I share my journey with Podsqueeze, reflecting on two years of entrepreneurship. I discuss the impact of seasonality on our business and the brutal nature of the market. I explore the challenges of balancing investment and salary, leading to a decision to scale down operations. I highlight our shift towards B2B clients and the lessons learned from targeting larger companies. I also address the differing motivations between my co-founder and me, and my thoughts on potentially selling the company. Lastly, I invite listeners to reach out with questions or for support.

 Tools and Websites

- "Podsqueeze": "00:01:35"

- "Google Services": "00:09:22"

- "GPT (likely referring to OpenAI's GPT)": "00:07:14"

- "Twitter": "00:24:18"

- "LinkedIn": "00:24:18"

- "Email": "00:24:18"

 Books

- "\"How to Exit\" by Rob Walling": "00:22:16"

- "Book on Selling a Company": "00:23:19"

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:08)  

The speaker welcomes listeners back after a long hiatus and shares personal reflections on entrepreneurship.

Realizations and Learnings (00:01:35)  

The speaker discusses significant realizations and lessons learned during their entrepreneurial journey.

Seasonality in Business (00:02:49)  

Insights on how Podsqueeze experiences seasonal fluctuations in customer engagement and business performance.

Market Realities (00:04:58)  

The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding market dynamics and how they impact business success.

Understanding Market Size (00:06:04)  

Discussion on measuring market size and the challenges of identifying potential customers for Podsqueeze.

Investment and Expenses (00:08:18)  

Overview of the financial structure of the company and the investments made to support growth.

Challenges in Entrepreneurship (00:10:25)  

The speaker reflects on the harsh realities of entrepreneurship and the market's indifference to hard work.

Co-founder Dynamics (00:12:25)  

The speaker shares their experiences and challenges in the relationship with their co-founder.

Decision to Scale Down (00:14:15)  

Discussion on the decision to reduce costs and scale down operations instead of seeking external funding.

B2B Targeting Strategy (00:18:09)  

The speaker explores the transition towards targeting larger companies and the challenges faced in this approach.

Cultural Differences in Sales (00:20:19)  

Insights on the difficulties of expanding sales efforts outside Portugal and the importance of cultural understanding.

Future Considerations (00:21:19)  

The speaker contemplates the future of Podsqueeze and the differing motivations between them and their co-founder.

Preparation for Selling (00:23:19)  

The speaker discusses the importance of preparation for selling their company, Podsqueeze.

Reflection on Business Journey (00:24:18)  

The speaker shares thoughts on their entrepreneurial journey and invites listeners to reach out for questions.  

Conclusion of Episode (00:24:33)  

The episode wraps up with a farewell and a promise to see listeners next time.

I share a wrap-up of 2024, discussing both successes and challenges with Podsqueeze. I reflect on our disappointing growth compared to 2023 and the importance of sustainable marketing, particularly through SEO, which significantly increased our traffic. I analyze our MRR growth of 18% and the ongoing issue of churn, which remains a focus for 2025. I also touch on personal insights regarding my relationship with my co-founder and the need for confidence in our journey. Lastly, I outline goals for 2025, including reducing churn and exploring new monetization avenues.

Contact Information

Twitter: https://x.com/wbetiago

Tools and Websites

"Podsqueeze": "00:01:14"

"SEO": "00:03:42"

"Flarecut": "00:18:30"

"Auto Shorts": "00:21:37"

Metrics and Concepts

"Domain Authority": "00:04:56"

"Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR)": "00:08:30"

"Churn Rate": "00:10:35"

"Keyword Research": "00:04:56"

"Backlinks": "00:04:56"

"Conversion Rate": "00:15:02"

Timestamps by PodSqueezePodcast Introduction (00:00:08)  

Tiago introduces the episode, reflecting on the year 2024 and sharing lessons learned.

Disappointment in Growth (00:01:14)  

Tiago discusses feelings of disappointment regarding Podsqueeze's growth compared to the previous year.

Sustainable Marketing Focus (00:03:42)  

The realization of needing a sustainable marketing strategy leads to a focus on SEO starting in late 2023.

SEO Success (00:04:56)  

Tiago shares the achievements in SEO, including significant traffic growth and improved domain authority.

Monthly Recurring Revenue Growth (00:07:16)  

The company's MRR grew by 18%, which Tiago considers a decent achievement in a competitive market.

Churn Rate Challenges (00:10:35)  

Tiago addresses the ongoing challenge of customer churn, which remains a focus for improvement in 2025.

