, without any intention of reading your stuff. That also means it’s easier to inflate metrics on Medium than it is here. While it’s harder to build an audience on Substack (I get it, people don’t want to be inundated by emails, so they’re more selective), it seems to attract the type of readers that actually care about your writing.
Those are my two observations so far after being here for two weeks.
Hi Nicola! I’m from Malaysia 🇲🇾 (Southeast Asia) too and just subscribed to your ‘stack! I used to run fun writing circles with my friends where we’d write nonstop for 30 mins based on a ridiculous prompt and share it at the end. Your 100 word stories remind me of that 🥹✨ hugs! - Gwen
Hello Gwen! Nice meeting a fellow Southeast Asian here! ✨ The 100-word stories I’ve written so far were inspired by “word of the day” prompts, so they’re definitely not far off from you and your friends’ writing circles, which sounds so fun to do together!
Oh gosh, there are two cookie recipes that I particularly love: pistachio chocolate chip cookies and lemon cheesecake cookies! I love me a good variety of muffins too. 🧁
My mouth is watering now!! I've never thought to put pistachio in cookies, but it sounds AMAZING! And cheesecake is my weakness, so I know those would be great! I may need to stop by your place 🤣
I'm Mackenzie! I write Mack's Memo. I started my memo last month and have been having SO much fun with it. I've kept a journal nearly my entire life, so it's this comes as absolutely zero shock. LOL.
That said, I'm still very much learning and taking it slowly. I'm in graduate school, I work part time as a server, and I have an entrepreneurial project in the works. So, Mack's Memo has been a fun creative outlet and I've loved discovering the community here on Substack.
I'm still figuring out what I'll write about, but so far it's the life and interests of a late-20-something...branding/advertising, digital media and social media content, TBD. It's evolving!
You might be surprised to learn that I took up boxing a couple of years ago, and actually completed a sparring certification in January, 2023. I'm afraid of a head injury so I don't spar currently, but love and respect the sport.
Welcome to Substack Mackenzie!! I love that you are feeling into this space and seeing how it unfolds! That's the best way! I hope you find your people here, and give me a holler if you need some Substack newbie resources, I have collated my fav!
Hi Mackenzie, it's great to meet another martial artist! I practice aikido, which is self-defense techniques, rolling and falling, and I appreciate the community.
Hi Mackenzie 👋 I'm so curious about your substack and am checking it out now. I'm just starting to read your "Got Milk?" piece. I just wrote a piece about the campaign as well (here: https://tinyurl.com/4hr28caj) but I wish I had seen yours prior! I hope you write an even deeper dive on the subject someday!
Via! Thank you for commenting and for reading my post! Your piece is so unique and so well written - I'd never thought about the representation of milk in film before, but I really enjoyed. Cow drinkers are totally made to feel weird about their choices. I'm not vegan but I'm a fellow non-dairy gal and I couldn't imagine making someone feel weird about their latte milk choice, lol. Subscribed :)
I was going to recommend @chloelist Unbox Inbox, but I see you're already a reader!
Love the monthly find your tribes Mika! Hi everyone, my name is Alex/Ale. I'm a writer/etc. currently in the Bay Area in Northern California, where I'm always a little too cold (not all California is flip-flop and beach weather 🥲)
Fun fact about me: I am a yoga teacher! I just finished my yoga teacher training and am ready to unleash everything I know (or not) in the world!
I've just renamed my substack *Write On with ACP* (https://acpz.substack.com/). There, I share my musings as I write on from burnout and other indignations of living in today's world. I've mused on topics like community building, surviving minor bodily injuries, and my forever love of emo music.
Hi Alex! Fellow movement teacher here. Yoga was my initial foray into the world of movement, and I've expanded from there. Isn't the body just amazing?! I wonder, how does your experience of your body shine through your writing?
Hi Faye! What kind of yoga do you usually practice? I started with hatha in graduate school and it was so magical. I had an instructor with a control over there body like I had never seen and it blew my mind. I trained in a more vinyasa style. My favorite part of the training was reading the Sutras, and a couple of us are going to do a read through of the Bhagavad Gita.
As I've gotten older, I've gotten to see my body not as an enemy but an ally, and yoga has been an instrumental part of that journey. I can name sensations I couldn't before. I've learned to evaluate wether something is uncomfortable as a source of growth or needless pain. That experience of tension and release has been useful when I think about writing through bodily experiences.
This questions was great! I think I might do an entire post about it soon. Thanks Faye! ✨
Nice to meet you Alex. I also teach yoga. Your newsletter focus sounds interesting. We def all need to learn more about burnout and tending to ourselves in our culture.
Konnichiwa! 👋🏼 I’m Erika, and I live near Atlanta, Georgia with my husband and stepson. The city is one of my favorite places! They call Atlanta “the city in a forest.” 🏙️🌳
I learned to ride a unicycle in Japan when I was a kid. It’s customary for elementary aged children to all be supplied with unicycles and to learn as part of PE! How fun is that?
At my Substack, Nōto, (which means notebook in Japanese) I write essays for the heart with other reflections and creative projects sprinkled in. These will be about: home, nature, art, chronic illness, and faith. 📒
The unicycle news has me so shocked! That's so fun. I remember seeing your writing and I thought I was subscribed from before. I'm glad I saw you here again so I can fix that and actually subscribe this time!!! I love your work, Erika. Also, I'm heading to Japan in the morning 😍
I can’t wait to comb through the comments and meet so many new people and new newsletters. I’m newish to Substack and the creativity here blows me away. Something not everyone knows about me is that I once went swimming in the muddy waters of the Rufiji river in Tanzania, unconcerned that it’s a river known for crocodiles. Chalk it up to the daring brain of a teenager.
Wow, wow, wow, I am SO happy I found your substack! My newsletter is about Food-in-Film, and I am writing a piece about Dune Part 2 to publish next week as we speak! I am also extremely, extremely obsessed with beans. Unless you prefer otherwise, I'm likely going to link / feature your salad in my next newsletter! I'm obsessed!!!
LOL, that perfectly sums up the "bad things only happen to other people" mentality of a teenager! I often look back at my teenage years and wonder how I'm alive today.
Subscribed to Salat Auch Essen ... I LOVE salad :)
Thanks Mika for the space. You are giving me a bit of pondering and self reflection to do. I don't really know what people would find surprising about myself :)
First, hi everyone! My name is Chris Prakoso. I was born in Indonesia, then left for England where I studied and worked for over 20 years before I moved to Slovakia 7 years ago to get closer to and support from my wife's family.
I guess what people usually surprise about myself is when they learned that I came from the beautiful and warm Indonesia (they usually think about Bali of course), and wonder why on earth I abandoned those and migrated to Europe. I could write a series of essays just talking about this, but on a hindsight I chalk it to a combination of choices and fate.
Anyway, I used to blog professionally, but I'm a newbie here. To be honest my original idea was to share about life lesson-learned, but recently my writings have been gravitating towards personal development, health and parenting.
Hi! I’m Kim Stockwell from Boston and started Women’s Survival Guide December 2020. I wanted to focus on midlife women in the middle of all sorts of change. I interview women who are passionate about something they start d after 45 or women who work in area that can teach us like a financial specialist, a community builder, a skin guru, a yoga instructor, a menopause specialist, etc . It is so fun talking to these women and learning from them. And then I send the interviews with zoom interview and fun written interviews to you!! I love Substack and Mika! Something someone doesn’t know about me is that I also am a professional fine art painter and have a studio in Boston! @kimdstockwellstudio on Instagram! Come visit me at WSG @womenssurvivalguide on Substack! Thank you Mila for doing these threads!!
I love your topic, Kim! I’ve been a longtime female empower-er, am enjoying and honestly sometimes not at all liking menopause, AND am listening to your Empress podcast now and so relating to your guest and her health trials. Thank you. I will definitely follow you! Jessica
thank you for your note, Jessica! I totally agree with you. I love not getting my period but I look down at my spotty hands and think "whose are those?" and then there are the other side effects...which I do not like at all, either...let's stay in touch!
yes! I show in galleries and have a studio and am part of a guild! they still have guilds. www.kimdrukerstockwell.com and insta kimdstockwellstudio which is the most current...
Hi Kim - I really enjoyed your interview/podcast with Alisa - so many interesting women out there who are living life on their own terms now they have the time and space that the second half of life frees up. :)
I’m so glad you watched/read Alisa’s interview!! She’s a force and fun and hilarious. I have Meghan Daum this week and we tip toe towards controversy which is what her communities the unspeakable does! I’m heading for a week away right now but let’s communicate soon!
Hi Mika, thanks for leading the way with this initiative :)
My name is Niall (neye-al) which often gets confused with (knee-al). I live in Ireland now after recently moving from Vancouver, Canada. 5 things I love: Fitness, meaningful work, community, outdoors and a coffee x pastry combo.
Something that may surprise people is that it wasn't till around 2020 that I realized I had a passion for writing. Until then I carried a limiting belief that I wasn't creative. Journalling is what unlocked that belief and led me down the path I'm on now. In December of last year, I left my job to prioritize writing full-time. The path ahead is not clear but I'm engaged in meaningful work and that's what matters to me in life right now.
The whole purpose of my writing is to challenge the status quo of how we live. I focus on how we can lead lives, careers, and communities we love. I hope to generate curiosity, and mindfulness while empowering readers to create lasting change in their lives in line with what matters most to them.
I can just image you holding your breath at a doctor's office, not knowing what version your name they are going to use. I either get "My-ka" or "Me-ka" (it's pronounced "Me-ka", it's Japanese).
Is Substack the main place you write on? Or do you write elsewhere?
I just write here and had no real idea of how I wanted to show up at the beginning, I just knew I wanted to write. Everything has naturally grown in directions I never imagined when I first started.
I tend to be a planner, so I am learning a lot about myself during this process of showing up on Substack.
To be curious, to lean in and follow my gut, and to not overly plan before I take the first step!
That makes two of us Mika 😅 I'm learning to dive in and get started rather than prolong the planning process. One step leads to the next and as long as it's a reversible decision (which most are) you can always make a pivot.
I'm just a guy with a passion for writing backed with a curiosity to challenge the norms and concepts of how we've been told to live!!
I started Thoughts From A Bench last summer when I was navigating recovery from a hernia surgery. While sitting on a bench the idea popped up and I started the page that day 😆
As always love your community building. I love how you make finding a community here so much more accessible!
Hey everyone, I'm Will and I write the Corporate Sloth, because I am one. A surprising fact about me...it was even a surprise to me as well...turns out I have ADHD. Late diagnosed and learning how it's affected my life.
