Explore every episode of the podcast The Startup Ideas Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Scalable Startup Ideas (You Can Start Tomorrow) | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:55:07 | |
In this episode, I sat down with Chris Koerner and we go through a set of approachable startup ideas that start low-friction but can scale if you get distribution right. We start with a potential “app ecosystem” opportunity around Facebook Marketplace, plus a product-studio framework that combines short-form video, AI, and 3D printing to validate “dumb” products via demand before you invest. We then jump to more grounded, local-first ideas—bike washing/maintenance subscriptions, bar anti-spike stickers, and even vending-machine concepts like “shiny rock” drops at trailheads. We close with a weird Pokémon-card “meme + supply control” play inspired by the Kabuto King, including Chris’s own collecting “big reveal.” From there, I dig into why PSA-style grading feels slow and expensive, and we workshop a more modern grading experience (including a livestream/packaging angle and an AI-from-photo approach).
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
02:28 – Startup Idea 1: Facebook Marketplace App Studio
07:43 – Startup Idea 2: DTC Product Studio
17:05 – Startup Idea 3: Bike Washing/Maintenance Subscription
24:29 – Startup Idea 4: Anti-Drink-Spike Stickers
31:55 – Startup Idea 5: Shiny Rock Vending Machines
36:37 – Startup Idea 6: The Kabuto King and Card Grading
Key Points
I look for “alpha” where people are already obsessing, but the market structure is still primitive (like collectibles + grading).
I treat “distribution” as the multiplier—short-form can make “dumb” products viable if the content loop is strong.
I push for starting manually first (prove demand), then upgrading into infrastructure, subscriptions, and scale.
I pay attention to marketplaces with huge usage but weak third-party tooling—there’s often a platform-layer opportunity there.
I keep coming back to “repackaging” as a business model: same underlying thing, new wrapper, new buyer, new channel.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: https://www.thevibemarketer.com/
FIND ME ON SOCIAL
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/
FIND CHRIS ON SOCIAL:
X/Twitter: https://x.com/mhp_guy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekoerneroffice/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thekoerneroffice | |||
| "Ralph Wiggum" AI Agent Explained (& How to Use It) | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:28:45 | |
We got Ryan Carson on the pod to break down the “Ralph Wiggum” Agent and why it’s suddenly everywhere. He walks me through a simple workflow that lets an autonomous agent build a full product feature while I sleep: start with a PRD, convert it into small user stories with tight acceptance criteria, then run a looped script that ships work in clean iterations. The big idea is you’re not “vibe coding” one giant prompt—you’re giving the agent testable, bite-sized tickets and letting it execute like an engineering team. By the end, Ryan shows how this becomes repeatable (and safer) with a memory layer—agents.md for long-term notes and progress.txt for iteration-to-iteration context.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
02:44 – What is the Ralph Wiggum AI Agent
03:40 – Step 1: PRD Generator
06:11 – Step 2: Convert PRD to Json
09:47 – Step 3: Run Ralph
12:05 – Step 4: Ralph Picks a Task
13:14 – Step 5: Ralph Implements Task
14:49 – Tokens + Cost: What It Actually Spends
15:45 – Guardrails: Small Stories + Clear Criteria Keep It Sane
16:19 – Step 6: Ralph commits the change
16:38 – Step 7: Ralph Updates PRD json file
16:55 – Step 8: Ralph Logs to Progress txt
20:08 – Step 9: Ralph Picks another Task
20:48 – Step 10: Ralph Finishes Tasks
21:18 – Example of how Ryan uses Ralph
24:08 – How To Start Today (Ralph Repo) and Tips
Links Mentioned:
Ralph Wiggum Agent: https://startup-ideas-pod.link/Ralph-agent
AI Agent Skills: https://startup-ideas-pod.link/amp-skills
AMP: https://startup-ideas-pod.link/amp-code
Ryan’s Ralph Step-by-Step Guide: https://startup-ideas-pod.link/Ryans-Ralph-Guide
Key Points
I can’t expect “sleep-shipping” unless I translate the feature into small, testable user stories with clear acceptance criteria.