Marketing Experimentation (00:12:52)  

The team experimented with various marketing channels, including YouTube and TikTok, yielding mixed results.

Conversion Rates Insights (00:15:02)  

Tiago explains the importance of conversion rates and how they vary by marketing source.

Co-founder Relationship Dynamics (00:17:21)  

Tiago reflects on the close relationship with his co-founder and the challenges faced during tough times.

Seasonality Effects (00:18:30)  

The impact of seasonality on business performance becomes evident, particularly during the summer months.

Lessons from New Product Attempts (00:19:23)  

Attempts to replicate success with new products prove difficult, highlighting the unpredictability of entrepreneurship.

Market Timing Realizations (00:20:28)  

Tiago discusses the significance of market timing and how competition affects new product launches.

Mindset and Perspective (00:22:47)  

Tiago emphasizes the importance of mindset in evaluating business performance and overcoming feelings of inadequacy.

Podcast Timestamps

Confidence and Mindset (00:24:54)  

Tiago discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and confidence in the company's growth.

Time as an Asset (00:25:53)  

He emphasizes that time is the most valuable asset for entrepreneurs, more than money.

Delegation and Investment (00:26:57)  

Tiago reflects on the importance of delegating tasks to expedite growth and improve quality.

Future Goals for 2025 (00:28:04)  

He shares his aspirations for 2025, including salary goals and reducing customer churn.

Self-Reflection and Learning (00:29:07)  

Tiago expresses his growth as an entrepreneur and the lessons learned throughout the year.

Excitement for the Future (00:30:17)  

He concludes with enthusiasm for the upcoming year and invites listeners to engage with the podcast.

I dive into my journey of managing a residential building after buying our first apartment. I share the ups and downs of dealing with a crumbling building, a lackluster management company, and a diverse group of neighbors from different cultural backgrounds. I talk about how I took charge, rallied the residents, and navigated through conflicts to improve the living conditions. I offer insights on community building, conflict resolution, and the challenges of property management. Perfect for indie makers looking for real-life problem-solving inspiration!

Links

Follow me on Twitter (X)

Follow me on Linkedin

Timestamps by PodSqueeze

Introduction to Building Management (00:00:00)  

Tiago introduces the episode, sharing his experience managing a residential building.

The Apartment Purchase Journey (00:01:22)  

Tiago discusses the process of buying their first apartment and the challenges faced.

Challenges of the Building's Condition (00:02:34)  

He reflects on the poor condition of the building and the need for repairs.

Learning About Remodeling (00:03:38)  

Tiago shares his learning curve regarding remodeling and construction.

Issues with Construction Companies (00:04:41)  

He discusses the difficulties in finding trustworthy construction companies in Portugal.

Neighbors Association Meeting (00:05:45)  

Tiago recounts the first neighbors association meeting and the management company's poor performance.

Cultural Clashes Among Residents (00:06:52)  

He highlights the mix of cultures and the resulting challenges in communication among residents.

Frustrations with Management (00:08:57)  

Tiago expresses frustrations over the lack of progress in addressing building issues.

Taking Initiative to Mediate (00:10:06)  

He decides to take action to mediate conflicts and improve the situation.

Understanding Neighbor Dynamics (00:11:14)  

Tiago reflects on the complex dynamics between different neighbors and their cultural differences.

The Need for Change (00:12:18)  

He recognizes the urgency of addressing the building's deteriorating conditions.

Facing Resistance (00:13:30)  

Tiago encounters resistance from neighbors when trying to mediate conflicts.

Deciding to Take Over Management (00:14:37)  

He resolves to take charge and remove the ineffective management company.

Creating Communication Channels (00:15:40)  

Tiago establishes a WhatsApp group for better communication among neighbors.

Planning a Secret Meeting (00:16:45)  

He organizes a secret meeting to discuss the management issues without the company present.

Overcoming Nervousness (00:17:39)  

Tiago shares his feelings of nervousness before the meeting with neighbors.

Voting on Management Change (00:18:38)  

The neighbors vote to remove the management company and appoint new managers.

Confronting the Management Company (00:19:39)  

Tiago describes his experience confronting the management company to cancel the contract.

Negotiating the Contract Cancellation (00:20:35)  

He discusses the challenges faced during negotiations to cancel the management contract.

Podcast Episode Timestamps

Challenges with Management (00:22:28)  

Tiago discusses frustrations with the building management company and the roadblocks they created.

