Substack Review: The Trap of Centralised Platforms for Content Creators

Much like any social network or publishing platform — Medium, Blogger, Tumblr — when you create content on a site that doesn't belong to you, you're really working for that platform. It's a bit like deciding to renovate the flat you're renting: in the end, it's the landlord who truly benefits. So work with open source instead, like Ghost or WordPress.

The Hidden Dangers of Substack

Losing Control of Your Data

• Your content and data belong to Substack
• Risk of having your account removed without warning
• Total dependence on a privately owned platform

Excessive Long-Term Costs

• A hefty 10% commission on your revenue
• No way to diversify your income streams
• Locked inside a closed ecosystem

Major Technical Limitations

• No API for integrations
• Very limited customisation
• No control over your infrastructure
• Basic marketing features

Ghost: The Open-Source Solution That Respects Your Independence

Full Ownership of Your Data

• A 100% open-source platform
• Hosted on your own server or self-hosted
• Total control over your infrastructure
• Simple export and import

Freedom to Monetise

• No commission on your revenue
• Integration with multiple payment systems
• The ability to create bespoke offers
  Diversify your income streams

Technical Power

• A complete, well-documented API
• Unlimited customisation
• Optimised performance
• Integration with all your tools

Our Recommendation

Despite its apparent simplicity, Substack poses a serious risk for content creators. The platform can change its terms, raise its commission, or even close your account at any moment. Ghost offers an ethical, high-performing and cost-effective alternative over the long term.

Why Choose Ghost

• A fixed, predictable monthly cost
• No commission on your revenue
• Complete protection of your data
• Full technical freedom
• An active and supportive community

Substack's initial free tier masks a dangerous business model that thrives on creators' dependence. Invest in your independence with Ghost, an open-source solution that genuinely belongs to you. As it happens, this very site is built with Ghost.