The Startup Ideas Pod

Greg Isenberg

This is the startup ideas podcast.

  • 45 minutes 3 seconds
    Growth Genius Leaks Million Dollar SEO Plan

    Join me as I chat with Jacky Chou, a serial entrepreneur, as we dive deep into growth hacking opportunities. Jacky shares his strategies and frameworks for how to growth hack businesses using SEO and keyword research.

    Timestamps
    00:00 Intro
    01:46 Most AI companies are leaving money on the table
    11:04 Paid Ads for InteriorAI
    15:04 Jacky's million dollar SEO plan with Reddit
    21:13 Other Neglected Platforms to beat VC-funded startups
    24:57 Startup Idea 1: NSFW AI O.F. 
    35:31 Community Building in 2024

    1) Most AI companies are leaving money on the table

    Case study: InteriorAI (by Pieter Levels)

    - Missing out on ~50K/month
    - Could monetize through affiliate content
    - Should create blog targeting high-value keywords
    - Opportunity for "retail rank & rent" ($1-2K/month per placement)

    2) Jacky's million dollar SEO plan with Reddit:

    - Find keywords where Reddit ranks #2 (tons right now!)
    - Share your product as a "user" (no links!)
    - Target all related long-tail keywords
    - Look at AI-related terms (massive growth)
    - Replicate across Quora, Medium, LinkedIn

    3) Keyword Research Gold:

    "AI video generator" trends:

    - Search volume is exploding
    - Reddit ranking #2 consistently
    - CBC around $1.50
    - Huge opportunity for indie hackers
    - Most big players ignoring UGC platforms

    4) Dark Horse Opportunity: Adult AI Market

    - Extremely low keyword difficulty (KD: 2)
    - High search volume
    - Most competitors doing poor execution
    - AI chat + OF management tools needed
    - Mid 6-7 figures/month potential
    (Not for everyone, but opportunity exists)

    5) Community Building in 2024:

    - @JackieChou hitting $80K/month
    - Built from 15K YouTube subs
    - Key: Sell transformation, not just community
    - Focus on membership benefits
    - Bundle partnerships/tools

    Key Takeaway:

    To win in 2024: Do what VC-funded startups won't:

    - Target neglected platforms
    - Create authentic content
    - Build real communities
    - Ignore "brand concerns" early
    - Focus on actual user value

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL
    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND JACKY ON SOCIAL
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/indexsy
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacky-chou/
    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@indexsy/videos
    Advise: https://advise.so/apply/

    4 December 2024, 5:24 pm
  • 1 hour 28 minutes
    Build a high traffic startup using AI, Webflow and Zapier

    Join me as I chat with Omar Choudhry, a serial entrepreneur, as we dive deep into how to build and scale directories. Omar shares his strategies and frameworks for how to use AI and SEO to build and scale cash flowing directories.

    Episode Timestamps
    00:00 Intro
    04:26 Overview of GuiltyChef.com
    06:56 The Power of Schema in SEO
    14:04 Traffic 
    18:07 Monetization Potential
    24:34 Overview of bestdubai.com
    32:09 Live Cooking Session: Building a Directory
    35:47 Using Apify for Data Scraping
    39:54 Using Claude for organizing information and data
    44:01 Setting Up Zapier for Automation
    55:26 Formatting data on Claude 
    1:06:42 Building a Comprehensive Directory

    1) First directory: GuilteyChef.com

    - AI-generated recipes from top restaurants
    - Went from 0 to 100k monthly visitors in 7 months
    - Built in ONE week as a side project
    - Already monetizing with $2.99 recipe packs

    Key insight: People want to recreate restaurant dishes at home

    2) Second directory: BestDubai.com

    - Bought domain for $1.2k (incredible deal)
    - Competing with TripAdvisor in just 30 days
    - AI-generated reviews & scores
    - Automated everything

    Smart move: Added referral tags to outbound links = restaurants see traffic source

    3) The Tech Stack 

    - Webflow for website
    - Zapier for automation
    - Claude AI for content
    - Apify for data scraping
    - Google Sheets as input
    - Python snippets for formatting

    No coding experience needed!

