How Michael Nadeau Leveraged beehiiv’s API To Build a Custom Site

Situation:

Michael Nadeau launched The DeFi Report as a research-first newsletter covering onchain data, crypto KPIs, and blockchain fundamentals for financial professionals and crypto-curious readers. After building a subscriber base of 6,000 on Substack, Nadeau sought to evolve the project into a more professional, scalable business.

Challenge:

Substack’s limitations—10% revenue cuts, poor segmentation, and limited flexibility—hindered Nadeau’s plans for premium services and a better content experience. Mailchimp was ruled out due to crypto-hostility, and the need for a more business-friendly platform became clear.

Solution:

Nadeau migrated to beehiiv and used its API to turn his newsletter into a full-featured, custom-designed website. Key improvements included:

• Headless CMS setup via Gigareef with NextJS
• Custom table of contents, scrolling menus, and readable URLs
• Segmentation for audience tracking and targeting
• Excellent customer support and responsive API adjustments
• Future plans to activate beehiiv Boosts and referral program

Results:

• Fully functional custom site powered by beehiiv's publishing tools
• 70%+ open rates among core segments
• 45-minute content workflows for analysts via beehiiv templates
• Reader satisfaction and positive UX feedback