I write about corporate culture, productivity struggles and trying to find a work life balance.
Good and bad - the good is that it explains so much about my struggles (being lazy and slothful!) but I'm also annoyed because I sort of notice all those struggles more now! I'm still coming to terms with it all tbh but I do feel like there's people I can talk to honestly now, which is very cool.
How about you, how do you manage (especially being a parent)?
Hi Will and Mika! I was diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood as well. It's so great to meet folks who are in the same boat. The diagnosis has been a huge game changer for me because I finally feel like I understand my brain now (and I've found a medication that gives me some calm and clarity - after a decade of being told I have depression and/or anxiety and trying every treatment under the sun). But I also feel a sense of grief because life has always been so hard and it didn't need to be. Anyways very glad to be where I am now. :)
Hi everyone! And thank you, Mika, for that amazing offering.
My name is Aleks, and I live in the central part of England. I'm also the author of the burgeoning Substack publication "Unscrewing Motherhood," where I delve into the concept of "unscrewing" perinatal mental health and matrescence. Alongside personal reflections, I share coping strategies from my own motherhood journey (I'm a mum of two small boys 🩷🩷).
Fun fact: My mother-in-law, my husband's grandma, and I all share the same birthday! Don't ask me how it happened! We have a running joke in the family that our sons will only accept partners with the same birthday 🤭.
The "tunnel baby: has her bday on the 24 Jan, our anniversary is 22 Jan and our first born is on 20 Jan. (It's a busy month - we also have my 2 brothers, me and my dad all in Jan! 😆)
Still quite new here and figuring it out as I go along.
Surprise fact: I used to manage a rock band. As a tiny (5ft) female in a very male industry, the doormen at music venues thought I was a fangirl and wouldn’t let me in 😅
Not as cool as it sounds. It was my brother's band and he employed me because I'm quite organised 😂 They're called Howlin' Circus, they moved to Canada so they have a new manager (and doing much better now haha).
Hi Mika - I had to join in when I saw your note pop up in my email. I'm in Western Australia and I write about Midlife and discovering life after leaving work. Finding peace, joy, contentment and being quietly confident in who we are. I love the Unbusy life and I find that surprising because I was super efficient and super committed to a being a wife, mum, working, volunteering, church attending, and so much more when I was younger - now I'm so much more "chill".
Anyhooooo - I'd love visitors to my Substack - I've been blogging for almost 10 years, but I'm brand new here and still figuring it all out. I'm always happy to pop over and follow anyone who's lovely enough to follow me.....
I LOVE Western Australia! I lived in Karratha for just about a year a while back—such a beautiful part of the world. Although people usually look at me like I'm insane when I tell them Karratha is where I spent most of my time in Australia 🤣 I'm heading over to check out your Substack now!!
I know many people who spent a chunk of time in Karratha at some point Kaitlyn. If you're going to live up North, that's the place to do it, and there's some amazing scenery too. I'm happy down south where the weather is cooler and I'm closer to my adult kids (who are city dwellers!) Thanks for connecting x
It was lovely! And the surrounding areas are so beautiful. You're right on the mark in saying it's so hot 😂 I think I could've cooked an egg on the dashboard some days. The south is much more comfortable! ❤️
Hi Leanne! Nice to see you here. It reminds me we need to talk! I’m a mid life female writer and interviewer! I think you’d be fun for my audience to know! The more the merrier! K
Hi Kim - I've been reading your Substack since I saw it on Mika's list and listened to your last podcast with Alisa. I'd love to chat sometime if you think I'd be a good fit..... :) x
Hi Leanne, when you said "being quietly confident in who we are" -- it caught my eye. I've always tried to live this way. Not outwardly egoic but inwardly confident about who I am. On my way over to your writing now :)
Hi Niall (Neye-al!) quiet, inward confidence is my aim these days - not the showy stuff, but a deeper groundedness - so important in today's noisy world. Thanks for the visit. :)
Thanks Mika - it was a big journey for me figuring it out and blogging certainly helped me - and it turns out it helped others too.....a fantastic added bonus!
I love this word - “Unbusy.” I recently reflected on the past decade of my life and that was the biggest change I noticed too — creating more space in my days to just ‘be’ 🥹 welcome to Substack, Leanne!! 💫🌷
Hi Gwen - I think a lot of us are discovering that slowing down a little is so much healthier than the busyness myth we're being bombarded with by the world around us. Lovely to meet you and thanks for the welcome. :)
Love this!! Thank you Mika for creating this space ✨
I’m Amy, and I’m from Sydney. I write Good Sunday, a weekend newsletter covering topics that capture slow mix weekends. I have written about savouring beautiful words, the joy of treading ocean water, long solo hikes and stepping away from filtered worlds.
A fact that surprises people in my life is how introverted I am! I am a very chatty introvert, but I do need a good amount of solo time to feel human (and feel so good when I can actually get it😂). I have really enjoyed meeting writers and readers through Substack- please feel welcome to reach out if you like. ☺️☀️
Amy, I just read your post titled "Listening in on conversations" and you totally touched on why I LOVE working from a cafe. I visit my favourite cafe a few times a week, and I usually get to eavesdrop on a conversation or two happening around me. I've listened to couples very affectionately argue about designs for their home renovations, a couple meeting with a realtor to chat through their homeownership plans, colleagues chatting through work projects, and so on. It's always SO interesting.
Long comment BUT I've debriefed (a couple of times, I'm still new!) the podcast episodes I'm listening to in my newsletter, Mack's Memo. You've inspired me to write another one :)
Hi Amy - I'm from WA and it's always lovely meeting a fellow Aussie. I'm also a huge fan of living slowly and simply. I'm off to check out your link. :)
good sunday sounds so lovely! ☁️ I resonate completely with being an extroverted introvert. I can be the life of a party but man, do I need time to recharge 🤣 hugs!
I did participate in ‘Find Your Tribe’ last month and I am more than happy to do it again.
Hi, I am Mansi from India. I am a corporate employee and student actuary who is juggling between work, studies and a life outside of all this chaos. Simply put, I write about the meaningful things in life. Things that bring me joy. Things beyond a job title that truly matter in life.
One thing about me that usually surprises people is that I have never drank or smoked in my life. It’s something I have been judged for throughout college (and in my life after college) because it is so common for people my age to party and ‘have fun’.
Mansi, hello! Lovely to come across your work. I have saved your piece on what you got up to without Instagram- I am very much considering this and can’t wait to read it soon. ☺️
Thank you so much for taking out the time to comment here and save my post. So lovely to connect with you. I hope you find something of value in my newsletter. Sending so much love and positivity 🥹✨
Love this! I’ve been told I have “grandma energy”, too. Looking forward to the days I can finally settle into my true form as a silver-haired granny midwife—until then, I remain ever the student of birth and life 🧡 It’s fun to hear I’m not the only one old at heart, hahaha
Mika, can I just say that I’m so inspired by how consistently and authentically you show up here on Substack? You really stand out among the sea of ‘stacks 🤭💖 I appreciate you!
Hi, I’m Gwen, The Asian Astrologer. I write honest newsletters that mix astrology updates with personal stories 🥰 I’ve been on Substack for almost a year now, and I love how it’s made me take my writing more seriously!
One thing people would be surprised to learn about me is that I once karaoked “Ice Ice Baby” in a public park in London. 🎤 it’s still one of my greatest achievements 🤣
Fun fact: I promised my husband years ago that I won’t sing “Ice, Ice Baby.” I’ve come close a couple times, but I’ve kept my promise. (I’m not talking about singing at karaoke. It’s more like when someone says, “stop, collaborate” and I have to sing the rest in my head because I love my husband.
HAHAHAHAH KELSEY this is adorable and enlightening 🤣🤣🙏🏼✨ we’ll have to do a duet one day!! (Ideally without your hubs being present to spare his ears 🤪🤭)
Hi Gwen! Oooo! The Ice, ice baby karaoke in the park sounds daring but such fun! Something I’d want to try but never work up the guts to actually pull off.
I haven’t come across anyone who writes about astrology on Substack. I’m headed over to your page at once!
Gwen!! Oh my goodness I feel you with both performing Ice Ice Baby (it is my go to 🎤) and also how being on here can make you take your writing more seriously.
I have found Substack to be full of supportive people and it has very much changed my approach to writing (I am working in a full time corporate job- this is my escape routine each week). So lovely to connect :)
Anyone who has Ice Ice Baby as a go-to karaoke song is my kinda people! 😍😍💓 that' so wonderful, Amy! I love that this is a safe space for you to retreat to every Sunday ;) sending hugs!!
Hi Jennifer!!! I just saw your paid msg! You are so kind and sweet 😻🥺💖 I can imagine how overwhelming Substack feels now as compared to a year ago. Welcome! 🙏🏼 it’s a true pleasure to connect 🥹✨
Hi Jennifer - I'm 62 as well and wrote a post recently about realizing that I'm now in the 3rd third of life - that seems more "real" than the second half of life descriptor I usually use. I'm popping over for a visit now :)
What a lovely compliment - thank you - and yes, good genes help and so does a healthy lifestyle and not too much sun (something I'm grateful I realized before I had too much damage to repair!)
Hi, everyone! Thank you for stopping by "musings by mika" and for joining in!
My name is Mika, I live in New Zealand and I love love connecting with people, I love sharing useful resources, and I absolutely love sharing things in order for people to feel less alone in their journey. (I love that I get to do all three things on Substack!!)
𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁: I gave birth to our fourth child as we inched through rush hour traffic in a tunnel on the way to the hospital! 😨 Don't worry, the car emerged unscathed. Had to switch to an ambulance post-tunnel, where things got a tad messier. 😆
Now that you've picked yourself off the floor....my Subtack (that you're on now) is where I share how I followed my gut and quit my job last year. I also candidly share my journey and learnings of starting Substack with no email list.
People find this post useful: "What do you do if you're not growing as fast as others?"
https://musingsbymika.substack.com/p/substack-diaries-what-do-you-do-if
Look forward to meeting you in the comments!
Oh my goodness!!! WHAT a birth story!!! My nephew was born this same way a few weeks ago. You are a superwoman 🙈
Was it their first baby? I don’t know what I would do if it was my first! 🤰
Oh wow! That’s amazing! You’re amazing! Haha!
The traffic was crazy that day and it hasn’t been that backed up since that day.