Regaining Momentum (00:23:27)  

He reflects on nearly giving up but finds renewed energy to address urgent building issues.

Voting for Change (00:24:21)  

Tiago describes successfully convincing neighbors to pay for necessary repairs and his new role as administrator.

Managing Neighbor Disputes (00:25:24)  

He talks about the complexities of addressing diverse neighbor complaints and maintaining impartiality.

Hiring Competent Professionals (00:26:26)  

Tiago emphasizes the importance of hiring trustworthy professionals over merely seeking the lowest costs.

Starting Repairs (00:28:38)  

He shares the beginning of construction work on the building's facade and the positive changes observed.

Celebrating Progress (00:30:37)  

Tiago expresses satisfaction with the completed facade repairs and the sense of contribution he feels.

Personal Growth Reflection (00:31:41)  

He reflects on overcoming self-doubt and the importance of trusting oneself in challenging situations.

Future Improvements (00:33:37)  

Tiago concludes by mentioning ongoing improvements needed for the building and his excitement for future updates.

I dive into the tricky balance between work and rest that many indie makers face. I share my personal journey and talk about the constant pressure to work long hours and the feelings of dissatisfaction that can arise in both 9-to-5 jobs and startups. I emphasize the importance of finding fulfillment and suggest that entrepreneurs should delegate tasks and hire help to free up personal time. I share stories, including one about my friend Alex, to highlight the common struggles and offer practical advice for achieving a healthier work-life balance.

Mentions

"Tiago's Twitter (X)": "00:01:41"

"Podsqueeze.com": "00:14:10"

"RankChase.com": "00:17:26"

"ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds)": "00:23:28"

"SEO Audits": "00:25:53"

"Email Automation": "00:25:53"

Timestamps by PodSqueeze

Introduction to the Dilemma (00:00:10)  

Tiago introduces the episode's main topic: the entrepreneur's dilemma of balancing work and rest.

Personal Journey as an Entrepreneur (00:02:57)  

Tiago reflects on his fulfilling experience as a full-time entrepreneur over the past few years.

Conversations with Friends (00:04:20)  

He shares insights from a conversation with his friend Alex about work fulfillment and dissatisfaction.

Struggles with Work-Life Balance (00:05:23)  

Tiago discusses the ongoing struggle between work satisfaction and the need for personal life.

Optimizing Time for Productivity (00:09:51)  

He compares entrepreneurship to being a top athlete, emphasizing the need to optimize time and routines.

Realization of Duality in Work (00:11:59)  

Tiago reflects on his desire for personal time versus the pressure to keep working.

Phases of Entrepreneurship (00:15:17)  

He outlines the two phases of entrepreneurship: exploration and augmentation, and their significance.

The Importance of Delegation (00:19:49)  

Tiago suggests raising money to delegate tasks, allowing more time for strategic work.

Wealth Inequality Insights (00:20:50)  

He discusses wealth inequality and how it relates to work hours versus productivity.

Conclusion on Time and Investment (00:24:41)  

Tiago concludes that investing money in delegation is key, rather than sacrificing personal time for work.

The Importance of Delegation (00:25:53)  

Tiago discusses the value of delegating tasks to save time for personal pursuits.  

Reflection on Hiring Professionals (00:26:20)  

He shares his experience of hiring a professional for SEO audits, which significantly improved efficiency.  

Conclusion on Work-Life Balance (00:27:01)  

Tiago concludes that delegating tasks allows him to rest and manage his business effectively.  

Future Plans and Closing Remarks (00:27:30)  

He plans to test his delegation theory and invites listeners to follow his journey.

I dive into the art of networking at conferences, focusing on my experiences at the Web Summit in Lisbon. Having attended for three years, I share tips on navigating the event, securing a media ticket, and making meaningful connections. I emphasize the importance of networking over attending talks, recounting my interactions with various companies, especially in the AI sector. I offer practical advice for improving networking skills and highlight the long-term benefits of building relationships. It's a friendly and insightful guide for indie makers looking to maximize their conference experiences.

