April 20, 2025 • 45 mins
Bill Ottman is the CEO and co-founder of MINDS, an open-source, decentralized social media platform dedicated to free speech, privacy, and internet freedom. Since launching MINDS in 2015, Ottman has been a leading advocate for digital rights, transparency, and alternative social networking models that empower users rather than exploit their data.
A strong proponent of open-source technology and blockchain-based solutions, Ottman designed MINDS to challenge Big Tech censorship and surveillance by offering users greater control over their online experience. The platform rewards engagement with cryptocurrency and provides a space where creators can monetize their content without corporate interference.
Beyond MINDS, Ottman is a writer, speaker, and activist who frequently discusses issues related to internet freedom, free expression, and decentralized technology. His work has been featured in major media outlets, and he has collaborated with experts in the fields of digital rights, privacy, and governance.
Under his leadership, MINDS has grown into a global network of millions of users seeking a more open and democratic approach to social media.
Before founding MINDS, Ottman studied at the University of Vermont, where he focused on philosophy and political science. His early interests in internet culture, free expression, and digital ethics led him to explore alternative models for online communication that prioritize user sovereignty and transparency. During this time, he became increasingly critical of centralized social media platforms and their impact on public discourse.
Ottman’s career has spanned various creative and entrepreneurial endeavors, including journalism, digital marketing, and music. His background in content creation and community-building has informed his vision for MINDS as a platform that not only fosters open dialogue but also provides economic incentives for independent creators. His work continues to shape conversations around online governance and the future of social networking.
A strong proponent of open-source technology and blockchain-based solutions, Ottman designed MINDS to challenge Big Tech censorship and surveillance by offering users greater control over their online experience. The platform rewards engagement with cryptocurrency and provides a space where creators can monetize their content without corporate interference.
Beyond MINDS, Ottman is a writer, speaker, and activist who frequently discusses issues related to internet freedom, free expression, and decentralized technology. His work has been featured in major media outlets, and he has collaborated with experts in the fields of digital rights, privacy, and governance.
Under his leadership, MINDS has grown into a global network of millions of users seeking a more open and democratic approach to social media.
Before founding MINDS, Ottman studied at the University of Vermont, where he focused on philosophy and political science. His early interests in internet culture, free expression, and digital ethics led him to explore alternative models for online communication that prioritize user sovereignty and transparency. During this time, he became increasingly critical of centralized social media platforms and their impact on public discourse.
Ottman’s career has spanned various creative and entrepreneurial endeavors, including journalism, digital marketing, and music. His background in content creation and community-building has informed his vision for MINDS as a platform that not only fosters open dialogue but also provides economic incentives for independent creators. His work continues to shape conversations around online governance and the future of social networking.
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