Why I Built a Website for My Content, and Why You Should Too
What if the platform you’re using to grow your audience is actively working against you the moment you try to take control of your own success? That’s the harsh reality for creators relying on social media platforms like X, YouTube, or Instagram. These platforms might seem like allies, offering global reach and endless possibilities, but behind the scenes, they’re playing a very different game—one where you lose.
I’ll be honest: I still post to platforms like X, YouTube, and Instagram. They offer the one thing my own website can’t—access to millions of users. If you want to build an audience quickly, these platforms are useful tools. But that utility comes with a cost. Social media platforms don’t want you to have your own space for your content. They’re selfish and controlling, like an abusive partner, and will do everything in their power to keep you locked in. Try posting an external link to direct people to your own website, and watch what happens. The algorithm doesn’t like it—it will actively suppress your post, reducing its reach to keep people trapped in their ecosystem.
This isn’t accidental. These platforms thrive by keeping users engaged on their site for as long as possible, feeding them ads, and harvesting their data. They want your audience to belong to them, not you. And that’s why, despite still using these platforms to reach people, I’ve made it a priority to build something they can’t touch: my own website.
imoliver.com is my space, free from the constraints of algorithms and the constant threat of demonetization or account termination. On my website, I’m in control. There are no ads, no manipulative algorithms, and no middlemen taking a cut of my earnings. The content itself is the product, available to subscribers for a modest fee of £2.50 per month. This allows me to create freely, focus on my audience, and ensure that my work reaches the people who value it most.
The challenges of building an audience outside of social media are real, but they’re worth overcoming. While platforms like YouTube or TikTok might offer a larger initial reach, the cost is too high. You’re building your empire on borrowed land, and that landowner can evict you at any time. They insert ads you might not agree with, manipulate your creative process through algorithms, and pocket the lion’s share of the revenue your content generates. To make matters worse, everything you post is being used to train their AI, effectively helping them build tools that may one day replace you.
Having my own website gives me the freedom to create without interference and the security of knowing my work is mine. For creators, this is essential. A website isn’t just a portfolio or a side project—it’s a safeguard for your career, a way to ensure your audience and livelihood are protected. And for those who love consuming creative content, supporting independent websites is one of the best ways to help creators thrive without compromise.
Social media may seem like the easiest path to success, but it comes with strings attached. By taking control of your platform, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re making a statement about the kind of creator you want to be. So, if you’re a creator reading this, it’s time to start building your own space. And if you’re a fan, consider supporting those who have already taken that leap.
