Should I use my real name or create a brand name?

[Angela]

I'm starting to take content creation seriously and i can't decide if i should use my real name or create a brand name/pseudonym

Using my real name feels more authentic but also makes me nervous about privacy. A brand name feels safer but maybe less personal

What did you choose and why?

[SarahVlogs]

I use my real name and I'm glad I did. Here's why:

advantages of real name:
- builds actual personal brand tied to you
- opens doors for speaking gigs, job opportunities, networking
- easier to build trust and authenticity
- if you ever want to pivot or expand, your name goes with you

using a brand name works for:
- people who want to stay anonymous
- people planning to sell the brand eventually
- entertainment content where the persona is separate from you

but if you're building a PERSONAL brand (coaches, consultants, educators, thought leaders), your real name is better

i was nervous about privacy too but you can set boundaries:
- don't share your exact location
- keep family off social media
- use google voice for business contact
- don't post in real time

thousands of creators use their real names without major privacy issues. just be smart about what personal info you share

Also, your real name is more memorable and professional. imagine trying to network at an event with a brand name - "hi i'm... um... my brand is called..."

[SarahVlogs]

I used a brand name and it's been great for maintaining work-life separation

my reasons for brand name:
- i didn't want future employers googling me and finding all my content
- wanted freedom to be more opinionated without it affecting my professional reputation
- easier to collaborate with others under a brand umbrella
- can build a business beyond just me

I'm in the tech/software niche and I create content under a brand name. my actual career is separate and i like that boundary

also if you ever want to bring on team members or sell the brand, having it be separate from your personal identity makes that easier

you can still be authentic and build trust with a brand name. Your personality comes through in the content regardless of what name is on it

my suggestion: if you're in a conservative industry or want to keep career options open, consider a brand name. if you're going all-in on content creation as your career, use your real name

there's no wrong answer, just different priorities