Do you write on Medium for fun or for profit?
I call “fun” writing “hobby” writing.
I write on Medium a lot.
When I do, I must admit the tales of the amount of money some authors earn, spurred me on. Many, if not most of the stories on the platform are about making money, especially on Medium.
In the process of learning what I was doing, I began to find a tiny writer’s voice. Then I started having fun writing.
Then I learned that if I really wanted to make those big bucks, I would need to focus my topic choices on what was most popular. Be serious. Even at the expense of my fun writing voice.
I watched my numbers until I finally admitted the two were not always compatible.
Can hobby writing make money on medium?
While hobby writing on Medium is not typically focused on making money, it is still possible to earn some income through the Medium Partner Program. The Partner Program pays writers based on the engagement their articles receive from readers, including reads, claps, and comments. However, it’s important to keep in mind that making significant money through the Partner Program typically requires a large and engaged audience, which can take a lot of time and effort to build.
If your goal is to make money, it may be more effective to focus on writing articles that are more marketable, or in-demand, rather than writing solely for your personal expression or enjoyment. But if you enjoy writing as a hobby, and want to earn a little extra income on the side, then participating in the Medium Partner Program can be a nice bonus.
Can hobby writing make more money on Substack?
Substack is a platform that allows writers to create their own email newsletters and charge subscribers for access to their content. While Substack can be a great option for writers looking to monetize their work, whether hobby or professional, the amount of money that can be made ultimately depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the writing, the size and engagement of the audience, and the writer’s own pricing strategy. The writing seems more writer-centric than topic-centric.
In general, hobby writers on Substack are less likely to make significant amounts of money than professional writers, or those writing on more in-demand topics. However, there are many examples of hobby writers on Substack who have built loyal audiences and been able to generate a decent income through their newsletters. The key is building their loyal audience- loyal to the author and his writing style rather than the topic.
The key to making money on Substack as a hobby writer is to focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience, building a loyal subscriber base, and experimenting with different pricing strategies to find what works best for you and your readers. It’s also important to be patient and persistent, as building a successful newsletter on Substack takes time and effort.
What are the top money-making topics on medium?
Medium is a platform that covers a wide range of topics, so there isn’t one specific topic that guarantees the most money. However, there are some general topics that tend to perform well and attract readers, which can increase the likelihood of earning money through the Medium Partner Program. Here they are.
- Technology. Medium readers are often interested in the latest trends and developments in technology, so writing on topics such as AI, blockchain, or cybersecurity can attract a large and engaged audience.
- Personal development. Articles on topics such as self-improvement, productivity, and happiness tend to be popular on Medium, as many readers are looking for advice and guidance on how to improve their lives.
- Entrepreneurship. Medium has a large community of entrepreneurs and business professionals, so articles on starting a business, economy, marketing, or leadership can be popular.
- Creativity. Writing on topics such as writing, art, or design can appeal to Medium’s community of creative professionals and enthusiasts.
- Health and wellness. Articles on topics such as fitness, nutrition, and mental health can be popular on Medium. Many readers are looking for advice and tips on how to lead a healthy lifestyle.
While these are a few examples, it’s important to remember that the most important factors in earning money on Medium is the quality of the writing and the engagement of the audience. Writing on topics that you are knowledgeable and passionate about is fairly important, as it can help you to create compelling and engaging content that resonates with your readers.

What are the top money-making topics on Substack?
Substack is a platform that allows writers to create their own email newsletters and charge subscribers for access to their content. While the topics that perform well on Substack can vary widely based on the individual writer’s niche and audience, there are some general topics that tend to do well on the platform.
- News and analysis. Substack is increasingly becoming a platform for independent journalists and commentators, who can offer subscribers in-depth reporting and analysis on a wide range of topics, from politics to business and culture.
- Investing and finance. Substack newsletters on topics such as personal finance, investing, and trading can be popular with subscribers looking for expert advice and analysis on how to manage their money.
- Self-improvement and personal development. Substack newsletters focused on topics such as productivity, time management, and personal growth can be popular with subscribers looking to improve their lives and achieve their goals.
- Health and wellness. Substack newsletters focused on topics such as fitness, nutrition, and mental health can be popular with subscribers looking for advice and tips on how to lead a healthy lifestyle.
- Technology and startups. Substack newsletters focused on topics such as new technologies, startups, and entrepreneurship can be popular with subscribers looking for insights and analysis on the latest trends and developments in these fields.
While these are just a few examples, it’s important to remember that the most important factor in building a successful newsletter on Substack is to focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience. Writing on topics that you are knowledgeable and passionate about is also important to keep your subscribers coming back for more.
Which is better for making money, medium or Substack?
Both Medium and Substack offer opportunities to make money as a writer, but which platform is better for you depends on your goals and the type of content you create. Here are some factors to consider when comparing.
- Payment model. Medium pays writers based on the engagement their articles receive from readers, while Substack allows writers to charge subscribers for access to their newsletter content. If you prefer to be paid based on the performance of your articles, Medium may be a better option. If you want more control over your pricing and the ability to build a direct relationship with your audience, Substack may be a better fit.
- Content type. Medium is a platform that covers a wide range of topics and content types, from short-form essays to long-form articles. Substack, on the other hand, is primarily focused on email newsletters. If you prefer to write longer-form content and have more flexibility in terms of content type, Medium may be a better option. If you want to create a more intimate and engaged relationship with your audience and prefer to focus on newsletters, Substack may be a better fit.
- Audience. Both platforms have large and engaged audiences, but the types of readers you reach may differ. Medium has a diverse audience interested in a wide range of topics, while Substack readers tend to be more interested in specific niches and topics. If you want to reach a broad and diverse audience, Medium may be a better option. If you have a specific niche or topic that you want to focus on, and wish to build a community of readers, Substack may be a better fit.
Final words.
Ultimately, the best platform for you depends on your goals and the type of content you want to create. It’s important to consider the payment model, content type, the demands on you as a writer, and the audience when deciding which platform to use. Some writers use both Medium and Substack to reach different audiences and diversify their income streams.
More on Professional Writing vs Hobby Writing.
Thanks for reading.

Don’s a keen observer and prolific reporter of truth, common sense, humor, & life. He’s a WRITER|HUMORIST, sometimes serious, sometimes tongue-in-cheek. He lives in Nashville, Tn.
You might as well check out HOW TO FIND HIS STUPID STORIES, ’cause you’re gonna run into them sooner or later anyway.
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