Small School
About the Company
Small School, founded by Kevon Cheung, focuses on helping creators build successful launches by leveraging the "building in public" method. This approach involves sharing the development process of a product or service openly with an audience. Kevon also offers a range of products, including a Twitter book titled Find Joy in Chaos, a live cohort-based course called Build in Public Mastery, and other content through his Public Lab blog and newsletter. Small School's mission is to empower creators by providing the tools and guidance necessary to cultivate a thriving online presence and community.
Idea Behind Company
Kevon Cheung’s inspiration for Small School stemmed from a personal and professional turning point in late 2020. After leaving his CEO role at a SaaS company, Kevon found himself uncertain about his next steps. During this period, he realized that despite years of hard work, he lacked a personal brand and online presence. Additionally, the impending arrival of his first child made him reconsider his work-life balance. Determined to establish his voice and build a sustainable business, Kevon began documenting his journey online, leading him to discover the "building in public" concept. Seeing a lack of resources for others interested in this approach, he decided to fill the gap by creating guides and content to help others succeed.
Creating the Company
Kevon's process of creating Small School involved extensive research and active participation in the building-in-public community. He spent two months immersing himself in the topic, taking notes, and engaging with others in forums. To establish credibility, Kevon began building his products in public, sharing progress updates and seeking feedback from his growing audience. This approach gradually garnered attention, leading to the successful launch of his Building in Public Guide, which was widely shared and established him as an authority in the niche. From there, he continued to develop content, books, and courses that cater to the needs of his audience, always prioritizing transparency and community involvement.
Launching the Business
The launch of Small School was marked by Kevon's commitment to building in public, which fostered a strong and trustworthy brand. By involving his community in the product creation process, Kevon was able to generate significant momentum leading up to his product launches. This momentum marketing strategy proved powerful, as it not only built anticipation but also encouraged early supporters to actively promote his work. Kevon credits his transparent approach and the relationships he built with his audience as key factors in the successful launch and ongoing growth of his business. His use of social media, particularly Twitter, played a crucial role in establishing his brand and expanding his reach.
Earnings
Today, Kevon Cheung’s Small School generates around $3,500 per month in revenue. The business's low startup costs and reliance on digital tools like Twitter and email marketing have contributed to its profitability. Kevon’s focus on building genuine relationships with his audience, rather than solely relying on traditional sales tactics, has been central to his success. His journey emphasizes the importance of community and transparency in building a sustainable online business. Looking ahead, Kevon plans to expand his presence on platforms like YouTube and Amazon to further grow his brand and reach new audiences.