    4) The Secret Sauce: Schema markup
    Omar uses AI to generate perfect schema for each page

    Why it matters:
    - Helps Google understand content
    - Gets rich snippets in search
    - Ranks above established sites
    - Most competitors do this wrong

    5) The Process:

    1. Get place ID from Google Maps
    2. Scrape data using Appify
    3. Format data for Claude
    4. Generate content with AI
    5. Push to Webflow CMS
    6. Auto-generate everything

    One place ID = complete page with images, content & SEO

    6) Monetization strategies:
    - Premium recipe packs
    - Restaurant partnerships
    - Ingredient affiliate links
    - Sponsored listings
    - Brand partnerships
    - Custom AI tools

    Pro tip: Let restaurants find YOU through analytics

    7) Key Learning:
    You can now compete with giants like TripAdvisor using:
    - Smart AI automation
    - Proper schema markup
    - Geographic targeting
    - Language optimization
    - Clean UX design

    Budget needed: Under $2k 

    The future of directories is here. Time to build!

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND OMAR ON SOCIAL

    5 Day Sprint - Build with AI: https://www.skool.com/5-day-sprint/about
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omarchoudhry/
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/OmarChoudhry
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omarchoudhry/?originalSubdomain=uk

    2 December 2024, 6:17 pm
  • 35 minutes 58 seconds
    How This Guy Makes His Entire Year's Revenue in Black Friday WEEK

    Join me as I chat with Jonathan Courtney, Co-Founder and CEO of AJ&Smart, as we dive deep into Black Friday Campaign strategy. Jonathan shares his strategies and frameworks for leveraging Black Friday regardless of what type of business you run. 

    Episode Timestamps
    00:00 - Intro
    01:15 - The Importance of Black Friday for Businesses
    04:21 - Types of Black Friday Sales
    05:01 - Case Study: Endel's Renewal Strategy
    08:49 - Comparing Strategies: MagicMind and AG1
    12:48 - Apple's Unique Approach to Black Friday
    14:25 - Creative E-commerce Strategies
    20:12 - Bundling Products for Black Friday
    22:51 - Startup Idea 1:  Black Friday Agency
    27:55 - Gamifying Promo Codes
    29:59 - Our Black Friday Buys
    31:41 - Live Streaming as a Sales Strategy

    1) The Store Credit Hack
    Instead of basic "20% off" - tell customers they have $21.63 in store credit expiring soon

    Why it works:
    • Feels like "their money"
    • Specific numbers boost authenticity
    • Creates urgency

    2) The Premium Play
    How luxury brands do Black Friday:
    • No discounts
    • Give gift cards with purchase
    • Example: Apple gives $200 credit
    Keeps brand prestige while driving sales 

    3) The Bundle Builder
    Four Sigmatic's genius approach:
    • Interactive bundle builder
    • Unlocks bigger discounts at $59/$99
    • Shows real-time savings
    • Makes shopping fun
    Steal this for your store 

    4) The Bonus Stack
    MagicMind's approach:
    • Start with core discount
    • Add digital product access
    • Include physical gifts
    • Stack more bonuses as week progresses

    Psychology: Value over Discount

    5) The Subscription Push
    SaaS playbook:
    • Offer renewal discounts
    • Add exclusive bonuses
    • Example: Endel does 50% off + premium gifts
    • Works for any subscription business

    6) The QVC Strategy
    Modern twist:
    • Run 12-hour livestream sales
    • Show limited quantities
    • Create FOMO
    • Add exclusive bundles
    • Perfect for influencer brands

    7) The Campaign Timeline
    Smart businesses:
    • Plan 6 months ahead
    • Start ads 3 days before
    • Build waiting lists
    • Layer in bonuses
    • Peak on Friday

    8) The Profit Reality
    Truth bomb:
    • Could make 1-2 months revenue in 1 week
    • Some brands make yearly revenue
    • Even "bad" years saved by Black Friday
    • Ignoring it = leaving millions on table

    Remember: Black Friday isn't just a discount day.
    It's a strategic revenue event that can make your entire year.
    Don't flub it

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jicecream
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-courtney-4510644b/
    AJ&Smart: https://ajsmart.com/

    27 November 2024, 4:58 pm
  • 42 minutes 21 seconds
    3 startup ideas from the co-founder of Loom (make $120k/mo)

    In this episode, I am joined by Shahed Khan, co-founder of Loom, as we explore innovative startup ideas, and his frameworks for finding and building startups

