Top 20 Substack Influencers in Culture in 2025

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Here’s the list of the Top 20 Substack Influencers in Culture in 2025:

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20. Freddie deBoer

Freddie deBoer is a writer and academic known for his provocative takes on politics, education, and culture from a Marxist perspective. He is the author of The Cult of Smart and How Elites Ate the Social Justice Movement. His Substack features sharp, often contrarian essays on media, ideology, and inequality. DeBoer’s work is widely read for its intellectual rigor and critical stance on mainstream liberalism.

Substack Followers: 66K

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18. Roxane Gay

Roxane Gay is a New York Times best-selling author known for her works like 'Bad Feminist' and 'Hunger'. She engages in discussions about social justice, LGBTQIA+ issues, and women's health, often collaborating with organizations to promote equality. Gay hosts 'The Roxane Gay Agenda' podcast and actively participates in book clubs, focusing on diverse literature. Her content often reflects her personal experiences and advocacy for marginalized voices, making her a prominent figure in contemporary feminist discourse.

Substack Followers: 162K

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18. Shea Serrano

Shea Serrano is a prolific writer and author known for his engaging storytelling and humor. He has authored four New York Times bestsellers and actively engages with his audience on social media, sharing personal anecdotes, cultural commentary, and humorous takes on various topics. His content often reflects a strong connection to his Mexican heritage and a passion for basketball, showcasing his unique voice in contemporary writing.

Substack Followers: 97K

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17. Claire Fallon

Claire Fallon is a books and culture writer known for her engaging commentary on reality TV, particularly 'Love Island' and 'The Ultimatum: Queer Love.' She shares insights and recaps through her podcast and Substack, connecting with audiences who appreciate her take on contemporary culture and media. Her posts often reflect a supportive stance towards LGBTQIA+ representation and critique mainstream narratives in reality television.

Substack Followers: 21K 

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16. Dr. Naomi Wolf

Dr. Naomi Wolf is an American author and political commentator known for her influential and often controversial takes on feminism, public health, and civil liberties. She has written seven nonfiction bestsellers, including The Pfizer Papers, which critiques vaccine policies and government transparency. Wolf is also the co-founder and CEO of DailyClout.io, a platform designed to empower citizens to draft and track legislation. With a doctorate in Victorian poetry from Oxford, she blends academic rigor with activism, using her platform to advocate for free speech, women's rights, and government accountability.

Substack Followers: 121K

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15. Konstantin Kisin & Francis Foster | TRIGGERnometry

TRIGGERnometry is a free speech YouTube show and podcast hosted by comedians Konstantin Kisin and Francis Foster. They engage in open discussions on controversial topics, featuring guests from various fields, including politics, economics, and social commentary. The platform emphasizes fact-based dialogue and challenges mainstream narratives, often addressing issues like immigration, free speech, and societal changes. Their content appeals to audiences interested in critical discussions and diverse perspectives.

Substack Followers: 57K

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14. Leslie Stephens

Leslie Stephens is a Portland-based writer and editor, known for her bestselling Substack newsletter, Morning Person, which has over 44,000 subscribers. She is the author of the novel 'YOU'RE SAFE HERE' and has a background in food and lifestyle editing. Leslie shares insights on intentional living, personal growth, and her journey through divorce and self-discovery. Her content often reflects her experiences in mental health counseling and her love for adventure and travel.

Substack Followers: 44K

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13. Katie Gatti Tassin | Diabolical Lies

Katie Gatti Tassin is a personal finance content creator and author, known for her engaging insights on money, culture, and empowerment. As the founder of Money with Katie, she combines financial education with a critique of systemic issues, aiming to simplify complex topics for her audience. She co-hosts the podcast Diabolical Lies and has authored the book Rich Girl Nation, which serves as both a financial roadmap and a critique of capitalism. Her social media presence is vibrant, featuring personal anecdotes and professional insights.

Substack Followers: 20K

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12. David Farrier

David Farrier is a New Zealand-based documentary filmmaker and journalist known for his investigative work and unique storytelling. He creates content across various platforms, including a newsletter called Webworm and a podcast titled Flightless Bird. His social media presence features a mix of personal anecdotes, political commentary, and promotional content for his projects, often highlighting social issues and advocacy. Farrier's work includes notable documentaries like Tickled and Dark Tourist.

Substack Followers: Hidden

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11. Hunter Harris

Hunter Harris is a prominent writer and podcast co-host known for her engaging commentary on pop culture and current events. She has previously contributed to notable platforms like New York Magazine and HBO's Gossip Girl reboot. Her social media presence is characterized by witty observations and a focus on reality TV, particularly Love Island. Hunter actively engages her audience with humorous takes on societal trends and political issues, often using her platform to discuss the intersection of entertainment and politics.