When I gave birth, my husband was on the phone to the emergency services (back when it was legal to talk in the phone). They asked if the baby was breathing, but all I could say was “she’s so beautiful!” 😆
🤣Wow! I'm just finding this essay, and this really made me laugh. My second child almost arrived in the car on the way to the hospitals. My first son had been a very long labor, but when things got started with my second, they progressed rapidly! I kept asking my husband if he could possibly go any faster. I couldn't even wait for him to finish parking and grab out bags, but hobbled into the ER entrance on my own - they were super-alarmed, "Hold on, you can't have the baby here!" When they settled me onto the bed, the nurse said, "Um, the doc isn't here yet, can you try not to push?" Nope! So we made it, and he was delivered in the hospital bed, but just barely 🤣
I had no idea that it was going to progress that quickly!!
It might be weird to say, but I would much rather has a safe birth in the car than go through a difficult and traumatic long birth. 🤷♀️
And…since I had no gas or anything, I felt like I had a lot more connection with my body. Hurt like hell though! 🤣
What. A. Story! Wow!!
I could not believe it was happening. I kept on thinking…surely we will get to the ambulance (since they couldn’t get to us in the tunnel)…but no, our youngest didn’t want yo wait anymore!
😂😂
Thank you so much for hosting this tribe-finding experiment! That is one helluva birth story, (congrats on making it through without losing all of your marbles)!
You’re so welcome!! (I never want to hear the recording of my husband’s call with the emergency services! Let’s just say, I don’t birth quietly. 😆)
MIKA!!! You're a rockstar 😮😂❤️
Hahaha thanks!
I also think back and think my hubby was a rockstar for:
1. Continuing to be calm while I was going through contractions in the back seat. (Definitely helped that it wasn’t our first birth!)
2. For not going into oncoming traffic when his wife was telling him to overtake in the tunnel! 😆
😂😂😂😂 those hormones be doing the craziest things 😂😂😂 kudos to your rockstar hubby for holding it down!!!
What. A. Story. 😳
A bit of drama for our last one! Our midwife delivered the other three, and I think she felt a bit ripped off that she didn't deliver the last one. 😆
Wow to the birth story! Did you get a mention in the newspaper - they usually do a story on things like that when they happen in Perth :)
I was a bit shy back then! 😆
I do need to pick myself up from the floor, Mika 😂! What an incredible story to share!
Surprisingly, it was a "smooth" birth, apart from it being in the car! 🤣
Will there be one for April?
Yes! Coming soon ✨
Hi all! I’ve been running a little behind all month, but finally made it!
My name is Suzanne and I’m from Texas, USA. I’ve been writing, creating and facilitating wellness workshops, and learning how to live on this earth for about 30 years (ok, learning how to live on this earth for 56 years 🤦🏻♀️)
Surprising fact:
Despite being a holistic wellness guide, energy medicine practitioner, and tai chi instructor, I’m also a licensed firearms safety instructor.
You can find my Substack here https://thelifewalk.substack.com/ Mostly I write about out living authentically, mistakes, challenges, and all 😉
I look forward to connecting with more folks here, and thank you, Mika, for hosting this! 🙏🏻
Hi, all!! My name is Miriam, I live in St. Louis, Missouri, and I'm new to Substack and to motherhood (the latter brought me to the former ;))!
One surprising thing about me is that I used to work at Goldman Sachs despite my dreams of being a novelist or adventurer. This was when I had a lot of student debt to pay off 🙈
I'm a certified Mindfulness & Meditation Teacher, so that informs a lot of my personal essays / reflections, as does motherhood :) I'll likely start to reflect more on my Substack on themes that surround my transition from a high-growth career to motherhood, and just the day-to-day learnings as I navigate this new, lifelong chapter. I'm so excited to connect with a tribe here and to offer mutual support ❤️
My most popular post is on my motherhood identity: https://miriamcruz.substack.com/p/my-motherhood-identity-crisis)
Hello Miriam, and welcome to motherhood! It’s certainly a wild adventure 😊
Thank you Suzanne!!! It really is 🙈 I'm so grateful for it!
Hello, I'm Tony Bleything. I currently lead Experience Design and Human-Centered Design initiatives. My work involves empowering teams to enhance customer-centricity through human-centered design practices. With over 10 years of experience, I've facilitated workshops that foster collaboration and deliver effective solutions for complex challenges. Some of my notable achievements include developing a solution architect certification program and designing a digital literacy survey for our large employee base. Now, I'm looking forward to leveraging my skills in innovation, design thinking, and user experience strategy to help organizations transform their culture, products, and services.
One surprising fact that usually catches people off guard is that I used to be an Anglican Priest for about 15 years. I've since moved into experience design which is something that I had been doing for years in our service designs and programs.
substack: https://www.substack.com/@tonybleything
I'm new to substack, but I will be posting on generative ai as a way of increasing team effectiveness, design thinking as a mindset to enhance innovation.
Hello, Spiritual Entertainer here. Joined substack recently, passionate about growing together with other sincere Spiritual seekers. I write about Spiritual Awakening, Religion, philosophy, ancient esoteric and occult knowledge, nature, spiritual psychology and anything doing with knowing oneself.
Hi, Mika🔆
I, too, am an author & this is a new platform for me. I have let go of so many others for a variety of reasons. This is a new chance to create something better, brighter, more beautiful- and doing all of it here🔆
I believe in growth, specifically mine, but others also. Here’s to a new day, & a brighter tomorrow for everyone🔆
I'm pretty late to the party but,
Hi I'm S.Pam and I'm a pretty cool artist (if I do say so myself😎) I live in New York and have been on Substack for a year now.
My Substack is all about the moments of my creative journey on the internet and my thought process.✨
https://sodapam.substack.com/
Fun fact about me: I'm relearning my first language French. I grew up in Canada but later moved to the U.S and completely forgot the language I grew up with.
Salaam everyone, I’m late to the conversation it seems. I’m new to substack but starting up a personal memoir / reflections publication. People are usually surprised to know that I’m from the sunny Maldives 🇲🇻 ☀️ I’m mostly going to be writing about my faith as a Muslim, happiness, self creation and other everyday musings in the life of a young adult. I love the sense of community on Substack!
Hi world! I am Julianna. 💖 I am a 23 year old American living out of my car while road tripping Australia. (I’m doing the whole lap over the course of the year!!) People would be surprised to learn that I am not scared of the Aussie spiders :).
My substack is juliannaloves.substack.com
I write about life — mostly my spiritual realizations and growth since entering the world as an official adult post-grad. I also run a creative community focused on connecting with oneself/being present through creativity !!
comment # 224 - Hi folks. We are American ex-pats living in Mexico, have a long and somewhat compicated history, another story for another time. Adventurous spirits, we are parents, and step-parents of 7, grandparents of 14, both of writers with different styles and genres. I'm relatively new on Substack, slow start and that's OK. Have been writing for different reasons and purposes for a very long time, (I am 87, S is 76.). Today I posted a piece about why we write that just emerged this morning, like a new agg laid. We'll see what happens to that! Not concerned a whole lot about growin as fast as others but still learning, growing and changing, All about change, thrive on it. I just keep on being and doing what I am, where I am with what I have. Substack posts are at "From Both Sides Now". Thanks for the invitation to stop by along my way.
Hello, I'm Jezz!
I'm a illustrator from somewhere destination Sweden. And have ADHD & ASD. (what is ASD? Autism Spectrum Disorder) I just suck at introducing myself so this will do 😁
What is the surprising fact about me? Well when I tell people that I have ADHD & ASD they always get surprised. Because you cant see it on the out side. 🤷♂️
My Substack: https://jezz.substack.com/
I write about art & health pretty much. Writing about the ups and downs for trying to reach my dream job, but having my ADHD, ASD and mental health in the way.
It's always so nice to meet a fellow artist! Definitely checking your Substack out!
Aaw thank you very much 😊
Hello Jezz! Nice to meet you. I’m a mixed media art journaler, and I write about art & creativity too.
That is awesome to hear! What medium you prefer the most?
Acrylics! :)
Hi! I’m Victoria. I’m a mother of two in College and happily married approaching 60 and retirement! I live in California. Contemplating courage to start writing on Substack “Wanderings to 60”. Not many know I own a solar panel manufacturing plant in Texas and that I love astrology and continue to learn more daily! I’m galactically convinced our chart is a mathematical approach to life and this year focused on moon transits, phases and energy!
A solar factory and astrology. Love this Victoria!
I am obsessed with astrology and have been getting really into the moon phases lately… the Libra full moon/eclipse next week is highly anticipated and I can’t wait to work with its energy!!
Hi everyone! I’m Jemima! A new mum of two under two. I live in São Paulo, Brazil! I LOVE supporting and encouraging other new mums which is why I started New Mums Room. I’m a creative through and through, writer, singer, designer but mainly just a writer and content creator now. I’m a self-proclaimed ‘Minister of Encouragement for New Mums.’ Haha.
Surprising fact: My husband and I packed up everything and moved to Brazil based on God’s leading, with an infant and heavily pregnant. We didn’t know anyone here.
This is my Substack: https://newmumsroom.substack.com
I write about my current season of motherhood, and personal and spiritual reflections, always from a perspective of encouragement.❤️
Taking all your stuff an move somewhere different takes courage! True inspiration!
It truly does! It’s been a wild ride!❤️
Hi Mika (and everyone else!) I’m pretty new to Substack and reading through these is so fun.
I’m a toddler mom and social media pro (co-owner of an agency) trying to finish my first novel in the in-between spaces. I live in Denver but am originally from Hawaii.
I spent my first couple months here experimenting with different forms to see what I want my newsletter to be, and ultimately settled on a weekly-ish lyric essay + grab bag of recommendations loosely themed to tie into the essay—“mining my memory for good stories, and my algorithm for good recommendations.”
In previous lives, I was a child actor, a competitive rhythmic gymnast (yes, with the ribbons and stuff) and a much cooler version of myself. I’d love to connect with other writers, especially those working on a first novel!
Hi, all! I'm Kim from Pennsylvania, USA. I'm a full-time graphic designer & illustrator at Crayola. The last few years, I have been reconnecting with my inner artist child and rediscovering the joy of creative play in my personal time.
At dearinnerartist.substack.com, I write about:
1. Monthly creative play (last month I had fun combining my love of reading cozy fantasy & baking)
2. Any resources and tips that have been helpful in my journey
3. A reflection question for your own Inner Artist
Surprising fact about me: In Kindergarten, I wanted to dress up as a classic vampire for Halloween, so my awesome mom helped my dye my hair black, paint my face white, and make a costume complete with cape and fake teeth. I didn't want to add any fake blood though because that's too scary. No one recognized me and they thought I was absent at school that day for awhile, until they did a head count. I love that I wasn't afraid to be weird and different. 😂
Ha! Love that surprising fact about you. Also love the sound of your substack; following :)
Thanks so much! Lovely to meet you. 😊
Likewise!
