The Startup Ideas Podcast

Join me as I chat with Riley Brown to explore various opportunities in AI, from image generation to rebuilding essential software tools, while debating the future of content creation, customer support automation, and the concept of "vibe coding/marketing." 

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:05 - ChatGPT 4.0 image generation capabilities
07:30 - Rebuilding calendars, inboxes and CRMs
11:02 - Component Animation Library
12:59 - The "spaghetti video" and AI video progression
19:41 - Customer support automation
22:01 - The biggest trap for founders
24:43 - Sketching is the future of AI building
26:15 - Build Consumer AI Mobile Apps 
27:42 - AI Market Dynamics
29:01 - Rebuilding traditional products with AI advantages
30:51 - AI tools and AI Agents will be cheaper than humans
31:56 - Vibe Marketing is a huge opportunity
35:41 - AI will replace the homepage
36:56 - AI's impact on education and entrepreneurship

Key Points:

• ChatGPT 4.0's image generation capabilities will birth thousands of vertical software businesses
• Calendars, inboxes, and CRMs will be completely rebuilt with AI within three years
• AI-generated video has progressed dramatically and will transform content creation
• Most customer support will be fully automated within 36 months, including complex issues
• Mobile-first AI apps represent the next wave of $100M+ consumer applications

1) ChatGPT 4.0 ImageGen is as REVOLUTIONARY as the original ChatGPT launch

It will birth 1000+ vertical software businesses worth $1-100M each.

Riley: "It's incredible for generating gradients, components, character sprite sheets..."

The window to build these businesses is NOW.

2) Every calendar, inbox, and CRM will be COMPLETELY REBUILT in the next 3 years

Not just AI-enhanced — fully rethought from scratch.

We're talking about a $700B+ industry transformation.

Look at Micro HQ approach: turning email into a smart dashboard with intelligence baked in.

3) The "Will Smith eating spaghetti" video evolution shows how FAST AI video is advancing

739 days ago: Hilariously bad AI video
Today: Nearly perfect realism

In another 739 days? Full movies created with prompts, perfect dialogue, and integrated music.

The content creation landscape is about to be UNRECOGNIZABLE.

4) Most customer support will be fully automated within 36 months

Not just basic tier-one tickets — we're talking complex, multi-step resolutions that currently require senior staff.

The days of frustrating support calls may finally be ending as AI gets better at solving our problems instantly.

5) "The worst thing that can happen to your startup is mediocre success"

Enough to keep you going, but not enough to change your life.

Many founders get trapped in routines with projects they aren't passionate about.

The key? Pivot to something that excites you to wake up every day.

6) The SKETCHING economy is the real AI revolution

When anyone can turn rough sketches into production-ready designs, taste and ideation become the only scarce resources.

Greg's insight: "I've been sketching more myself... if I sketch a thumbnail and throw it into GPT-4.0, I might get twice the engagement.”

7) Consumer mobile is BACK in full swing

We went from:
• Desktop-first apps (Facebook)
• Mobile-first apps (Instagram)
• Now AI-first mobile apps (Cal AI)

The next wave of $100M+ apps will start mobile-first with AI baked in from day one.

8) AI is creating winner-take-most markets OVERNIGHT

The window to establish yourself as the go-to solution in a specific vertical?

9) AI will kill the homepage as we know it

Interfaces will be replaced by entry points that change based on who you are, what you need, and when you show up.

Just as ads became hyper-personalized, websites and apps will adapt to each visitor in real-time.

10) Schools won't be disrupted by AI — they'll be DISINTERMEDIATED

Smart teens will skip formal education to build audiences and run experiments.

Kids say they want to be creators, but creators are becoming entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurship is becoming the safest "job" in an AI-powered world.

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 RILEY ON SOCIAL

Vibe Code App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vibecode/id6742912146
X/Twitter: https://x.com/rileybrown_ai
Instagram: https://x.com/rileybrown_ai

Join me as I chat with Justin Mares, Founder of Kettle and Fire, as he explains his methodical approach to validating Kettle and Fire before fully launching it in 2014-2015. He created a basic landing page with a PayPal checkout to test if people would pay $29.99 for bone broth, achieving a 30% conversion rate despite having no actual product. The conversation highlights how modern AI tools have dramatically lowered barriers to entry for entrepreneurs testing new business ideas

Timestamps:
• 00:00 - Intro
• 01:05 - The Scale of Kettle and Fire
• 01:20 - The Initial Idea and Inspiration
• 02:16 - Validating Market Demand
• 04:03 - Addressing Skepticism on Market Research
• 06:00 - Testing Pricing and Demand
• 08:48 - Bing Ads and Early Revenue
• 12:22 - Leveraging AI for Business Today
• 13:42 - Finding Passion-Driven Problems
• 15:28 - Identifying Trends and Tools
• 20:15 - ChatGPT 4o for Initial Product Design

Key Points

• Justin shares how he validated and launched Kettle and Fire, now a nine-figure bone broth business
• He used a minimal landing page, Fiverr logo, and Bing ads to test market demand before creating the product
• The validation process focused on identifying if enough people wanted the product and if they would pay enough

1) The "Day Zero" validation strategy that worked:

Justin wanted bone broth for his own health but couldn't find it online. Before creating anything, he asked two critical questions:

• How many people actually want this?
• Will they pay enough to make it a viable business?

