Some of the sharpest thinking in media and communications is on Substack, where seasoned practitioners are sharing real insight with refreshing clarity. This roundup highlights four standout voices offering smart analysis, thoughtful storytelling, and a distinctive point of view on the work. These are the Substacks we’re hitting subscribe on.
Bury the Lede, created by communications strategist Amanda Coffee, is a sharp look at the biggest shifts shaping the comms industry. Each edition cuts straight to what matters most — surfacing the stories, tools, and trends that influence how teams work, make decisions, and show impact. Amanda breaks down complex questions with clarity, tackling topics like which press release distributors are most LLM-friendly, which media intelligence platforms truly deliver, and how different stock exchanges support comms teams during critical moments like IPOs. Built for PR and corporate comms pros who want smart analysis without the noise, Bury the Lede offers a grounded, insider’s view into what’s changing and what it means for the work.
Lunch at Barneys, created by writer and editor Karin Eldor, is a smart, nostalgic nod to the golden age of editorial power lunches — reimagined for today’s media and founder landscape. Drawing on her decade of storytelling at Teen Vogue and Forbes, Karin shares the insights, pivots, and behind-the-scenes moments that don’t always make it into print. Each issue blends founder deep-dives, cultural commentary, and pitch-savvy takeaways with the warmth of a voice note and the polish of an editor’s letter. Intimate, thoughtful, and rooted in real experience, Lunch at Barneys offers a seat at the table for anyone who wants a clearer, more human look at what happens behind the headlines.
Founded by communications strategist Aleksandra Phelan of Phelan Strategic Consulting, The Elevate explores visibility as a long-term asset — not a flash-in-the-pan marketing moment. Through sharp essays and behind-the-scenes reflections, Aleksandra breaks down how thoughtful storytelling, earned media, and reputation-building compound over time to shape credibility, opportunity, and influence. For comms pros, founders, and brand builders, The Elevate offers a clear, refined perspective on what it truly takes to be seen — and remembered.
Café Café, created by brand marketer Arielle Tylim, is a beautifully curated blend of fashion, aesthetics, and cultural storytelling. Rooted in her deep appreciation for craftsmanship, Arielle spotlights the artistry behind what we wear and the creative ecosystems that define modern style. Each edition weaves together fashion insights, design inspiration, and thoughtful reflections on creative identity — offering a perspective that sits at the intersection of luxury, culture, and brand expression. For anyone working in or adjacent to fashion, lifestyle, or storytelling-driven marketing, Café Café is a refreshing, art-forward read that celebrates the details and the people who bring them to life.
