The Truth About Medium - Part One: What is Medium?

It is September 2025, and I have just completed one year of being a paid member on the writing platform, Medium.

Having completed that year, has Medium delivered what I thought it would?

Read on.

But first, what is Medium?

Medium presents itself as a unique online writing platform that has transformed the way individuals share their thoughts, stories, and expertise with a global audience. 

It was launched in 2012 with the aim to provide a space where writers could express themselves freely. A platform where readers could discover high-quality content across a wide range of topics. 

It was to be a community of writers, and readers.

The platform itself offers the writer simplicity and accessibility. The user interface is fairly straightforward to understand and minimalist in design. It is not complicated to use. It allows writers to focus on their writing without the distractions often found on other platforms. 

It also helps that you do not need to be a tech genius to write on the platform. No widgets to install, or updates to deal with.

Just get on with writing.

One thing that appealed to me about the platform was Medium’s claim of a commitment to quality content. Medium wants thoughtful writing and an in-depth exploration of ideas. 

And then there were the readers, the potential audience built in to the platform. The idea that the algorithm would do all the hard work for you, and find readers, appealed.

For writers, Medium has a free model, which allows users to access a limited number of articles for free each month. For those who wish to unlock unlimited access to “premium” content, a subscription is required. 

This subscription model supports writers directly, as they can earn money through the Medium Partner Program. There are two levels of paid membership. Both compensate writers based on reader engagement and the time spent on their stories and articles. 

Before joining, I had read that Medium emphasised the importance of storytelling. They encouraged writers to share personal stories, insights, and experiences. The idea was that a focus on storytelling was what readers wanted.

That fitted in with my writing, an emphasis on storytelling, and entertainment.

It sounded positive. 

So, I watched YouTube videos about Medium, and read about the platform. I even asked ChatGPT, and it gave a glowing review. As a non-member, I read the three “free” articles to begin, but to truly test the platform, I felt that I had to join.

I did so in August 2024.

Has it been a success?

Would I recommend it to writers?

What’s the truth about writing there?

Can a writer make money on the platform?

I will explore the ups and the downs and try to answer whether it is a viable and worthwhile option for writers to a) get exposure, b) reach a wider audience, and c) be rewarded and make money.

I will try to answer all these questions, and more, in a series of articles detailing my experience. 

My answers will be published on this blog and nowhere else.

So, buckle up for what’s to come, warts and all.