The author said many Substack writers are encouraged to host their content on their own websites rather than relying solely on Substack. Substack functions as a distribution platform that can amplify a personal site, but it is not a permanent digital home, according to the author. In recent years, some writers have shifted their primary presence to Substack while maintaining a linked domain. Others publish directly on Substack and ask readers to follow their Substack pages instead of visiting their websites. The author said writers who maintain an independent site and use Substack only for syndication experience greater control over their content. John Scalzi, a novelist who has blogged on his own domain for 28 years, said his website acts as his institutional memory and he uses social media to promote his posts. The article notes that platform policies can change abruptly, affecting visibility and audience reach. It recommends a POSSE approach: publish on an owned site and syndicate elsewhere via RSS or similar channels. While platforms such as Substack offer convenience and built‑in monetization, they also impose rules that may limit customization, search engine optimization, and page design. Writers who depend exclusively on a single platform risk losing audience access if the platform alters its terms. Maintaining a permanent website provides a stable foundation but may require additional effort to attract readers initially. The trade‑off involves balancing audience growth with long‑term digital autonomy. The author concludes that writers should view platforms as distribution tools rather than primary publishing venues and that an independent website remains essential for preserving content over time.