    Episode Timestamps:
    00:00 Intro
    00:50 Startup Idea 1: The Modern Travel Guide 
    19:25 Startup Idea 2: The anti-social social network
    34:06 Startup Idea 3: Time Capsules of Shared Memories

    1) The Anti-TripAdvisor Traveler 
    Problem: Millennials & Gen Z hate cookie-cutter travel experiences
    Solution: TikTok-inspired travel app with curated, local gems

    Key features:
    • City-specific guides (coffee shops, bookstores, etc.)
    • Video carousels showing vibes
    • Monetize by unlocking full guides ($0.99)

    How to build MVP:
    1. Use TikTok API to pull trending local videos
    2. Transcribe with Descript or Google Speech-to-Text
    3. Clean up with ChatGPT
    4. Auto-post to WordPress via Zapier
    Pro tip: Start hyper-niche (e.g., coffeesnobs.xyz) then expand

    2) The New "Path" - Dunbar's Social Network 
    Problem: We've lost connection with our REAL friends
    Solution: Reinvent Path for 2024 - ultra-private social network
    Key features:
    • Max 150 connections (Dunbar's number)
    • Location-based updates
    • Simple, minimalist design

    Why it could work:
    • People crave intimate, ad-free spaces
    • AI makes building faster & cheaper
    • Charge $20-30/year subscription
    Marketing angle: "The anti-social social network"

    3) Time Capsules of Shared Memories
    Problem: "Shared albums are where memories go to die"
    Solution: Physical, ephemeral time capsules of shared experiences

    Key features:
    • Pull from connected social accounts
    • Curate personalized memory boxes
    • Make it EASY to send as gifts

    Monetization:
    • Subscription for curation
    • Charge per physical time capsule sent

    Inspiration: Remember Klout? Leverage nostalgia!
    Bonus insight: People don't change. Our needs stay the same.
    Products evolve, but human nature is constant. Study the past!

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL
    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND SHAHED ON SOCIAL
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/_shahedk
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahedkhan/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_shahedk/

    25 November 2024, 5:54 pm
  • 47 minutes 32 seconds
    How to start a Holding Company

    In this episode, I am joined by Michael Girdley, Chairman and CEO of Girdley Enterprises, as we discuss how to build a HoldCo. Michael shares his frameworks and best practices for structuring HoldCo’s.

    Episode Timestamps: 
    00:00 Intro
    02:25 What is HoldCo
    07:22 Types of HoldCo
    09:45 Why go HoldCo
    12:56 Types of HoldCo Pt 2
    15:27 Frameworks for structuring your HoldCo
    19:16 7 steps of starting a HoldCo
    23:47 Why HoldCo’s are awesome
    36:12 HoldCo’s are antifragile 
    43:16 Make sure HoldCo’s are right for you
    45:16 HoldCo Conference

    1) What's a Holdco?
    It's owning multiple businesses but not running any of them day-to-day.
    Think Warren Buffett lite - you're the maestro orchestrating a portfolio of companies.

    2) Why go Holdco?
    • Diversify risk
    • Create asymmetric bets
    • Design your ideal lifestyle
    • Leverage your passions
    Girdley: "I tap dance to work every day, even when things are sucky."

    3) Types of Holdcos:
    • Roll-up (same biz, diff locations)
    • Platform (related businesses)
    • Pure Holdco (unrelated businesses)
    • Conglomerate (big daddy version)
    Pick your flavor based on your interests & expertise!

    4) How to start your Holdco journey:
    1. Have a plan
    2. Define your goals
    3. Design your org structure
    4. Consult lawyers & tax pros
    5. Build your all-star advisory team
    6. Execute & iterate
    7. Optimize for happiness!

    5) The secret sauce? 🤫
    • Low-cost tech makes it easier than ever to incubate new businesses.
    • Girdley: "You can do that same business they built off the ground for a few $1000"
    • Asymmetric bets FTW!

    6) Centralize or nah?
    • Depends on your asset types & personal strengths.
    • Girdley keeps it "radically decentralized" - know thyself!
    • "Don't try to do things that I know I suck at."

    7) Who's it for?
    Not everyone! But if you:
    • Love variety
    • Hate micromanaging
    • Want to build long-term wealth
    • Crave a custom-designed career
    ...Holdco life might be your jam!