Love your surprising fact!
Did you say it was not you when the teacher kind of found out? 😁
Good question! I will need to ask my mom if she remembers the details. I just remember thinking it was hilarious no one recognized me. 😂
Hi everyone 👋🏼 I’m Darla, an Indigenous American living in Costa Rica since 2011. I’m a spiritual worker, ancestral healer and Hekatean and have been writing about land-based spiritual practices but recently switched focus to teach the creative journaling and “mystic record-keeping” system I created to prioritize my spiritual development and experiences in the midst of domestic life.
As I say in my short description: come for the guides, tutorials, and the geeking out on pens and planners — stay for the magic and ritual ✨
Surprising fact: I once got to wish Robert Redford “ Happy Birthday” over the phone. It was in my previous life as a radio journalist and we were interviewing him on our show and that day happened to be his 74th birthday 🎂
Darkmoonalmanac.substack.com
Oooh! I love the sound of your substack. Subscribing.
I just subscribed! I love what you’re all about. I’ve been camping for most of the past 5 months, so I’ve become aligned with nature in a way I never have before, and it’s really opening my eyes to land-based spiritual practices. I am so excited to look into your creative journaling
I'm late to the party, but I'm Christine, I live in NJ on a hobby farm with my two wild sons and tech nerd husband. I'm a hospital chaplain, spiritual director and Presbyterian minister.
Surprising fact: I worked as a bouncer at a night club - The Lizard Lounge.
https://journeyingalongside.substack.com/
I share stories from my work as a chaplain. I write about grief and loss, listening skills, self-care and spiritual practices.
Hi there, I'm Claudia, a German who lives in the German-speaking part of Italy (South Tyrol) to which I moved after living 14yrs in San Francisco. I love to inspire people to slow down and rush less so they can better live, care and connect.
Surprising fact: I lived 2 yrs in Tokyo and absolutely loved it, even though my “happy lifestyle” is a quiet, green, non-busy environment.
This is my Substack: claudiabrose.substack.com
My topics are: Slowing down in a world that is rushing you / Self Awareness / 50+ life is great
Hello Claudia!
I do have to say, Japan is on my list of future travel and I grew up in San Francisco. I look forward to reading and enjoying your writings on Substack!
Hi Suzanne....How fun that we have both a SF and Japan connection (even if you haven't been to Japan...but having a strong interest counts ;-). I lived for 14yrs in SF and for 2 yrs in Japan. Loved both experiences A LOT. Nice meeting you! And thanks for subscribing. Looking forward to your posts....and I like the title LifeWalk....indeed, life is a walk...
I would love to visit Tokyo (one day)
What was the absolute best thing about living there? 😊
There are so many things I love.... as I really love the traditional Japanese culture/philosophy....but if I have to say one best thing...phew... not easy. Perhaps the fact that it is SO DIFFERENT to our "western" world (European/American/Australian). That's the part I enjoyed while living there. Being surrounded by completely different kind of language, visuals, food, behavior, concepts...
Hey,
I’ve started a newsletter to help EVERYDAY WORKING CLASS PEOPLE WHO MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN FINANCE understand the more about the non-shouting stuffs about crypto like which product is receding funding, where to obtain funding for products, and how people are daily making money, not the speculators but real people and are sharing their How tos.
Please I need feedback in the area of:
▶️Does my substack Content fit into what you read earlier as my target audience? (Working class-Busy but curious or interested in finance or investments)
▶️If A above is not fitting, what would you suggest would fit such an audience
▶️If A is not fitting, who do you think should be my target audience if I leave it just the structure is
▶️Would you want to collaborate via subscription swaps, recommendations etc
▶️what features or actions do you think I should take to increase my subscribers to 1k faster but engaging
I would really appreciate some feedback, that would be a great way to start our connection:
https://cryptofada.substack.com/
Hello wonderful people! My name is Shinjini and I’m from New Delhi, India. I write Studio Diaries. It’s a weekly invitation into my art studio: I share pages from my mixed media art journal, works in progress, process videos, and notes on the creative process. I’d love for you to drop by for a visit!
https://shinjinim.substack.com
Fun fact: I’ve gone most of my life believing I couldn’t draw a stick figure to save my life. To now be able to call myself an artist is absolutely wild!
Reading "stick figures" makes me thinking about that word game "hanging old man". haha (so random I know 🤣)
I haven’t heard of that game!
What?! It was very popular when I grew up in Sweden. One person thinking about a word. Draws few lines to indicate how long it is. And for every wrong answer you draw line to "hanging an man". 😝
That sounds like fun!!
Hi Shinjini— i’m just starting to share my creative spiritual journaling (haven’t posted pics yet) and I relate a bit to your fun fact — the idea I might be a “creative” is wild to me 😆
You are creative!! 💕
I love progression to get you to this place!
I always thought that “art” was being able to draw realistic art. Now I understand that there is all sorts of art that can be created and admired!
Yes! Art isn’t just what we see in museums. It is such a broad spectrum, with so much room for interpretation!
Thank you Mika, for this opportunity to cross-pollinate.
…briefly introduce yourself 😊
Aloha! I am Jessica Shepherd, and I live in Honolulu, Hawaii. I am an author of 5 books thus far (including an oracle deck) -all in the metaphysical, astrological and spiritual realms. I was led to these topics trying to solve the puzzle of myself: I had a mystery illness at age 17 which didn’t leave me alone for many years. Questions have, ever since, fueled my spiritual explorations and my writing.
…Answer this month’s question: “What is one thing someone would be surprised to learn about you?”
Perhaps the above!
Or, that I used magic to attract a book deal, as well as my Soul Mate.💫🙏
Or, that I am an artist, just for my own JOY, and my paintings and drawings adorn my home.
Or, that I am an extremely creative person.
Or, that I find the question: What do you do?, very difficult to answer, as I contain multitudes!
Leave a link to your Substack and the two or three topics you write about 🔗
https://jessicashepherd.substack.com
*Your relationship to your Divine True Self/your Connection to Source
*Authenticity, Healing, Empowerment, the Feminine
*Intuition, astrology, energy, relationships …and once in a while, a recipe! (I’m a health coach, too)
Thank you!
I relate to so much of your answer here 😊… not surprised at all by the magic (it’s real 😉). Love Hawaii, have visited a few times 🌴. I look forward to reading your writings as they seem very in line with my own! Mahalo, for your creativity and your joy!
…and thank you for recommending me! I just saw that. This is what I love about Substack, writers helping one another. ❤️🙏
Suszanne, Circling back 'round ;) I have enjoyed receiving your Substack so far. We seem simpatico! I am recommending you to my subscribers. Mahalo!
Thank you, and I’m glad you’re enjoying it! 🙏🏻
How cool! I will check out yours as well. Mahalo for connecting 🌺🤗
Hi Jessica, nice to meet you! We’re in the same “magic” and spiritual corner of substack ✨ i’ve been apprenticing in spiritual work of one form or another for almost 2 decades and now i’m teaching. I live in Costa Rica. Darkmoonalmanac.substack.com
Haha, I didn’t know there was a magical corner of Substack! Nice to meet you as well. 🤗 I read you your post on the Moon, it sounds like you’ve studied astrology as well. Costa Rica sounds perfect for teaching retreats. Do you do those?
Oh nice to meet you! I am Christine and I am so intrigued by all you wrote here. I just headed over to your website to check out your deck!
Thank you! I will check out your page as well. Lmk if you have any questions about my deck. Do you use them?
So fascinating!
I definitely can relate to not knowing how to condense what I do in a palpable short sentence when people ask me what I do? Or what I've been up to?
As a hobby, I've always loved painting a picture of my friend's future soul mate. It's super fun and I get pretty detailed. (And they've been pretty accurate so far. 😉✨)
Mika, that’s quite a skill you have! I’ve never heard of painting pictures of future soul mates. It’s almost fantastical. Very cool. Yes, to: What do you do? I’ve settled on “I’m a creative person.” Still it’s always a bit uncomfortable for me to say, since the world tends to be so linear and likes to put people in 📦.
Hi wonderful people. My name is Ami and this is my first month on Substack. I write Finding Inner Pizza. It is all about finding joy. I’d love for you to drop by and enjoy a slice!
www.amilynnthompson.substack.com
I have been a travel agent, a retail manager and a Special Education teacher. I am a published poet and short story author.
Fun fact: I sang the National Anthem at Fenway Park on opening day.
Mmmmm… pizza!
Yay Fenway (yup, lived in MA for 18 years and love the Sox)
I look forward to enjoying a slice of your Substack!
I just marked your recent “anniversary pizza” post to read later. Glad I saw your intro here.
Thank you Amy! I hope you enjoy. 😊🍕
So cool!
Thank you! I was part of the Jimmy Fund anniversary season.
Just casually dropping that last fun fact 😄.
My mouth dropped!
Hi Mika. I was a part of the Jimmy Fund anniversary celebration. We sang behind second base. It was an amazing experience.
Hi everyone! Nice to meet you all.
My name is Rey. I write about self-discovery, non-binary gender identity, martial arts, and living my unconventional best life.
Surprise fact: I almost got kicked in the ribs by a horse one time when I was feeding the horses at my neighbor's house as a teenager. The horse and I were both very frustrated with each other, and she wheeled around and kicked towards me with both back feet. Even as I was shocked and terrified, I realized she had pulled the kick short, taking care of me and not intending to actually hurt me. My knees buckled and I sat down in the dirt, feeling grateful to be alive.
I recently wrote about not remembering the emails I sent to a man who was harassing me fifteen years ago, and how much I've changed since then: https://www.amplifyrespect.com/p/maybe-i-dont-remember-who-i-was
Omg! Happy nothing serious happen to you that day!
Had a teacher once that got kicked by a horse and ended up in a wheelchair. 😞
Wow, that's scary...
The horse story sounded pretty scary. Crazy to think that the horse likely held back. Gosh, a reminder that things can change in an instant.
Really looking forward to getting to know people. Thank you for this Mika.
My name is Tara and I live in the UK and love all things words.
Surprising fact - most people have no idea that questions like this make me freeze and panic 😆 But now I understand why thanks to Clifton Strengths which has given me so much insight to myself and why my brain never stops whirring.