Smart validation = less risk.

2) Finding your TRUE market size:

Justin didn't rely on gut feeling. He went where his potential customers hung out:

• Paleo forums
• CrossFit communities
• Reddit threads
• Mark's Daily Apple

He found FANATIC engagement around bone broth recipes, sourcing, and benefits

3) The Google Trends hack 

Justin checked macro trends to confirm his micro observations.

He wasn't looking to build a 9-figure business at 24 - just wanted to make $10K/month with his brother.

Simple math: A few thousand customers spending a few hundred dollars a year = viable business.

4) The $15 MVP that ACTUALLY validated demand:

• $9.99 domain ([bonebroths.com](http://bonebroths.com/))
• $5 logo from Fiverr
• Basic landing page on Unbounce

No product. No fancy design. Just a simple page highlighting benefits that his target audience cared about:

- Healing leaky gut
- Convenience
- Organic ingredients

5) The GENIUS pricing strategy:

Justin priced at $29.99 for 16oz - 6X MORE than grocery store broth!

His thinking: "If people will pay this much for a product they've never tasted from a sketchy landing page, they REALLY want it."

High price = strong signal of demand.

6) The checkout flow was HILARIOUSLY janky:

"Order Now" button → Justin's personal PayPal

That's it. That was the entire checkout.

And guess what? PEOPLE STILL BOUGHT IT! 

After spending just $100 on Bing ads (yes, Bing!), he made nearly $500 in revenue.

7) The honest follow-up that built trust:

After validating demand, Justin emailed every customer:

"We don't have the product yet. I can either refund you in full or give you 50% off when we ship in a few weeks."

Most chose the discount, giving him runway to actually create the product.

8) From validation to execution:

It took 8 months to figure out production and scaling.

But because he KNEW people wanted it and would pay for it, he had the confidence to push through the hard parts.

9) How would he do it TODAY with AI tools?

• Better landing pages using tools like Bolt.new
• Sentiment analysis across Reddit/Twitter
• AI-generated product designs (as shown in the podcast)

10) The bigger lesson for aspiring founders:

Focus on problems YOU care deeply about.

The best ideas come from the frontier where you're already spending your time.

11) AI is LEVELING the playing field:

One person with strong conviction + AI tools can now build products that previously required entire teams.

12) Want to find YOUR startup idea?

Justin's advice:
• Find a problem that lights you up
• Circle that problem until you find interesting solutions
• Validate with real customers willing to pay
• Use AI to accelerate everything

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 JUSTIN ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwmares
His Blog: https://justinmares.com/

Join me as I chat with Jacob Posel where he explains his viral method for creating professional ads using ChatGPT 4o and reference images. Jacob demonstrates that effective ad creation with AI relies more on providing quality inspiration images than complex prompting. The episode includes four example ads and two live demonstrations, showcasing how marketers can experiment with different audiences and styles at scale to improve conversion rates.

Timestamps:
• 00:00 - Intro
• 02:01 - Best practices and the importance of inspiration images
• 05:52 - Using Reference Images vs. No Reference 
• 09:07 - Exploring Sora for Prompt Inspiration
• 13:33 - Another example of reference image + product image
• 16:20 - More Ad Examples (Ridge Wallet)
• 18:14 - More Ad Examples (Replit)
• 19:12 - Where to find Ad inspiration
• 20:00 - Live Ad Creation for LCA
• 33:37 - Ad Concept Development for LCA
• 37:37 - Finalizing the Ad and Next Steps

Key Points:

• Jacob Posel demonstrates how to create high-quality ads in minutes using ChatGPT, focusing on using reference images rather than complex prompts
• The process involves providing inspiration ads and product images to ChatGPT, which can then generate customized, conversion-ready advertisements
• Using well-known brands requires less specific prompting as the AI already understands them, while lesser-known products need more reference images
• The speakers demonstrate live ad creation for Late Checkout Agency (LCA), showing the iterative process and prompt refinement techniques

1) The Secret to Great AI-Generated Ads

Forget complex prompting - the REAL magic is in your reference images!