    8) Ready to dive in?
    Start with ONE successful biz, then expand.
    And if you're serious, check out Girdley's Holdco conference in Utah next spring!

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND MICHAEL ON SOCIAL
    Michael Girdley’s Website: https://www.girdley.com/
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/girdley
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgirdley/
    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Michael-Girdley

    20 November 2024, 5:17 pm
  • 49 minutes 56 seconds
    3 AI startup ideas to build in 2025 (and how to grow them)

    In this episode, I am joined by Arvid Kahl, CEO and Founder of Podscan, as we explore a wide range of AI startup ideas and business opportunities

    Episode Timestamps: 
    00:00 Intro
    04:09 Startup Idea 1: AI Co-Founder
    21:07 Startup Idea 2: Silent Refactoring as a Service
    37:00 Startup Idea 3: Niche-specific AI-powered content curation

    1) AI Co-Founder: Your 24/7 virtual partner with ZERO equity 
    • Trains on your business data
    • Handles marketing, sales, strategy
    • Interacts with other AI agents for fresh ideas
    • Potential pricing: $50-100/month to start

    2-4) AI Co-Founder cont'd:
    • Customizable personality (Elon-like? Thiel-like?)
    • Reduces co-founder drama
    • Ideal for solo founders wearing multiple hats
    • Scalable SaaS model with potential for AI-AI interactions

    5) Silent Refactoring as a Service: Your code's guardian angel 
    • Constantly analyzes and improves your codebase
    • Runs simulations to test performance
    • Suggests optimizations based on future roadmap
    • Fully tested, commented code delivered via PRs

    6-7) Refactoring Service cont'd:
    • Pricing models:
    A) Per repository
    B) Frequency of experiments
    C) Value-based (replacing 3 full-time devs)
    • Start at $50-100/month, scale with capabilities

    8) Niche-specific AI-powered content curation 
    • Aggregate data from various sources (podcasts, social, magazines)
    • Summarize for specific industries (e.g., medical, equestrian)
    • Personalize content format (text, audio, video) per user
    • Potential for paid newsletters or SaaS products

    9) Content curation tips:
    • Choose a niche you're already part of
    • Leverage AI for summarization and personalization
    • Start with free content, add premium features
    • Use as a wedge to build industry-specific SaaS later

    10) Key takeaway: AI enables solo founders to tackle bigger problems! 

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co/

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND ARVID ON SOCIAL
    Podscan: https://podscan.fm
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/arvidkahl
    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB6s-V1Ls4vc_mXEF-4Lz_Q

    18 November 2024, 5:13 pm
  • 50 minutes 8 seconds
    How to build a $1M+ Consumer SaaS App (step-by-step guide)

    Join me as I chat with Joseph Choi, Founder of Viral App Founders Community, as we discuss his frameworks and strategies for finding and building profitable Consumer Apps. Learn his step-by-step formula to building and growth hacking apps. 

    Episode Timestamps: 
    00:00 Intro
    04:01 Ecom Marketing Strategies applied to Consumer Apps
    11:07 TikTok Shop Affiliate Center  = goldmine for app ideas
    22:16 Profitable Niches that are Underserved
    33:26 Influencer Marketing 2.0
    40:58 Capitalize on internet "cults" & movements

    1) TikTok organic = BIGGEST underpriced distribution channel right now
    - Cost of creating & distributing content = low
    - Potential reach for consumer apps = high
    - Time to leverage this opportunity! 

    2) E-commerce tactics are invading the app world
    - Remember Tabs Chocolate? 0 to $10M/year with mass UGC creators
    - Now these tactics are being used for consumer SaaS 
    - Higher margins + better exit multiples = Bigger Opportunity

    3) Carousels perform better than Short-form video on TikTok?!
    - Surprising trend: Photo carousels are CRUSHING IT
    - Easier to create + more scalable than talking head vids
    - Pro tip: Use Midjourney for quick, eye-catching visuals 

    4) TikTok Shop Affiliate Center = goldmine for app ideas
    - Find top performers in any niche
    - Build apps to help them sell better
    - Get free marketing from influencers

    Win-win-win situation! 

    5) High LTV niches are UNDERSERVED on TikTok
    Think: Golfers, poker players, niche sports
    Example: Golf swing analysis app

    - 10k downloads / month
    - $70k revenue / month
    - Huge potential for more!

