For years, I’ve been sharing my thoughts about life, the universe, and what it means to be human on Facebook. Along the way, many of you have told me that my writing resonated with you. Some of you found it educational. Some found it entertaining. Others simply appreciated seeing the world through a perspective different from your own.
Because of your support, I eventually built enough of an audience that I could monetize my writing through Facebook. But there were two problems with that.
First, Facebook owns the platform. While the words are mine, they’re locked inside a system I don’t control. That doesn’t sit well with me because I want the freedom to repurpose my writing in the future. Maybe that means a book. Maybe it means a podcast. Maybe it’s something I haven’t even thought of yet. I don’t know where this journey will lead, but I want the flexibility to follow it wherever it goes.
Second, Facebook doesn’t pay much. I’d need millions of views to earn more than a few dollars. That’s a difficult foundation on which to build something meaningful and sustainable.
So I asked many of you whether you’d be interested in another way to follow and support my writing.
Your answer was yes.
Today, I’m excited to announce the launch of Permission to Be You, a blog and email newsletter where you can read my writing, follow along on my journey, and support me as an author.
I also want to be transparent about my intentions. I would like this project to generate income. As it grows, I’ll be experimenting with different ways to make that happen. That may include sponsorships and advertising, premium subscriber content, a podcast, live events, and other opportunities that make sense for both readers and me.
What can you expect to find here?
I’ll be writing from my perspective as a blind father, recovering software engineer, financial counselor, writer, and unapologetic nerd. One day I might write about the last meal I cooked. The next day I might explore a lesson I learned from Star Trek. I may write about relationships, disability, parenting, technology, personal growth, grief, joy, recovery, purpose, or whatever else happens to be occupying space in my mind.
No matter the topic, you’ll get a glimpse into how I experience the world.
Some essays may resonate deeply with you. Others may challenge your assumptions. Some may educate, entertain, or simply make you think. My hope is that all of them start conversations.
That’s why I’ve made it easy to participate. Just reply to any newsletter email with your thoughts. Unless you ask me not to, I’ll review your response and publish it as a comment. You may agree with me. You may disagree with me. You may even change my mind.
Whatever brings you here, I’m glad you’ve joined me.
I’m starting small and planning to evolve as I learn. That means I need your help.
Subscribe to the newsletter. Read the essays. Share your thoughts. Tell your friends about it. Encourage them to subscribe too. And when premium offerings become available, consider supporting the work by becoming a paying subscriber.
Most importantly, keep showing up.
I’m excited to see where this journey takes us.
Welcome to Permission to Be You.
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