A little over a year ago, I published my first piece on Spitfire News. Even though I had dreamed of starting my own newsletter, I was terrified in those first few hours after sending it out. I didn’t know if people would like it or if this would work or what it working would look like. I was scrawling plans in a notebook for the first time in years, following clumsily in the footsteps of my peers who had taken this leap before me. I wanted to continue reporting and writing, especially about technology and culture in the era of MeToo backlash, but on my own terms. That turned out to feel just as vulnerable as it was exciting.

A year into it, I want to share what I’ve learned about Spitfire News, this audience, and running a newsletter. I’ve always enjoyed reading these annual reviews from other publications, especially ones that are building independent newsrooms and thriving. I have big plans for Spitfire News, which are possible through the generous support of readers like you.

I’ve also been working with Beehiiv to freshen up the design and feel of the newsletter and website, which you can see at spitfirenews.com. This time last year, I honestly didn’t know what I was doing. Now, I feel like I have at least some of this figured out, and a lot more planned to come. You can read on for a breakdown of what worked, what didn’t, and what's next.