    6) Myth: TikTok users are all young
    - Reality: Diverse demographics, especially in niche content
    - Serve content to underserved niches = Underpriced reach

    7) Rethink influencer marketing for TikTok
    - Old way: Pay for followers
    - New way: Hire creators as ACTORS, not for their audience
    - TikTok algorithm favors good content, not follower count 

    8) Capitalize on internet "cults" & movements
    Examples:
    - Looksmaxing (YouMax app)
    - Make money online (Crayo app)
    1. Find passionate communities without products
    2. Build the app they need 
    3. Profit 
    Bonus tip: Product quality is CRUCIAL
    Nail your metrics before scaling marketing efforts!

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    Work with me and my team: LCA — world’s best product design firm to build apps, websites and brands people love. https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co/

    Stop Building Websites That Look Good But Don’t Sell: https://www.designscientist.com/design-store?b=https://www.designscientist.com/

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND JOSEPH ON SOCIAL
    Viral App Founders Community: https://whop.com/viral-app-founders/
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/JosephKChoi
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/choi-joseph/

    13 November 2024, 4:55 pm
  • 47 minutes 59 seconds
    Humanoid Military Robots and other crazy billion dollar ideas

    Join us for an engaging conversation with John Coogan, Entrepreneur in Residence at Founders Fund, as we explore a wide range of moonshot ideas from Cybersecurity to moon Colonization to humanoid military robots

    Episode Timestamps: 
    00:00 Intro
    01:57 Startup Idea 1: Cybersecurity for AI companies
    11:37 Startup Idea 2: Moon-focused space startup
    21:33 Startup Idea 3: Kid-friendly smartphone alternative 
    36:02 Startup Idea 4: Humanoid military robots 

    1) Cybersecurity for AI companies 
    • AI models = new high-value digital assets
    • Estimated $500M to train GPT-4
    • Potential for theft/espionage
    • Opportunity: Build Fort Knox-level security for AI weights
    • Think Chainalysis, but for AI

    2) Moon-focused space startup 
    • SpaceX focused on Mars, opportunity on the Moon
    • Easier access, always visible from Earth
    • Ideas: Moon tourism, mining, asset placement
    • Leverage SpaceX's falling launch costs
    • Be the "Varda" or "Planet Labs" of the Moon

    3) Kid-friendly smartphone alternative 
    • Parents want device control, kids need connectivity
    • Opportunity: Build ruggedized, fun, limited-feature phone
    • No addictive apps, basic communication + learning tools
    • Counter-position against Apple's sleek designs
    • Target millennial parents via Instagram ads\

    4)  Humanoid military robots 
    • Combine trends: AI, robotics, defense tech
    • Controversial but attention-grabbing
    • Potential uses: Tele-operated missions, security
    • Ethical concerns, but tech seems inevitable
    • Opportunity to lead in emerging field

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    Work with me and my team: LCA — world’s best product design firm to build apps, websites and brands people love. https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co/

    Stop Building Websites That Look Good But Don’t Sell: https://www.designscientist.com/design-store?b=https://www.designscientist.com/

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND JOHN ON SOCIAL
    John’s Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2L6WMqY3GUPCGBD0dX6p00?si=7TdH3TuJQWmsTt53e9s7Rg&nd=1&dlsi=ab2bcd252c4847cc
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/johncoogan
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacoogan/

    11 November 2024, 6:27 pm
  • 38 minutes 43 seconds
    How to build $1M+ Viral AI Apps

    Join me as I chat with Blake Anderson, Co-Founder of Apex, as we discuss his frameworks and strategies for building and scaling viral AI Apps. Learn his step-by-step formula creating viral apps. 

    Episode Timestamps: 
    00:00 Intro
    02:59  Why build AI Apps
    04:58 Startup Idea 1: Career AI
    08:19 Blake's framework for building Viral AI Apps
    10:38 Finding influencers
    13:23 Product Development
    17:25 Startup Idea 2: Journal AI
    24:01 Paywalls and Payment Strategy
    29:03 Startup Idea 3: Language AI
    24:01 How to find more AI app ideas

    1) Career AI: The all-in-one career advancement tool
    • Combines resume analysis, career quizzes, & job application tips
    • Use AI to create a 6-factor rating system for resumes (like Madden ratings)
    • Design viral hooks: "I'm a senior and it says I should study CS!"