"Web Summit": "00:00:00"

"Tiago's Twtter (X)": https://x.com/wbetiago

"Auphonic": "00:15:49"

"AppSumo": "00:09:29"

"Rocket Hub": "00:10:33"

Timetamps

Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

Overview of the Web Summit (00:01:10)

Ticket Acquisition Challenge (00:02:12)

Conference Layout and Atmosphere (00:03:15)

Networking Over Talks (00:04:23)

Networking Strategies (00:05:27)

AI Trends at the Conference (00:06:22)

Interesting Companies Encountered (00:08:28)

Media Ticket Benefits (00:13:43)

The Power of Networking (00:15:49)

Networking Approach and Mindset (00:17:52)

Conclusion on Networking Importance (00:20:00)

Networking Skills Development (00:21:51)

Positive Web Summit Experience (00:21:51)

Media Ticket Benefits (00:21:51)

Previous Podcast Episodes (00:23:02)

Listener Engagement (00:23:02)

Call for Reviews (00:23:02)

I dive into the potential impacts of Donald Trump's election victory on indie businesses, especially in the SaaS sector. I discuss the differences between the U.S. and European business environments, noting how higher purchasing power in the U.S. can benefit indie makers. I also touch on corporate tax rates, tariffs, and currency fluctuations. While I acknowledge some possible economic benefits, I raise concerns about the oversimplification of complex political issues and the potential negative consequences on climate change. I encourage listeners to stay informed and engaged in these discussions.

Links & Mentions

 Tools, Websites, and Links

- Indie Maker Merch (00:01:20) - https://indiemakermerch.com

- My Twitter Handle: https://x.com/wbetiago

- Web Summit (00:01:20)

 Concepts and Terms

- SaaS (Software as a Service) (00:04:28)

- NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) (00:06:37)

- Corporate Tax (00:12:47)

- GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) (00:15:10)

Tiemstamps

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:06)  

Tiago introduces the podcast episode focusing on the impact of Trump’s election on indie businesses.

Tiago's Perspective on Trump (00:02:21)  

Tiago shares he is not a Trump supporter but acknowledges some Republican economic measures.

Trump's Election and Media Bias (00:03:31)  

Tiago discusses the media's biased portrayal of Trump and his election campaign.

Business Environment Differences (00:04:28)  

He reflects on the contrasting business environments in the U.S. and Europe, particularly in purchasing power.

Currency Fluctuations Post-Election (00:05:26)  

Tiago notes the increase in the dollar's value after Trump's election and its impact on his business.

NATO and U.S. Influence (00:07:54)  

Discussion on Trump’s stance on NATO and its implications for European countries.

Tariffs and Their Effects (00:10:09)  

Tiago explains Trump’s proposed tariffs and their potential impact on international trade.

Corporate Tax Reduction (00:12:47)  

He discusses Trump’s plan to lower corporate tax rates and its effects on business investments.

OpenAI and Potential Changes (00:15:10)  

Concerns about how Trump’s administration might affect OpenAI and its operations.

GDPR and U.S. Business Influence (00:16:25)  

Tiago raises points about GDPR restrictions and potential changes under U.S. influence.

Complexity in Politics (00:17:39)  

Tiago expresses concern over the oversimplification of complex political issues in current discourse.

Concerns About Climate Change (00:22:10)  

He shares his worries about the lack of focus on climate change in the political landscape.

Concerns about Political Climate (00:23:12)  

Tiago discusses the terrifying impact of political decisions, particularly on climate and societal issues.

Indie Makers' Responsibility (00:24:28)  

Emphasizes the need for indie makers to voice their opinions and engage in complex discussions.

Raising Voices Against Simplification (00:25:47)  

Tiago stresses the importance of combating simplistic rhetoric and encourages thoughtful discourse.

Global Perspectives (00:26:56)  

Briefly reflects on the economic implications for countries like India and invites audience engagement.

I dive into the importance of setting aside ego in both entrepreneurship and personal life. I share personal stories and lessons learned, emphasizing that being an entrepreneur is a lifestyle that shapes one's worldview. I talk about how different professions influence perspectives and highlight the value of self-belief and adaptability. I encourage focusing on problem-solving, staying calm in conflicts, and trusting instincts. The episode blends philosophical insights with practical advice to help indie makers navigate their entrepreneurial journeys with humility and confidence.

Mentions

- indiemakermerch.com: "00:01:07"

- Flarecut.com: "00:03:15"

- twitter.com/@wbetiago

Timestamps

Introduction to Ego and Entrepreneurship (00:00:08)  

Tiago introduces the theme of the episode: putting ego aside to become a better entrepreneur.

Support for the Podcast (00:01:07)  

Tiago shares ways listeners can support the podcast, including following him on Twitter and leaving reviews.

Recap of Last Episode (00:02:08)  

Tiago discusses insights from his previous episode featuring Halston, focusing on growth strategies and market shifts.