Ralph works like a Kanban loop: pull one story, implement, commit, mark pass/fail, then grab the next.
The real leverage is the reset: each iteration starts fresh with a clean context window, instead of one giant, messy thread.
agents.md becomes long-term memory across the repo; progress.txt is short-term memory across iterations.
The bottleneck isn’t “coding”—it’s the upfront spec quality: PRD clarity, atomic stories, and verifiable criteria.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: https://www.thevibemarketer.com/
FIND ME ON SOCIAL
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/
FIND RYAN ON SOCIAL:
X/Twitter: https://x.com/ryancarson
Amp: https://ampcode.com | |||
| $50K/month Mobile App Ideas So Good You’ll Quit Your Job | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:33:58 | |
On this episode, I breakdown eight little-known mobile apps that each generate around $50,000+ per month and explain why they work. I walk through specific examples—from AI video generators and Bible note-takers to vinyl pricing tools and AI English tutors—then explain the common patterns behind their success. The second half of the episode is devoted to six clear frameworks for spotting high-potential niches and designing simple, sticky mobile apps around them. I end the episode with a batch of extra startup ideas built on high-intent inputs like photos, videos, and scans so listeners can “vibe code” their own profitable apps in 2026.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
02:02 – App 1: Flashloop: AI Video Generator for Viral Character Clips
03:26 – App 2: Bible Note-Taker & Prayer Recorder for Churchgoers
06:35 – App 3: AI Home Decor Interior Design App and Visualization Pain
08:48 – App 4: Moji Lab: Emoji/Sticker Packs and Expression as a Business
11:43 – App 5: Vinyl Snap: Scanning Vinyl Records for Accurate Pricing
13:51 – App 6: Genora AI: Bundling Multiple LLMs into One Assistant
16:45 – App 7: Logo Maker: AI Generated Logos
18:57 – App 8: Menu Fit: Healthy Eating Recommendations at Any Restaurant
20:44 – App 9: LangLearn: Personal AI English Tutor and Duolingo Comparison
22:37 – App 10: Zozo Fit 3D Body Scanner: Tracking Body Change, Not the Scale
25:04 – The “ 50K MRR App Framework”
31:30 – Bonus Startup Ideas
Key Points
Profitable mobile apps often do one high-intent, recurring job for a specific identity-based group, then charge a subscription around that behavior.
Many breakout apps turn photos, videos, or scans (high-signal inputs) into premium insights like valuations, design plans, or tailored recommendations.
Simple, one-screen interfaces with clear before/after transformations make these AI-powered tools feel approachable and addictive to use.
The “50K MRR App Framework” combines spending power, repeating problems, visual inputs, accuracy needs, and bad existing tools to guide idea selection.
New app ideas can be generated by pairing these frameworks with underserved niches like golf swings, pet health, used cars, or RV layouts.
Numbered Section Summaries
Why Mobile Apps Are Printing Money in 2026 The host opens by arguing that now is an incredible time to build mobile apps, pointing to new apps that have appeared “out of nowhere” and reached $50K+ per month. He cites a tweet listing 10 such apps launched in the last 180 days and sets the goal of reverse engineering what makes them work so listeners can apply the patterns to their own ideas.
The 50K MRR App Framework The “50K MRR App Framework”: find a group that (1) spends money, (2) has a repeating problem, (3) uses photos/videos as inputs, (4) cares deeply about accuracy, and (5) suffers from bad existing tools. He walks through how vinyl collectors fit every criterion and stresses that while the framework is simple, execution still requires great UX, clean UI, and the right niche. The goal is to make idea selection easier by checking all five boxes before committing to an app.
