A New Chapter For PolisPandit - AND an Invitation
After 4 years of wandering, I finally know what this is about
Four years ago, I started this newsletter because I had things to say, but no clear thread to tie them together.
I was a Wall Street lawyer turned stay-at-home dad, who was reading voraciously (even during night feedings), traveling when I could (ugh, pandemic), and thinking hard about life (purpose, success, etc.) after my dad’s death.
So I wrote sporadically. Mostly on Medium, sometimes on my own website, and occasionally via this newsletter. The topics covered a wide range of my interests - law, politics, philosophy, financial markets, books, food, travel, and more.
Many of you stuck with me through long silences and meandering thoughts. I'm grateful.
Recently, something clicked. All these pieces - my legal training, finance background, parenting, grief, travel, and even my obsession with baking sourdough - they're all part of the same story.
How to live thoughtfully beyond society's default script.
What's changing at PolisPandit
Starting this week, PolisPandit becomes:
“A Wall Street lawyer's guide to life beyond the corporate ladder, from books and places to finance and philosophy.”
Tuesdays (free for all subscribers) — a substantive essay on philosophy and life lessons based on my experiences or what I’m reading. Think: More Anthony Bourdain, Less Toxic Masculinity; America's Bread Problem and My 6 Month Sourdough Journey; and How To Use the Socratic Method In Your Own Life.
Fridays (paid subscribers) — reflections on current events through the lens of a Wall Street lawyer. Think: why firing the Bureau of Labor Statistics head matters; the history of wildcat banking vs. stablecoins; and how artificial intelligence affects markets and copyright.
This isn't just extra content. It’s about thinking deeply in a world that discourages critical thinking, from someone who left “success” to explore what the good life really is.
Your invitation (Founding Membership)
I'm opening 100 Founding Member spots for those who want to join this next chapter.
Founding members get:
Every essay I write, including Friday's subscriber-only pieces
Personal postscripts with what I'm reading, thinking, or baking!
Occasional "coffee conversations" - intimate writing I only share with supporters
Input on topics you'd like me to explore
Founding member pricing locked in FOREVER: $37.50/year (25% off regular $50/year)
Spots close at 100 members or September 30, 2025 — whichever comes first.
But here's what you're really getting: a community of thoughtful people who believe that stepping off the ladder doesn't mean stepping away from ambition; that critical thinking is cool; and that finding ways to enrich not only their own lives but the lives of those around them is what this is all about.
Why now?
Because I finally understand what this newsletter is for.
It’s for people who’ve achieved some version of success and asked: Is this it?
It's for anyone wondering what future we’re creating for our kids.
It's for anyone who suspects that the most important insights come not from conventional careers, but from thoughtful newsletters, books, travel, relationships, and the courage to live differently.
I've spent four years figuring this out. Now I want to spend the next four building something meaningful with people who care.
If that resonates, become a founding member here.
If that’s you, I’d love for you to join. If not, Tuesday essays will always be free — I’m just glad you’re here.
I’m also sharing more on YouTube this week: Why I Write in an AI World (and why newsletters matter more now) — premieres Saturday, August 16 at 8 AM EST.
Onward.
**Founding memberships are limited to 100 people and will close when we hit that number or on September 30, 2025, whichever comes first. After that, new subscriptions will be $50/year.**
Founding members get:
Every essay I write, including Friday's subscriber-only pieces
Personal postscripts with what I'm reading, thinking, or baking!
Occasional "coffee conversations" - intimate writing I only share with supporters
Input on topics you'd like me to explore
Founding member pricing locked in FOREVER: $37.50/year
Love how honest you are about the meandering path to get here. Most people pretend they had the vision from day one. The fact that it took grief, parenting, sourdough obsession, and four years of writing to find your thread makes this feel so much more REAL.
Good for you, John.