    Distribution strategy:
    • Target students on IG, TikTok, LinkedIn
    • Partner with ed-tech influencers
    • Split test different hooks across niches

    2) Journal AI: Your AI-powered second brain
    • Branded as a journal, functions like an emotional support assistant
    • Provides productivity insights, relationship analysis, and emotional support
    • Uses ChatGPT with enhanced memory storage
    Key insight: People already use ChatGPT as a journal. This makes it official.
    Naming tip: Consider friendly names like "Juni" or "Journey" instead of "AI"

    3) Language AI: The Duolingo disruptor
    • Create a dynamic, AI-powered language learning app
    • Leverage newest AI voice-to-voice models as they become cheaper
    • Update content dynamically, unlike Duolingo's static modules

    Why it could work:
    • Even 1% of Duolingo's market = $100M company
    • High-intent users willing to pay
    • Established players move slower than scrappy startups

    4) Blake's framework for building viral AI apps:
    1. Iterate on virality from day one
    2. Split test hooks, influencers, and product features
    3. Build personal relationships with influencers (don't use marketplaces)
    4. Design around both functionality AND virality
    5. Use tools like Superwall for easy paywall testing

    5) Pricing strategy: Optimize for (users^n * profit per user), where n is greater than 1
    • This prioritizes growth and market dominance over short-term profits.
    • Blake's hot take: The "evil" onboarding flow that works

    1. Get users to input personal info for "customization"
    2. Hit them with a paywall at the end

    • It's effective, but Blake admits it feels morally questionable. Use at your own risk.

    6) Bonus tip: Create burner social media accounts to immerse yourself in your target niche.
    • Curate your feed around your app's topic to truly understand your audience.

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    Work with me and my team: LCA — world’s best product design firm to build apps, websites and brands people love. https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co/

    Stop Building Websites That Look Good But Don’t Sell: https://www.designscientist.com/design-store?b=https://www.designscientist.com/

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL
    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND BLAKE ON SOCIAL
    Blake’s startup: http://apex.inc/
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/blakeandersonw
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakeandersonw/

    6 November 2024, 5:49 pm
  • 50 minutes 1 second
    7 $1M+ AI startup ideas you can launch tomorrow with $0

    Join us for an engaging conversation with Cody Schneider, Co-Founder and CEO of Swell AI, as we explore a wide range of AI startup ideas and business opportunities

    Episode Timestamps: 
    00:00 Intro
    01:46 Startup Idea 1: AI-Generated UGC Ads 
    16:10 Startup Idea 2: AI Infographic Generator 
    21:14 Startup Idea 3: AI Journaling App 
    30:10 Startup Idea 4: Novel DTC products 
    36:39 Startup Idea 5: Creator Business Model 2.0
    44:13 Startup Idea 6: AI Receptionist 

    1) AI-Generated UGC Ads 
    • Use AI avatars + scripts to create UGC-style ads at scale
    • Test 100s of variations quickly and cheaply
    • Use for paid ads AND organic social content
    • Huge arbitrage opportunity right now

    How to distribute:
    • Run as Facebook ads to conversion event
    • Post across multiple burner accounts on TikTok/Reels

    2) AI Infographic Generator 
    • 9,000 searches/month for "AI infographic generator"
    • Turn blog posts into visually appealing infographics
    • Save time and money for businesses

    Distribution:
    • SEO - exact match domain already acquired
    • B2B sales - infographics proven to increase engagement

    3) AI Journaling App 
    • 8,100 searches/month, trending up fast
    • Voice recording + transcription + AI insights
    • Daily habit tracking + ability to query past entries

    Growth strategy:
    • Partner with journaling YouTubers (200+ videos, affiliate commissions)
    • TikTok/Instagram influencer sponsorships

    4) Creator Business Model 2.0 
    • Short-form content → Lead magnet → Email list → Long-form YouTube
    • Monetize through ads, sponsorships, and newsletter
    • Scale to multiple channels/niches

    Pro tip: Use community to ideate products for your audience

    5/ AI Receptionist 
    • Huge demand, especially for specific industries (dentists, etc.)
    • Answers FAQs, schedules appointments, integrates with CRMs
    • Outperforms human receptionists in many cases