The Impact of Professions on Worldview (00:04:20)  

Tiago reflects on how different professions shape personal perspectives, using examples from judges and doctors.

Understanding the Capitalistic World (00:07:47)  

He discusses how society trains individuals to fit into a capitalistic system, affecting career choices and self-belief.

Personal Journey in Entrepreneurship (00:09:59)  

Tiago shares his initial doubts about entrepreneurship and the gradual realization of his capabilities.

Overcoming Perceived Impossibilities (00:11:58)  

He emphasizes that many goals seem impossible until one starts taking steps toward achieving them.

Trusting Oneself in the Unknown (00:13:07)  

Tiago discusses the importance of trusting instincts and adapting to challenges, drawing from his grandfather's experiences.

The Role of Ego in Daily Life (00:18:02)  

He explains how ego can lead to stress and conflict in everyday situations, particularly in traffic or arguments.

Managing Conflict and Focus (00:19:05)  

Tiago shares how putting ego aside helps in managing conflicts with neighbors and maintaining focus on goals.

Arrogance in Professional Relationships (00:21:24)  

He critiques the arrogance often found in service providers, linking it to incompetence and the need for self-protection.

 Podcast Episode Timestamps

Ego and Conflict Resolution (00:22:24)  

Tiago discusses how ego can escalate conflicts and the importance of finding solutions calmly.

Learning from Experiences (00:23:24)  

He reflects on the decision to cut ties with uncooperative professionals instead of engaging in fruitless arguments.

Prioritizing Goals (00:25:25)  

Tiago emphasizes understanding personal priorities to reduce frustration in social situations, like group trips.

Winning vs. Priorities (00:27:15)  

He shares insights on focusing on business goals rather than getting caught up in ego-driven conflicts.

Martial Arts and Self-Control (00:28:21)  

Tiago discusses how martial arts provide confidence and help manage ego in confrontational situations.

Ignoring Negativity (00:29:24)  

He advocates for ignoring verbal attacks, highlighting that self-assurance can defuse potential conflicts.

Survival Mode and Protection (00:30:20)  

Tiago differentiates between ignoring minor conflicts and the need for self-defense in serious situations.

Lifestyle of an Entrepreneur (00:31:23)  

He concludes by reflecting on how entrepreneurship shapes personal growth and the importance of self-confidence.

I chat with Elston, founder of Tiny Host. We dive into his journey as an indie maker, his early interest in web design, and the founding of Tiny Host. We discuss validating business ideas, building Tiny Host from an MVP to a user-friendly tool, and the importance of user feedback and market research. We also touch on scaling challenges and the differences between startups and indie making. It's an insightful conversation for any aspiring indie entrepreneur!

Tools and Websites

Tiny Host: (00:06:36) tinyhost.com

GoDaddy: (00:07:05) godaddy.com

S3 (Amazon Simple Storage Service)**: (00:12:05) aws.amazon.com/s3

Reddit: (00:21:03) reddit.com

GitHub Pages: (00:23:16) pages.github.com

Webflow: (00:26:23) webflow.com

Adobe InDesign: (00:26:53) adobe.com/products/indesign.html

Seth Godin: (00:25:59) seths.blog

NFTs: (00:40:02) opensea.io

Twitter: (00:40:33) twitter.com

Instagram: (00:41:06) instagram.com

SEMrush: (00:46:57) semrush.com

Ahrefs: (00:46:57) ahrefs.com

SpyFu: (00:50:09) spyfu.com

Notebook LM: (00:56:49) notebooklm.com

Concepts and Techniques

Market Research: (00:15:21)

SEO (Search Engine Optimization): (00:17:37)

Jobs to be Done Framework**: (00:52:09)

Backlinking: (00:49:15)

SEO Strategy: (00:55:53)

Content Lifecycle: (01:05:23)

SEO and YouTube Crossover: (01:04:20)

Timestamps

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)  

Tiago welcomes listeners and introduces Elston Elson, the founder of Tiny Host.

Elston's Background (00:01:01)  

Elston shares his journey, living between Lisbon and London while exploring his future.

Exploring Validation and Growth (00:02:43)  

Tiago outlines the episode's focus on validating business ideas and scaling businesses.

Elston's Early Interests (00:03:07)  

Elston recounts his teenage interest in web design and the start of his tech career.

Corporate Experience (00:04:40)  

Elston discusses his dissatisfaction with corporate life and desire for independence.

Transition to Indie Making (00:05:42)  

Elston explains his shift to the indie maker community and the appeal of independence.

