When I first started writing about AI, I focused all my energy on long-form posts. I poured hours into them. And then... silence. A few views, maybe a couple of clicks. It felt like shouting into the void.
Then I discovered Substack Notes.
Not as a place to promote my work, but as a place to create connection, test ideas, and grow organically
without the algorithm stress of Twitter or LinkedIn.
It wasn’t instant. But over time, I started showing up consistently.
Here’s what changed:
I stopped using Notes to share links.
I started using Notes to start conversations.
I focused on teaching, reflecting, and asking not just broadcasting.
Instead of saying, “Here’s my post,” I began saying things like:
“I’ve been thinking about how AI is reshaping junior developer roles. Curious has anyone actually benefited from AI taking over the boring parts of coding?”
“A small mindset shift I made this week: instead of resisting AI tools, I started integrating them into my thinking process. Game changer. Anyone else trying this?”
Suddenly, people started replying. Reposting. Clicking through.
It wasn’t about “growth hacks.” It was about showing up real, regularly, and relatable.
Here's What I'm Learning:
Notes is not Twitter. People here are more thoughtful, less transactional.
You don’t need a huge following to grow. You need momentum.
A Note a day can do more for your growth than a blog post a week.
So What If You Treated Notes Like Your Main Platform?
🧠 Used it to test ideas
🔗 Linked to longer content sparingly
💬 Asked questions that invite reflection
📈 Built a habit of writing in public, even if it’s rough
If you’re writing about AI, emerging tech, or really any niche, Notes gives you a playground to learn in public and a way to grow without gaming algorithms.
So here’s my question to you:
What’s one small idea you’ve had about your niche this week?
Share it below. Let's start from there.
Thank you your article is very helpful. The one thought that I have had this morning is the possibility of AI enslaving people into a world where an algorithm takes the place of independent human thoughtfulness?
Notes are key - nice post. I’m interested in the AI and education angle and wow is it divided. I’m trying to figure out how to cross bridges and form more productive conversations. Notes are useful for that! (I think!)