This is where it starts.
This is CrossRoads Interviews and Editorials — a new chapter under the umbrella of The Squared Circle Podcast.
We’re only pivoting a bit.
Welcome to the next journey.
Before I invited anyone in…
Before I opened The Chat Community Discord…
I recorded three voice notes — raw, unscripted, and real.
This 31-minute drop is where it all started.
I talk burnout, creative pivots, wrestling without the noise, and why I’m building this Discord with structure this time.
🎧 Listen above
📺 Watch on YouTube →
💬 Want to join The Chat Community? Keep reading.
🧵 Why I’m Not Using Substack Chat (for now):
I gave Substack Chat a real shot. I opened it up, let readers start their own threads, and tried to use it as a space for conversation. But truthfully… it’s been quiet. It doesn’t quite move the way I want this community to move.
That’s why I created The Chat Community on Discord.
It’s voice-note-first, structured, and built for intentional conversation — not random replies or forced hot takes. It’s not chaotic. It’s curated. And it’s where I’m showing up more fully.
I’ll still use Substack Chat occasionally for updates and reminders, but if you actually want to be part of something active, Discord is where it’s happening.
If you’re a paid Substack subscriber, you get the 💎Member role in Discord. Just DM me and I’ll send your invite link.
If you’re a free subscriber and still want in, you’re welcome too — DM me — you’ll receive the Fan role, which gives you access to the public spaces inside the server.
This way, everyone can find their place — no pressure, no weird gatekeeping. Just real conversation with real people.
💛 Want to support what I’m building and get into the invite-only Discord?
Pick your lane:
🧋 One-time support (no commitment): Buy Me a Coffee
🛒 Become a Fourthwall Member — unlock Discord Role + early drops
https://marieshadows-shop.fourthwall.com/supporters/video_embeds/140684📰 Subscribe on Substack — paid subs get access (DM me to confirm)
🟡 Join as a YouTube Channel Member — any tier (DM me to confirm)
🛍️ Bonus: Check out the merch — some items featured on the YouTube shelf!
📌 Quotes from the video:
“Everything is a work in progress. Nothing is set in stone. Cards subject to change.”
⏱ 00:01:04“This Discord is made for intentional purposes. It’s not a gotcha. It’s not a dunk on people.”
⏱ 00:05:44“I’m more about quality over quantity.”
⏱ 00:06:35“When you accept that nothing is ever going to be perfect, then you'll have a lot more fun creating.”
⏱ 00:18:50“CrossRoads is the next chapter. The Square Circle Podcast is always going to be there.”
⏱ 00:28:28
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