StampFans (2025)

27/08/2024

In the late 1960s, as the counterculture movement was taking shape, a unique and influential publication emerged that would become a touchstone for a generation.

The "Whole Earth Catalog," first published in 1968 by Stewart Brand, was more than just a catalog—it was a newsletter and guidebook for those seeking to live a more sustainable, self-sufficient, and intentional life.

Published regularly as a mail-order newsletter, the Whole Earth Catalog offered reviews and recommendations on tools, books, and resources that supported a lifestyle of independence and ecological harmony. Its slogan, “Access to Tools,” reflected its mission to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they needed to create a better world.

What set the Whole Earth Catalog apart was its blend of practical advice, philosophical musings, and a deep commitment to environmentalism. It wasn’t just a product catalog; it was a curated collection of ideas that inspired readers to think differently about the world and their place in it.

The newsletter became an essential resource for the growing back-to-the-land movement, influencing everyone from environmental activists to tech innovators like Steve Jobs, who once called it “Google in paperback form.” The Whole Earth Catalog's impact was profound, encouraging readers to take control of their own lives and to approach problems with creativity and a sense of responsibility to the Earth.

Though it ceased regular publication in the 1970s, the legacy of the Whole Earth Catalog lives on, reminding us of the power of a newsletter to shape culture and inspire change.

26/08/2024

In the world of newsletters, few have had the lasting impact or widespread influence of "Poor Richard's Almanack." First published in 1732 by Benjamin Franklin under the pseudonym Richard Saunders, this annual pamphlet wasn't just an almanac—it was a cultural phenomenon that blended practical advice, humor, and wisdom.

For 25 years, Franklin's almanac offered readers everything from weather forecasts and household tips to witty aphorisms and proverbs. Its content was designed to be useful, educational, and entertaining, making it a must-read for American colonists. Franklin's famous sayings, such as "Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise," were widely quoted and contributed to his reputation as a man of wisdom and practical knowledge.

But "Poor Richard's Almanack" was more than just a collection of tips and quips—it was a powerful tool for Franklin's personal brand. Through this newsletter, Franklin established himself as a thought leader, a trusted advisor, and a figure of influence in colonial America. His ability to connect with readers on such a personal level helped him build a lasting legacy that still resonates today.

Although it was published centuries ago, the influence of "Poor Richard's Almanack" can still be felt in modern newsletters and self-help publications. It set the standard for engaging content that provides real value to its audience—a standard that many newsletters continue to strive for today.

23/08/2024

In the early 20th century, a small but mighty publication began circulating across America, profoundly impacting the way people learned and thought. Known as the "Little Blue Books," this series of affordable pamphlets was the brainchild of E. Haldeman-Julius, a visionary publisher who believed in making knowledge accessible to everyone.

First published in 1919, the Little Blue Books covered a vast array of topics—from classic literature, philosophy, and science to self-improvement and controversial social issues. With over 2,000 titles in the series, these small, pocket-sized booklets were distributed through the mail and became a staple in homes, schools, and libraries across the country.

Haldeman-Julius aimed to democratize knowledge, making it possible for ordinary people to educate themselves on important topics. For as little as a few cents, readers could access the works of Shakespeare, Darwin, and Freud, as well as essays on free thought, socialism, and religion.

The Little Blue Books were more than just a newsletter or a publication—they were a cultural movement that empowered millions of people to think critically, challenge the status quo, and expand their intellectual horizons. They helped shape the intellectual landscape of America in the early 20th century and left a lasting legacy on the accessibility of education.

Today, the Little Blue Books are cherished by collectors and historians alike, standing as a testament to the power of the written word to educate, inspire, and transform society.

23/08/2024

In January 1917, a simple letter sent through the mail had the power to alter the fate of nations.

Known as the Zimmermann Telegram, this secret communication from German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmermann to the German Ambassador in Mexico was intercepted by British intelligence and later shared with the United States.

The letter proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico if the U.S. entered World War I against Germany. In exchange, Mexico would be promised the territories of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona upon a German victory. When the contents of the telegram were revealed, the American public was outraged, and this sentiment played a significant role in the United States' decision to enter the war.

Mailed in secrecy, the Zimmermann Telegram is a reminder of how a single letter can shift the tides of history. Its interception and the subsequent impact are testaments to the power of the written word in shaping global events.

22/08/2024

In July 1812, one of history’s greatest composers, Ludwig van Beethoven, penned a passionate love letter that has captivated the world for centuries. Known as the “Immortal Beloved” letter, this handwritten and mailed message was addressed to an unknown woman, whose identity remains one of the great mysteries of classical music.

The letter, written over three days, reveals Beethoven’s deep and intense emotions, as he pours out his heart to the woman he loved. In it, he writes, “Ever thine. Ever mine. Ever ours.” These words, filled with longing and devotion, have become synonymous with eternal love.

