Great article, thanks for your candid thoughts.
After a month or two here, I kept reading that I should…so I did. But I personally don’t enjoy the marketing additions at the bottom of articles. So felt well what’s one box…
I see your point. I will throw a wrench, not trying to be confusing—but I recently read: we shouldn’t add the link, bc every non paying member will have it shown regardless. I shared this with AJ, and I’m behind on following up with medium to get my facts.
I ultimately don’t want it—
But would like clarity.
Here’s one more thing I’d say that perhaps makes me wonder if that referral payment is “decreasing” pay—I, just my opinion, don’t think so.
Here’s why:
Several writers took me up on my request to calculate their rate. All of us are getting exactly /close enough to the same. If medium regardless of size of pot is paying everyone the same rate—it means referrals are not decreasing our earnings.
That’s not what’s impacting it…
Notice:
Saying they pay us out of the subscription is just enough clarity to give an idea: but it’s vague enough to hide details.
Their operating costs, salary and everything to run Medium comes out of those subscriptions. They have no ads.

You’re right:
The only marketing scheme is:
Help us get more money by writing well to encourage people to sign up.
Getting people to sign up: adds to the pot.

Bottom line: I get what you’re saying. And btw: you are an absolutely amazing human being: I love your passion and fight for justice and equality! I’m right there with you waving the flag!

Just wanted you to be aware of some other angles.
If I learn anything more—I’ll share.

Thanks for being so respectful, accepting, honest and passionate. If everyone brought up their differences this way: damn what a GORGEOUS world we’d have!!

Much 💕 love 💗