Jacob revealed: "The important thing in creating good ads are the inspiration images and product images that you provide."

ChatGPT understands intent better than other AI image tools.

2) The Simple Framework

Here's the basic formula Jacob uses:
• Find an inspiration ad you like
• Add your product image
• Give simple instructions
• Let ChatGPT work its magic

The model is SMART enough to understand what you want without elaborate prompts.

3) When to Use Reference Images vs. When Not To

KEY INSIGHT: ChatGPT already knows popular brands!

"It knows Nike, Adidas, Ridge wallets really well," Jacob explains.

For well-known brands: Simple prompts work fine
For newer/smaller brands: ALWAYS provide reference images

This saves you tons of time!

4) Pro Tip: Where to Find Ad Inspiration

Jacob's go-to sources for ad inspiration:
• Creative OS
• Foreplay
• Icon

These tools pull from Meta's ad library and make it searchable.

Finding the right reference ad is HALF the battle!

5) The Hidden Goldmine Nobody's Talking About

ALPHA ALERT: Check out Sora's explore page!

"This is a piece of alpha that people do not know about right now," Jacob revealed.

It shows you the EXACT prompts people used for successful images.

Perfect for learning how to prompt effectively!

6) Crucial Prompting Tips

If your first attempt isn't perfect:
• DON'T continue in the same chat
• Start a fresh conversation
• Make adjustments to your prompt there

"You generally get through a cycle of worse and worse rather than improving" if you keep going in the same chat.

7) Real-World Example: The LCA Ad

We created a luxury-style ad for Greg’s innovation agency in real-time!

Process:

1. Screenshot website elements
2. Find vintage Rolex ad as inspiration
3. Simple prompt explaining the brand vibe
4. Iterate in a NEW chat for improvements

Took less than 10 minutes! 

8) The Future of Advertising

This technology enables:
• Personalized ads at scale
• Rapid response to trending moments
• Testing different audiences/demographics
• Experimenting with creative directions

As Jacob puts it: "The ad is the targeting" - and now you can do it at SCALE.

Notable Quotes:

"Marketers have this saying nowadays that the ad is the targeting and this is just a way that you can actually do it at scale." - Jacob Posel

"The important thing I found in creating good ads are actually the inspiration images and the product images that you provide." - Jacob Posel

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 JACOB ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/jacob_posel

Build your business with beehiiv: https://www.beehiiv.com/greg-isenberg?utm_campaign=Q22025-greg-isenberg-partnership&utm_medium=influencer&utm_source=podcast&utm_source_platform=podcast&via=greg-isenberg-Q22025&utm_marketing_tactic=awareness&utm_creative_format=podcast&utm_content=greg-isenberg&utm_term=greg-isenberg

Join me as I chat with Tyler Denk, co-founder of Beehiiv, to discuss how to grow a newsletter to 100,000 subscribers. He demonstrates Beehiiv’s platform features including customizable websites, subscriber data collection, automated welcome sequences, and multiple monetization options. Tyler emphasizes there's no "silver bullet" for growth—success comes from combining multiple strategies that each contribute incrementally to building a valuable audience asset.

Get the 5-step guide to 100K subscribers: www.gregisenberg.com/beehiiv-business

Timestamps
• 00:00 - Intro
• 02:58 - Overview of newsletter growth potential
• 04:03 - Website building and email capture features
• 15:00 - Subscriber data collection and welcome automations
• 25:00 - Cross-promotion and "Boost" network for growth
• 38:06 - Lead magnets and referral programs
• 55:00 - Customized email collection based on content  
• 1:08:35 - Monetization strategies (sponsorships, paid subscriptions)
• 1:10:55 - Final thoughts on consistency and getting started

Key Points
• Beehiiv’s all-in-one platform includes website building, email capture, subscriber data collection, referral programs, and monetization tools
• Multiple growth channels work together: lead magnets, email gating, referral programs, and cross-promotion with other newsletters
• Monetization comes through direct sponsorships, Beehiiv’s ad network, and the "Boost" feature where newsletters pay each other for subscriber referrals

1) Website & Email Capture Strategy

Beehiiv gives you a full website builder where you can create:
• Custom landing pages
• Email capture forms
• Pop-ups targeted by traffic source
• Different signup flows

The key? Create MULTIPLE entry points that convert 15-20% of visitors to subscribers.

Tyler's Windows 98-themed site stands out because it's INTENTIONALLY different!

2) The Subscribe Flow Magic

This is GENIUS:

After someone subscribes, Tyler shows:
• Sponsored newsletter recommendations
• A quick survey collecting demographic data
• A welcome page with popular content

This data helps him:
• Sell premium sponsorships
• Create targeted content
• Understand his audience (60% founders!)

