How to Become a Creator-Monk

We are obsessed with virality, funnels, and growth hacks. So what happens when a creator chooses not to scale?This video explores the “creator-monk” - a path inspired by Thomas Merton’s monastic clarity and counterbalanced by the noise-optimization of the digital age. It’s for the builders who prioritize depth over distribution, continuity over content calendars, and sovereignty over scale.We’ll cover:- Why some creators are intentionally going subscale- The economic logic of building for 100 true users, not 100K- How algorithms and audience expectations have reshaped creative work- The risk of performative minimalism- What productivity looks like without visibility- And why, in the long run, autonomy may matter more than applauseThis isn’t a rejection of ambition. It’s a redesign of what a meaningful creative life can look like - slower, quieter, sharper.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re building a brand…or building a body of work - hopefully, this one’s for you.00:00 The Silent Wisdom of Thomas Merton00:25 The Birth of the Information Economy00:49 The Creator Monk: A Middle Path01:50 The Costs of Scale03:04 The Value of Depth Over Reach05:58 The Alternative Theory of Success

Om Podcasten

The Westenberg Podcast offers ideas, explainers, book notes, and reflections on technology, philosophy, and the human experience. Hosted by Joan Westenberg, each episode unpacks complex topics with clarity and depth, blending personal insights with thought-provoking analysis. It’s a space for exploring big questions and fresh perspectives in an accessible format.