But here's the tricky part: many of us have seen founder stories that feel too polished or like they're trying way too hard. As a result, they come off as inauthentic, and readers just tune out.

Done right though? A great story hooks your audience, builds trust, and makes people genuinely care about your brand.

Why Founder Stories Matter

Let’s start by acknowledging a basic truth: people don’t connect with brands—they connect with people. Your subscribers aren’t just buying your products; they want to know who you are and why you started your business.

Think about the brands you love. Chances are, you’re not just drawn to the products but also to the people behind them. For example, Apple’s commitment to design excellence didn’t just happen—it was influenced by Steve Jobs’ father, a carpenter who taught him to care about every detail, even the parts people couldn’t see. Jobs carried that lesson into Apple, shaping its products and reputation.

Your story becomes part of your brand, whether you realise it or not. And if you can share it authentically, you’ll build a connection with your audience that goes far deeper than any product feature or discount ever could.

How to Tell Your Story (Without Making It All About You)

1. Be Honest, Not Humblebragging

Your audience can tell when you’re being real versus when you’re putting on a show. Instead of talking about your awards or success, share what inspired you to start your business. What was the original idea? What have you learned along the way? Keeping it genuine and authentic will always resonate more than any carefully crafted humblebrag.

2. Make It About Them

Yes, you’re telling your story, but it’s not just about you. Show your audience how your journey relates to them. Did you face a challenge that your customers might be struggling with? Did you create your product because you saw a gap that wasn’t being filled? Use your story to show that you understand them. It helps them feel seen and makes your brand relatable.

3. Talk About the Struggles, Not Just the Success

No one’s journey is perfect. Sharing your struggles and failures makes your story more relatable and impactful. People want to hear about the obstacles you’ve overcome, not just the highlights. Being honest about your challenges makes you more human and helps build trust.

4. Keep It Conversational

Your founder story isn’t a CV. It’s a conversation. Keep the tone light, human, and approachable. You want your subscribers to feel like they’re hearing from a friend, not reading a resume. Keep it casual, and avoid overly formal or corporate language.

How This Helps You Win

When you tell your story in the right way, your audience sees you as more than just a business. They see you as a real person who understands their needs and challenges. This kind of connection is invaluable because when your customers trust you, they become loyal.

Founder stories help people feel like they’re part of something bigger. They’re no longer just buying from a faceless company—they’re supporting someone they believe in. And that’s what keeps them coming back.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about how to tell your own founder story, Flowstate Academy is here to help. We dive deep into storytelling strategies and help you craft emails that your subscribers won’t just read—they’ll remember.

Want to learn more? Click here to discover what Flowstate Academy can do for you. Let’s make your emails more personal, more powerful, and more profitable.

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