3) Network Effects & Passive Growth

Tyler gets 200-300 FREE subscribers weekly through Beehiiv’s recommendation network!

How it works:
• Other newsletters recommend his in their subscribe flow
• He recommends others in his flow

"It's like getting $400-600 of value weekly just for existing on the platform" 

4) The Boost Network (Paid Acquisition)

Tyler spends $2-3K monthly buying subscribers through Beehiiv’s Boost marketplace.

• He pays $2.50 per subscriber
• Only pays for subscribers who ACTUALLY ENGAGE
• Has autopause features to cut off low-quality sources
• Manages 155+ acquisition sources in one dashboard

It's like a vending machine: put in $2.50, get $4 back!

5) Lead Magnets That Convert

Tyler shared his seed deck on Twitter (100K views) with a simple signup form.

The magic:
• Created a custom landing page in Beehiiv
• Set up a different signup flow (no recommendations)
• Built an automation to deliver the deck instantly
• Added new subscribers to his newsletter

Pro tip: Get sponsors for your lead magnets to fund MORE promotion!

6) The Referral Program (1% of growth)

Tyler built Morning Brew's referral program (led to 1M+ subscribers) and implemented a simpler version:

- 1 referral = Access to Series B deck (digital, zero cost)
• 3 referrals = $10 off merch (dropshipped, zero cost)

7) Monetization (The Engine)

Tyler makes $20-30K monthly through:

- Direct sponsorships ($7K per placement)
• Boost network referrals ($2-4 per subscriber)
• No paid subscription (though many make $100K+/year this way)

Beehiiv’s sponsorship storefront lets advertisers book directly with just a $10 transaction fee!

Notable Quotes:

"Writing weekly and sharing my thoughts online has probably been the highest leverage thing that I've done in my entire career. It's opened so many doors to angel investing, meeting other founders, meeting people who are doing really cool shit." - Tyler

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 TYLER ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/denk_tweets
Big Desk Energy: https://www.bigdeskenergy.com

In this episode, host I test Manus AI's ability to function as an AI co-founder by asking it to develop a million-dollar business idea focused on AI. The system analyzes Y Combinator startups and Reddit trends to identify opportunities, ultimately recommending an AI-powered micro-consulting platform for small businesses. Manus delivers a comprehensive business proposal including market validation, pricing strategy, and even designs a functional landing page.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:41 - Initial Prompt: Ideas for $1M Startup in 18 Months
03:24 - Manus AI Processing Prompt
06:25 - Alternative Use Cases of Manus AI
13:14 - Results from First Prompt
15:19 - Prompt 2: Focus on Niche Startup Opportunities 
17:46 -  Results from Second Prompt
23:15 - Prompt 3: Validate Ideas with data and trend analysis
27:00 - Prompt 4: Refining data and trend analysis
29:0` - Prompt 5: Creating a Landing Page with Manus
34:23 - Reviewing results from Business Proposal
37:35 - Results from Fifth Prompt
39:25 - Final Thoughts on Manus AI and Startup Ideas

Key Points:

• I explore Manus AI's multi-agent capabilities to generate a viable startup idea that could make $1 million in 18 months
• Manus AI analyzes YC's latest batch, Reddit trends, and market opportunities to identify niche AI business concepts
• The AI recommends "AI-powered micro-consulting for SMBs" as the most promising opportunity
• Manus creates a complete business proposal including landing page design, pricing strategy, and go-to-market plan

1) I challenged Manus AI (a multi-agent AI system) to develop a complete business plan for an AI startup that could make $1M in 18 months.

The goal: See if AI can identify REAL market trends and opportunities better than humans can.

2) What makes Manus different from ChatGPT?

• Multi-agent capabilities (can browse while chatting)
• Can analyze multiple sources simultaneously
• Performs complex research tasks independently
• Creates actual code/designs, not just concepts

3) The COOLEST use cases Greg discovered while testing Manus:

• Converting unstructured data into organized tables
• Analyzing financial reports like a JP Morgan analyst
• Contract review (saving $1500+ lawyer fees)
• Creating highlight reels from podcast audio
• Building websites from scratch

4) The AI identified these KEY TRENDS in the AI startup landscape:

• Vertical-specific AI solutions for regulated industries
• AI agents for specialized workflows
• Infrastructure tools helping others deploy AI
• No-code/low-code AI accessibility solutions

5) The WINNING IDEA Manus proposed: "Spark Console AI" - an AI-powered micro-consulting platform for small businesses.

The problem it solves? SMBs need expert consulting but can't afford $150-500/hour traditional services.

The solution? $49-500/month AI consulting agents.

