I have bigger problems with the tech behind Medium. For example, it just lost the comment I was writing. Medium no longer refreshes edits instantly. Sometimes I have trouble saving stories. All kinds of worrying signs.

As for all the other stuff, you can't be all things to all people and they can't be clear about the Partner program because then many would try to game the system.

I don't try to make money on Medium because Medium has never sold me on it. I'm not very trusting ;) I'm sure I would find it VERY frustrating if I did try to make money. So will take your word for it about that.