I’ve just started a new Substack Elder & Wild, which is about the things I love, mainly nature, books, and writing. After years of wanting to do some nature writing, I’ve finally published my first piece today and feeling slightly proud.
https://elderandwild.substack.com
Words are so powerful, and i've found that my greatest limiting factor in career development and also personal development are the words i use to speak to myself. I tend to keep myself from developing because of the self-limiting comments I make about myself through the course of a day.
Welcome welcome!! I hope you enjoy yourself on Substack and you feel to just express yourself! Let me know if you need any resources, I’ve collected a big list.
First piece! Wow!! I went over and dropped a like. Welcome to substack, Tara! 🥰🪷🌾🌸💫 your love of nature is inspiring!!
Thank you!
Hi! I’m Nikko, I live in the Pacific Northwest and I love learning about birth!
Surprising fact: I worked for nearly ten years as a freelance marketing consultant before launching my birth business!
People seem to love this post of mine: https://www.brighterdaysdarkernights.com/p/where-does-the-circadian-rhythm-come-from
I write about the integral roles of circadian and quantum biology in the childbearing year 🧡 and I recently found out I have broken into the top 100 in Parenting here on Substack after more than 2 years of dedicated publishing. I’m proud of my work, and after all these posts, still have so much fascinating information I’m dying to share. With 4 babes at home and a perinatal wellness and doula business locally, it’s quite a different pace to step into some quiet time to read and write on Substack and I’m really grateful for all they (and the community here of awesome folks like you!) do to encourage my research and work.
I can feel your passion oozing from your words! Congratulations on cracking 100! That represents a lot of dedication. 💕
Congrats on top 100, Nikko!!!!! 🌟😍👏
Thank you! Only on Substack could such a small topic go so far. I’m grateful!
Hi everyone! Thank you for creating this fabulous tradition, Mika! THIS is the kind of cocktail party I'd go to (without the cocktails, of course).
I'm Kelsey. I write Find Your Awesome with Kelsey Abbott and my mission is to help people remember who they really are so they can increase the joy, ease, abundance and fun in their lives. I write about Human Design in real life and mindful, joyful living. I also have a brand new substack about food (all gluten-free and whole food plant-based) called Find Your Awesome Sauce. Here they are:
https://kelseyabbott.substack.com/
https://findyourawesomesauce.substack.com/
You might be surprised to learn that I was in the circus! When I was a kid, I dreamed of going to Clown College. That didn't happen, but in 2019, I got pulled into the ring to participate in a "spaghetti western" segment of the circus. This wasn't a volunteer thing, but as soon as they said they were bringing a couple audience members into the ring, I knew it was happening.
Oh fun to see you here and love that we met on a post like this. Just chiming in to let everyone know how awesome you are!
And please tell me there are photographs of you in the circus!
Oh thank you so much, Christine! There are photos, but they’re from far away. I got to wear a red floofy skirt.
Hi Kelsey, it's exciting that you are writing about mindful living and plant-based food! Love it!!
Thanks, Rey!
Hey Kelsey 👋
Our kids actually did circus school for a little bit and the best part was watching them on the ribbons doing aerial work!
By the way, how are you finding writing on two publications?
Hey all,
My name is Derek and I write Chief Rabbit (https://www.chiefrabbit.com)
I am the Chief Product Officer for Sporcle. If you are asking WTF is Sporcle, no worries. It is a trivia company. If you are saying WTF is a trivia company, no worries. We do daily quizzes on our site, have a few apps, and run pub trivia across the USA.
𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁: My dad was fairly on in years when I was born. So my go-to fun fact is that I can say my dad defused bombs in WWII.
Anyhoo, Chief Rabbit is about getting things done, leadership, and technology. Here’s a pretty good sample post - https://www.chiefrabbit.com/p/the-magic-of-starting-small
Thanks @mika for putting this together.
“my go-to fun fact is that I can say my dad defused bombs in WWII” - this is epic! 🤯
By the way, I love how you explain your work background (you can tell you’ve been asked those questions a thousand times 😆)
😊 Hi Everyone! I’m Via, author of Film Flavor, a newsletter surveying Food in Film and all things flavorful. In addition to being a writer, I am an NYU-film alum and cog in the filmmaking industry machine, as well as an avid break-baker and bread-eater. Needless to say, all epicures, cinephiles, foodies, and culture-addicts are welcome at Film Flavor!
⛳️ One thing someone would be surprised to learn about me? Let’s see… I’ve got a twin?
(I remember in my first class, freshman year of college, the professor asked everyone to share one interesting fact about themselves. A young woman ahead of me said she had a twin, and the professor just about ripped her to pieces. “You have a sister? That’s the most interesting thing about yourself that you can share?” In that moment, I said a silent farewell to my once tried-and-true icebreaker — it was no longer going to cut it.) So, I will say… Oh, dear… I was an extra / background actor in the historic film “Now You See Me” (2013) which currently holds an esteemed 51% on Rotten Tomatoes! Is that interesting enough?!
Those not turned off by the precious display of self-esteem above can find my work at Film Flavor here:
🔗 https://read.filmflavor.com/
And here is one of my most popular posts to date: https://read.filmflavor.com/p/why-do-we-eat-popcorn-at-movie-theaters
👋 Don’t be a stranger!
Wild. I just saw DUNE last night and I was chomping down some popcorn and turned to my wife and said - why is this a thing? Not complaining, but how did popcorn become the thing to eat at movies?
Serendipitous to read your post just now. Thanks!
Hi All! I'm Faye, and I write Faye Moves. As you may be able to glean from the title, I am quite passionate about movement. But not in the, "go to the gym to get a workout over with" or "obligatory run to make up for dessert last night," sense (been there, done that).
What people might be surprised to learn about me is that I used to be the shyest, most creatively and sexually repressed woman I'd ever met. I wouldn't dance or sing or even really laugh wholeheartedly, and I was mortified of my body. Wanted absolutely nothing to do with it.
Inviting a sense of curiosity and playfulness to my movement practice has been the salve to my years of abusive relationships with my body, and with men. Through much experimentation and self inquiry I have come to experience movement (and strength & fitness) as fundamentally creative endeavors that are best led by the curiosity of the body, and if done with purpose, I believe our movement practices can free us from societal conditioning, and lead us to profound love, nourishing relationships with our bodies, transcendent pleasure, and deeply rooted connections with Self.
I also believe our relationships with our bodies are the foundation for our relationships with our whole lives, and thus, our ability to move (how free are we?) is the foundation for our ability to express our creative potential - to become.
You could say the art of becoming (what many call embodiment practice, but i think that word is kinda overused) is what I'm really here to share. It is a lot easier to understand what I share by doing it versus speaking about it though 😹. Here is an example of the kinds of practices I share: https://fayemoves.substack.com/p/mapping-the-territory-of-our-bodies
On my blog I talk a lot about my philosophy & practice of movement (yes I could talk about this for multiple lifetimes) and share creative/exploratory movement and writing prompts with the purpose of inviting you to experience parts of yourself your want to become more of. I also share plenty of poetry and personal essays/musings on my journey of transformation. So, that's enough I think!
Here is my blog link: https://fayemoves.substack.com
And one of my recently popular posts: https://fayemoves.substack.com/p/of-mirrors-and-men-and-the-power
Whatever a beautiful journey. Somehow I picture a beautiful flower unfurling. 🌹
How lovely that you felt the nudge to share this to help others.
Funny you say that about the flower Mika. I used that imagery in the practices I shared last week, and wrote a poem about it yesterday!
Serendipity ✨✨✨
Hi Faye! I love this and have shared somewhat of a similar journey with movement! I’m a meditation teacher and the main work I do is all about reconnecting with and learning to listen to our bodies so this resonates so much. Excited to check out your Substack!!
Beautiful! What a joy to meet you Amanda <3 I'm looking forward to reading your substack too. Mindfulness is the foundation of the movement practice for me, with pleasure, purpose and power as the building blocks
Hi everyone. I am Catriona. I write 'Notes from Saving the World.' It is about the systems of power which shape our lives, through the lens of twenty years working in the aid sector. I write on travel, inner journeys, creativity, being a woman, climate and land rights.
One surprising fact: I speak 6 languages including Burmese 😊🙏🏻 as I lived for around 8 years in Myanmar with my work. I am a bit rusty as I haven’t been back since the pandemic. It was a very rewarding language to learn and it gave me a new lens to see language/words.
My Substack: https://notesfromcatriona.substack.com/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=substack_profile
A flavour of what I write:
This piece about how I went from working on women's land ownership to owning my own land: https://notesfromcatriona.substack.com/p/a-womans-place-is-on-the-land-register
This piece about how working in rural Nicaragua changed my perception of nature: https://notesfromcatriona.substack.com/p/2-my-warm-scottish-stomach
Look forward to connecting!
I love Burma...travelled their for 3 weeks! Amazing that you learned the language....which gives you a different layer into understanding the country and their culture. Very true that learning other languages provides such a different lens into the usage of language, words, culture etc. Nice to find you here.
Thank you Claudia and how beautiful you have visited Myanmar. It is an unique place and I am sure traveling you got to connect to the culture and people. Lovely to meet you here.
Love the purpose-led work you do!! What are the other languages you speak?
Thank you Mika. Although one of the reasons i started my newsletter is to grapple with being in a purpose led industry 😂 so - I also speak French and Spanish, Italian, I used to speak Arabic but I mostly forgot it. And I am now in my second year of learning my native Scottish Gaelic. I am loving that as it helps me understand my home more. The only language I learned in a classroom is French. Everything else I learned more informally. I think I have a brain which remembers letters and sounds. I am not good with numbers though 😂 What about you?
Wow! You can speak all those languages!
Love this and we have so many shared interests so will be subscribing. Although, I’m struggling to simply learn Welsh!
Beautiful substack title Tara. Lovely to connect!
Love! I have a similar background and interest areas. Following!
Aw brilliant you also have a similar background. Happy to connect 😊
Hi everyone! I'm Kaitlyn—a Canadian living in Thailand for the past 7 years. I always knew I would leave my small hometown since I was young, and continued to follow my heart ever since!
Someone may be surprised to learn that I was part of the flight crew who flew "The Amazing Race Canada" contestants from Yellowknife to Whitehorse. For the Canadians in the room—it was the season with Hal and Joanne from "BodyBreak." 🤣
My Substack: https://kaitlynramsay.substack.com
I write about real life through the lens of astrology. I focus on sobriety (I'm 4 years sober today 🎉), living abroad/travel, and mindful living.
Looking forward to meeting some of you here! And thank you, Mika for creating this space 🫶
Have you written what brought you to Thailand?
