Content Creation Frequency Tradeoff

A framework for choosing the right content creation strategy, focusing on the tradeoff between frequency and quality.

Core Strategy Options

• High Frequency, Light Touch

  • Example: Podcasts with 1000s of "alright" episodes
  • Focus on consistency and regular output
  • Lower threshold for quality but must maintain baseline value

• Low Frequency, High Quality

  • Example: Game of Thrones with 8 epic episodes per season
  • Focus on creating exceptional content
  • Higher production value and creative investment

Key Principles

• Avoid the middle ground

  • High frequency + high quality = burnout
  • Low frequency + low quality = failure
  • Must choose one end of the spectrum

• Quality vs Quantity Myths

  • Don't need constant output to maintain relevance
  • Example: Can succeed with 2 tweets per month if quality is high
  • High-quality content has better staying power
  • Audience won't forget you if content is memorable

Success Factors

• Format Selection

  • Choose format that matches your threshold capabilities
  • Must be sustainable long-term
  • Example: Riffing podcast format is easier to maintain than highly produced shows

• Creative Process

  • Practice can be high frequency for skill development
  • Don't need to publish everything you create
  • Focus on publishing when you have something meaningful to say

Real World Examples

• Wait But Why blog: "New post every sometimes"
• Paul Graham: Erratic but high-quality posting schedule
• Everyday Astronaut: "Next video when it's ready"
• Counter-example: Casey Neistat/MrBeast with daily content for entertainment

Content Sustainability

• Consider your end goal
  • Entertainment vs education/insight
  • Audience expectations
  • Resource requirements
• Focus on what you can consistently deliver without sacrificing quality standards