6) What impressed me most: Manus VALIDATED the idea with ACTUAL DATA:

• 47% growth in r/smallbusiness subscribers
• Direct quotes from Reddit showing pain points:
"I'd love expert advice but can't justify $200 consultants"
"Generic AI tools don't understand my industry challenges"

7) Manus even built a COMPLETE landing page with:
• Eye-catching design
• Lead generation forms
• Interactive business assessment
• Pricing tiers

All without Greg needing to write a single line of code! 

8) The LIMITATIONS Greg found:

• You still need to ask the right questions
• It's more like a "junior employee" than a true co-founder
• Takes 10-15 minutes for complex tasks
• You need to push back on some recommendations

9) My takeaway: We're entering an era where the COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE isn't coding ability - it's knowing which QUESTIONS to ask AI.

The winners will be those who can identify trends and direct AI to build solutions that ride those tailwinds.

Notable Quotes:

"In a world where anyone could create software... figuring out what is the brand, what is the landing page, what is the product, and what is the trend... is gonna help you actually build a business, not just build a product." - Greg

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/

Join me as I chat with Andrew Wilkinson, Co-Founder of Tiny, as we discuss investment and startup ideas in the current AI landscape. We explore how AI is simultaneously lowering barriers to entry while increasing competition, making it easier to build "million-dollar businesses" but harder to create sustainable long-term ventures. We share specific startup ideas leveraging AI, including secure data integration platforms, automated web design services, and AI-powered lending.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:25 - Business building in AI
08:13 - Media Business Opportunities and AI 
18:18 - The future of GPT wrappers
21:20 - Automation and AI tools we use
29:14 - Startup Idea 1: MCP and Financial Analysis
34:49 - Startup Idea 2: AI Web Design Agency 
37:06 - Startup Idea 3: Message Maxing
43:43 - Startup Idea 4:  AI-Based Lending Solutions
49:43 - Andrew's Stealth Startup 

Key Points

• AI is making it easier to build businesses but harder to maintain competitive advantages as tools become widely accessible
• Distribution, data advantages, and network effects are becoming the primary moats in the AI era
• Media businesses with high-value niches present opportunities for entrepreneurs to build audiences before layering AI tools
• Secure AI applications (particularly around financial data and personal communications) represent potential sustainable business models

1) The AI Paradox: It's never been EASIER to build a $1M business, but never HARDER to build sustainable value.

Why? Because anyone can "vibe code" your product in a weekend.

Distribution and network effects are the new moats. Tools alone won't cut it anymore.

2) Where are the ACTUAL opportunities?

Andrew & Greg agree: Buy or build MEDIA businesses first, then layer AI on top.

• Focus on High-value niches not mass audiences
• Build community BEFORE tools
• Example: Buy TechCrunch or event series like South by Southwest

3) AI tools they're actually using RIGHT NOW:

• Gumloop - For sales lead intelligence
• Lindy - Email processing & calendar management
• Manus AI - For candidate screening (saved Andrew hours!)
• Vercel V0 - Rebuilt Andrew's pressure washing website in 30 SECONDS

4) Startup Idea 1: "Secure MCP"

Model Context Protocol (MCP) lets LLMs access your data securely.

Andrew built a custom system to analyze his company finances across multiple businesses.

Opportunity: Build the "1Password of MCP" - where security is the selling point.

5) Startup Idea 2: "Message Maxing"

An app that analyzes your text messages to identify:
• Which friends exhibit toxic traits
• How YOU come across in messages
• Who you're neglecting

Perfect for viral TikTok marketing. Could be the next CalAI!

6) Startup Idea 3: AI-powered web design agency

• Use V0 to auto-redesign ugly local business websites
• Reach out with "I already built you a better site"
• Charge $500 + $20/mo hosting
• Scale with automation

Low-hanging fruit for your first million!

7) Startup Idea 4: "Bank of Vibe Coding"

AI-powered lending platform for vibe coders:
• Quick approval for developers with traction
• Take % of profits instead of interest
• Criteria: X followers, Stripe integration, etc.

Sahil Lavingia's $100K offer proves demand!

8) The BIG question: Are these Cal AI businesses (make $1M then die) or sustainable?

Andrew's take: "Almost all these businesses will be zeros in 5 years."

Greg's counter: "It's so hard to predict even 5 months from now!"

What do YOU think? Are you building for the short or long term?

The MOST VALUABLE insight: The businesses that are easiest to start are often the worst businesses to be in long-term.

But that doesn't mean you shouldn't start one! Making your first million with a "Cal AI business" is still a win.