Also, A HUGE HUGE CONGRATULATIONS on your sobriety milestone!! 🎉🥳🎊
Not yet! It's on the list and quite a story—a bit like destiny, really! I'm hoping to write about it soon 😍 and thank you!! That means a lot, Mika 🥰🙏
Please message me when you do it? I’m finding I have so many lovely newsletters in my inbox I miss my favs
I will for sure!
Hi Mika, love your story! I almost had my daughter in the hospital car park! 🙈 Anyway, I’m Kate, and one thing that surprises people is that I have a degree in Zoology! 🐘🦁🐒🪲
Here I write Letters from Therapy, to nourish your soul, accept yourself and find deeper meaning. I posted about our shadow side today! 👀 https://lettersfromtherapy.substack.com 💫
I'm glad you made it to the hospital!!
Do you have a favourite species??
Kate! I have a Masters degree in marine biology. I studied dolphins, coral reef fish and killer whales. I love that we both started with animals and moved into helping humans
Hello everyone, I'm Jael
Hmmmm. I think people would be surprised to know my great-grandparents had 17 children (no twins). Luckily they did, as my grandmother was no. 15. If they stopped sooner, I wouldn't be here. 😊
I write about books, life, food, and pop culture (but mostly about the show Lost). Looking forward to discovering other like-minded people.
https://4buckets.substack.com/
Do you have any family reunions? I presume your family are spread all over the world.
Also, thank you Mika for providing this space to interact. 😊
You are so so welcome!
Mika, thank you for leading the way! ✨
Hello everyone! My name is Nicola de Vera. I am a queer writer born and raised in Manila, Philippines, but now living in Los Angeles — basically trading one city of tropics and traffic jams for another.
One surprising fact about me is that I have a strong baking compulsion. I just have to bake on weekends! Similar to writing, I find it to be a very healing and restorative activity, especially to manage my anxiety — and I get the benefit of delicious baked goods for the rest of the week too. A win-win in my book.
My Substack newsletter is called “So, Long Story Short.” I write 100-word stories and also offer a behind-the-scenes look at my original works of short fiction published in literary magazines and journals.
I have been writing on Medium for a while, but I am new to Substack. I’d love to connect with more writers here — especially those interested in short fiction! ✍️
You can find me over at:
https://nicoladevera.substack.com/
What do you think the main difference are between Medium and Substack and how are you finding your footing here?
Apart from the blog vs newsletter format, there are two striking differences, in my opinion.
First, having a niche seems more suited to Substack than Medium. Here, people are subscribing for a specific reason and the writer must stick to that topic because that’s what the audience expects from them. If you’re writing primarily about AI, you can’t randomly send an email about your baking escapades, no matter how good of a baker you are. Your subscribers didn’t sign up for baking content; they want to learn about AI. Whereas in Medium, you can write about anything you want and still succeed.
Second, the subscription format of Substack seems to build a more loyal reader base than Medium, where many accounts “follow-for-follow” as a growth strategy, without any intention of reading your stuff. That also means it’s easier to inflate metrics on Medium than it is here. While it’s harder to build an audience on Substack (I get it, people don’t want to be inundated by emails, so they’re more selective), it seems to attract the type of readers that actually care about your writing.
Those are my two observations so far after being here for two weeks.
Hi Nicola! I’m from Malaysia 🇲🇾 (Southeast Asia) too and just subscribed to your ‘stack! I used to run fun writing circles with my friends where we’d write nonstop for 30 mins based on a ridiculous prompt and share it at the end. Your 100 word stories remind me of that 🥹✨ hugs! - Gwen
Hello Gwen! Nice meeting a fellow Southeast Asian here! ✨ The 100-word stories I’ve written so far were inspired by “word of the day” prompts, so they’re definitely not far off from you and your friends’ writing circles, which sounds so fun to do together!
Hi Nicola, it's great to meet another queer writer on here! I love your stories, thanks for sharing!
So great to meet you, Rey!
Ohhh what's your favourite thing to bake??
I was going to ask the same thing! 🤤
Oh gosh, there are two cookie recipes that I particularly love: pistachio chocolate chip cookies and lemon cheesecake cookies! I love me a good variety of muffins too. 🧁
My mouth is watering now!! I've never thought to put pistachio in cookies, but it sounds AMAZING! And cheesecake is my weakness, so I know those would be great! I may need to stop by your place 🤣
Both are divine!!! 😍
Here are the recipes if you’d like to try them out:
https://www.alsothecrumbsplease.com/chocolate-pistachio-cookies/
https://inbloombakery.com/lemon-cheesecake-cookies/
Oh, Nicola!! Thank you for sharing. I will try them out and circle back to let you know how it goes 😍
Hello :)
I'm Mackenzie! I write Mack's Memo. I started my memo last month and have been having SO much fun with it. I've kept a journal nearly my entire life, so it's this comes as absolutely zero shock. LOL.
That said, I'm still very much learning and taking it slowly. I'm in graduate school, I work part time as a server, and I have an entrepreneurial project in the works. So, Mack's Memo has been a fun creative outlet and I've loved discovering the community here on Substack.
I'm still figuring out what I'll write about, but so far it's the life and interests of a late-20-something...branding/advertising, digital media and social media content, TBD. It's evolving!
You might be surprised to learn that I took up boxing a couple of years ago, and actually completed a sparring certification in January, 2023. I'm afraid of a head injury so I don't spar currently, but love and respect the sport.
Mack's Memo: https://macksmemo.substack.com
Have a great day :)
Welcome to Substack Mackenzie!! I love that you are feeling into this space and seeing how it unfolds! That's the best way! I hope you find your people here, and give me a holler if you need some Substack newbie resources, I have collated my fav!
Thank you so much, Mika! You're so kind :)
Hi Mackenzie, it's great to meet another martial artist! I practice aikido, which is self-defense techniques, rolling and falling, and I appreciate the community.
It's an incredible community! Thank you for commenting :)
Hi Mackenzie 👋 I'm so curious about your substack and am checking it out now. I'm just starting to read your "Got Milk?" piece. I just wrote a piece about the campaign as well (here: https://tinyurl.com/4hr28caj) but I wish I had seen yours prior! I hope you write an even deeper dive on the subject someday!
Via! Thank you for commenting and for reading my post! Your piece is so unique and so well written - I'd never thought about the representation of milk in film before, but I really enjoyed. Cow drinkers are totally made to feel weird about their choices. I'm not vegan but I'm a fellow non-dairy gal and I couldn't imagine making someone feel weird about their latte milk choice, lol. Subscribed :)
I was going to recommend @chloelist Unbox Inbox, but I see you're already a reader!
Ha yes, hungry minds think alike, and hungry minds love @chloelist! Thanks so much for checking mine out too :)
Love the monthly find your tribes Mika! Hi everyone, my name is Alex/Ale. I'm a writer/etc. currently in the Bay Area in Northern California, where I'm always a little too cold (not all California is flip-flop and beach weather 🥲)
Fun fact about me: I am a yoga teacher! I just finished my yoga teacher training and am ready to unleash everything I know (or not) in the world!
I've just renamed my substack *Write On with ACP* (https://acpz.substack.com/). There, I share my musings as I write on from burnout and other indignations of living in today's world. I've mused on topics like community building, surviving minor bodily injuries, and my forever love of emo music.
Excited to connect with other folks ✨
You're so welcome!!
Congratulations on getting your yoga certification!!! You must be so happy!! 🎊🎉🥳
Hi Alex! I've just been writing about burnout also. It's such an important topic to discuss!
Hi Rey! Very excited to read your work 🙏
Thank you! Same here!
Hi Alex! Fellow movement teacher here. Yoga was my initial foray into the world of movement, and I've expanded from there. Isn't the body just amazing?! I wonder, how does your experience of your body shine through your writing?
Hi Faye! What kind of yoga do you usually practice? I started with hatha in graduate school and it was so magical. I had an instructor with a control over there body like I had never seen and it blew my mind. I trained in a more vinyasa style. My favorite part of the training was reading the Sutras, and a couple of us are going to do a read through of the Bhagavad Gita.
As I've gotten older, I've gotten to see my body not as an enemy but an ally, and yoga has been an instrumental part of that journey. I can name sensations I couldn't before. I've learned to evaluate wether something is uncomfortable as a source of growth or needless pain. That experience of tension and release has been useful when I think about writing through bodily experiences.
This questions was great! I think I might do an entire post about it soon. Thanks Faye! ✨
Nice to meet you Alex. I also teach yoga. Your newsletter focus sounds interesting. We def all need to learn more about burnout and tending to ourselves in our culture.
Thanks for the comment Catriona, I LOVE the title of your newsletter! Super excited to read more!
Thank you Alex. I spent a lot of time deciding on title and then doubting myself. So its great to hear it resonates. Nice to connect with you 😊
Konnichiwa! 👋🏼 I’m Erika, and I live near Atlanta, Georgia with my husband and stepson. The city is one of my favorite places! They call Atlanta “the city in a forest.” 🏙️🌳
I learned to ride a unicycle in Japan when I was a kid. It’s customary for elementary aged children to all be supplied with unicycles and to learn as part of PE! How fun is that?
At my Substack, Nōto, (which means notebook in Japanese) I write essays for the heart with other reflections and creative projects sprinkled in. These will be about: home, nature, art, chronic illness, and faith. 📒
My latest post is a little cartoon about how my husband and I met, and I think it’s pretty cute! erikatovi.substack.com/p/how-i-met-my-husband-or-almost-didnt
Would love to connect with someone new! 🤩
This unicycle factoid is my favorite thing I’ve learned today. Thank you, Erika!
Great topics Erika. I write on some similar themes. Nice to connect 😊
The unicycle news has me so shocked! That's so fun. I remember seeing your writing and I thought I was subscribed from before. I'm glad I saw you here again so I can fix that and actually subscribe this time!!! I love your work, Erika. Also, I'm heading to Japan in the morning 😍
Loved the cartoon your post!
I loved your latest post!
I didn't know that was a thing in Japan! So interesting. So are you telling a lot of kids in Japan know how to ride a unicycle?!
I can’t wait to comb through the comments and meet so many new people and new newsletters. I’m newish to Substack and the creativity here blows me away. Something not everyone knows about me is that I once went swimming in the muddy waters of the Rufiji river in Tanzania, unconcerned that it’s a river known for crocodiles. Chalk it up to the daring brain of a teenager.
I write two newsletters: a fiction one https://ingridharingmendes.substack.com/ where I’m serializing a longer work of fiction,
and one on my culinary adventures https://salatauchessen.substack.com/
I’m excited about meeting you all!
