Sparkle on Substack

"We need to hear different people's stories and see different people's perspectives — and that's very bad for a society that thrives on division." Allegra Chapman (she/her) Hi folks,It was a joy to chat with Allegra Chapman (she/her) at the end of last year. It's taken me a little while to get this one out but it's great timing as her new book is OPEN for pre-sale orders - yay!Ai Episode Summary – Sparkle on Substack feat. Allegra ChapmanIn this episode, host Claire Venus chats with Allegra Chapman — writer, neurodivergent advocate, and author of Creativity is Your Self-Care — about the intersection of creativity, wellbeing, and gentle activism.Allegra shares how her Substack, Your Creative Fix, was born from a deep belief that creativity is innate to all humans, but has been systematically squeezed out by a capitalist, productivity-obsessed society. She argues that making art — whether writing poems, knitting, or painting — is actually a radical act in a world that prefers passive consumers over active creators.As an autistic, ADHD, bisexual woman living with a disability, Allegra speaks passionately about the importance of amplifying silenced voices. She reflects on how storytelling builds empathy across divides, and why platforms like Substack are such a powerful tool for exactly that.The conversation also touches on how damaging early creative wounds can be — Allegra shares how a cruel art teacher at age eight shut her off from painting for 30 years — and how her membership space is deliberately designed to be low-demand, neurodivergent-friendly, and accessible for people with limited energy or time.Both Claire and Allegra close the episode with a hopeful note: that even small acts of creation ripple outward, and that in a noisy, overwhelming world, choosing to create rather than consume is one of the most powerful things any of us can do. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

“The main work to do in life and in the online world is nervous system work.” Thank you Eva Lydon

Welcome BACK to a brand new season of Sparkle on Substack the podcast. I am delighted to have another 12 BEAUTIFUL conversations on voice, community and Substack sparkle for you!This one is with my online pal Nicola Washington who is a BRILLIANT member of Sparkle on Substack - brand new Substack bestseller and IG expert for authors looking to connect rather than broadcast and shout. I hope you enjoy it and do feel free to leave a comment or even better a 5star review on Apple or Spotify. BioHi, I'm Nicola.I live in South London with my husband, two children and dog, although Stoke-on-Trent, where I grew up will always be ‘home'.I became a Social Media Manager in 2017 after a twelve-year-long career as a secondary-school English teacher. I retrained, set up shop, and started to work with small business clients, helping them get noticed online.After 7 years of working with small businesses, in 2023, I took the decision to start supporting writers, authors and other word-lovers with your use of Instagram to find more readers. By doing so, I get to combine my professional expertise and experience, with my first loves of books and writing.I've been an avid reader since I was a child and I've been working on my own fiction projects since 2020. I'm currently querying agents and ‘enjoying' the roller-coaster of that experience.I know that for many writers, Instagram can sometimes feel ‘Too Much'. I'm making it my mission to tackle the overwhelm and anxiety many of you feel so you can make the most of the opportunities Instagram offers, without it feeling horrible or burning out.Nicola Online IG - https://www.instagram.com/toomuch_social Website - https://www.toomuchsocial.com/Substack AI Overview - Thanks Claude A podcast interview from “Sparkle on Substack” hosted by Claire Venus, featuring Nicola Washington, an Instagram educator and strategist who specializes in helping writers and authors build their presence on social media. The conversation explores how authors can navigate Instagram authentically, connect with readers, and market their books in ways that feel genuine rather than overwhelming.The discussion covers the challenges writers face with social media, particularly around authenticity and introversion, and offers practical strategies for building meaningful connections rather than chasing follower counts. Key QuotesOn the challenges of Instagram:“It is so noisy and so overwhelming now. And then on top of that, a lot of writers and authors are quite introverted people. So they're sort of thinking, how can I do this?”On authenticity:“The work I do helps people overcome a lot of those obstacles and barriers in a way that feels authentic to them. That's the fundamental that underpins basically everything I do is that it has to feel like you.”On the

