In today’s world, audiences crave authenticity. Building in Public—the practice of openly sharing your journey, challenges, and wins as a founder—has become one of the most powerful ways to grow trust, influence, and a supportive community around your brand. This guide explores why it works, examples of founders doing it successfully, and tools to help you start.
Introduction
In the fast-paced digital marketplace, trust is currency. But while traditional branding leans on polished PR campaigns and expensive ads, a growing number of founders are turning to a smarter, leaner strategy: Building in Public.
This approach flips the script. Instead of hiding the messy process behind closed doors, entrepreneurs share the real, unfiltered story of their journey. From early wins to tough lessons, the transparency not only builds credibility but also creates a connection with audiences who feel part of the journey.
Done consistently, Building in Public cultivates trust, fosters community, and drives organic growth—without burning through ad budgets. Let’s explore how you can use it to strengthen your brand and attract opportunities.
Why Building in Public Works
- Authenticity Wins Hearts
People are tired of glossy, untouchable branding. Sharing struggles, pivots, and lessons builds credibility faster than any paid ad. - Real-Time Audience Engagement
Polls, feedback requests, and behind-the-scenes posts let your audience co-create with you, boosting both product quality and loyalty. - Establishes Thought Leadership
Documenting lessons turns you into a resource. Over time, consistent sharing builds authority in your niche. - Grows a Supportive Community
People don’t just follow products—they root for people. Your transparency builds a tribe that sticks with you. - Drives Organic Opportunities
Investors, partners, and even press often find builders who are visible, consistent, and transparent. - Creates Emotional Connection
Sharing milestones big and small invites your audience to celebrate with you—deepening brand loyalty.
Examples of Founders Building in Public
- Pieter Levels – Shares his solo journey and revenues from projects like Nomad List and Remote OK (Twitter @levelsio)
- Arvid Kahl – Documented building and selling FeedbackPanda, now teaching via The Bootstrapped Founder
- Daniel Vassallo – Shares project earnings and transparent financials (Twitter @dvassallo)
Tools That Make Building in Public Easier
- Twitter (X) – Still the #1 platform for founders to share updates and grow an audience.
- Loom – Create quick behind-the-scenes videos and product demos.
- Notion – Build public roadmaps, changelogs, or shareable docs.
- Substack or Beehiiv – Launch newsletters to document your journey.
- Indie Hackers – Community for sharing updates and networking with founders.
Quick-Grab Takeaways
- Transparency builds trust faster than polish.
- Engagement > broadcasting. Make your audience co-creators.
- Authority comes from sharing lessons consistently.
- A supportive community is your strongest growth asset.
- Tools can amplify your voice, but your authenticity is the key.
🔚 Final Thoughts
Building in Public isn’t about showing perfection—it’s about showing progress. By inviting others into your journey, you gain not just visibility, but loyalty and advocacy. Whether you’re launching your first SaaS, writing a book, or building a personal brand, documenting the process can set you apart in a crowded market.
📌 Start small. Stay consistent. And above all—stay real.
💌 Final CTA
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