Though we may never know the recipient of this mailed letter, its impact is undeniable. Beethoven’s heartfelt words give us a glimpse into the soul of a man often remembered for his genius but here revealed in his vulnerability and deep capacity for love.

The "Immortal Beloved" letter reminds us of the timeless power of love expressed through the written word, sent across time and space with a simple seal and a heartfelt signature.

22/08/2024

In April 1963, from a narrow cell in Birmingham, Alabama, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. typed out one of the most powerful and enduring documents of the Civil Rights Movement—his "Letter from Birmingham Jail."

Responding to criticism from local clergymen who called his actions "unwise and untimely," King passionately defended the strategy of nonviolent resistance to racism. His typewritten words laid bare the injustice of segregation and the moral imperative to fight it. King’s letter, with its stirring rhetoric and moral clarity, became a rallying cry for the Civil Rights Movement and continues to inspire advocates of justice and equality around the world.

This typewritten letter, originally smuggled out of the jail on scraps of newspaper and napkins, was later transcribed and widely published, igniting a national conversation about civil rights. Today, it stands as a reminder of the power of the written word to challenge injustice and inspire change.

As we reflect on King's words, let us remember the courage it takes to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. 🖤✍🏾

21/08/2024

In August 1862, during one of the most tumultuous periods of American history, President Abraham Lincoln mailed a letter that would resonate across the nation. This letter was a response to Horace Greeley, the influential editor of the New York Tribune, who had publicly criticized Lincoln for not acting swiftly enough to end slavery.

In his mailed reply, Lincoln carefully articulated his position: "My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or to destroy slavery. If I could save the Union without freeing any slave I would do it, and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone I would also do that."

While Lincoln’s words were diplomatic, this letter subtly foreshadowed the Emancipation Proclamation, which he would issue just a month later. The mailed letter showed Lincoln's strategic thinking and his deep understanding of the complexities of leadership during the Civil War.

This famous letter, sent through the mail, wasn't just a communication between two men—it was a pivotal moment that shaped public opinion and laid the groundwork for the abolition of slavery in the United States.

Today, it stands as a powerful reminder of how a single mailed letter can influence the course of a nation's history. ✉️🇺🇸

21/08/2024

On August 2, 1939, just before the outbreak of World War II, a typewritten letter was sent from the quiet town of Peconic, New York, to the White House.

This letter, signed by Albert Einstein and written by physicist Leó Szilárd, would become one of the most significant documents of the 20th century.

The letter warned President Franklin D. Roosevelt of the potential for N**i Germany to develop an atomic bomb. Einstein and Szilárd urged the United States to accelerate its own research into nuclear fission, a suggestion that ultimately led to the creation of the Manhattan Project and the development of the first atomic bombs.

Typed on an ordinary typewriter, this letter set into motion a chain of events that would change the world forever. It's a stark reminder of how one letter can alter the course of history.

The original letter is now preserved at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. It's a powerful testament to the impact of science, technology, and the power of the written word.

20/08/2024

For 99% of creators, StampFans is better than Substack.

Before we launched StampFans, we talked to hundreds of Substack writers. We learned that most of them can't keep up with the volume of emails their paid subscribers expect.

Turns out, when your subscribers are paying $8/month to get your emails, they expect to get *at least* one email per week. Any less, and their willingness-to-pay drops off a cliff. They're likely to unsubscribe.

In fact, data shows that the best Substack writers are sharing 3-4 high-quality, long-form emails every single week. Talk about setting the bar high!

Sorry, but that pace just isn't sustainable for most creators.

Here's why StampFans is better. We can prove it with data!

Ask the average reader how many emails they expect from their favorite influencer for $8/month. Then ask the same person how many *snail-mail* letters they expect for the same price.

We did this exact study. And guess what? The average answer is 50% lower for snail-mail letters. In other words, Substack writers work 2X harder to keep their subscribers happy than StampFans writers.

Bottom line? By sending your subscribers snail-mail, they are willing to wait longer between letters. The fact is, we all have a tacit understanding that snail-mail takes time. Readers know this and adjust their expectations accordingly.

But the real secret to StampFans is this: The reward of getting something we can physically hold in our hand goes a long ways.

And come on. Your content deserves to be more than just another email – quickly scanned, marked "read," and never opened again.

05/07/2024

MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT 💥📢

StampFans is looking for a few STRATEGIC PARTNERS to help us reach new heights in the second half of 2024.

We've had an amazing year so far. Writers on StampFans have sent thousands of letters to subscribers around world. Things are taking off!

But it's time to push into new markets. We're serious about this.

