Written by Howie Chan
(Read the Feb 8, 2026 issue HERE)
You’re building an online community for founders and creators.
It’s the place where they can share wins, ask questions, and get unstuck.
You’ve gathered the right people. You’ve poured your heart into it.
Now what?
You left most of the defaults unchanged.
Gray theme, generic “Welcome” channel, a few pinned posts.
You post your best content.
“What’s one thing you’re grateful for this week?”
Three replies. Two emojis. Then silence.
You schedule a few live events and attendance is spotty.
You share tips. People lurk.
Everyone says they loved the idea. But no one participates.
Title: The Green Room — A Space for Founders Who Build Quietly but Boldly
Before anyone joins, you redesign everything.
The first screen isn’t a feed, it’s a decompression zone.