In January Substack announced that live video is now available to all its customers, offering creators a dynamic new way to connect with audiences in real time. Today it encouraged creators to do even more video. The platform’s relatively new live video feature is set to transform how creators build their brands—humanizing interactions, personalizing content, and driving unprecedented engagement.

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A Shift in the Digital Landscape

Live video is no longer the exclusive domain of Instagram and YouTube. Substack’s rollout signals a broader industry trend: creators who want to deepen engagement with their audiences must embrace live video. This interactive format offers a real-time connection, allowing viewers to experience the authenticity of their favorite voices while participating in dynamic conversations. By making live video accessible, Substack is empowering its customers to stand out in a crowded digital space.

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Empowering Creators with Practical Tools

Substack’s new feature is more than just a broadcast tool—it’s a comprehensive engagement solution. Creators are encouraged to incorporate live video into their regular programming. Whether hosting weekly Q&A sessions, panel discussions, or behind-the-scenes looks at their creative process, regular live broadcasts help establish a predictable routine, building a loyal community over time.

In an era where every interaction counts, live video humanizes your brand. “When you go live, your audience sees the real you,” said one early adopter, noting that authenticity is key to building trust. For those new to the medium, experts suggest starting with simple tips for a high-quality broadcast:

• Invest in Good Lighting and Audio: Ensure your space is well lit and that you have clear sound quality. This basic setup makes your video professional and engaging.
• Provide a Clear Call to Action: Whether it’s subscribing to your newsletter, following on social media, or joining the conversation in the chat, guide your audience on what to do next.
• Know Your Audience: Tailor your content to what your viewers want to see. Engage with feedback during the live session and adjust your content to maintain relevance.
• Share Clips on Social: Short, compelling clips from your live broadcast can be automatically generated and shared on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter. These highlights not only extend your reach but also drive new subscribers back to your Substack page.
• Establish a Consistent Schedule: Regularity builds anticipation. Consider going live on a fixed day or time each week to establish a habit among your subscribers.

Driving Growth Through Engagement

Substack’s data reveals that writers and creators who use video tend to grow their revenue 2.5 times as fast as those who rely solely on text. This insight has inspired many publishers on the platform—from lifestyle influencers to political commentators—to experiment with live formats. Collaborations are also on the rise; by inviting fellow creators onto their live sessions, Substackers are tapping into each other’s audiences, fostering cross-platform growth and community building.

Once a live session ends, the recorded video is automatically saved as a draft, ready for further enhancement and publication. Automated tools trim dead space, enhance quality, and reformat the video for a polished, shareable look. This seamless integration ensures that creators can maximize their content’s longevity while maintaining high production standards.

Looking Ahead

Substack is already planning further enhancements, including live video scheduling and RSVP emails, which will help creators build anticipation and drive attendance. With live video now at the forefront of its engagement strategy, Substack continues to provide a robust suite of tools that empower creators to connect, collaborate, and grow their audiences in innovative ways.

As the digital landscape evolves, live video is emerging as an indispensable tool for personalizing brands and engaging communities. For creators on Substack, this new feature represents not just a technological upgrade, but a strategic opportunity to reshape how they interact with their audience—one live broadcast at a time.

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