Thank you to JP Watson at The Pound Project and to you all for coming along live to hear us chat. If you do have questions for the The Pound Project team, do post them in the comments and JP might get chance to answer a couple.Learn more - https://www.poundproject.co.uk/And MOST importantly - buy Amie McNee's book for three weeks only!!LOOK at this beautiful graphic recording of our chat… thank you so so much Cara Holland ✨Ai Summary - thanks Claude… This is an interview between Claire Venus (engagement consultant and Substack expert) and JP, founder of Pound Project Publishing. JP shares the origin story and business model of his independent publishing house. Key Business Model:* Uses crowdfunding as the primary publishing mechanism* Creates affordable, small-format, beautifully designed books* Minimal upfront investment required from authors* Community-driven support systemOrigin Story: The Pound Project emerged from three motivations: disillusionment with traditional creative industries, the rise of crowdfunding as a viable business model, and a desire to create something sustainable and democratic. JP started by writing and self-publishing his own book, which became the template for the publishing house.Recent Development: JP discusses launching “Tear and Share” - a new initiative supporting artists through gift card-style prints, created in response to declining Instagram reach for visual artists.Key QuotesOn community support: “The creative community amongst writers and artists can be so supportive. If you're willing to ask. And I think that intertwines with that point I'm saying about having a belief in yourself.”On business advice: “Make sure everything is really hot and professional and there's a website and there's a presence before you bring it to market.”On the payment model: “We're giving 50% net profits on any sale post print to the person. So the person actually recoups what they've put in because they're getting 50% of anything they sell.”On Instagram's impact on artists: “I'm like apoplectic about what's happened with social media reach and photography and illustration and art... I don't think I can think of an example of a business biting the hand that has fed them more than what's happened with Instagram.”On Amie McNee new book: “The first book is essentially a manifesto about believing in creativity... kicking off and railing about how we've all been brainwashed into believing that work is what it is. And then the second bit... is actually advice on how to have self-belief, how to build a sustainable community of people who want to support you.” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

I loved chatting with Nikko Kennedy as part of the January Joy(ful) Growth Club with Russell and Claire . You can go deeper on this topic with her inside our workshop and get the replay. Thurs 5 Feb at 4pm.Become a monthly or annual paid member to join us and get the replay.Ai summary, thanks ClaudeThis is a transcript of a live conversation between Claire Venus (an engagement consultant and Substack expert) and Nico from “Brighter Days, Darker Nights” about circadian rhythms and managing screen time for online entrepreneurs.Key topics discussed:* The challenges of balancing screen time with health when your income depends on being online* How modern work has shifted from occasional office computer use to constant digital engagement (phones, laptops, social media)* The biological impacts of light exposure on circadian rhythms and overall health* Practical strategies for maintaining healthy relationships with technology while building an online businessMain insights from Nikko:* Light exposure (both natural and artificial) significantly impacts our health and well-being* Working online creates unique challenges because screen time is tied to income, not just entertainment* The stress and biological impacts of constant digital work are real and need addressing* There are evidence-based strategies for getting vitamin D and managing light exposure without harm* Apps and tools can actually help track healthy sun exposureClaire's perspective:* The overwhelm of sudden online success and the nervous system impact* The importance of finding your unique “audience alchemy” rather than chasing every trend* The need to tune out noise and focus on meaningful creative work* Balancing ambition with self-care and sustainable practicesThey announced an upcoming workshop on this topic through Sparkle on Substack, diving deeper into specific strategies for managing screen time and circadian health for online business owners. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

AI Summary - thanks ClaudeThis is a live chat conversation between Claire Venus ✨ and Claire Powell as part of January Joy(ful) Growth Club with Russell and Claire The conversation focuses on finding joy online, particularly on Substack while streaming live, and discusses personal and professional growth.Key Topics Discussed:* Finding joy in January's gray weather through connection and conversation* The pressure and expectations that come with January as a “clean slate”* Challenges of self-employment (tax returns, financial pressures)* Claire's (guest) car breaking down on the way to the call* Substack growth strategies and engagement* Illustration work and collaboration opportunities* Anti-AI art sentiment and the value of hand-drawn work* Product ideas including notebooks with illustrationsNotable QuotesOn finding joy:* “My style of joy is almost turning things that in the moment don't feel very joyful into we just need to laugh at this.”On January's challenges:* “I think January can be a bit of a an isolating time because everyone's trying to get back into the rhythm of things um intentions are high expectations are high we're all trying to be better people”On connection:* “I think it makes it feel slightly less bleep even if you just call someone up and i'm like this is rough and they're like yeah tell me about it i instantly feel not alone”On the car incident:* “as I was thinking this, steam started rising from the bonnet of my car” ... “All we can do is laugh about that, really.”On Substack vs Instagram:* “It's not as saturated as Instagram... Like Instagram has become a bit of an echo chamber... you look at one picture of a chicken and then all of a sudden all you're seeing is chickens”On illustration quality:* “there is a quality to hand-drawn, hand-painted work, especially work that is commissioned specifically for somebody's words” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Debbie Weil, Practical Astros ⚕️, Club Trader Joe's, Mary Beth Kaplan