Wow, wow, wow, I am SO happy I found your substack! My newsletter is about Food-in-Film, and I am writing a piece about Dune Part 2 to publish next week as we speak! I am also extremely, extremely obsessed with beans. Unless you prefer otherwise, I'm likely going to link / feature your salad in my next newsletter! I'm obsessed!!!
I can’t wait to read it! I loved the film! Please do link 🙏🏾
LOL, that perfectly sums up the "bad things only happen to other people" mentality of a teenager! I often look back at my teenage years and wonder how I'm alive today.
Subscribed to Salat Auch Essen ... I LOVE salad :)
Same!! Thanks for subscribing! Let me know if you try any of the recipes
I'm glad you were ok, but boy what a story! 🐊
You are so cool Ingrid!!!!! 🐊
Thanks Mika for the space. You are giving me a bit of pondering and self reflection to do. I don't really know what people would find surprising about myself :)
First, hi everyone! My name is Chris Prakoso. I was born in Indonesia, then left for England where I studied and worked for over 20 years before I moved to Slovakia 7 years ago to get closer to and support from my wife's family.
I guess what people usually surprise about myself is when they learned that I came from the beautiful and warm Indonesia (they usually think about Bali of course), and wonder why on earth I abandoned those and migrated to Europe. I could write a series of essays just talking about this, but on a hindsight I chalk it to a combination of choices and fate.
Anyway, I used to blog professionally, but I'm a newbie here. To be honest my original idea was to share about life lesson-learned, but recently my writings have been gravitating towards personal development, health and parenting.
Here is my substack: https://lifeapprentice.substack.com/
My recent post was about practical tips on fighting social media addiction: https://lifeapprentice.substack.com/p/11-tips-to-fight-social-media-addiction
I would appreciate your thoughts on this. Thanks a lot!
You're welcome Chris! So interesting to hear about your journey! 🇮🇩➡🇸🇰
What did you used to blog about?
I used to do tech. Actually it's still around at moblivious.com. I sold it a few years ago.
Hi! I’m Kim Stockwell from Boston and started Women’s Survival Guide December 2020. I wanted to focus on midlife women in the middle of all sorts of change. I interview women who are passionate about something they start d after 45 or women who work in area that can teach us like a financial specialist, a community builder, a skin guru, a yoga instructor, a menopause specialist, etc . It is so fun talking to these women and learning from them. And then I send the interviews with zoom interview and fun written interviews to you!! I love Substack and Mika! Something someone doesn’t know about me is that I also am a professional fine art painter and have a studio in Boston! @kimdstockwellstudio on Instagram! Come visit me at WSG @womenssurvivalguide on Substack! Thank you Mila for doing these threads!!
I love your topic, Kim! I’ve been a longtime female empower-er, am enjoying and honestly sometimes not at all liking menopause, AND am listening to your Empress podcast now and so relating to your guest and her health trials. Thank you. I will definitely follow you! Jessica
thank you for your note, Jessica! I totally agree with you. I love not getting my period but I look down at my spotty hands and think "whose are those?" and then there are the other side effects...which I do not like at all, either...let's stay in touch!
Such an awesome concept Kim!
thank you, Catriona! What a cool name you have there.
Kim you're so welcome!
Wow! I didn't know you paint! That is so cool!
yes! I show in galleries and have a studio and am part of a guild! they still have guilds. www.kimdrukerstockwell.com and insta kimdstockwellstudio which is the most current...
Hi Kim - I really enjoyed your interview/podcast with Alisa - so many interesting women out there who are living life on their own terms now they have the time and space that the second half of life frees up. :)
I’m so glad you watched/read Alisa’s interview!! She’s a force and fun and hilarious. I have Meghan Daum this week and we tip toe towards controversy which is what her communities the unspeakable does! I’m heading for a week away right now but let’s communicate soon!
Sounds good - feel free to email me: leanne.lecras@gmail.com and enjoy your time away. :)
Hi Mika, thanks for leading the way with this initiative :)
My name is Niall (neye-al) which often gets confused with (knee-al). I live in Ireland now after recently moving from Vancouver, Canada. 5 things I love: Fitness, meaningful work, community, outdoors and a coffee x pastry combo.
Something that may surprise people is that it wasn't till around 2020 that I realized I had a passion for writing. Until then I carried a limiting belief that I wasn't creative. Journalling is what unlocked that belief and led me down the path I'm on now. In December of last year, I left my job to prioritize writing full-time. The path ahead is not clear but I'm engaged in meaningful work and that's what matters to me in life right now.
The whole purpose of my writing is to challenge the status quo of how we live. I focus on how we can lead lives, careers, and communities we love. I hope to generate curiosity, and mindfulness while empowering readers to create lasting change in their lives in line with what matters most to them.
Learn more about my work here:
https://niallmcgivern.substack.com/p/why-ive-launched-thoughts-from-a
Look forward to connecting with you :)
I can just image you holding your breath at a doctor's office, not knowing what version your name they are going to use. I either get "My-ka" or "Me-ka" (it's pronounced "Me-ka", it's Japanese).
Is Substack the main place you write on? Or do you write elsewhere?
Haha I've lost count of how many emails my name has been mispelt also. My gut feel was Me-ka, glad you confirmed.
Substack only at the minute. Starting out focused and consistent was my initial plan. Do you write elsewhere?
I just write here and had no real idea of how I wanted to show up at the beginning, I just knew I wanted to write. Everything has naturally grown in directions I never imagined when I first started.
I tend to be a planner, so I am learning a lot about myself during this process of showing up on Substack.
To be curious, to lean in and follow my gut, and to not overly plan before I take the first step!
That makes two of us Mika 😅 I'm learning to dive in and get started rather than prolong the planning process. One step leads to the next and as long as it's a reversible decision (which most are) you can always make a pivot.
Curiosity is the key!!
I totally felt like you knew what you were doing and were bringing your lessons and writing over here. 😄
I'm just a guy with a passion for writing backed with a curiosity to challenge the norms and concepts of how we've been told to live!!
I started Thoughts From A Bench last summer when I was navigating recovery from a hernia surgery. While sitting on a bench the idea popped up and I started the page that day 😆
Hi Niall - that's a huge step to leave work for full-time writing and very brave of you. I'll be interested to see how your journey progresses. :)
Hey All, and hey Mika,
As always love your community building. I love how you make finding a community here so much more accessible!
Hey everyone, I'm Will and I write the Corporate Sloth, because I am one. A surprising fact about me...it was even a surprise to me as well...turns out I have ADHD. Late diagnosed and learning how it's affected my life.
I write about corporate culture, productivity struggles and trying to find a work life balance.
www.corporatesloth.substack.com
Looking forward to meeting some new people on here!
I love the title of your substack Will.
Hey Will 👋!
Thank you so much!
Fellow late-diagnosed ADHDer here! 🙋♀️
How are you finding life, post-diagnosis?
Hey, it's a big question!
Good and bad - the good is that it explains so much about my struggles (being lazy and slothful!) but I'm also annoyed because I sort of notice all those struggles more now! I'm still coming to terms with it all tbh but I do feel like there's people I can talk to honestly now, which is very cool.
How about you, how do you manage (especially being a parent)?
Hi Will and Mika! I was diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood as well. It's so great to meet folks who are in the same boat. The diagnosis has been a huge game changer for me because I finally feel like I understand my brain now (and I've found a medication that gives me some calm and clarity - after a decade of being told I have depression and/or anxiety and trying every treatment under the sun). But I also feel a sense of grief because life has always been so hard and it didn't need to be. Anyways very glad to be where I am now. :)
Hi everyone! And thank you, Mika, for that amazing offering.
My name is Aleks, and I live in the central part of England. I'm also the author of the burgeoning Substack publication "Unscrewing Motherhood," where I delve into the concept of "unscrewing" perinatal mental health and matrescence. Alongside personal reflections, I share coping strategies from my own motherhood journey (I'm a mum of two small boys 🩷🩷).
Fun fact: My mother-in-law, my husband's grandma, and I all share the same birthday! Don't ask me how it happened! We have a running joke in the family that our sons will only accept partners with the same birthday 🤭.
If you're curious to learn more about Unscrewing Motherhood, check out my latest post about Imperfectly Perfect Parenting (I dare you to say that super quickly 10 times!): https://unscrewing.substack.com/p/good-enough-mother-imperfect-parenting?utm_source=profile&utm_medium=reader2
That’s so spooky Aleks!
I know 😆
THE SAME BIRTHDAY!!! That is so cool!!! A family of matriarchal powerhouses 😻😻
Thank you Aleks!
The topic you talk about it so important!
How awesome about your b-day!
The "tunnel baby: has her bday on the 24 Jan, our anniversary is 22 Jan and our first born is on 20 Jan. (It's a busy month - we also have my 2 brothers, me and my dad all in Jan! 😆)
I love that you’re all born around the cusp of Capricorn - Aquarius!!! You must be a very disciplined, quirky household 🤣🤩
Hi Mika, thank you for all that you do here. Your Substack space is so supportive and cosy 🥰
Hi everyone, I’m Dina, a British-Iraqi nutritionist and toddler mum in London. I write about:
• Diversity and inclusivity in wellness.
• Realistic healthy living and 5-minute meals for busy and tired people.
• The joy of food from around the world (especially Middle Eastern) - and no dieting!
https://vitamindina.substack.com/
Still quite new here and figuring it out as I go along.
Surprise fact: I used to manage a rock band. As a tiny (5ft) female in a very male industry, the doormen at music venues thought I was a fangirl and wouldn’t let me in 😅
Thanks all, looking forward to connecting! 💫
A ROCK BAND!!! 🎸 that’s so cool Dina! Now I’m curious which one… 😜
Not as cool as it sounds. It was my brother's band and he employed me because I'm quite organised 😂 They're called Howlin' Circus, they moved to Canada so they have a new manager (and doing much better now haha).
Thank you Dina xx
Wow! I feel like you would have so many interesting stories!!! 🎸
Yes, it was an interesting industry to experience behind the scenes! 😳
Hi Mika - I had to join in when I saw your note pop up in my email. I'm in Western Australia and I write about Midlife and discovering life after leaving work. Finding peace, joy, contentment and being quietly confident in who we are. I love the Unbusy life and I find that surprising because I was super efficient and super committed to a being a wife, mum, working, volunteering, church attending, and so much more when I was younger - now I'm so much more "chill".