Six Supporting Frameworks for Designing Hit Apps I expands into six additional frameworks: start with a “nerve” (identity, urgency, stakes, repetition); solve one job that always must be done; build around a single high-intent input (photo, address, object); use AI to unlock a premium insight (price, diagnosis, summary, design plan); wrap it in a simple, desirable interface (one screen, one button, one transformation); and create a recurring behavior loop that pulls users back daily or weekly. He summarizes these in a conceptual pipeline: high-intent input → AI premium insight → simple interface → recurring loop → $50K MRR.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: thevibemarketer.com
Startup Empire - get your free builders toolkit to build cashflowing business - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire-toolkit
Become a member - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire
FIND ME ON SOCIAL
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/ | |||
| My Secret Framework for Building $1M Products | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:56:38 | |
Today’s episode features Jake Knapp (creator of the Design Sprint), Jonathan Courtney (Founder and CEO of AJ & Smart). We explore how to evaluate and build successful AI products. They use Jake's Foundation Sprint framework to analyze JC's concept for an app that helps entrepreneurs balance content consumption with creation. The conversation demonstrates how to move from initial idea to clear differentiation strategy, emphasizing the importance of first principles thinking before technical implementation. Timestamps: Click Book: https://www.theclickbook.com Key Points: 1) The Foundation Sprint Framework: Key insight: Most founders skip this critical planning phase! 2) The Basics Framework includes: • Customer identification Pro tip: Write these down BEFORE touching any code! 3) Real Example Breakdown: 4) Key Differentiator Exercise: The goal: Find your unique position in the market 5) Major Insight: 6) Framework Benefits: Notable Quotes: 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 FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIAL FIND JAKE ON SOCIAL | |||
| Perplexity vs ChatGPT "Deep Research" For Startup Ideas Shocked Me | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:39:08 | |
Get Greg’s Deep research research notes: https://www.gregisenberg.com/deep-research-ideas I compare in real-time ChatGPT's and Perplexity's deep research capabilities for developing startup ideas. Both platforms were prompted to generate AI agent business ideas with specific revenue targets ($1M Y1, $3M Y2, $5M Y3). The results showed that Perplexity provided faster, more concise responses, while ChatGPT offered more detailed, comprehensive analysis but took longer to generate responses. Key Points: Timestamps: 1) THE SETUP: 2) PERPLEXITY AI WINS ON SPEED 3) CHATGPT WINS ON DEPTH 4) BEST STARTUP IDEAS GENERATED: Legal Contract AI (Perplexity): AI Sales Assistant (ChatGPT): 5) MVP INSIGHTS: For $5K budget: 6) KEY TAKEAWAYS: Both tools are INSANELY good 7) PROTIP: Bottom line: These AI research tools are an unfair advantage for founders right now. Notable Quotes: Conclusion: Both platforms demonstrated valuable capabilities, with Perplexity offering speed and efficiency while ChatGPT provided more comprehensive analysis. The video suggests both tools can be effective for startup planning, with the choice depending on user preferences for depth versus speed. 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 | |||
| 7 validated startup ideas that will make $100K/month (and how to grow them) | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:45:09 | |
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 with detailed analysis of market opportunities, implementation strategies, and potential revenue models. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) Lightroom Preset SaaS Photographers spend $$$ on presets. Time to disrupt. Infinite margins. Just code. 2) Domain Portfolio for Lead Gen Law firms do it. Now apply it everywhere. 40k+ per lead in some niches 3) AI for Ecomm Newsletters People hate coding email templates. Klaviyo users desperate for this. 4) Lalo Agency Play New CRM taking music industry by storm. All major labels switching over 5) Dog Park Bar Concept The millennial country club is here. • Combine dog park + bar 4pm is packed every day 6) Micro AI Apps Studio Text-behind-image went viral. More coming. - Build simple, focused AI tools Adobe does this. Why not you? 7) High-LTV SaaS Services Find tools people pay for but barely use. 25k+ customer LTV Notable Quotes: "Find trends. That's a very hard thing, I think, for the average person to do. But I think to that point, I think it's gonna get easier and easier to see these trends that are occurring." - Cody Schneider 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 FIND CODY ON SOCIAL | |||