Notable Quotes:

"It's never been easier to build a million dollar business and it's never been easier to lose all your equity value." - Andrew

"Distribution is the new moat, anyone could create anything." - Greg

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 ANDREW ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/awilkinson
Never Enough: https://www.neverenough.com
Tiny: https://www.tiny.com

I’m joined by Ashwinn Krishnaswamy, an expert in launching and growing consumer brands, where we discuss how he evaluates market opportunities and creates unfair advantages. We discuss various tools for market research including Ahrefs for keyword analysis, Particl for competitor sales data, and AI tools for product design. Ashwinn emphasizes that entrepreneurs should work backward from distribution channels rather than focusing solely on product development.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
03:45 - Ahrefs tool for keyword research
15:08 -  Particl for analyzing competitor sales data
18:52 - Why start a CPG brand
21:05 - How to stand out in crowded categories
24:57- Opportunities in Branding for Older Adults
28:40 - Bootstrapping Your Product Idea
33:56 - Researching Your Market and Competitors
36:52 - Manus AI for automating market research
39:58 -  Distribution is everything.

Key Points:

• Ashwinn shares tools and strategies for evaluating market opportunities for physical products and brands
• Tools like Ahrefs and Particle provide valuable data on search volume, competition, and sales trends
• AI tools like Manis can now automate much of the market research process that previously cost thousands
• Distribution strategy should come before product development, not vice versa

1) First, understand that DISTRIBUTION is everything.

"First-time founders focus on product, second-time founders focus on distribution."

The hard truth? Many subpar products CRUSH IT because they nail distribution and operational excellence.

Always work BACKWARDS from how you'll acquire customers!

2) Use Ahrefs to evaluate category demand and competition 

Type any keyword to see:
• Monthly search volume (market size)
• Keyword difficulty (competition level)
• Seasonal trends
• Geographic distribution

This helps you VALIDATE demand before building anything!

3) Look for geographic OPPORTUNITIES in the data 

When Ashwinn checked "electrolytes" he found:
• 74% of searches from English-speaking Western countries
• Only 3% from India, Philippines

This reveals potential to build "Element for Germany" or other untapped markets where trends haven't diffused yet!

4) For physical products, use Particle to spy on competitors

This tool shows:
• E-commerce sales data for brands
• Best-selling SKUs
• Category trends

Crucial insight: Often 90% of revenue comes from just 4 SKUs!

5) The REAL opportunity in physical products?

They force you to become EXCEPTIONAL at marketing.

"The bleeding edge of marketing happens in consumer products because it's SO HARD to get attention and convince someone to part with their dollars."

It's a marketing masterclass in real-time.

6) How to stand out in crowded categories:

Study the competition obsessively! Ashwinn showed how most magnesium supplements look generic and medical.

But brands like Moon Juice and Lemme differentiate through:
• Distinctive packaging
• Custom bottles
• Clear positioning
• Targeting specific demographics

7) The BIGGEST opportunity right now?

Find UNDERSERVED demographics!

Most brands target coastal millennials or Gen Z because that's who creates them.

But what about products for older adults with:
• More disposable income
• Less saturated marketing channels
• Different aesthetic preferences

8) AI is your UNFAIR ADVANTAGE for research

• Competitor analysis
• Market sizing
• Customer needs
• Design trends

"It's putting together a report Nielsen would charge $20K for!"

99% of people aren't using AI this way yet.

9) Before building ANYTHING, become a "relentless researcher":

• Study every competitor's positioning
• Read all the 1-2 star reviews in your category
• Visit stores and talk to owners
• Contact potential customers directly

Notable Quotes:

"First time founders focus on product, second time founders focus on distribution." - Ashwinn

"Building a physical product business is very hard and by most people probably just shouldn't be done on a whim. But if you can do it in a somewhat low stakes way or low risk way... I think it is a phenomenal way to get really good at marketing." - Ashwinn

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 ASHWINN ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/Shwinnabego
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shwinnabegobrand
Brand Brothers Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wgTQ7mXBngdiNzcJ2cUJZ

How to build an audience in 2025: https://www.startupempire.co/build-an-audience

I’m joined by Jonathan Courtney to jam on how to  build an audience in 2025. We explore various tactics including finding your unique format, implementing consistent systems, and measuring progress against clear goals.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:58 - The ACP Framework
04:06 - Step 1: Identify Who You're Creating For
10:05 -  Step 2: Find Your Format
19:43 -  Step 3: Build Systems That Stick
24:52 - Step 4: Pick ONE Primary Goal
28:08 - Where to Begin? The Reply Guy Strategy
31:08 - WHY Building an Audience Matters

Key Points:

• ACP framework for building an audience in 2025: Audience (people passionate about your niche), Community (hardcore followers), and Product (what you sell)
• The four-step playbook includes identifying your audience, finding your format, creating systems, and setting goals
• Starting as a "reply guy" on platforms like X (Twitter) is recommended as a low-pressure way to begin building an audience
• Building an audience serves as an "insurance policy" that provides options for future business opportunities

1) The ACP Framework: Your Foundation

A = Audience (people passionate about your topic)
C = Community (your hardcore followers)
P = Product (what you sell to them)

The KEY insight: Start with audience FIRST, then community, then product.