“I am a person who believes really strongly that like there is no scarcity in creativity. The more I create the more I can create. The more I write the more I will write. So I'm not worried about like oh god I'm gonna run out of ideas. It's never happened.” Alix Klingenberg Thank you Mary Beth Kaplan

“I've created a new email for myself - just for Substack - it's a game changer.” Eleanor Tweddell Hi folks,Welcome to another brilliant episode of Sparkle on Substack. This week I'm chatting with Eleanor Tweddell about being on Substack long term, balancing online work, writing books and a corporate career. Eleanor describes herself as a coach and cheerleader when you are starting something new.About Eleanor Corporate escapee – After 23 years working for brilliant brands including Costa Coffee, Whitbread, RAC, Virgin Atlantic and Vodafone I now enjoy my portfolio career. I still love working with corporate clients, and enjoy the challenge of how organisations evolve and transform.Founder – Another Door supports people in the space in-between a door closing and the next door opening, so that you know how to own what happens next. We also support businesses to handle redundancy well with mindset centred outplacement programmes.Author –Why losing your job… started as scribbles in a notebook, then a blog, then a podcast then a book. I got a book deal with Penguin in 2019, so now I spread the message to everyone who needs it! Next book coming out in September 2025 - Another Door opens.www.eleanortweddell.comwww.anotherdoor.co.ukConnect with Eleanor Tweddell on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-tweddell/ Eleanor's books * Why Loosing your Job could be the best thing that ever happens to you. * Another Door Opens Other things we mention…* My 2025 book - Invisible Trust - the hidden rules of influence and reciprocity online. * The Sparkle Summit - now called January Joy(ful) Growth Club with Russell and Claire * Lily Allen - West End Girl - Ai Summary - thanks ClaudePodcast Summary: Sparkle on Substack with Claire Venus & EleanorThis episode features a conversation between Claire Venus and Eleanor, both writers who started their Substack journeys in 2022.Key Discussion Points:Background & Platform Evolution* Both transitioned from WordPress (dealing with broken sites, unwanted ads, technical issues) to Substack's simpler, more spacious platform* Eleanor runs multiple Substacks but focuses mainly on “Another Door,” which explores navigating change and life transitionsWriting Practice & Balance* Eleanor balances corporate communications work by day with creative writing by night* Both speakers emphasize the importance of boundaries and knowing when to step back from publishing* Eleanor stopped writing on Substack while working on her book to create necessary spaceBooks & Publishing* Eleanor's first book focused specifically on redundancy: “Why Losing Your Job Could Be the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You”* Her second book, “Another Door Opens” (published September), takes a broader approach to navigating change with five steps* She used Substack to test concepts, gauge reader interest, and refine ideas before finalizing booksAudience Insights* Eleanor noticed her redundancy-focused audience was highly engaged but transient—people joined intensely during their job loss period, then left once they moved on* She shifted to writing about broader change topics to build a more stable, long-term readership* Reader feedback on Substack (like comments about “pause being a privilege”) directly shaped her book contentReading & Consumption Habits* Both hosts discussed feeling overwhelmed by subscriptions and the need for intentional curation* Claire deletes the Substack app on weekends and now primarily wants to read books rather than newsletters* Eleanor created a separate email specifically for Substack/blog subscriptions to avoid overwhelm* They emphasized seeking diverse perspectives rather than only reading within their own nicheLooking Ahead to 2026* Eleanor plans an “experimental year” rather than rigid goals* Focus on energy, curiosity, and creative exploration* Possible self-publishing for future books* Emphasis on flexibility given rapid changes (especially AI) in the landscapeKey Philosophy Both writers stress the importance of creative practice over obligation, giving yourself permission to pause, and remembering that readers understand when life happens. The conversation champions authenticity over consistency for its own sake. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