Anyhooooo - I'd love visitors to my Substack - I've been blogging for almost 10 years, but I'm brand new here and still figuring it all out. I'm always happy to pop over and follow anyone who's lovely enough to follow me.....
https://leannecrestingthehill.substack.com/
Hiya! Followed and subscribed! 👋🏽
HI Jemima - I've followed you back - good on you for encouraging new mums - it's such an important and undervalued role. :)
I LOVE Western Australia! I lived in Karratha for just about a year a while back—such a beautiful part of the world. Although people usually look at me like I'm insane when I tell them Karratha is where I spent most of my time in Australia 🤣 I'm heading over to check out your Substack now!!
I know many people who spent a chunk of time in Karratha at some point Kaitlyn. If you're going to live up North, that's the place to do it, and there's some amazing scenery too. I'm happy down south where the weather is cooler and I'm closer to my adult kids (who are city dwellers!) Thanks for connecting x
It was lovely! And the surrounding areas are so beautiful. You're right on the mark in saying it's so hot 😂 I think I could've cooked an egg on the dashboard some days. The south is much more comfortable! ❤️
Hi Leanne! Nice to see you here. It reminds me we need to talk! I’m a mid life female writer and interviewer! I think you’d be fun for my audience to know! The more the merrier! K
Hi Kim - I've been reading your Substack since I saw it on Mika's list and listened to your last podcast with Alisa. I'd love to chat sometime if you think I'd be a good fit..... :) x
Hi Leanne, when you said "being quietly confident in who we are" -- it caught my eye. I've always tried to live this way. Not outwardly egoic but inwardly confident about who I am. On my way over to your writing now :)
Hi Niall (Neye-al!) quiet, inward confidence is my aim these days - not the showy stuff, but a deeper groundedness - so important in today's noisy world. Thanks for the visit. :)
Absolutely on the same page. Fantastic book on groundedness, written by Brad Stuhlberg, titled - The Practice of Groundedness.
I'll definitely check it out and add it to my reading list - thanks.
I found Leanne's blog https://www.crestingthehill.com.au so helpful, as I started navigating this new normal of life outside the 9-5.
Thanks Mika - it was a big journey for me figuring it out and blogging certainly helped me - and it turns out it helped others too.....a fantastic added bonus!
I love this word - “Unbusy.” I recently reflected on the past decade of my life and that was the biggest change I noticed too — creating more space in my days to just ‘be’ 🥹 welcome to Substack, Leanne!! 💫🌷
Hi Gwen - I think a lot of us are discovering that slowing down a little is so much healthier than the busyness myth we're being bombarded with by the world around us. Lovely to meet you and thanks for the welcome. :)
Love this!! Thank you Mika for creating this space ✨
I’m Amy, and I’m from Sydney. I write Good Sunday, a weekend newsletter covering topics that capture slow mix weekends. I have written about savouring beautiful words, the joy of treading ocean water, long solo hikes and stepping away from filtered worlds.
A fact that surprises people in my life is how introverted I am! I am a very chatty introvert, but I do need a good amount of solo time to feel human (and feel so good when I can actually get it😂). I have really enjoyed meeting writers and readers through Substack- please feel welcome to reach out if you like. ☺️☀️
https://goodsunday.substack.com/
I totally resonate with being a very chatty introvert. Haha!
Sounds perfect. I’m an introvert too although I spent my teenage years being the most extroverted person possible to hide the truth 😂
Amy, I just read your post titled "Listening in on conversations" and you totally touched on why I LOVE working from a cafe. I visit my favourite cafe a few times a week, and I usually get to eavesdrop on a conversation or two happening around me. I've listened to couples very affectionately argue about designs for their home renovations, a couple meeting with a realtor to chat through their homeownership plans, colleagues chatting through work projects, and so on. It's always SO interesting.
Long comment BUT I've debriefed (a couple of times, I'm still new!) the podcast episodes I'm listening to in my newsletter, Mack's Memo. You've inspired me to write another one :)
Hi Amy - I'm from WA and it's always lovely meeting a fellow Aussie. I'm also a huge fan of living slowly and simply. I'm off to check out your link. :)
"very chatty introvert" - that's me! 🙋♀️ I am an extroverted introvert too.
Do you find there is a particular time that you love solo time? I love quiet early mornings! 🌅
So does my husband but I love serene nights. Makes early morning a little difficult. But similar. Alls quiet and no one is pinging or dinging me.
Yes, early mornings are my favourite time too! The quiet before the world wakes up ☕️
good sunday sounds so lovely! ☁️ I resonate completely with being an extroverted introvert. I can be the life of a party but man, do I need time to recharge 🤣 hugs!
Love this initiative Mika!!
I did participate in ‘Find Your Tribe’ last month and I am more than happy to do it again.
Hi, I am Mansi from India. I am a corporate employee and student actuary who is juggling between work, studies and a life outside of all this chaos. Simply put, I write about the meaningful things in life. Things that bring me joy. Things beyond a job title that truly matter in life.
One thing about me that usually surprises people is that I have never drank or smoked in my life. It’s something I have been judged for throughout college (and in my life after college) because it is so common for people my age to party and ‘have fun’.
https://unwindblog.substack.com
[I write about personal growth and intentionality, seeking inspiration from my daily observations.]
So excited to connect with new folks.✨
Checked out your blog, loved the post about social media. And yes your Notes are very well thought out. You just got a follow and a sub.👋🏽
Subscribed :)
Thank you Chris!✨
Looking forward to interact with you
Nice to see you here Mansi 👋🏼 I'm already a subscriber and very much enjoying it!
Hi Dina!
I checked out your profile when you subscribed and was so intrigued by your content. I’ve subscribed too, can’t wait to read more✨
Mansi, hello! Lovely to come across your work. I have saved your piece on what you got up to without Instagram- I am very much considering this and can’t wait to read it soon. ☺️
Hii Amy!
Thank you so much for taking out the time to comment here and save my post. So lovely to connect with you. I hope you find something of value in my newsletter. Sending so much love and positivity 🥹✨
I also want to say that Mansi has the best thoughtful Notes!
I also didn't drink or smoke. When asked why, I'd say, 'I didn't need a drink to get that high, I got that way naturally!' 😆
Aww, thank you. It means so much to me🥹
I agree. In my case, I feel like I am actually a grandma in a 23 year old’s body on most days😂
Love this! I’ve been told I have “grandma energy”, too. Looking forward to the days I can finally settle into my true form as a silver-haired granny midwife—until then, I remain ever the student of birth and life 🧡 It’s fun to hear I’m not the only one old at heart, hahaha
Mika, can I just say that I’m so inspired by how consistently and authentically you show up here on Substack? You really stand out among the sea of ‘stacks 🤭💖 I appreciate you!
Hi, I’m Gwen, The Asian Astrologer. I write honest newsletters that mix astrology updates with personal stories 🥰 I’ve been on Substack for almost a year now, and I love how it’s made me take my writing more seriously!
One thing people would be surprised to learn about me is that I once karaoked “Ice Ice Baby” in a public park in London. 🎤 it’s still one of my greatest achievements 🤣
theasianastrologer.substack.com
✷ Astrology
✷ Honest stories
✷ Personal growth
Love yall! Thanks for reading this, and I can’t wait to connect 💖 — Gwen
Ive subscribed ! I love your enthusiasm I can feel you 😃
Fun fact: I promised my husband years ago that I won’t sing “Ice, Ice Baby.” I’ve come close a couple times, but I’ve kept my promise. (I’m not talking about singing at karaoke. It’s more like when someone says, “stop, collaborate” and I have to sing the rest in my head because I love my husband.
HAHAHAHAH KELSEY this is adorable and enlightening 🤣🤣🙏🏼✨ we’ll have to do a duet one day!! (Ideally without your hubs being present to spare his ears 🤪🤭)
🤣 yesss
Following! I'm a witchy writer and love Astrology.
Your dress in your profile photo looks so gorgeous btw!! 💐
Omg hi Catherine!! So happy to connect 😻💖
Thank you! It was my wedding dress-a dream!
Karaoke QUEEN 😂❤️
LOVE YOU 😘🎤🎶 karaoke in person one day!!!
YES!!! love YOU 😍
Hi Gwen! Oooo! The Ice, ice baby karaoke in the park sounds daring but such fun! Something I’d want to try but never work up the guts to actually pull off.
I haven’t come across anyone who writes about astrology on Substack. I’m headed over to your page at once!
Omg you’re the coolest 🤩 thank you!!!
I'm impressed! Ice Ice Baby is not a melodic song, it's a bloody rap!
I will join in on the chorus "Ice Ice Baby" :)
Let’s do it, Chris! 😉 alright stop, collaborate and listen…. 🎶
Wait, is that really the words? That is quite profound if you think about it. Now I'm intrigued, I have to find the full lyrics.
Haha yes!!!
Hi Gwen - just wanted to say that it's lovely to meet you and that I'm impressed with anyone who can do a karaoke performance in a London park!
Thanks so much Leanne! 😻🤭🎤💖🤪
Gwen!! Oh my goodness I feel you with both performing Ice Ice Baby (it is my go to 🎤) and also how being on here can make you take your writing more seriously.
I have found Substack to be full of supportive people and it has very much changed my approach to writing (I am working in a full time corporate job- this is my escape routine each week). So lovely to connect :)
Anyone who has Ice Ice Baby as a go-to karaoke song is my kinda people! 😍😍💓 that' so wonderful, Amy! I love that this is a safe space for you to retreat to every Sunday ;) sending hugs!!
I think the question we should be asking everyone is: who knows all the lyrics to ice ice baby? 🤔
I had to memorize it in high school for a performance that never happened. It came in useful years later at that London park 😮💨 HAHAHA
Niiiicceeee!!
Hi Gwen 👋! Woohoo for being the first comment on here!!
Thank you so much for your kind words! 🥰
Oh my gosh! I would have loved to have been one of those people in the park in London watching you perform! That's awesome!! 🧊🧊👶
Hi Jennifer!!! I just saw your paid msg! You are so kind and sweet 😻🥺💖 I can imagine how overwhelming Substack feels now as compared to a year ago. Welcome! 🙏🏼 it’s a true pleasure to connect 🥹✨
So so impressed that you fixed your own dishwasher! You must have been so proud!
Hi Jennifer - I'm 62 as well and wrote a post recently about realizing that I'm now in the 3rd third of life - that seems more "real" than the second half of life descriptor I usually use. I'm popping over for a visit now :)
What a lovely compliment - thank you - and yes, good genes help and so does a healthy lifestyle and not too much sun (something I'm grateful I realized before I had too much damage to repair!)