Why? Because audience-first gives you OPTIONS and CONFIDENCE when you launch.

2) Step 1: Identify Who You're Creating For

Don't just create random content. Be strategic!

• Focus on people interested in YOUR specific niche
• Understand what they're NOT getting from others
• Find your unique "sauce" (Greg gives away ALL his startup ideas)
• If not getting engagement, start one level broader than your niche

Example: Jonathan's company wanted to be known for design sprints, but started with broader UX content to build audience first.

3) Step 2: Find Your Format

Your format is HOW you deliver your content. This is CRUCIAL but often overlooked!

• Test one format each business day
• Look for formats OUTSIDE your niche (don't copy what's saturated)
• Consider what's working platform-wide (short-form video in 2025)
• Focus on what feels NATURAL (or you'll quit)
• Test for 90 days and let data guide you

Remember: Formats have lifecycles! What works today might not work in 6 months.

4) Step 3: Build Systems That Stick

The difference between creators who quit and those who succeed? SYSTEMS.

System breakdown:
• Build a "creative faucet" routine (what gets your ideas flowing?)
• Create an ideas capture system (Greg uses Apple Notes)
• Schedule weekly time to turn ideas into content
• Be strategic with timing (post when your audience is active)

5) Step 4: Pick ONE Primary Goal

Don't try to do everything at once!

• Choose ONE metric (100K followers? 25K email list? $1M in sales?)
• Measure your formats against this goal every 90 days
• Optimize for your goal, not vanity metrics
• Remember: attention is SCARCE - build it as an asset

The BEST advice: Just start! Don't get stuck in analysis paralysis.

6) Where to Begin? The Reply Guy Strategy

Feeling overwhelmed? Start as a "reply guy" on X:

• Less pressure than posting on your own profile
• Lets you experiment with formats
• Builds connections with established creators
• Gives you confidence before going solo

7) WHY Building an Audience Matters

An audience is your INSURANCE POLICY:

• Gives you clarity into your niche
• Creates a pool of potential customers/users
• Provides job opportunities during recessions
• Allows you to monetize when needed

Notable Quotes:

"The audience first approach gives you so many options, also gives you so much confidence when you release something and people actually use it." - JC

"I think the number one reason why anyone should create an audience is to have something to fall back on, period. It's like an insurance policy." - Greg

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/

I’m joined by Ras Mic to explain MCPs. Mic breaks down how MCPs essentially standardize  how LLMs connect with external tools and services. While LLMs alone can only predict text, connecting them to tools makes them more capable, but this integration has been cumbersome. MCPs create a unified layer that translates between LLMs and services, making it easier to build more powerful AI assistants.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:39 - The Evolution of LLMs: From Text Prediction to Tool Use
07:51 - MCPs explained
11:11 - MCP Ecosystem Overview
13:59 - Technical Challenges of MCP
15:18 - Conclusion on MCP's Potential
16:00 - Startup Ideas for Developers and Non-Technical Users

Key Points:

• MCP (Model Context Protocol) is a standard that creates a unified layer between LLMs and external services/tools
• LLMs by themselves are limited to text prediction and cannot perform meaningful tasks without tools
• MCP solves the problem of connecting multiple tools to LLMs by creating a standardized communication protocol
• The MCP ecosystem consists of clients (like Tempo, Windsurf, Cursor), the protocol, servers, and services

1) What are MCPs and why should you care?

MCPs are NOT some complex physics theory - they're simply STANDARDS that help LLMs connect to external tools and services.

Think of them as universal translators between AI models and the tools they need to be truly useful.

This is HUGE for making AI assistants actually capable!

2) The Evolution of LLMs: From Text Prediction to Tool Use

Stage 1: Basic LLMs can only predict text
• Ask ChatGPT to send an email? "Sorry, I can't do that"
• They're glorified text predictors (if I say "My big fat Greek..." it knows "wedding" comes next)
• Limited to answering questions, not DOING things

3) The Current State: LLMs + Tools

Stage 2: LLMs connected to tools
• Companies like Perplexity connect LLMs to search engines
• This makes them more useful but creates problems
• Each tool = different "language" the LLM must learn
• Connecting multiple tools = engineering NIGHTMARE

This is why we don't have Jarvis-level assistants yet! 

4) Enter MCPs: The Game-Changer

MCPs create a UNIFIED LAYER between LLMs and external services.

Instead of your AI speaking 10 different "languages" to use 10 different tools, MCPs translate everything into ONE language.