“The Swedish term lagom (pronounced roughly as 'lah-gom') is a word and cultural concept that roughly translates to "just the right amount" or "not too much, not too little". It has no single direct English translation but encapsulates the Swedish principle of balance, moderation, and sufficiency in all aspects of life.” “Those I've followed for 10 years are those that allowed themselves to evolve and experiment. People follow the energy and excitement, not the sameness.” Subscribe to Elin here… Ai summary - thanks ClaudeJoyful Growth: A Conversation with ElinOverviewClaire and Elin discuss maintaining joy and authenticity as creators across a decade of building online businesses, part of the January Joy(ful) Growth Club with Russell and Claire Key ThemesThe Reality of Creative Work* Not always joyful: Elin emphasizes that building a creative business online hasn't been joyful every single day* Cycles are natural: Both creators experience periods of high creative output followed by quieter, more difficult phases* Return to basics: When overwhelmed, the solution is always returning to the art itself—creating for the joy of itThe Journey* Elin started in 2016 on Instagram with hand embroidery, experiencing rapid viral growth* Built across multiple platforms gradually: Instagram first, then Pinterest, then YouTube* Started writing on Substack two years ago as a way to reconnect with creative joy* Has been running some form of subscription for eight yearsManaging Growth and Expectations* Cultural conditioning: Elin discusses Swedish “lagom” culture (don't be too much, be steady) and how it influenced her approach* The hamster wheel trap: Easy to replicate the same patterns you're trying to escape when monetizing passion* Outsourcing excellence: Never give control of your creative practice to external rules—whether business coaches, algorithms, or platform requirementsPivots and Transitions* Ellen launched a second Substack (art magazine) while guilt-ridden about leaving Instagram* Faced challenges when moving existing email subscribers to Substack* Currently in another transition phase, rebranding and moving away from subscriptions* Recognizes different business models serve different life seasonsKey InsightsOn Authenticity: “I deeply struggle with performance. The way I keep going is by committing to being transparent about it as a way to kill the shame.”On Starting: “Move your ass and your mind will follow” - you can't think your way out of creative blocks; you must physically createOn Qualifications: “Nobody can target me for not being an expert at my own experience because literally that's what I lived.”On Platform Relationships:* Think of platforms as marriages—there will be honeymoon periods and difficult seasons* Building on borrowed land has trade-offs, but can still be valuable* The key is maintaining your own creative center regardless of platform changesPractical Wisdom* Create one thing daily (stitch away keeps the doctor away)* Add platforms gradually, not all at once* Keep non-monetized creative practices alongside business* Self-care checklist: When wanting to quit, check—are you tired? Hungry? Need a walk?* Use triggers as mirrors: When feeling envious or frustrated online, examine what it reveals about your own needs* Create before you consume: Protect your creative energy from comparison and distraction* You only need one reason to start: “I want to” is enoughOn Subscriptions and Sustainability* Subscriptions can provide stability during intense life seasons (young children, house moves, life pivots)* They serve as an anchor to keep creating during difficult times* Different business models suit different life phases* It's okay to pivot when something no longer serves youFinal Message* The only constant is change* Never outsource your excellence to external validation* Vulnerability is part of our humanity, not a weakness* Joy comes from the art itself, and growth follows as a byproduct* “Evolve or die”—not physical death, but the death of living asleep to your creative potential - Claire attributes to Ana Forest - her yoga teacher - the concept of evolving to stay awake. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Mary Beth Kaplan

