How to Build an Email List with Substack

Are you fed up trying to build an email list with funnels and lead magnets? I know I am, which is why I am using Substack to build my list.

In fact, with Substack, you can start growing your subscribers without lead magnets, fancy funnels, or spending hours chasing traffic. I’ve been using Substack for six months and now have  over 1,800 subscribers, generating a consistent $1,000 a month—all by keeping things simple.

Here’s how I do it.. follow these steps and you’ll do it as well.

Substack Notes: The Secret to Subscriber Growth

One of Substack’s standout features is Substack Notes. Think of it as a social feed for sharing bite-sized content. Here’s the magic: when someone who isn’t subscribed to your newsletter sees your note, there’s a big orange “Subscribe” button attached to it. If they like what they see, subscribing is just one click away.

What should you post in Notes? It’s simple: repurpose what you already have. For example, I often take a highlighted section from one of my Medium posts—something that resonated with readers—and drop it into Notes. It’s quick, easy, and surprisingly effective. Some posts might only get a few likes or comments, but others take off, bringing in new subscribers daily.

If you prefer, I’ve made this video about the process.

The Weekly Newsletter Mindset

When you think of Substack, don’t get stuck on the idea of newsletters. Think email list. Your weekly newsletter is essentially an email you’re sending to your audience, just a bit longer, more conversational, and with a touch more personality.

Writing one newsletter a week is all it takes to keep your audience engaged. I recommend splitting your approach: one free newsletter for all your subscribers and a paid version for those who want more.

The beauty of Substack is that your subscribers are yours.

You can move them to another platform if you want to, but I’ve stuck with Substack because the process is so seamless.

Why Restacking Works

Another powerful feature on Substack is “restacking.” If you’ve written something in the past that performed well, you can restack it—essentially repost it with a fresh angle or comment. This keeps your content visible and helps new subscribers discover it.

For example, I might restack a post that brought in five subscribers last week. A quick tweak or new commentary can breathe fresh life into it. Think of it as recycling your best ideas to maximize their impact.

Here is an example of a restack:

The Simplicity of Substack

What makes Substack so effective is its simplicity.

Create a Substack account, set up your newsletter, and start writing. I follow a straightforward content schedule for Substack notes: an instructional post, a how-to, and something more personal each day.

Substack isn’t just about newsletters; it’s a hub for your content. Use it to link to your blog, promote your offers, and guide readers to your paid products. Every subscriber is a potential customer, and Substack makes it easy to keep them engaged and coming back for more.

Make It Work for You

If you’re new to Substack, start small. Write one newsletter a week and share a couple of posts in Notes daily.

Repurpose your existing content, restack your best-performing posts, and don’t overthink it.

I’ve found that consistency is key. Over time, your audience will grow, your subscribers will engage, and you’ll build a loyal following—without needing to complicate the process.

Substack has been a game-changer for me, and it can be for you too. Give it a try, and watch your email list grow organically, one subscriber at a time.

Let me know how it goes, and if you have any questions, drop me a message.

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