Emily Sundberg Transforms ‘Feed Me’ into 7-Figure Substack Success

Emily Sundberg has successfully transformed her Substack newsletter, “Feed Me,” into a thriving media empire, projected to generate over seven figures in revenue this year. Known for her sharp insights and engaging writing style, Sundberg has established herself as a prominent voice in the intersection of business and culture, attracting a diverse audience that includes professionals from various industries.

In her daily newsletter, Sundberg curates a mix of tips, trade news, and in-depth discussions with industry experts, all delivered with a dose of irreverence. “Feed Me” has become a cornerstone for those eager to understand the nuances of finance and business through a cultural lens. What began as a side project alongside her full-time role at Meta has evolved into a significant platform, reaching more than 150,000 readers and ranking among Substack’s top business publications.

From Side Project to Mainstream Media

Sundberg launched “Feed Me” while balancing her responsibilities at Meta, but when she faced layoffs in 2022, she seized the opportunity to invest fully in her venture. The newsletter quickly garnered attention, becoming a source of industry currency characterized by its blend of news, analysis, and commentary. Her unique approach, which merges financial literacy with cultural curiosity, has resonated with readers looking for content that is both informative and entertaining.

Sundberg identified a gap in how business and culture were typically covered, noting that existing narratives often fell into either overly dry reporting or sensational gossip. By drawing inspiration from her own conversations with friends and colleagues in various sectors, she crafted stories that reflected the interests of her audience. “I write for my readers: people who are smart, curious, and want to be in the know,” she explained, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity over pandering to advertisers or industry gatekeepers.

Expanding Horizons: New Ventures and Community Engagement

Recently, Sundberg expanded her brand with the launch of “Expense Account,” a food podcast produced in partnership with Substack. Hosted by Jason Lee, the podcast builds on a column of the same name and aims to offer listeners a witty and insightful look at New York’s dining scene. The inaugural episode featured chef Alison Roman, marking a new chapter for Sundberg as she diversifies her media offerings.

“Feed Me” has not only gained a substantial readership but also created a strong sense of community. The newsletter features an active tipline that connects Sundberg with her audience and industry insiders, fostering an environment of engagement and transparency. This intimacy sets her apart in a landscape where many content creators chase broad-scale reach instead of cultivating dedicated relationships with their readers.

Sundberg’s journey reflects a broader trend in independent media, where creators can establish profitable platforms outside traditional corporate structures. As of March 2025, Substack surpassed five million paid subscriptions, contributing to Sundberg’s success. Her disciplined approach to content creation has also led to a notable increase in readership, which has grown by over 60% in the past year.

While Sundberg enjoys her success, she remains grounded in the challenges that accompany such a demanding career. She acknowledges the sacrifices made along the way, from the early mornings spent researching stories to navigating difficult conversations with industry figures she has critiqued. “I’ve worked really hard to make this happen,” she noted, highlighting the dedication required to maintain a daily newsletter and a distinctive voice in the media landscape.

Through her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to her audience, Emily Sundberg is not only carving out her niche but also redefining what is possible for independent creators in the digital age. Her journey serves as an inspiration for a new generation of writers and entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with the right mix of passion, discipline, and insight, it is possible to build a successful and influential media brand from the ground up.