Why Ghost is a Powerful Alternative:

• Customization: Ghost allows for extensive customization of your website's design and functionality. You can create a truly unique brand experience, unlike Substack's limited templates. This was crucial for "The Midwestern Spy," as we wanted to establish a distinct visual identity and user experience that aligned with the publication's unique voice and content.
• Ownership and Control: With Ghost, you own your content and subscriber list completely. You're not locked into a platform that could change its policies or pricing at any time. This gives you long-term stability and control over your online business. For "The Midwestern Spy," this ensured that the publication had a secure and independent platform to grow and evolve on its own terms.
• Monetization Options: Ghost provides more flexibility for monetizing your work. Beyond subscriptions, you can integrate with various third-party tools and platforms, sell digital products, and create custom membership tiers. This will allow "The Midwestern Spy" to explore diverse revenue streams and offer unique value to its subscribers in the future.
• SEO and Growth: Ghost has built-in features that enhance your website's search engine optimization (SEO), making it easier for people to find you online. This can significantly boost your audience growth over time. For "The Midwestern Spy," this meant increased visibility in search results and a greater potential to reach a wider audience organically.

Why Substack Still Works for Most: Despite Ghost's advantages, Substack remains a compelling option for many writers, especially those just starting:

• Ease of Use: Substack is incredibly user-friendly. Setting up a newsletter and publishing content is a breeze, requiring no technical knowledge.
• Built-in Audience: Substack has a large and active user base, making it easier to get discovered by potential subscribers.
• Free to Start: Substack's free plan allows you to start building your audience without any upfront costs. This makes it a low-risk option for beginners.

In Conclusion: Ghost is ideal for writers who prioritize customization, control, and long-term growth, even if it requires a slightly steeper learning curve. This is why Design Studio Morgan chose Ghost for "The Midwestern Spy," enabling us to build a truly unique and scalable platform for the publication.  Substack, however, remains a great option for those seeking a simple, free, and accessible platform to start building an audience, especially if advanced features aren't a priority.