Our new Partner Program is for aspiring hashtag and content hashtag who are serious about growing their audience. We want to help you reach more readers and get paid for your content on our platform.

This is a low-commitment gig – easy to do on evenings and weekends. And yes, it's PAID (on top of any commissions you earn from subscribers).

Interested? Or know someone who might be? Let us know in the comments.

28/03/2024

ANNOUNCEMENT:

As of TODAY...

- All StampFans paper + envelopes are fully recyclable and biodegradable.

- All US-bound StampFans letters are printed and produced LOCAL to their destination. We've partnered with dozens of professional printers across the US to ensure mail is never flown to destinations (reduces fuel use).

- All StampFans letters are printed with non-toxic and low-emission Xerox dry-toners. These are recyclable using standard de-inking processes.

- All StampFans printers are members of Forest Carbon, who pioneered the idea of carbon-financed woodland creation.

- All StampFans paper + cardstock is Forest Stewardship Council-certified and manufactured from sustainably-managed forest plantations.

At the end of the day, this just feels right. Paper is a sustainable and highly-renewable resource. With just a few small commitments, we can ensure our writers' content is delivered in earth-friendly ways, and with an eye toward renewing forests worldwide.

The way I see it, sustainable and renewable isn't up for debate in 2024. It's our duty to Earth, and to each other. 🌎

31/01/2024

One of you asked us this morning:

"I'd love to start a StampFans. But what exactly do the letters look like? What are other StampFans creators sending to their subscribers?"

We're glad you asked!

(And yes, we're answering you in public. That's what happens when you ask a startup great questions about their product 😉)

The short story is this:

The letters you send look EXACTLY like you want.

That's because they are 100% your creation. We LOVE Canva. Add images, QR codes, and vary the font size and even the typfaces.

Other creators use Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Sometimes they use pre-built templates (there are TONS of those around).

The coolest one we've seen so far was "handwritten." Of course, the letters her subscribers actually received were not each handwritten separately. But she used a pan (or maybe an iPad Pencil) to create something in her own handwriting – talk about taking "personal connection" with your audience to a whole other level! 😎

StampFans is all about you. Your name. Your brand. Your subscribers. Every word, image, and color exactly to your preference.

And every StampFans has a different angle. Some creators share personal updates, others send guides for meditation or improving your writing.

What's important is simply that it reflects you and what you're trying to communicate in a way your subscribers can understand.

There's no right or wrong way to do this.

That said, we think it still helps to see examples. Here's a few: 👇

23/01/2024

See those red pins?📍👇

Each one represents someone who got a StampFans letter so far this month.

And still a week to go! 💪

We couldn't be more excited about how far we've come.

In just eight weeks, StampFans has gone from "will-this-even-work?" to a real, high-volume platform delivering special reading experiences to people all over the world.

And Creators have already earned thousands of dollars (maybe you want to join this list 😉) sharing their writing with their fans, and will earn 10X this before year's end.

Here's to an exciting 2024 🍻😎

17/01/2024

For 99% of creators, StampFans is WAY better than Substack.

Here's why 👇

Over the past few months, I've talked to a TON of Substack writers.

I learned that most can't keep up with the volume of emails their paid subscribers expect.

Turns out, when your subscribers are paying $8/month to get your emails, they expect to get AT LEAST one email per week.

Any less, and their willingness-to-pay drops off a cliff 📉

They're HIGHLY likely to stop subscribing.

(In fact, the best Substack writers are sharing ~3 high-quality, longform emails every single week. Talk about setting the bar high 😬)

Sorry. But that pace just isn't sustainable for most creators.

Here's why StampFans is better (proven with data).

Ask someone how many emails they expect from their favorite influencer for $8/month. Then ask how many snail-mail letters they expect for the same price.

I did this EXACT study. And guess what?

The average answer is 50% LOWER for snail-mail letters.

In other words, Substack writers work 2X harder to keep their subscribers happy than StampFans writers.

Bottom line: By sending your subscribers snail-mail, they are more willing to wait longer between letters.

I think that's partly because we all have a tacit understanding that takes time.

But the BIG SECRET is that the reward of getting something we can physically hold in our hand goes a LONG ways.

12/12/2023

Hey friends!

We launched on Product Hunt last Friday.

Didn't hit #1, but comments like this are worth WAY more 😍

25/01/2023

A snail-mail subscription platform that connects you with your fans and followers.

StampFans is a new way to reach your readers. Think Substack, but delivered by snail-mail. Your audience subscribes to your monthly StampFans letter. You get paid, then write and upload your letter. We’ll mail it to your subscribers, postage and all.

It’s never been so easy to connect with your audience in a real, ink-on-paper way!

10/12/2021

Average email newsletter deliverability: 55% 📉

Average snail-mail newsletter deliverability: 98.7% 📈

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