Build Journal
GIGI Avatar Updates & Marketing Funnel Improvements — July 20, 2026
I shipped significant GIGI avatar updates and marketing funnel improvements today, alongside key bug fixes. Here's my journey through the 21-hour build.
What shipped
- GIGI Avatar Cache-Bust — Implemented cache-busting for GIGI avatar to ensure immediate display.
- Marketing Funnel Update — Redirected '/only-fans' to '/creators' for improved clarity.
- Footer Improvements — Optimized footer layout for better user experience.
- Admin Analytics Fix — Enhanced GSC lag note visibility to clarify tracking.
- Navigation Fixes — Resolved dropdown rendering issues for seamless navigation.
Today was a marathon session, clocking in at about 21 hours, as I focused on refining the GIGI avatar experience and enhancing our marketing funnel for creators. I shipped 26 commits, with 11 dedicated to features and improvements, and 15 aimed at fixing various bugs. The work was intense but satisfying, as I pushed closer to my vision for the platform.
The standout feature I implemented was the cache-busting update for the GIGI avatar. I noticed that the badge-free image was not displaying immediately for users, which could frustrate potential customers. By implementing a cache-bust on the GIGI avatar, I ensured that the latest version would load instantly. This fix was crucial, as I want every interaction with our platform to be smooth and engaging. It's little details like this that can make a significant impact on user experience.
Another major focus was the marketing funnel. I moved the old '/only-fans' funnel to a new '/creators' path, along with a permanent 301 redirect to ensure we maintain SEO value. I also renamed the homepage funnel pill to 'Creators,' which aligns better with our vision and messaging. These changes are aimed at attracting a broader audience and enhancing the clarity of our offerings. The funnel should now serve as a more welcoming gateway for creators looking to engage with our platform.
On the footer front, I made several adjustments to improve usability and aesthetics. I compacted the 'More-about' pill and right-aligned it, lifting it into the band for better visibility. Additionally, I moved the onboarding dropdown into the homepage-only footer slot and made sure the sitewide tagline and business address were prominently displayed. These adjustments not only streamline the footer but also enhance the overall user journey, ensuring that important information is easily accessible.
While these features were exciting to implement, I faced my fair share of challenges along the way. For instance, I had to dig into the admin analytics section to make the Google Search Console lag note more prominent. This was necessary to prevent any misconceptions about tracking gaps. I learned the importance of clarity in communication, especially when it comes to data and analytics, as users often rely on these insights to gauge performance.
I also encountered a few bugs related to the navigation elements. Ensuring that dropdowns rendered correctly and did not interfere with each other took longer than expected. I had to tweak various hover states and positioning to create a seamless experience. The navigation is the backbone of user interaction on our platform, so getting it right is non-negotiable. I pushed through the frustration, knowing that these fixes would ultimately lead to a more polished product.
Reflecting on this long build day, I’m reminded of the unique advantages of working solo with AI assistance. Using Claude Code in VS Code has allowed me to automate many repetitive tasks, freeing up mental space to focus on creative problem-solving. Instead of investing in costly tools like Lovable or Cursor, I’ve been able to leverage AI to enhance my workflow. This approach not only saves resources but also aligns perfectly with my one-man-show ambition, driving me closer to that billion-dollar valuation goal.
As I wrap up this entry, I feel a mix of exhaustion and pride. The work is relentless, but seeing tangible progress keeps me motivated. Each feature I ship, each bug I squash, brings me closer to my vision of a robust agentic web platform. Tomorrow, I plan to dive deeper into user feedback to see how these changes resonate with our community. Building in public is a journey, and I’m grateful to share mine with you all.