Substack’s New Trick: Creators Can Now Make Millions from Videos

Substack presents itself as a fantastic substitute for TikTok creators who wish to establish a subscription-based video business independent of erratic algorithms. After a video is posted, you can monitor views, new subscribers, and even calculate how much money you get from sponsored sign-ups.

Substack intends to implement a preview option so that free users can see a sneak peek before choosing to pay, even though videos can currently only be fully paywalled. Additionally, they are developing editing tools and improved statistics to assist content makers in optimizing their work.

Ever since 2022, Substack has been promoting video, and it is obviously successful. Revenue growth for creators who incorporate audio and video is 2.5 times faster than for those who do not, based on the company at issue. According to Substack, 82% of the highest-paid artists as of February 2025 use audio and/or video.

This action fits into Substack’s larger strategy to draw in creators. A $20 million Creator Accelerator Fund was introduced last month to assist content creators in making the move without suffering financial losses. Additionally, all publishers now have access to livestreaming.

How It Works

Substack’s video feature allows creators to upload and share video content with their paid subscribers, just as they would with text or audio. The platform will give creators control over what content is offered for free and what requires a paid subscription. Substack’s revenue model, which takes a 10% cut from creators’ earnings, stays the same, but the flexibility to now monetize videos could significantly boost creators’ income potential.

Big Creators Already Eyeing the Platform

Some of the most influential creators on TikTok, YouTube, and other social media platforms are already considering making the leap to Substack for video monetization. Creators like Lily Singh (aka Superwoman), Sarah Cooper, and Gary Vaynerchuk, who have mastered the art of building engaged fanbases, are prime candidates for making the most of this new tool. These creators have already demonstrated their ability to convert their massive followings into loyal paying subscribers on other platforms, and now they have another opportunity to leverage their influence and content into even higher earnings.

On TikTok, creators like Charli D’Amelio and Zach King have shown how videos can turn into massive profit. Now, with Substack’s new monetization features, these big names might migrate their premium video content to the platform, offering their audience exclusive behind-the-scenes access, tutorials, or other high-value content in exchange for subscriptions. Their massive reach on social media makes them ideal candidates to take full advantage of Substack’s video capabilities, giving them yet another venue to tap into lucrative revenue streams.

Standing Out in the New Video Economy

As the competition heats up, it will become more critical for creators to distinguish themselves. While the feature itself is new, standing out on Substack’s video platform will come down to the same principles of originality, consistency, and engagement that have worked on other platforms.

Here are some tips for creators looking to make the most of Substack’s new video feature:

1. Create Exclusive Content: As with other subscription-based platforms, content exclusivity is key. Creators should offer behind-the-scenes footage, in-depth tutorials, personal stories, and other exclusive content to entice subscribers.

2. Leverage Your Existing Audience: Creators already building a presence on TikTok or Instagram can use those platforms to drive traffic to their Substack page, promoting their paid video content and offering special deals or incentives to early subscribers.

3. Collaborate with Other Creators: Collaboration can amplify growth on Substack. By partnering with fellow creators on video content, influencers can cross-promote each other’s channels and drive more subscriptions.

4. Engage Your Community: The personal touch that Substack offers with its email-based system can help creators build stronger relationships with their subscribers. Responding to comments, hosting live Q&As, or asking for input on future video ideas will help maintain a loyal following.

5. Diversify Your Income Streams: Substack’s video monetization can be used alongside other revenue streams like sponsored content, merchandise, or affiliate marketing. Creators who diversify will be able to weather fluctuations in platform changes or trends more successfully.