| The Actual Process Behind a $10.5K/Month Directory Website | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:54:24 | |
Get the exact system used to build profitable local directories: https://www.gregisenberg.com/directory The episode features Frey Chu explaining his methodology for building profitable directory websites, using dog parks as a case study. He demonstrates how to identify opportunities through keyword research, validate ideas through social proof, and implement a basic yet effective directory structure. The discussion emphasizes that even simple directory websites can generate significant passive income through various monetization methods, while also serving as a foundation for larger business opportunities. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) First, find your niche: 2) Validate your idea: 3) Data Collection Strategy: - Name, address, phone 4) Data Enrichment 5) Building The Directory: - Table of contents 6) Monetization Options Notable Quotes "AdSense has been the closest thing that I've ever experienced to passive income." - Frey Chu 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 FIND FREY ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/freychu | |||
| The Step-by-Step Plan to Go From $3M to $10M+ | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:51:30 | |
In this episode, Ayman Al-Abdullah, former CEO of AppSumo, shares his framework for scaling businesses from seven to nine figures. The conversation focuses on the importance of customer retention, strategic hiring, and proper incentive structures. Ayman shares insights from his experience scaling AppSumo from $3M to $84M in revenue, emphasizing the transition from founder to CEO mindset. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) The "Nine Steps to Nine Figures" Framework: Breaks down into 3 phases: Most founders get this wrong from day 1... 2) RETENTION over GROWTH "Building a business without focusing on retention is like building a skyscraper on sand" Every 3% increase in net revenue retention = DOUBLES company valuation Stop chasing growth before you nail retention! 3) The 80/20 Marketing Rule: • 80% of resources on proven channels Real example: AppSumo tested switching from credits to cash payments for referrals → Became 8-figure revenue channel 4) The Shield vs Sword Framework for Decision Making: Rate every opportunity 1-5 on: Only pursue 8+/10 total score opportunities 5) On Building Your Executive Team: Two core functions: Pro tip: Hire first in YOUR zone of genius 6) The Triple, Triple, Double, Double Path to $100M: Year 1: $3M → $9M This is how you hit 9-figures in 5 years 7) REVOLUTIONARY Compensation Framework: Forget traditional equity! 8) CEO Evolution: "The founder is the hardest working person Your job: Think 3-5 quarters ahead while your team executes Key Takeaway: Notable Quotes: 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 FIND AYMAN ON SOCIAL Ayman’s Website: https://aymanalabdullah.com | |||
| I built an AI startup in 65 minutes (using ChatGPT, Leonardo AI, Kling AI, ElevenLabs) | 05 Feb 2025 | 01:05:00 | |
Greg's step-by-step guide to building a startup using AI workflows: https://www.gregisenberg.com/ai-startup In this episode, Omar Choudhry, a serial entrepreneur, shares the exact prompting sequences he uses to combine multiple AI tools to create products people actually want to buy. Watch us build a custom avatar business live. You'll learn the exact process: from crafting the perfect prompts in ChatGPT, to generating images in Leonardo AI, to animating with Kling AI, all the way to automated fulfillment with Printful. This isn't theory - it's a complete blueprint you can copy today. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) The Big Shift in Business Models: Traditional path: New AI-First path: 2) The Sequential Prompting Framework Omar's genius method: Example flow: 3) Business Idea #1: AI-First Greeting Cards The $400M Moonpig-killer: Monetization: 4) Business Idea #2: Educational AI Stickers Target market: Schools & Teachers The product: Distribution: 5) The Technical Stack Tools needed: CAC potential: $15/customer 6) Marketing Strategy Guerrilla tactics: Pro Tip: Start manual, perfect the process, then automate! 7) BONUS INSIGHT The real opportunity isn't just in the tools - it's in the UX layer on top. Build specific solutions for specific problems. The tools are commodities. The experience is the moat. Notable Quotes: "By the end of this episode, you'll be able to assemble an AI SaaS product that can literally print you cash." - Omar 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 FIND OMAR ON SOCIAL 5 Day Sprint - Build with AI: https://www.skool.com/5-day-sprint/about | |||
| 4 microSaaS ideas you can build to make $100k/month | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:38:27 | |
In this episode, Sari Azout, Founder and CEO of Sublime, explores various startup ideas and business concepts. The discussion centers on the evolving nature of startups in the AI era, emphasizing the importance of focusing on specific, well-defined problems rather than broad solutions. Sari shares multiple business ideas, from parental control services to creative tools, while discussing the philosophy behind building successful products in today's market. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) The "Franchise for Parental Controls" Idea Parents are desperate for help managing screen time. Current solutions = messy. Opportunity: In-home screen time consultants who: - Set up controls Revenue model: 2) The "Business in a Box" Trend Big insight: What becomes scarce in an AI world? Opportunity: Modern craft business franchise 3) The Trade School Revolution Huge opportunity in modernizing trade education: Why? Trades becoming MORE valuable in AI era 4) The Micro-Startup Strategy Modern startup playbook: 1. Have a 10-year vision Key insight: "Nobody searches for an inspiration engine" 5) Product Development Philosophy Two types of founders: Choose your path but stick to it. Sari’s 2024 goal: "Take less feedback, trust intuition more" 6) The Meme Generator Opportunity Final killer idea: Long-form to meme converter Why? No idea goes mainstream without memes Key Takeaway: 2024 startup strategy: 1. Build close to OR far from AI Notable Quotes: 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 FIND SARI ON SOCIAL Sublime: https://sublime.app | |||
| DeepSeek R1 - Everything you need to know | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:51:35 | |
Greg's DeepSeek Cheetsheet: From Installation to Expert Prompting: https://www.gregisenberg.com/deepseek Ray Fernando, a former Apple engineer, gives an in-depth tutorial on DeepSeek AI and local model implementation. The conversation includes detailed guide for setting up local AI environments using Docker and OpenWebUI, and how to implement DeepSeek on mobile using the Apollo app. Key Points: Timestamps: 1) DeepSeek's R1 Model - What's the big deal? • On par with ChatGPT's reasoning capabilities 2) Alternative Ways to Use DeepSeek: • Fireworks AI ($8/million tokens) 3) Running AI Models Locally Step-by-step setup: Pro tip: Takes 5 mins to set up, saves hours of worry about data privacy 4) Mobile AI is HERE! • Apollo app lets you run models locally on phone 5) Temperature Settings Explained: High temp (0.8-1.0) = Creative mode Choose based on your needs! 6) FUTURE PREDICTIONS • Watch-based AI coming soon 7) Getting Started Tips: • Start with public data on DeepSeek Notable Quotes: "Please don't be fearful or don't feel like you're left behind. If you're just finding out about this, you're not that far behind. We're all actually still trying to understand what this intelligence can give us." - Ray Fernando 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 FIND RAY ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/RayFernando1337 | |||
| I Met Charlie Munger and Discovered How Billionaires Really Think | 27 Jan 2025 | 01:16:52 | |