Acquiring TinyHost.com (00:06:36)  

Elston describes the process of acquiring the domain TinyHost.com and negotiating the price.

Domain Acquisition Process (00:07:05)  

Elston details how he secured the domain through GoDaddy and the negotiation process.

Choosing a .com Domain (00:08:41)  

Elston explains the reasoning behind opting for a .com domain for credibility.

Tiny Host Overview (00:11:05)  

Elston introduces Tiny Host as a simple drag-and-drop web hosting tool for non-technical users.

MVP of Tiny Host (00:12:05)  

Elston describes the initial MVP and the feedback received from early users.

Simplicity in Product Design (00:13:42)  

Elston emphasizes the importance of simplicity in technology and user experience.

Validating Ideas (00:14:47)  

Tiago and Elston discuss the key indicators of validating a business idea.

Different Validation Techniques (00:15:21)  

Elston shares his approach to validation, focusing on personal experience rather than market research.

Finding Distribution Channels (00:16:40)  

Elston talks about the importance of finding effective distribution channels for growth.

Building Based on Search Demand (00:17:37)  

Elston suggests building products that align with what people are actively searching for.

Challenges in Replicating Success (00:18:34)  

Tiago reflects on the difficulties of replicating past successes with new projects.

Feedback on Tiny Host (00:19:28)  

Elston shares insights on the feedback received during Tiny Host's early days and its significance.

Tiny Host Launch and Initial Growth (00:20:24)  

Elston discusses the slow initial growth of Tiny Host and early user feedback.

Reddit as a Distribution Channel (00:21:03)  

Elston shares how they gained their first 200 users through Reddit in a few weeks.

Identifying a Legitimate Business (00:21:39)  

Elston reflects on realizing Tiny Host was a legitimate business after finding a distribution channel.

Pivoting Market Focus (00:22:19)  

Elston explains how he shifted focus from technical users to non-technical users who appreciated the product.

Changing Marketing Strategy (00:24:18)  

Elston describes the impact of rephrasing their product's headline to attract the right audience.

Feedback from Users (00:25:07)  

Elston discusses dealing with negative comments and the importance of understanding target audiences.

Identifying Ideal Customers (00:26:23)  

Elston outlines the characteristics of customers who love Tiny Host and their specific needs.

Understanding User Needs (00:28:11)  

Elston explains how he researched user behavior to identify and engage with the right audience.

Building Partnerships (00:30:28)  

Elston describes how he reached out to partner products to enhance distribution and visibility.

Collaboration Strategies (00:31:08)  

Elston shares insights on organizing partnerships, offering solutions, and building relationships.

Cold Outreach Effectiveness (00:33:37)  

Elston emphasizes the importance of personalized outreach in successful cold emailing for partnerships.

Learning from Data (00:34:56)  

Elston discusses using data to identify potential partners and tailor outreach strategies.

Partnership Integration Challenges (00:36:00)  

Elston reflects on the difficulties of technical integrations with partner products and alternative collaboration methods.

Patience in Indie Entrepreneurship (00:38:04)  

Elston emphasizes the need for patience and long-term commitment in indie projects compared to VC-backed startups.

Dealing with Comparisons (00:39:16)  

Elston acknowledges feelings of demotivation when comparing progress with others' success stories on social media.

The Impact of Social Media on Perception (00:40:02)  

Discussion on how social media promotes success stories over failures, affecting audience expectations.

Challenges of Authenticity on Social Media (00:41:06)  

Exploration of the disparity between social media portrayals and real-life experiences, emphasizing genuine conversations.

Shitposting as a Growth Strategy (00:42:23)  

Debate on the effectiveness of shitposting for audience growth and its implications for online engagement.

The Role of Sensationalism in Content (00:43:57)  

Analysis of how sensationalist content triggers engagement and its impact on public discourse.

SEO Strategy Insights (00:45:59)  

Introduction to the importance of SEO strategies for driving website traffic and engagement.

Keyword Research Tools (00:46:57)  

Advice on using tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs for effective keyword research in SEO.

Content Creation for SEO (00:47:01)  

Discussion on the importance of creating relevant content that aligns with identified keyword opportunities.

Technical SEO Considerations (00:49:15)  

Overview of technical aspects of SEO, including backlinks and keyword placement for improved ranking.

Quality Content vs. AI-Generated Content (00:54:09)  

Discussion on the challenges of using AI for content creation and the importance of quality writing.