“If women remember that once upon a time we sang with the tongues of seals and flew with the wings of swans, that we forged our own paths through the dark forest while creating a community of its many inhabitants, then we will rise up rooted, like trees.”from IF WOMEN ROSE ROOTED, by Sharon Blackie (2016)Hi Folks,I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and today brings peace and relaxation. I am delighted to bring you a podcast episode with Dr Sharon Blackie.I met Sharon at Alnwick Story Fest (tickets for next year here) and it was a true delight to hear her speak on stage. Her work commands attention of women (and men) all over the world brings us home to story and the importance of archetypes in society.We talk about the writing life, Substack, Substack notes, managing a large community and boundaries. I hope you enjoy! “Stories are the stars we navigate by; their lessons are deep and rich. Anywhere, there may be a door to another world: learn to look for it. Always leave a trail of breadcrumbs to find your way out of the dark wood. Don't maim yourself trying to fit into the glass slipper which was made for someone else. Gold is never a good goal. Never take your skin off and leave it unattended.”✨Dr. Sharon Blackie is an award-winning and internationally bestselling author, a former neuroscientist and a psychologist with a background in mythology and folklore. Her highly acclaimed books, lectures and teaching programs are focused on the mythic imagination, and the relevance of myth and folklore to the personal, spiritual, cultural and environmental issues we face today.Sharon is best known for her groundbreaking work in reimagining women's stories. As well as writing seven books of fiction and nonfiction, including the bestselling classic If Women Rose Rooted, her writing has appeared in anthologies, collections and in several international media outlets – among them the Guardian, the Irish Times, the i and the Scotsman. Her books have been translated into several languages. She has featured in several programs from the BBC, US public radio and independent filmmakers. Her awards include the Society of Authors' Roger Deakin Award and a Creative Scotland Writer's Award. Her next book, Ripening: Why Women Need Fairy Tales Now, will be published by September at Duckworth Books in May 2026.Sharon's books about women in British, Irish and European myth and folkloreIf Women Rose Rooted. September (2016)Foxfire, Wolfskin and other stories of shapeshifting women. September (2019)Hagitude: Reimagining the Second Half of Life. September (2022)Wise Women: Myths and Stories for Midlife and Beyond. Virago (2024)Ripening: Why Women Need Fairy Tales Now. Forthcoming from September/ Duckworth in May 2026.If you're new to Sharon's work - this is a great place to start…https://sharonblackie.substack.com/p/reclaiming-womens-stories Ai SummaryPodcast Summary: Sharon Blackie on Writing and SubstackThis is a conversation between Claire Venus (host of “Sparkle on Substack”) and Sharon Blackie, a psychologist and writer who specializes in mythology, folklore, and women's stories.Key Points About Sharon's WorkBackground & Writing Focus:* Psychologist with academic background in folklore and mythology* Published first novel in 2008; seventh book “Ripening: Why Women Need Fairy Tales Now” coming May 2026* Explores women's stories from British and Irish traditions, showing how ancient tales help navigate modern challenges* First in her family to attend university, from working-class background in HartlepoolJourney to Writing:* Didn't write her first novel until age 40* Transformative experience: learned to fly at late 30s to overcome fear, which gave her the story she needed to tell* Emphasizes writing must come from genuine necessity, not just wanting to be “a writer”Substack ExperiencePlatform Evolution (joined May 2022):* Migrated from blogging (which felt unrewarding) when Substack offered better discoverability* Brought 20,000-subscriber mailing list; now has 57,000+ free subscribers and 1,000+ paid* Initially loved Notes for connecting with other writers, but feels it's become too social-media-like* Values Substack primarily as a showcase for quality writing rather than community-buildingApproach & Boundaries:* Writes weekly for paid subscribers (£70/year)* Runs monthly Zoom gatherings to discuss stories* Doesn't use Chat feature—hasn't worked for her community* Has friend handle simple admin queries for protection* Clear boundaries: engages fully when invited (comments, Zooms) but doesn't respond to personal emails requesting adviceWriting Practice:* Wakes at 4:15 AM; only writes in mornings* Takes about a year to write a book, often cramming in final six months* Finds Substack articles easier than book-writing—2,000 coherent words vs. 80,000* Varies content: sometimes essays, sometimes just sharing thoughts and questionsAdvice for Writers* Build a body of work first before promoting heavily—have quality content ready when people discover you* Write from passion and necessity, not market trends* Listen to your body about boundaries—protect yourself from overwhelm* Focus on what you uniquely offer rather than finding completely new topics* Be proud of your background—Sharon now celebrates her working-class roots after years of masking themThe conversation emphasizes sustainable creative practice, the importance of boundaries, and writing from genuine passion rather than external pressure. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome back to the podcast folks. I've got a new season of exciting episodes with wonderful guests to release next year but I thought I'd ping this one out in time for your ‘driving home for Christmas' listening. My goal was to hit 100k downloads this year on the podcast and I'm at 84k - I'm celebrating that and leaning into the reflections in my Goodbye 2025/ Hello 2026 journal from the wonderful Selina Barker I hope you have a GORGEOUS holiday whatever you are up to and there's a pressie for you under the tree. Sending all sparkles.Claire ✨LinksJoin Sparkle on Substack on a 14day free trialAudience Alchemy - Join us - https://www.creativelyconscious.co.uk/audience-alchemy-the-live-courseDownload Invisible Trust - my new book - https://www.creativelyconscious.co.uk/invisible-trustJoin 12 Chapters Club and write your book with us for free in 2026 - https://www.creativelyconscious.co.uk/12-chapters-clubJoin my month long January Joyful Growth Challenge; co-hosted with Russell Nohelty - AI SummaryThis is Claire Venus's end-of-year reflection on her Substack journey in 2025 and running an online business. Key themes:Nervous system and safety: Claire discusses how her entire career was built on trauma responses from working in the unstable cultural/festival sector. She realized she was constantly in fight-or-flight mode, which carried into her online work. This year focused on understanding when she feels safe versus when she's pushing from fear.Stepping back from visibility: After launching her Substack book in summer 2024, Claire experienced negativity and didn't feel safe showing up. She intentionally made herself “smaller” - focusing on depth of connection with existing members rather than growth and visibility. When others became prominent Substack educators, she chose to work quietly with her membership community.Letting go of growth pressure: When her subscriber numbers started declining, instead of pushing harder, she asked “what if I just didn't do more?” This led to accepting she was enough without constant growth, posting less frequently (once weekly), and prioritizing genuine connection over metrics.Business maturation: She hit six figures, set up a proper limited company and business bank account, built a garden studio, and learned to hold larger amounts of money responsibly balancing business investments and ambition with passion for life.Future direction: 2026 will focus on collaboration and community. She's launching “Audience Alchemy” (about repurposing long-form content and building legacy) and continuing her commitment to write a book annually for 10 years (now in year 6).Her core message: Know what you're truly here to do before worrying about strategy, and build from a place of safety rather than fear. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Hi Sparklers!!This was such a fascinating chat. Amy went from LA based Yoga Teacher to a 7 Figure Founder / Writer with a journey of curiosity in-between. I asked her about her new book - Write for Money and Power and building a 6 figure Substack here on Substack. We dig into income streams and online happiness, diversity of work and fulfilling community work. Thank you Janine De Tillio Cammarata

