This post is preserved for archival purposes.
A revised version of the subscription guide is available here →
(link to the updated FAQ or Orientation page, once published)
The questions here — and the answers — are as much for me as they are for you.
1. What do I get as a free subscriber?
As a free subscriber, you’ll receive announcements and updates, plus occasional public posts — including excerpts, previews, and selected stories — from all the pen names as they release.
You also have the option to claim the Founding Member rate at 76% off (subject to change after January 31, 2026). See Choose Your Entry for details on all pathways.)
2. What do I get as a paid subscriber?
As a paid subscriber, you’ll receive everything free subscribers get, plus:
Subscriber-only fiction and nonfiction, in text and audio formats
Exclusive works-in-progress, private experiments, and drafts not shared anywhere else
Behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creative process as it unfolds
Early access to select finished stories before they go public
Community chats
Founding member rate at 76% off (subject to change after January 31, 2026. See Choose Your Entry for details on all pathways.)
3. What do I get as a Studio Circle member?
As a Studio Circle subscriber, you’ll receive everything paid subscribers get, plus:
Alternate versions of select pieces
Beta Reader invitations
Occasional PDFs or prints
Influence polls on what’s unfolding
Studio Chat — for those who lean closer to help shape what’s next
4. If I start with an Open Door Trial, what happens after it ends?
The Open Door Trial gives you full paid access for a specified period (e.g., 180 days, 90 days, 30 days). At the end of the trial, your subscription automatically converts to paid at the current rate, unless you cancel before then. The platform handles this conversion directly.
5. Can I upgrade, downgrade, or cancel anytime?
Yes — you can manage your subscription anytime through your Substack account settings. The platform handles those directly.
6. Will you email me every post? How often do you publish?
This is something I’m still finding my rhythm with.
I know every reader has their own pace — some prefer weekly, some monthly, some occasional bursts. For now, I’m paying attention to how you respond, and letting the field find its own pace.
Some voices speak more often than others, and I hold Mabst back more often than I should. Some stories arrive fast; others take their time. And I’ve gotten pretty good at getting stuck in the Delay Loop.
I plan to post at least once a month. I hope to post more often. For now: expect irregular but intentional posts, and know that each one has a reason for being here.
7. Are audio versions of stories included for all pieces?
Some pieces will appear in both text and audio formats. Others will be text-only or audio-only. I plan to maintain a curated Listening Room Page where you can find them all — accessible from the Home Page and the Navigation Bar.
8. Do you offer refunds?
Refunds aren’t offered through the platform, but you can cancel anytime through your account settings to avoid future charges.
9. Can I gift a subscription?
Yes — you can gift a subscription directly through the platform. Look for the “Gift” option on the subscribe page.
10. Do you offer group or institutional subscriptions?
Yes — Substack offers a group subscription option. You can select it directly on the subscribe page and set the number of people you’d like to include. We offer special discounts for group subscribers, and the platform handles all payment and access details.
Thank you for stepping closer into this field. Every subscription helps these stories find their way into the world—and reminds me why they’re worth writing. Your support quietly helps this creative field grow.
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