Result? LLMs can easily access databases, APIs, and services without massive engineering headaches.

5) The MCP Ecosystem Explained

The MCP system has 4 key components:

• MCP Client: User-facing apps like @tempoai, Windsurf, Cursor
• Protocol: The standardized communication method
• MCP Server: Translates between client and services
• Service: The actual tool (database, search engine, etc.)

Brilliant move by Anthropic: SERVICES must build MCP servers!

6) Why This Matters For Builders

For technical folks:
• Opportunity to build tools like MCP app stores
• Easier integration between services
• Less engineering headaches

For non-technical folks:
• Watch closely as standards evolve
• When standards finalize, new business opportunities will emerge
• Think of MCPs as Lego pieces you'll stack to build powerful AI apps

Notable Quotes:

"LLMs by themselves are incapable of doing anything meaningful... The only thing an LLM in its current state is good at is predicting the next text." - Ross Mike

"Think of every tool that I have to connect to make my LLM valuable as a different language... MCP, you can consider it to be a layer between your LLM and the services and the tools." - Ross Mike

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 MIC ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/rasmickyy
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rasmic

I’m joined by Min Choi to test if Manus AI can replace your AI tech stack. Throughout the episode, we test Manus AI's capabilities by asking it to create a DocuSign clone, research startup ideas, and analyze website SEO.
Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Intro
• 02:18 - What is Manus AI?
• 03:58 - Project 1: DocuSign clone
• 16:54 - Project 2: Research Greg’s top startup ideas
• 27:09 - Security concerns with Manus AI 
• 30:16 - Manus bug and reboot 
• 32:06 - Deploying DocuSign Clone
• 39:42 - Project 3: SEO Optimization 
• 44:14 - Discussion of Manus’s Limitations and Scaling issues
• 48:23 - Project 4: Build a Flight Simulator Video Game
• 49:48 - AI companies facing scaling issues
• 52:05 - Where does Manus excel? 
• 53:48 - What Manus was able to accomplish during the episode

Key Points:

• Testing Manus AI by asking it to autonomously research, plan, and execute complex tasks
• Having Manus create a DocuSign clone, research startup ideas, and analyze website SEO
• Manus AI functions as a multi-agent system that can browse websites, write code, and deploy applications with minimal prompting
• The tool has limitations including context windows, deployment issues, and daily usage limits

1) What makes Manus AI different?

Unlike ChatGPT or Claude, Manus is a TRUE AGENT system that:
• Researches, plans, and executes simultaneously
• Controls browsers to gather information autonomously
• Creates full applications from simple prompts
• Deploys working code with minimal guidance

"It's the closest thing to AGI yet" - Min Choi

2) The DocuSign Clone Experiment 

With just a 4-WORD PROMPT ("create a DocuSign clone"), Manus:
• Researched DocuSign's core features
• Created a complete project structure
• Built login, document upload & e-signature functionality
• Generated deployable code

All without templates or boilerplate code!

3) Human-in-the-loop capabilities 

One of the MOST IMPRESSIVE features:
• You can interrupt Manus WHILE it's working
• Refine requirements mid-process
• Add constraints or pivot direction

When they narrowed focus to "just e-signature features," Manus immediately adjusted its plan without starting over.

4) Multi-agent workflow 

Manus feels like having MULTIPLE EMPLOYEES working simultaneously:
• A researcher gathering information
• A PM creating specifications
• A developer writing code
• A marketer analyzing opportunities

It's like an entire team in one tool!

5) Beyond coding: Marketing & Growth 

Manus can also:
• Analyze websites for SEO improvements
• Target specific audiences (like executives)
• Create content strategies
• Scrape data for market research

It's not just about building - it's about GROWING your business too.

6) Current limitations

Manus isn't perfect (yet):
• Context length limitations on complex tasks
• Deployment issues with sophisticated apps
• Daily usage limits (currently ~10 sessions)
• Server load causing errors as popularity grows

It's still beta, but even with limitations, it's REVOLUTIONARY.

7) Security considerations

Since Manus is a Chinese company, there are valid concerns:
• Be mindful of what data you share
• Don't connect personal accounts or payment systems
• Use for learning & experimentation

Min's advice: "Always be careful with the data you share online."

The BIG TAKEAWAY: We're witnessing a fundamental shift in how businesses will be built.

What used to take weeks now takes MINUTES.
What required TEAMS now needs just ONE PERSON with AI.

This is just the beginning of the agent AI revolution.

Notable Quotes:

"I think that we're getting closer and closer to sort of the glimpse into what the AGI is gonna look like." - Min Choi

"It feels like we have like four employees working at the same time... We've got this marketing person. We've got this researcher. We've got this cracked PM slash developer." - Greg Isenberg

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 MIN ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/minchoi