Sunday Survey / The Reader Survey Report
Thanks to all who took the time to reply
I have enjoyed reading survey comments throughout the past week. First, thanks to all who participated for the kind words and constructive suggestions. The comments have already sparked some new ideas.
It seems only right to share the highlights from the Reader Survey. And, of course, I have a short follow-up that everyone can participate in.
Here is the summary generated by the AI Thought Partner (see POST on this for more on AI Thought Partners).
What You Told Me / Highlights from the DECADE SEVEN Reader Survey
First, thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the DECADE SEVEN reader survey. Your responses were thoughtful, honest, and full of great ideas. I am grateful for your engagement and for the strong sense of community that is developing here.
Here are a few highlights from what you told me:
You Value Thoughtful, Balanced Commentary.
Many of you described DECADE SEVEN as a place for common-sense analysis, grounded perspectives, and thoughtful reflections on politics and life. Words like insightful, balanced, and trustworthy came up often — a reminder that our commitment to thoughtful commentary is what sets this community apart.
Political and Policy Commentary Remains Core.
By far, political and policy commentary — along with the Sunday Surveys — are the content you look forward to most. Some of you also enjoy the occasional lifestyle reflection as a refreshing change of pace.
You Engage Mostly Through Email.
Most readers continue to read DECADE SEVEN posts via email, though a good number also visit the homepage or tune into podcast episodes of From & Fuller. This confirms that a strong email experience will remain a priority.
Many Feel Personally Connected.
Whether through shared values, long-standing professional relationships, or finding DECADE SEVEN through friends and platforms like Substack and The Talbot Spy, many of you feel a genuine connection — something I greatly appreciate.
Ideas for Improvement.
Several recurring themes emerged in your suggestions:
You would enjoy more opportunities for interaction, such as live Q&A sessions.
Some asked for behind-the-scenes insights: how posts are developed and reflections from earlier experiences.
Others suggested occasional curated reading lists or resource recommendations.
A few would welcome even more visual content — charts, photographs, or infographics.
Paid and Free Subscribers Share Common Ground.
Paid subscribers especially value deeper, more personal content. Free subscribers appreciate steady political commentary and thoughtful insights. Across both groups, the desire for more interaction and variety is strong.
Where We Go From Here
Over the next few months, I’ll be acting on your feedback:
Expanding political commentary coverage.
Introducing occasional "behind-the-scenes" posts for paid subscribers.
Exploring a live Q&A opportunity.
Adding more curated resources and visual elements.
DECADE SEVEN will continue to grow thoughtfully — always centered on respect for your time, your intelligence, and our shared curiosity about the world.
Thank you again for your encouragement, your ideas, and your continued readership. I’ll keep asking for your input as we move forward together.
This really is wonderful and thoughtful input….so, for today’s survey just one more question….