Meet David Senra, the guy who turned his obsession with reading about successful people into a million-dollar podcast. He's read over 300 books about the world's biggest entrepreneurs and shares all the best bits on his show, Founders. In this episode, David breaks down exactly how he finds golden nuggets of wisdom in these books, building deep relationships with founders, and insights from meetings with figures like Charlie Munger. Timestamps: 1) On Building a World-Class Podcast: "Find what you're meant to do and let time carry the weight" David's moat: 375+ books read, connecting historical figures across episodes. To compete, you'd need to read all those books first. And he keeps going. 2) On Business Models: Fascinating approach to podcast monetization: 3) On Learning from History: "Biographies are the closest thing to finding a cheat code in real life" Every great entrepreneur studied other great entrepreneurs: 4) On Work Ethic & Balance: Key insight: Almost every legendary figure sacrificed balance for greatness One exception: Ed Thorpe (Episode 222) 5) On Memory & Knowledge: It's not natural talent - it's "maddening repetition" David's method: 6) STARTUP IDEA "Founders for Kids" - Comic book-style biographies teaching entrepreneurship to children Why it works: 7) Key Quote Worth Remembering: "Money comes naturally as a result of service" - Henry Ford The best entrepreneurs don't chase billions - they chase excellence in service. 8) Final Wisdom: Want to be world-class? The competition isn't as fierce as you think. Most people: Notable Quotes: "Money comes naturally as a result of service." - Henry Ford (quoted by David Senra) 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 FIND DAVID ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/FoundersPodcast | |||
| Why 2,500 Subscribers Is All You Need For $1M | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:51:54 | |
Jonathan "Jicecream" Courtney believes that in 2025, basic marketing still outperforms everything: a simple 90-minute webinar turns 200 attendees into 20 buyers, even with just 2,500 subscribers. The framework is dead simple - 20 minutes on your story, 15 minutes on the solution, 20 minutes showing the transformation, then offering them a choice between DIY or done-for-you. He goes into it in this episode. Key Points: Timestamps: 1) The Basic Funnel Formula Still Works: 2) Perfect Webinar Structure (by Russell Brunson): 3) Challenge Funnels Are Underrated: - Notion + Second Brain challenge 4) The Warm-Up Step is CRUCIAL: - Webinars 5) List Partnerships Done Right: KEY TAKEAWAY: 1. A list (even small) Notable Quotes: "When a company is doing well, they don't want me involved... They want the strategic advice. They want access to connections." - Greg Isenberg 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 FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jicecream | |||
| How I Use Claude Code & Cursor (Ship 10X Faster) | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:33:49 | |
On this episode I sit down with indie app builder and designer Chris ****Raroque to walk through his real AI coding workflow. Chris explains how he ships a portfolio of productivity apps doing thousands in MRR by pairing Claude Code and Cursor instead of picking just one tool. He live-demos “vibe coding” an iOS animation, then compares how Claude Code and Cursor’s plan mode tackle the same task. The episode closes with concrete tips on plan mode, MCP servers, AI code review, dictation, and deep research so solo devs can build bigger apps than they could alone.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
03:04 – Which Tools & Models to Use
09:16 – Thoughts on the Vibe Coding Mobile App Landscape
11:14 – Live demo: prompting Claude Code to build an iOS “AI searching” animation
18:07 – Live demo: prompting Cursor with same task
21:02 – Chris’s Best Tips for Vibe Coders
Key Points
You don’t have to pick one IDE copilot: Chris actively switches between Claude Code and Cursor because they have different strengths.
For very complex bug-hunting, he prefers Cursor with plan mode; for big-picture app architecture, he leans on Claude Code with Opus.
Non-developers should start on higher-level “vibe coding” platforms like Create Anything for mobile apps before graduating to Claude/Cursor.
Plan mode plus detailed, spoken prompts dramatically improves code quality, especially for UI and animation work.
MCP servers and AI code review bots let solo developers safely set up infra, enforce security, and catch bugs they’d otherwise miss.
