10 Comments
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Rosie Smolowitz's avatar

Ben, I don't know you, but I came across your Substack around a year ago. I am one of the subscribers who does contribute to your 40% average open rate. These weekly posts have genuinely changed so much for me. I always rave about them to my family members. It opens my eyes to so much. I am currently an EMT and volunteer crisis counselor — both roles that have touchpoint with the mental health system and train ordinary people to help struggling individuals — and I wholeheartedly believe your posts have made me better at both of those jobs. I'm currently in college as an aspiring Emergency Room doctor (I love that the role will allow me to interact with both physical and mental healthcare) and I plan to never stop reading these posts. Just know that you do make an impact, even if it's just for a few of us silent subscribers. Keep it up! We're here to support! I'll keep raving and sharing my favs.

Ben Miller's avatar

Rosie, this genuinely made my day. Thank you! What strikes me most is that you're not just reading about this, you're out there doing the work! An EMT and crisis counselor who's headed toward emergency medicine? Wow. You're going to be exactly the kind of doctor this system needs! Someone who sees the whole person, not just the presenting complaint or symptom, that's a difference maker. Thank you for sharing; it means a lot.

Rosie Smolowitz's avatar

Thanks for your reply, Ben! I'll continue following along, of course, and love knowing we had a small touchpoint of connection. You're awesome!

Your Mind Matters@'s avatar

Congratulations! Thank you for sharing your heartfelt Substack experience and plans. Your post was encouraging to this mental health professional.

Spherical Phil's avatar

Congratulations on five years, Ben. I am grateful to be a part of this space, and I will gladly do my part by sharing your vision with colleagues across philanthropy, policy, and technology who care deeply about the systemic frameworks and advanced capabilities we are building in this country.

Ben Miller's avatar

Thank you, Phil. You've been a trusted friend and valuable influence on my thinking over the years.

David Perlmutter's avatar

Congratulations.

Ben Miller's avatar

I so appreciate your ongoing engagement, David.

David Perlmutter's avatar

I’m an autistic person so this is naturally something I care about, Ben.

Robert Carter's avatar

I am "all in" to get this important work to 10K.