Finding New Keywords (00:57:35)  

Strategies for discovering new keywords through competitor analysis and product development.

Leveraging New Product Features for SEO (00:58:23)  

Exploration of how new product features can create additional keywords and drive traffic.

YouTube as a High Intent Platform (01:00:07)  

Discusses the effectiveness of YouTube for building trust and long-term engagement with potential customers.

Measuring Conversion from YouTube (01:00:59)  

Explores the challenges in accurately measuring conversion rates from YouTube traffic to paid customers.

Content Creation Strategy (01:01:44)  

Details the process of creating content across multiple platforms, starting with landing pages, then blog posts, and videos.

Hiring for Video Creation (01:05:50)  

Discusses the challenges of hiring video creators and strategies for finding affordable talent.

Investment and Scaling Considerations (01:08:00)  

Considers the implications of receiving investment and the importance of strategic spending in business growth.

Personal Goals and Business Growth (01:11:12)  

Elston shares his personal milestone of achieving $1 million in revenue and its significance.

Confidence and Decision Making (01:14:05)  

Explores how success in business can impact personal confidence and decision-making abilities.

Navigating Confidence and Reality (01:16:31)  

Discusses the balance between confidence in business and maintaining perspective in personal life and other fields.

Political Views as an Indie Maker (01:19:01)  

Discussion on how becoming an indie maker has influenced political inclinations.

Access to Capital and Political Alignment (01:19:12)  

Elston reflects on how access to capital affects political perspectives.

Changing Perspectives on Politics and Business (01:19:27)  

Elston shares thoughts on the intertwining of politics, power, and business.

Annoyances with Political Issues (01:19:53)  

Tiago expresses frustration with political situations, particularly in Texas.

Final Thoughts and Gratitude (01:20:22)  

Elston prepares to leave, prompting final questions and reflections.

Closing Remarks and Community Support (01:20:34)  

Tiago thanks Elston for participating and wishes him success with Tiny Host.

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I share the rollercoaster journey of my startup, Podsqueeze. I talk about our initial success, hitting a growth plateau, and the strategies we used to bounce back, like investing in SEO and launching new features. I dive into the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the importance of teamwork, and the challenges of maintaining motivation. I speak about the impact that ProductHunt and Backlinks had on our growth.

Mentions

 Tools and Websites

- "Podsqueeze" (00:24:13) - https://podsqueeze.com

- "Product Hunt" (00:27:31) - https://www.producthunt.com

- "Indie Maker Merch" (00:37:51) - https://www.indiemakermerch.com

- "Tiago's Twitter" (00:36:38) - https://twitter.com/@wbetiago

Timestamps

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)  

Tiago introduces the episode and its focus on overcoming challenges at Podsqueeze.

Background of Podsqueeze (00:02:20)  

Tiago shares the journey of Podsqueeze, detailing initial success and past entrepreneurial attempts.

Initial Growth and Challenges (00:03:17)  

The startup experiences rapid growth but soon faces a plateau in user engagement.

Berlin Conference Experience (00:04:26)  

Tiago describes attending a podcasting conference in Berlin, highlighting co-founder stress.

SEO Strategy Implementation (00:06:40)  

The team begins investing in SEO to improve website traffic and user engagement.

Hiring External Help for SEO (00:07:35)  

Tiago discusses the decision to hire an SEO auditor to enhance their strategy.

Content Creation and Clusters (00:09:51)  

The importance of keyword clusters and content creation for SEO is emphasized.

Hiring a Content Writer (00:10:51)  

Tiago reflects on the positive impact of hiring a content writer for their team.

Launch of Video Clips Feature (00:11:51)  

The team launches a new feature for creating video clips from podcasts.

December Decline (00:13:00)  

Tiago notes a significant drop in user engagement during December.

New Product Launch (00:14:04)  

A new product launch in January aims to revive interest and engagement.

Mixed Results from Product Launch (00:15:23)  

The latest product launch brings in traffic, but not as much as hoped.

Continued Growth and Decline (00:16:25)  

Despite initial recovery, the team notices another decline in user engagement.

Discovery of Domain Authority (00:19:56)  

The concept of domain authority is introduced as crucial for improving SEO.

Building Backlinks for SEO (00:21:03)  

The team focuses on acquiring backlinks to enhance their domain authority.

Summer Struggles (00:23:13)  

The summer months prove challenging, with a notable decline in user engagement and morale.

The Initial Thoughts on Growth (00:24:13)  

Tiago discusses his desire for more growth and the challenges of current earnings.

