How he Built His Community With a $0 Marketing Budget. Here's How.| John Ho Founder of Alt_ChiangMai

John Ho grew up in the hyper-competitive, fast-paced world of Hong Kong. With a background in traditional hospitality, he understood how to build spaces, but it was his decision to leave that system behind that taught him how to build a real community. After moving to Chiang Mai for a slower, more intentional life to raise his family, he discovered the world of digital nomads—a group of sovereign individuals who were often disconnected and lonely. He didn't just see a business opportunity; he saw a human need. This led him to create Alt Spaces, a co-living and co-working environment built not on the fiat principles of privacy and extraction, but on the Proof of Work values of sharing, connection, and genuine experience. When it came time to expand, he didn't turn to venture capitalists. Instead, he turned to the very community he had built, raising capital through the trust and social proof he had earned day by day. This is a story about opting out of the high-time-preference game and building something with lasting value. 📌 In this EP, you will discover: 📌Why the "hustle culture" of a major city isn't a healthy environment for a family. 📌The fundamental difference between a hotel (a fiat system) and a co-living space (a community). 📌How genuine "Proof of Work" and word-of-mouth built a business without a marketing budget. 📌The journey of raising funds from the community you serve, not from faceless investors. 📌The "Cosmo Local" vision: How to bridge the gap between outsiders and locals to build a thriving ecosystem for everyone. 📌Why chasing hyper-growth is a trap and how contentment leads to sustainable success. "The best marketing strategy is actually word of mouth... you have to have a good experience, genuinely. Not a fabricated experience." 📌 Follow John Ho & Alt Spaces: Website: https://www.altcoliving.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alt_coliving/ 📌 Follow Bitcoin Chiang Mai: Website: https://www.bitcoinchiangmai.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blcchiangmai Bitcoin Marathon Festival: https://www.bitcoinmarathon.org This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bitcoinchiangmai.substack.com