Starting something new takes courage. The fear of what others will think, say, or post online can stop many entrepreneurs before they even begin. But as the recent Wall Street Journal story about influencer Kylie Swanson shows, criticism is inevitable — and often louder than it is large.
Swanson, a 36-year-old content creator originally from Oklahoma, launched a four-day luxury retreat called “Camp Nantucket” this past June. For $3,800 per person, eight women joined her in a rented cottage for sailing, biking, dinners, and connection. While her guests enjoyed the experience, some locals weren’t happy. They criticized her for hiring vendors from outside the island and for not being part of the community’s long-established culture.
Despite the pushback, Swanson moved forward, delivering a valuable experience for her attendees. Her story is a reminder to every small business owner and entrepreneur: the people who complain will always be there — but they are rarely your real audience.
Key Takeaways
- Criticism is unavoidable — focus on the customers you serve, not the ones who will never buy from you.
- Launch imperfectly — waiting for the “perfect” time or approval from everyone means you may never start.
- Learn and adapt — feedback, even when harsh, can guide improvements for the next round.
- Be transparent — honesty about your offers builds trust, even when you’re new.
- Secure your foundation — just like you protect your home or car, safeguard your business from threats.
Related – In Down Times Serve Your Customers Even More. They Remember.(Opens in a new browser tab)
Related – How To Do What You’re Afraid of Doing – The Rundown with Ramon(Opens in a new browser tab)
The Backlash Was Loud — But Not the Whole Story
Nantucket is a proud, close-knit community. Residents value shopping local and supporting long-time neighbors. Swanson’s use of off-island vendors and her status as a newcomer ruffled feathers. Some even accused her online of being a “scammer,” despite her clear disclosures that she rented her location and resources.
The result? Negative comments, gossip, and even hesitation from some local businesses to be publicly associated with her.
Yet, eight paying attendees got exactly what they signed up for — connection, fun, and inspiration. Those positive outcomes didn’t make headlines, but they matter far more for her business.
Why You Can’t Let Fear Win
Many entrepreneurs freeze at the thought of public backlash. The fear isn’t just about failing — it’s about failing where everyone can see it.
But here’s the truth: people will judge whether you act or not. If you succeed, some will still try to find fault. So why not move forward, serve your customers, and learn as you go?
Business author Kim Perell writes in Mistakes That Made Me a Millionaire that perfection is impossible — progress comes from taking action, making mistakes, and adapting. Tyler Perry echoes this sentiment, reframing mistakes as lessons that prepare you for the next step.
Practical Ways to Keep Moving Forward
- Define your “real” audience — who you’re serving matters more than pleasing critics.
- Start small and adjust — you can refine your offer with each iteration.
- Be upfront about what you do and don’t provide — transparency builds credibility.
- Protect your business — from cybersecurity threats to brand damage, take security seriously.
- Choose “day one” over “one day” — stop waiting for the perfect moment.
The Bigger Picture
Entrepreneurship isn’t a popularity contest. You will never win over everyone, and that’s okay. The louder the critics, the more important it is to look at your results — satisfied customers, improved skills, and growing impact.
Kylie Swanson’s story is ultimately about resilience. She launched despite the noise. She served her clients. She learned where she could have better understood the community. And she’ll likely improve her next event as a result.
So, the next time fear of “what they’ll say” creeps in, flip the question: What if it works? What if you change lives? What if your idea succeeds? You won’t know until you start.