What's Coming to 'While I Ponder with Karlene'!
For subscribers + new friends stopping by.
Friends, changes are coming to While I Ponder with Karlene. Today, I’m writing this letter to talk about it, and to answer some questions you may have.
First, to current subscribers…
It’s important to me that you know this. You will continue to receive the same level of content I’ve provided over the past few years.
Some of you have followed my writing for a long time. It’s hard to believe I’ve been doing this for a decade. Thank you to those who have stuck around. You have no idea how this has encouraged me time and again.
You will continue to receive, via email and in the Substack app, the always free newsletter. Some months, there may be an additional free edition, so be sure to watch for that.
What is this change that’s coming?
Soon, I will be launching a paid subscription option to While I Ponder with Karlene. This is one of the reasons I moved my online writing over to Substack, where writers get the opportunity to provide both free and paid content, simultaneously.
You may want to ask, “Why would I charge for my writing?” Here’s the explanation from my About page.
First, paid subscriptions aren’t meant to create a barrier, but a way to support my work. It’s also a way to create a quieter space in the digital world for more candid writing.
What I’m doing for the paid subscribers is more than I’ve ever done before. The truth is, this work of writing is a ministry—serving readers with words of encouragement, inspiration, and life-changing biblical insight.
If you are interested in a paid subscription, perhaps consider the cost an offering to support the ministry that readers like yourself receive here. And, if you decide not to upgrade, I’ll gladly continue sending that free newsletter. You are always welcome here!
What will a paid subscription include?
Those who upgrade will receive the following additional content.
Always Free newsletter sent to all subscribers.
“Deeper Dive” essays, exploring Scripture and application
Occasional “Q&A Chat Sessions” here on Substack
“The Fast 5” of what I’m reading and loving with resource links + more
“This Joy is Yours” free e-course
Access to the full archives*
What will the paid subscription cost?
A paid subscription to ‘While I Ponder with Karlene’ is USD 5/month or 30/annual. ($5/month is the lowest rate Substack allows me to offer for monthly.)
Will there be a discount for existing subscribers?
Yes, existing subscribers will receive 50% Off on an annual (12-month) paid subscription upgrade! Once the paid subscription launches, I’ll email you a link to take advantage of this discount. (The current discount will expire on January 31, 2024. If you miss it, watch for future discount opportunities.) Also, a 7-day free trial is available to all readers.
If you are in a season of financial hardship and unable to fit the cost of a paid subscription into your budget, I don’t want this to be a hindrance for you. Once the paid subscription launches, message me at whileiponderkarlene@substack.com and we’ll work it out.
In closing…
Paid subscription has launched!
— Karlene