Thank you Mary Beth Kaplan

So sorry we couldn't get Java's video to work - I think this was still a really great chat on permission and paywalls. Remember - you have permission to ‘do Substack' your way and lean in and listen to what you really want here. You can subscribe to Java and read her article here… Thank you Charles diététicien, Java Ceridwen Bere, Betina Cunado, Vicki Lesley, Amy I Beeson

Thank you The Artist's Toolbox, Daria Diaz, Sarah Raad, Annelise Riles, Jo Thomas

My annual gratitude sale is ON - you have until 1st December to check it out.If you missed my Soulful Sales Challenge you still have time…Check it out here…Thank you Jo Thomas

Hi folks,I'm excited to bring you this conversation with Destini Copp. Hasn't she got the most wonderful accent? Destini and I connected because she wrote a killer headline in her email newsletter. I reached out and asked if she fancied coming on my podcast. At the time of recording Destini was fairly new to Substack.She's an expert in newsletters and runs the Newsletter Profit Club which I've been in for a while. In her own words… Hi, I'm Destini - a certified business growth coach, marketing professor, and host of the Creator's MBA Podcast. I help digital product entrepreneurs go beyond funnels and build rinse-and-repeat growth flywheels (with a little AI magic) so sales feel consistent, not stressful.Over the years I've:* Taught 12,000+ students through online courses and programs* Built multiple digital product brands (including my B2C brand, HobbyScool)* Shared my expertise on 50+ top industry podcasts and eventsAt the heart of it all, my mission is simple: to help you scale a business that gives you freedom, flexibility, and predictable revenue — without burning out.Connect on LinkedIn ». https://www.destinicopp.com https://www.instagram.com/destinicopp/Podcast - The Creator's MBA AI summaryClaire sits down with Destiny, an online educator and newsletter powerhouse who has just launched The $1 Million Hobby School Experiment — a bold public journey to grow and potentially sell her B2C brand, Hobby School, for £1M by 2027. Every twist and behind-the-scenes moment is being published inside her new paid Substack.Destiny brings serious depth to the conversation:* She's taught marketing online since 2005.* She runs Creators MBA, helping thousands build and sell digital products.* Her B2C brand Hobby School has 40,000+ subscribers — grown almost entirely through collaborations, not social media.* She operates complex email systems, funnels, and a weekly newsletter outside of Substack.She joined Substack for two reasons: her audience kept asking, and she needed the perfect home to document this high-stakes, build-and-sell experiment. Substack's long-form, story-driven nature made it the obvious choice.Claire lifts the curtain on how Substack really works — the mix of newsletters, social discovery, and Notes. Notes, she explains, rewards honesty, personality, and storytelling far more than promotional posts. The magic is that Notes activity naturally draws readers into the main publication, where the deeper connection happens.Claire offers Destiny practical, strategic pointers:* Use a clear publication name that situates the reader instantly.* Add pinned posts, helpful site navigation, and hero posts to welcome newcomers.* Keep everything under one publication for momentum and clarity.* Pair Substack with existing email systems — they strengthen each other.They dive into the power of discovery without traditional social media. Destiny has barely touched Instagram or TikTok, so Substack may become her first true social platform — one built for readers, community, and narrative rather than noise.Together they explore:* Storytelling as the engine of growth.* Why people connect more deeply to humans than faceless brands on Substack.* The pleasure of reading in the Substack app.* How Claire has grown her own thriving community through Notes, meetups, and thoughtful collaborations — not virality.* How even major brands are beginning to use Substack for storytelling.Claire finishes by screen-sharing Destiny's Substack, offering branding tweaks, and planning a future check-in as the experiment unfolds. Destiny also invites Claire to teach inside Creators MBA. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