New Product Strategies (00:25:13)  

Plans to start a new product while maintaining focus on Podsqueeze's development.

Traffic Insights from India (00:26:18)  

Discovery of increased traffic from India but low conversion rates.

Impact of Product Launch on Rankings (00:27:31)  

Analysis of how the product launch affected Google rankings and traffic.

Challenges with Indian Market Conversion (00:28:35)  

Struggles to convert Indian users and advice received from industry friends.

August Struggles (00:29:46)  

A tough month for Podsqueeze with low engagement and user activity.

September Growth (00:30:53)  

A significant uptick in traffic and user engagement in September.

Domain Authority Improvement (00:32:01)  

Efforts to enhance domain authority through strategic backlinks and exchanges.

Price Experiment Results (00:33:15)  

Findings from A/B testing price changes and their impact on conversion rates.

Reflections on Podsqueeze's Journey (00:34:24)  

Tiago reflects on the evolution and resilience of Podsqueeze over the past year.

Competitive Edge through Marketing (00:36:38)  

Emphasis on the importance of marketing and SEO as a competitive advantage.

Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook (00:37:51)  

Tiago expresses excitement for the future and invites audience engagement.

I discuss the evolution of my podcast and why It went from "The Wannabe Entrepreneur" to "Indie Founder." I introduce Flarecut, my new AI tool that helps create short videos. I reflect on its market reception so far and why it might be failing.

Mentions

Podsqueeze (00:06:41) - https://podsqueeze.com

Flarecut (00:12:52) - https://flarecut.com

Auto Shorts (00:16:16) - https://autoshorts.com

Indie Maker Merch (00:24:57) - https://indiemakermerch.com

Timestamps

Introduction to Season Two (00:00:00)

Tiago welcomes listeners to the new season, introducing himself as a Portuguese indie maker and founder.

Rebranding the Podcast (00:01:14)

He explains the decision to rename the podcast from "The Wannabe Entrepreneur" to "Indie Founder."

Reflecting on Self-Confidence (00:02:29)

Tiago discusses how the previous name reflected a lack of self-confidence and his journey towards self-acceptance.

The Journey of Becoming an Entrepreneur (00:03:30)

He shares his transition from a traditional job to becoming a full-time entrepreneur.

The Evolution of the Podcast (00:04:30)

Tiago reflects on the podcast's growth and the importance of its new name in his entrepreneurial journey.

Introducing Podsqueeze (00:05:39)

He introduces his current product, Podsqueeze, and its initial success in gaining traction.

Challenges with Podsqueeze Growth (00:06:41)

Tiago explains the stagnation in growth experienced with Podsqueeze after initial success.

Reigniting Passion for Podsqueeze (00:08:51)

He discusses efforts to reignite enthusiasm for Podsqueeze amidst challenges.

Collaborative Discussions with Co-Founder (00:09:55)

Tiago shares his conversations with his co-founder about motivation and exploring new projects.

The Birth of Flarecut (00:11:01)

He describes the ideation process for their new product, Flarecut, aimed at video creation.

Developing Flarecut (00:12:52)

Tiago outlines the development process and collaboration with their developer for Flarecut.

Initial Launch and Market Response (00:15:12)

He discusses the soft launch of Flarecut and the disappointing initial traction it received.

Comparing Flarecut and Podsqueeze (00:17:16)

Tiago reflects on the differences in traction between Flarecut and Podsqueeze.

Marketing Loop Concept (00:19:23)

He explains the marketing loop concept and its importance for product growth.

SEO Insights from Podsqueeze (00:22:45)

Tiago shares lessons learned about SEO from Podsqueeze and its potential impact on Flarecut's growth.

Flarecut Growth Strategy (00:23:53)

Tiago discusses the strategy for increasing visibility and growth for Flarecut over the next couple of months.

Product Feedback Invitation (00:24:20)

He invites listeners to try Flarecut for free and provide feedback on their experience with the product.

Indie Founder Season Launch (00:24:40)

Announcement of the first episode of the new season of the podcast, now titled "Indie Founder."

Merch Store Promotion (00:24:57)

Tiago promotes his new merch store, featuring indie maker-themed apparel and accessories to support the podcast.

Future Merch Ideas (00:25:20)

He considers creating additional merchandise specifically branded with the "Indie Founder" name for fans.

Social Media Engagement (00:25:40)

Tiago encourages listeners to reach out to him on Twitter for feedback and engagement, fostering community interaction.