Pretty straightforward and concise. I do love how you think, man!
Maybe having something in stake would improve usability. especially when it's done so that it's not enriching anyone in particular but making the blockchain better. Taking a small amount of steem from each post to the @null account for burning is a good idea. Also, figuring out ways to make the "Promote" tab more attractive to use would be cool.

Steemit inc should find a way to generate money off this site as well.