It was wonderful to catch up with Selina Barker ahead of the arrival of my new journal which happened live on camera! Do connect in with her if you'd like to purchase them for you and/ or friends this winter.I have a list of freebies too including my Substack planner. You can download it here… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Milli Hill, Louise Tilbrook, Alyssa Polizzi, The Artist's Toolbox, Daria Diaz, and many others for tuning into my live video with Nirja Joshi! Here's the very last call for the course and programme I run for business owners who use Substack! Join us for The Business of your Substack. If you want to head into 2026 feeling more savvy about how Substack fits with a sustainable eco-system, this is the course you need. I bring my three years of experience here (successes and mistakes) and we work on the strategy that works for you for Substack WITH your business. Doors close 13th November. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Download my FREE Audience Alchemy class and kindle your understanding of your audience and your relationship to them. ⚡️Hi folks,I recorded this episode for you to bring you into my inner world when it comes to publishing here. You can listen or watch over on my YouTube channel.

Thank you Louise Tilbrook, Kathy Slack, Practical Astros ⚕️, Jennifer Zarin, LCAT, Nicole Clark, and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.Here's the challenge I reference which is live right now. All welcome and FREE to members. ✨ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Chitra

My FREE audience alchemy class that helps you discover your ideal reader and get more confident about where your writing meets them is here. Thank you Alyssa Polizzi, The Artist's Toolbox, Daria Diaz, daphne cohn, Liisa Kovala, and many others for tuning into my live video with Substack Strategist Sarah Fay, PhD.I hope you found it insightful.I love Sarah's frameworks and grounded advice. There's not one thing she doesn't know about how to get the most from this platform whilst keeping your integrity. If you have a specific question about your Substack publication in 2026, drop them below in the comments and we'll get to them next time.Claire (and Sarah) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Katie Chappell, Alyssa Polizzi, The Artist's Toolbox, Daria Diaz, New Harmony Homeopath, and many others for tuning into my live video with Russell Nohelty! If you want more of Russell Nohelty and I, you can buy our Secrets of Substack Bestseller's Masterclass. Two hours of the deep dive strategy that got us and our clients to be Substack bestsellers with 100s of paid subscribers.This class is free to my

Thank you Georgina Dean, Annette Skye, Angela Limb, Catherine Davison, Beth Bastow, and many others for tuning into my live video with Claire Tomkins! Join me for my next live video in the app.You can subscribe to Claire Tomkins here…My free Audience Alchemy class is here if you want to get to know your audience better. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

“Claire is the QUEEN of Substack” Selina Barker ☃️ Oooo while I'm here there are a few spots left to advertise with me in my two holiday editions of this newsletter this festive season (in December). If you have a product, a book or would like to advertise your newsletter, grab one for just £30.

Hi loves,Welcome back to another episode of Sparkle on Substack the podcast with me Claire Venus ✨ This episode is with artist and motorhome enthusiast Jo Scott who is a ‘graduate' of the Sparkle on Substack membership. Jo writes her ‘Travelling Artist' substack newsletter from all over the world on her travels with her husband. I hope you enjoy and do go and check out Jo's work and interviews with other artists - it's really fun and friendly over there!! I was really captivated by Jo's wisdom and holistic approach to ‘being' and earning online and think you will be too.https://www.instagram.com/joscottartist https://www.joscottart.com/pages/wwj This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.Join us here if you haven't already - This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Mary Beth Kaplan

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome back to Sparkle on Substack the podcast with me Claire Venus ✨ - I'm DELIGHTED you are here.You can listen to the back catalogue of episodes and join tens of thousands of listeners over on spotify or apple podcasts. Make sure to follow, subscribe and leave me a 5⭐️ review so others can find the podcast and meet all my beautiful guests. Creatives who like to write are my FAVOURITE people. If you'd like to join me on a future episode, you can pitch to do that in 2026 by becoming a paid member and filling in the google form. This episode is a fascinating listen with one of my members Vicki Lesley who spent 10 years making an epic documentary film. She loves Substack and I can't wait for you to hear her share more…Watch and comment over on my YouTube channel… Thanks for being here,Sending sparkles for your day ahead,Claire ✨ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome if you're new here. Hi. I'm Claire. I'm an Engagement Consultant, Mentor and Substack Expert. I'm on hols for August so this is a pre-recorded and scheduled post. Members - remember our chat is closed until 1st September. Hi loves,This is probably my most favourite spark I've recorded for you.Hope you love it. Let me know what it sparks for you? See you in the comments if you try it.Claire ✨P.S - Here's my other publication which is focussed on whole hearted living, creativity and self seeding our businesses to GROW if you want to check out the archives…And don't forget we are meeting for a visibility challenge in September over here… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you RAJ KAUR, Sara Stansberry, Annelise Riles, Kerry Graham, Nicole Clark, and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you JP Clark, RAJ KAUR, Susan Telford, Dan Ehrenkrantz, The Bathrobe Guy

