GLOBOL was a mobile travel platform built to make travel more intelligent, social, and context-aware. The app helped users understand what was around them, connect with relevant people and places, and access useful travel support while actively exploring a city.

As founder, I led GLOBOL from initial concept through product strategy, brand development, user research, prototype planning, and investor-facing storytelling. My responsibilities included defining the core product thesis, mapping the user experience, researching the competitive landscape, developing pitch materials, shaping the go-to-market strategy, and coordinating with design and technical collaborators to move the product toward MVP development.

During development, I grew GLOBOL’s waitlist to more than 5,000 users, secured 350 influencers and UGC creators prepared to promote the launch, and built partnerships with over 150 hostels to support direct app downloads and strengthen network effects at launch. I also successfully pitched GLOBOL in the West Virginia Start-Up Innovation Competition, raising $30,000 in non-dilutive startup funding.

Ultimately, after validating demand and building an early distribution network, I made the decision to cease development due to the ongoing infrastructure and API costs required to support the product at scale. The experience sharpened my understanding of consumer AI economics, travel technology, network effects, and the importance of building products with scalable unit economics from the beginning.