    Target market: Local businesses struggling to hire front desk staff

    6) Novel DTC products 
    • Create daily-use products with novel formats (e.g., toothpaste cubes)
    • Focus on "clean living" trends
    • Design for TikTok virality

    Key: Make it a consumable for repeat purchases

    7) AI-powered outbound calls 
    • Use APIs like VAPI for managing calls
    • Applications: Lead qualification, debt collection, appointment reminders
    • Massive efficiency gains for businesses

    Tip: Don't reinvent the wheel - find existing categories and remix with AI

    Remember: Don't try to be too creative. Find validated markets and apply new tech to solve old problems better, faster, cheaper.

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    Work with me and my team: LCA — world’s best product design firm to build apps, websites and brands people love. https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    Stop Building Websites That Look Good But Don’t Sell: https://www.designscientist.com/design-store?b=https://www.designscientist.com/

    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND CODY ON SOCIAL
    Cody’s startup: https://www.swellai.com/
    X/Twitter: https://tinyurl.com/5fjdn8d7
    LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/28e89f5r

    4 November 2024, 5:38 pm
  • 35 minutes 51 seconds
    How to Build a Swipe File and Steal Like an Artist

    I’m joined by Jordan Mix, Operating Partner at Late Checkout, to discuss how to build swipe files and how to remix successful strategies. Jordan breaks down why these marketing funnels work and the anatomy of a successful funnel.

    Episode Timestamps:
    00:00 Intro
    01:27 Why build Swipe Files
    04:00 Example 1: Tweets
    08:40 Example 2: DTC Product
    12:10 Example 3: Thumbnails
    14:47 Example 4: Landing Page
    18:46 The Anatomy of a Funnel
    22:22 Example 5: Email Followup
    26:13 Example 6: Digital Lead Magnet
    28:57 Example 7: IRL Lead Magnet
    30:26 Creating a Got Got Swipe File
    31:14 Innovating on Pricing
    31:33 Micro SaaS idea: AI Agent Funnel Scraper

    1) We see 4,000-10,000 ads daily. Turn that consumption into creation with a swipe file.
    The best way to learn how to sell? Study how YOU got sold.
    Create a "got got" file - save anything that makes you take action (click, share, buy).

    2) Use My Mind to easily save & organize inspiration:
    • Chrome extension for quick saves
    • Tag system for easy retrieval
    • Serendipity feature to surface random inspo
    Beats bookmarking tweets you'll never see again!

    3) Look for pattern interrupts & scroll-stoppers.
    Example: Not Fried chicken ice cream
    Lessons:
    • Combine unexpected elements
    • Use high contrast visuals
    • Mix hot & cold concepts
    Apply this thinking to your digital products!

    4) Anatomy of a killer funnel:
    • Top: Free value (content, lead magnets)
    • Middle: Nurture (email sequences, surveys)
    • Bottom: Convert (calls, buy buttons)
    Key: Top should be ALL about THEM. Only talk about yourself at the bottom.

    5) IRL to URL: Don't forget offline lead gen!
    Tiago Forte's "Building a Second Brain" book:
    • Bonus chapter accessed via URL in book
    • Segments readers for targeted offers
    Think: How can you bridge physical & digital worlds?

    6) Innovation isn't just about product. Consider:
    • Marketing innovation
    • Pricing model innovation
    Example: Sublime app's "pay what you want" model
    Could this work for your biz?

    7) Micro SaaS idea: AI Agent Funnel Scraper
    Automatically collect & analyze:
    • Email sequences
    • Sales funnels
    • Marketing tactics
    Build a searchable database of winning strategies to remix!

    8) Remember: Everyone's seeing "cool stuff" daily. You just need to train yourself to notice & capture it.

    Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)

    Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas

    Work with me and my team: LCA — world’s best product design firm to build apps, websites and brands people love. https://latecheckout.agency/

    BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/

    BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/

    Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co

    Stop Building Websites That Look Good But Don’t Sell: https://www.designscientist.com/design-store?b=https://www.designscientist.com/
    FIND ME ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

    FIND JORDAN ON SOCIAL

    X/Twitter: https://x.com/jrdnmix
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-mix1/

    30 October 2024, 6:48 pm
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