"Ego" is one of those terms with several definitions floating around. It has a connotation of being a braggart or having a superiority of some kind.

It also means a confidence to push through difficult things. One must an ego--or sense of self-worth--to continue pushing.

The two meanings are not compatible. Sometimes we need to figure out which definition the writer/speaker is using.

As for the paywall issue, I cannot comment wisely. Medium needs to figure out how to pay the bills to keep the lights on. I don't have access to their business matrix or accounting statements.