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

A combination of sharp wit and business acumen has propelled Emily Sundberg to the forefront of digital media. Her Substack newsletter, Feed Me, has quickly evolved into a seven-figure operation, influencing the way business and culture intersect. With a growing audience that now exceeds 150,000 readers, Sundberg has created a platform where the conversation around finance and ambition thrives.

Sundberg launched Feed Me while working at Meta, balancing her full-time role with her side project. However, following a layoff in 2022, she seized the opportunity to dedicate herself fully to her newsletter. What began as a daily read over morning coffee has transformed into an essential resource, catering to a diverse readership ranging from finance professionals to creative bartenders.

Innovation in Business and Media

Recognizing a gap in the market, Sundberg merged the worlds of serious financial analysis and engaging cultural commentary. She identified that existing coverage often fell into two extremes—either too dry or overly sensational. By blending financial fluency with cultural curiosity, she filled that void with relatable narratives and insights.

Sundberg draws inspiration from her conversations, particularly group chats with industry insiders. These discussions shaped her understanding of what her audience craved: an exploration of the business behind culture and vice versa. “I don’t write for gatekeepers or other journalists,” she asserts. “I write for my readers: people who are smart, curious, and want to be in the know.” This reader-focused approach has cemented her voice as both authoritative and relatable.

Sundberg’s candid style has drawn comparisons to prominent figures in media. While some label her work as “provocative,” she highlights that her insights are no more controversial than those typically presented by her male counterparts. “I’m just doing it in my voice,” she states, firmly establishing her unique position in the landscape of business journalism.

In addition to her newsletter, Sundberg has expanded her influence through a new food podcast titled Expense Account, produced in partnership with Substack. Hosted by Jason Lee, the podcast builds on the column of the same name, offering listeners a humorous and insightful look into New York’s dining scene. The launch featured Alison Roman as the debut guest, marking a significant step in Sundberg’s expansion into multimedia storytelling.

Significant Growth and Future Prospects

As of March 2025, Substack has surpassed five million paid subscriptions, reflecting a growing trend in independent media. Within this ecosystem, Feed Me has consistently ranked among the top ten business and culture newsletters on the platform. Over the past year, readership has surged by more than 60%, and Sundberg is projected to achieve seven figures in revenue this year.

The success of Feed Me extends beyond readership; it encompasses a strong brand identity. Sundberg has successfully launched merchandise that sells out quickly and has organized events to foster community engagement in key markets such as New York, London, and Los Angeles. While other media outlets chase broad audiences, Sundberg prioritizes intimacy, maintaining an active tip line that connects her directly with readers and insiders.

Sundberg emphasizes the hard work and dedication required to build her platform. “I’ve worked really hard to make this happen. It took a tremendous amount of work and sacrifices that aren’t always evident,” she reflects. Her commitment extends to the early mornings spent verifying stories and seeking out the next big scoop. “It’s not always fun to feel like your phone is always dying because you’re on it looking for the next tip. But it’s been totally worth it.”

As Sundberg continues to redefine what independent media can achieve, she serves as an inspiration for a new generation of writers and creators. Her journey illustrates that with discipline, curiosity, and a unique voice, it is possible to carve out a successful niche in the digital landscape.