From Zero to Launch: How Building in Public is Reshaping Indie Hacking

The indie hacking movement is unique in that it thrives on community, transparency, and momentum. Among the most exciting developments for indie hackers over the past few years has been the rise of "building in public." Founders are now embracing the idea of openly sharing their journey from the first line of code to hitting big milestones, all in front of an audience. But why has this become such a powerful tool, and how can it reshape your journey as a builder?

What is Building in Public?

At its core, building in public is about sharing the raw, unfiltered progress of your product or project, regardless of whether things are going well or you're hitting obstacles. This could be through daily tweets, blog posts, YouTube videos, or even newsletters. The goal isn’t to show perfection but to give an honest account of the highs and lows of the indie hacker journey. It’s more than just posting updates—it's about involving your audience in the process.

This approach has gained popularity because it fosters engagement and feedback from the very people who could become your early users, customers, or even advocates.

Why Building in Public Works

1. Accountability: When you publicly declare your goals and plans, you're more likely to follow through. The indie hackers who've adopted this practice often talk about how it forces them to stay on track. Sharing your journey in front of others provides external pressure to keep going, even when motivation dips.

2. Instant Feedback: One of the most valuable aspects of building in public is getting immediate feedback. When you share what you're working on, others—whether they’re fellow builders or potential customers—can chime in with ideas, concerns, or praise. This feedback loop accelerates product development and validation.

3. Community and Support: The indie hacking world can be lonely. But when you build in public, you often find yourself surrounded by people who encourage you, provide insights, or even share your journey with their own network. This sense of community helps combat the isolation that often accompanies solo projects.

4. Building Trust and Loyalty: By sharing the behind-the-scenes struggles and successes, you create a personal connection with your audience. They’re no longer just users—they’re part of the story. People love being involved in a product's journey, and this fosters loyalty. When you launch, those who've followed your journey will likely be your first customers.

Success Stories of Building in Public

One of the most notable examples of building in public is Pieter Levels, the creator of platforms like Nomad List and Remote OK. Pieter began building his products publicly, sharing his revenue numbers, technical challenges, and personal goals. His radical transparency attracted a massive audience, and he’s now earning over $2 million annually from his projects.

Pieter’s journey wasn’t smooth. He faced challenges like burnout, competition, and even doubters questioning whether he could sustain his momentum. But by continuously sharing his progress—even during the tough times—he garnered trust from his audience, leading to long-term success.

Another inspiring case is Daniel Vassallo, who left a lucrative career at Amazon to pursue his indie hacker dreams. Daniel documented his entire process of leaving his job, building products, and even his revenue streams. His transparency resonated with others who were also thinking of going solo, and today, he’s earning a comfortable living through his products, content, and the community he built by sharing his journey.

How You Can Start Building in Public

Starting to build in public can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. Here's how to get started:

1. Pick a Platform: Twitter is the most popular platform for building in public because it’s easy to share quick updates, and the indie hacker community is very active there. Other great options include blogging, newsletters, or even recording short videos on YouTube.

2. Share Consistently: It’s not just about launching—share the little things. Post about what you're working on today, any challenges you're facing, and small wins. The more consistent you are, the more your audience will grow and engage.

3. Be Vulnerable: Don’t shy away from sharing failures, doubts, or struggles. These are often the moments that resonate most with your audience. People appreciate authenticity, and it helps build trust.

4. Involve Your Audience: Ask questions, request feedback, and involve your audience in the decision-making process. Let them be a part of your journey by guiding product features or giving feedback on design decisions.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Building in Public

Building in public is a powerful strategy for indie hackers because it offers much more than visibility—it gives you a feedback loop, accountability, and a built-in community. But the key is to stay genuine. The goal isn't to project perfection but to share a real, honest journey.

As more indie founders share their stories online, the lines between creator and audience blur. People who’ve followed your progress feel invested in your success and often become the first in line to support your launch. So, if you're not already doing it, consider starting today.

Your indie hacker journey could be the next success story, inspiring others to take the leap, learn from your experiences, and grow together with you.