Why Your Blog Needs an RSS Feed

RSS (Really Simple Syndication) was declared "dead" when Google Reader shut down in 2013.

But a funny thing happened: It didn't die.

In fact, RSS is having a renaissance. And if you want to build a loyal audience in 2025, your blog needs an RSS feed.

What is RSS?

RSS is a standardized file format (XML) that lists your latest posts. It allows readers to subscribe to your site using a "Feed Reader" (like Feedly, Reeder, or NetNewsWire).

The Problem with Social Media

When you follow someone on Twitter or Instagram, you are at the mercy of The Algorithm.

  • It might show you their post 3 days late.
  • It might hide it because it didn't get enough "engagement."
  • It might bury it under ads.

The RSS Promise

RSS is a direct pipe between you and your reader.

  • 100% Delivery: If you publish a post, your subscriber sees it. Period.
  • Chronological: No algorithmic sorting.
  • Private: No tracking pixels. No data mining.

Jottings ❤️ RSS

Every Jottings site comes with RSS built-in.

  • yourname.jottings.me/feed.xml (RSS 2.0)
  • yourname.jottings.me/feed.json (JSON Feed)

We even generate feeds for each tag. So if a reader only cares about your #coding posts, they can subscribe to just that tag.

How to Use This

  1. Promote your feed: Put a link to /feed.xml in your footer or sidebar.
  2. Educate your readers: Remind them that RSS is the best way to never miss a post.
  3. Use it yourself: Start using a feed reader. It will change how you consume the web.

RSS is the open web at its best. Let's keep it alive.