Thank you Suzy Walker, RAJ KAUR, Vicki Lesley, Louise Morris, Nicole Clark, and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.More of this in my members live call and replay on Thurs… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Hey folks,It's been a beautiful couple of years of wild collabs with Russell and I wanted to re-connect as we celebrate the first anniversary of our Substack book.Thank you Louise Tilbrook ✨, Marie-Elizabeth Mali, Dan Ehrenkrantz, Betty Williams, Annette Gendler, and many others for tuning into my live video with Russell Nohelty! Do subscribe to Russell Nohelty over at The Author Stack and follow along with his amazing publishing and writerly support journey.REMINDER - you can still buy our book How to Build a World Class Substack in ebook or paperback where ever you buy your books.Here is a link for Blackwells. Join me for my next live video in the app and make sure you stay subscribed to my notified of all the good stuff. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

“There's so much to learn in the speaking out of words. You see where people laugh, where they feel things close. It's affirming — especially for people who feel like they're not ‘real' writers yet.Everybody says, ‘I'm really scared before I read,' but most people find it transformational.”Amy I Beeson

Thank you Janine De Tillio Cammarata

This week's spark is an invitation to share the impact water might have had on your creativity.I'd love to hear more from you in the comments?Claire This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Christina Patterson, Michelle Corbesier, Lulu Trevena, Amber Horrox, Louise Tilbrook ✨, and many others for tuning into our live video with Evelien | Rainbow Black

Hi folks,Happy Monday. This short message comes from the part of me that wants us all to take MORE permission on the pauses, the retreats, to gift ourselves the POWER of downtime.Hope you enjoy.Find resources on burn out over at Selina Barker and Anna Rose substack publications.Last chance to grab the VERY last seat on my mini mind.Here are the details,Sending sparkles,Claire This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Hey folks, Welcome back! I'm super excited to share this episode with you today! I'm going to keep this short and sweet and let Anna's words speak for themselves.Hope you enjoy!Claire Thanks so much to Anna for guesting with me and for taking my course - Adventures in Audio and Video on Substack - Perfectly, Imperfect Podcasting. It's a lovely one to take as a self guided course over summer if you fancy? Anna's podcasthttps://theburnoutrebellion.substack.com/t/the-burnout-rebellion-podcast This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you The Artist's Toolbox, Jennifer Ann Blair, Kathryn Koromilas, Emily Wingert, Emma Warren, and many others for tuning into my live video with Megan Moran! Join me for my next live video in the app.Head over to Megan Moran to read more about her wonderful process. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Popping this here for those of you who are curious of my opinion on the ‘buy me a coffee' buttons here on Substack.Is it a trend? A bridge to confidence as a paid writer or a long term strategy to diversify writing income?Seth Werkheiser and I talk it out..Also cute abundance story… When I was in New Orleans a lady wrote me a poem on a typewriter for $11. It cost $11 because that's all I had in my purse. If I'd had $100 she could have had that. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Jo Hutton, Sarah Sadie, Seth Werkheiser, Laura Zug, Mika ,David Venus, Katie Kastner, Megan Auman, and many others for tuning into my live video inspired by this note.Join my month long mini-mind to get crystal clear on how your Substack fits with your business and content eco-system, your long term goals and your vision once and for all. More here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sparkleon.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sparkleon.substack.comMy month long small group mini mind for business owners is on early bird sale until 1st June. I'd LOVE for you to join us. Here's the link to read more with £60 off early bird discount applied. Find out why matches are so important in the analogy of us being business owners who also write on Substack and why I don't shoot for 1001 paid subs here but still run a thriving business. Hi Sparklers,Something a little different for you today. An invitation in two halves to spend some time exploring the themes of self worth, creativity and scarcity and how they show up in our work.I invited mindset coach Sarah Raad to join me to host and the previously advertised live Sparkle call has moved to July. You can find the list of our live calls inside of the live calls tab and sign up for reminders and the links for the ones that take your fancy.Here are the accompanying PDF for part one/ two of journalling prompts inside of class. Would love for you to take the class and feed back any ‘aha' moments or sparkles that come your way.Sending sparkles to you for your wonderful work in the world,Claire ✨ P.S - if you don't have time for a class this week, bookmark for later or when you're feeling imposter syndrome and/ or a bit stuck. Need something lighter? Come chat in our Notes engagement chat thread instead?