That is not a nice experience.
Unfortunately, I can not see your removed contributions, so it is difficult to be specific. But I can share some reflections that might help you understand what is going on.
With the redesign we also got 4 new categories.
In my opinion, they are designed to make Connect more relevant and focused on Google Maps and how we can improve and contribute to maps with high quality contributions. This means it is important to reflect more on how our contributions can be helpful to other Local Guides.
Just sharing photos on Connect is not very helpful. We need to describe how our photos are related to our actions on Maps. We need to include Maps links to our reviews on Maps and always include Maps links to the places our Connect stories relate to. This will allow others to dig in and learn more should they want to.
Here are a couple of recent contributions that are pretty much perfect:
How to help your local businesses, thrive and survive! by @RBGmilw
Buenos Aires, Just Places, Pics and Reviews by @SebaasC
Contributions in the new category Connections & Celebrations also need to be related to our Local Guides activities. Please note this sentence:
This is where you’ll get to know other Local Guides in our community and how they make a difference for others on Google Maps and Connect. Use this space to share about your own proudest achievements as a Local Guide, celebrate each other’s wins, or team up to achieve even more.
Bragging about your Maps contributions and our interactions with fellow Local Guides is what should be shared here.
I hope this is helpful in understanding why and how things have changed with the redesign.
Please share further questions and concerns you may have. And feel free to reach out if you want help on making specific future Connect drafts not be off-topic.
Best regards
Morten