How Michael Nadeau Leveraged beehiiv’s API To Build a Custom Site
From Substack to a headless CMS, how The DeFi Report created a unique reading experience for crypto investors
Table of contents
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
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