Substack Followers: 181K

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10. Haley Nahman

Haley Nahman is a New York-based writer and editor focused on modern culture, emotional experiences, and human behavior. She shares personal insights on motherhood, relationships, and societal observations through her newsletter and podcast, 'Maybe Baby.' With a background in HR and copywriting, she engages her audience with relatable content that explores the complexities of contemporary life. Her social media presence includes reflections on parenting, cultural criticism, and personal anecdotes, resonating with a diverse audience.

Substack Followers: Hidden

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9. Jessica Valenti

Jessica Valenti is a feminist author and columnist focused on abortion rights and women's issues. She actively engages her audience through various platforms, sharing insights and commentary on the political landscape surrounding reproductive rights. With a strong presence on TikTok and Twitter, she promotes her latest book, 'Abortion', while advocating for pro-choice policies and raising awareness about the implications of abortion bans. Valenti's work emphasizes the importance of feminist discourse in contemporary society.

Substack Followers: Hidden

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8. Sam Harris

Sam Harris is a neuroscientist, philosopher, and bestselling author known for his podcast 'Making Sense' and the Waking Up app. He explores complex topics such as consciousness, morality, and current events, often engaging in debates about political and social issues. His work has been recognized globally, and he has authored several influential books. Harris's content often addresses controversial subjects, including the implications of political decisions and societal challenges, making him a prominent figure in discussions around reason and critical thinking.

Substack Followers: Hidden

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7. Niall Harbison

Niall Harbison is dedicated to rescuing street dogs in Thailand, sharing uplifting content about their journeys and rehabilitation. He operates a UK charity and a US 501(c)(3), focusing on feeding, sterilizing, and finding homes for dogs in need. His social media presence emphasizes compassion, community involvement, and the importance of animal welfare, often highlighting individual rescue stories and the challenges faced in the process. Niall encourages donations and support for his mission to improve the lives of street dogs.

Substack Followers: Hidden

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6. Suleika Jaouad

Suleika Jaouad is a New York Times bestselling author known for her works 'The Book of Alchemy' and 'Between Two Kingdoms.' She shares insights on creativity, personal growth, and resilience, often reflecting on her experiences with illness and the creative process. Her social media presence includes engaging posts about her writing journey, family, and artistic inspirations, resonating with a diverse audience interested in literature and personal development.

Substack Followers: 228K

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5. Anne Helen Petersen

Anne Helen Petersen is a writer and cultural critic known for her newsletter 'Culture Study' and her book 'OUT OF OFFICE'. She engages with themes of burnout, work culture, and societal issues, often analyzing trends like sorority rush on TikTok. Petersen hosts the podcasts 'WORK APPROPRIATE' and 'TOWNSIZING', and speaks on topics related to workplace dynamics and mental health. Her content resonates with a broad audience, particularly those interested in cultural commentary and social justice.

Substack Followers: 20K

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4. Matt Welch

Matt Welch is an editor at large for Reason and a co-conspirator at We The Fifth. He shares insights on free speech, political commentary, and media criticism, often reflecting on current events and societal issues. His posts engage with topics like journalism, political power, and cultural observations, showcasing a critical perspective on government and media dynamics.

Substack Followers: 58K

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3. Jesse Singal and Katie Herzog | Blocked and Reported

Jesse Singal and Katie Herzog are the cohosts of Blocked and Reported, a podcast that explores internet culture, media controversies, and the dynamics of online discourse. Known for their sharp commentary and investigative approach, they delve into polarizing topics with a mix of skepticism and humor. Herzog brings a witty and candid perspective shaped by her background in journalism and writing, while Singal contributes deep dives into complex social issues, particularly around psychology and gender. Together, they offer a nuanced and often contrarian take on the stories that dominate digital spaces.

Substack Followers: 67K

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2. Jessica Reed Kraus

Jessica Reed Kraus is an independent media creator focused on political commentary and cultural critiques. She engages her audience with a mix of personal anecdotes and political insights, often challenging mainstream narratives, particularly around health and vaccination. Her content reflects a blend of liberal values with a critical stance on mandates and censorship, showcasing her journey through political awakening and advocacy for individual rights.

Substack Followers: 485K

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1. Selvaggia Lucarelli

Selvaggia Lucarelli is an Italian writer, journalist, and podcaster known for her outspoken views on social and political issues. She engages with her audience through various platforms, sharing insights on current events, personal experiences, and cultural commentary. Her content often reflects a strong stance on human rights and social justice, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Lucarelli's work includes books, television appearances, and a newsletter, showcasing her multifaceted career in media.

Substack Followers: 150K

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