Claude’s deep research is a powerful way to choose the right patterns and libraries before handing implementation back to Claude Code or Cursor.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: thevibemarketer.com
Startup Empire - get your free builders toolkit to build cashflowing business - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire-toolkit
Become a member - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire
FIND ME ON SOCIAL
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/
FIND CHRIS ON SOCIAL
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@raroque
X/Twitter: https://x.com/raroque
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.raroque/ | |||
| This AI Writing Hack Made Him Millions (Full Breakdown) | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:55:15 | |
Nicolas Cole delivers a comprehensive masterclass on writing with AI, demonstrating how to combine human expertise with AI capabilities to create high-quality content. The discussion covers practical frameworks for content creation, including how to structure articles, generate hooks, and test ideas. Cole emphasizes that AI should be viewed as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement for human writers, and success comes from understanding fundamental writing principles first. Learn how to use AI to create high-quality content: https://www.gregisenberg.com/write-with-ai Timestamps: Key Points: 1) The biggest mindset shift: Just like Photoshop didn't kill designers, it created 1000x more designers. 2) Key Framework: The Editor-in-Chief Method Don't treat AI as a writer - treat it as your junior staff writer. 3) Writing Process Revolution: - Don't start writing immediately 90% of value comes from these decisions! 4) The "10 Magical Ways" Framework: Every piece of content can be broken down into: - Tips Pick your format FIRST, then structure accordingly. 5) Pro Tip: Use AI Conversationally Two approaches: 1. Chunk-by-chunk dialogue Most people fail by sitting in the middle. 6) Quality Control Method: 1. Generate multiple versions Remember: AI suggestions need human curation! 7) The Education Leverage Play: Learning frameworks = AI superpowers What took experts years to master can now be: 1. Learned quickly This is the real opportunity! 8) Bottom Line: The future belongs to "orchestrators" - people who: - Understand frameworks Don't fight the future - leverage it! Notable Quotes: "90% of the value is not in the writing. It is in the fact that you said what you're going to give [the reader]." - Nicolas Cole
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 FIND COLE ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/Nicolascole77 | |||
| This YouTube expert made creators $100M+ (Not clickbait) | 15 Jan 2025 | 01:45:05 | |
Join me as I chat with Paddy Galloway, a veteran YouTube strategist who has worked with major creators like MrBeast, where he shares a comprehensive blueprint for YouTube success. The discussion covers everything from initial channel strategy to advanced content packaging techniques, emphasizing the importance of consistent posting, strategic ideation, and effective thumbnail design. Galloway presents a structured approach to growing a YouTube channel over 12 months, with specific benchmarks and goals for each phase. Growth guides to turn your startup into a money printer Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/growth-guides Timestamps: Key Points: 1) First, understand what YouTube really is: • It's NOT social media - it's a streaming platform 2)The 12-Month YouTube Growth Plan: Months 1-4 (Establishment Phase): 3) Months 5-8 (Improvement Phase): 4) Months 9-12 (Optimization Phase): 5) The Golden Rule of Audience Overlap: Each video should have 80%+ audience overlap with your other content. If someone watches one of your videos, they should want to watch MOST of your other videos too. 6) Thumbnail Psychology: • Use the "3 Focus Areas" rule 7) Smart Title Strategy: • Keep under 60 characters 8) The CCN Framework for Ideas: Every video should appeal to: 9) The Video Idea Pipeline: Start with 100 ideas → Filter to 10 strong ones → Pick the best one 10) The ROI reality: • Expect 12 months minimum before seeing real returns Remember: YouTube is a game of marginal gains. Notable Quotes: "If you're going to do something for 12 months on YouTube, you have to be willing to eat shit for a long time before it might pay off." - Paddy Galloway 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 FIND PADDY ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/PaddyG96 | |||
| He built a startup using AI that prints money (full tutorial) | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:56:10 | |
In this episode we dive deep into modern marketing strategies with Cody Schneider, focusing on the concept of "digital gravity" versus traditional marketing funnels. The discussion covers comprehensive tactics for both B2B and B2C companies, including detailed strategies for content creation, distribution, and monetization. Special emphasis is placed on leveraging AI tools, programmatic SEO, and multi-channel marketing approaches to build sustainable growth engines. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) The Digital Gravity Model Forget marketing funnels. Think orbits. People don't move linearly through funnels - they orbit your brand, coming closer until they convert. More digital mass = more gravitational pull = more customers naturally drawn in. **2) B2B Marketing Stack:** • Scrape target emails ([Apollo.io](http://apollo.io/), $99/mo) Cost per click? Often less than $0.01 vs $5+ on ads. 3) The Content Engine Record customer convos → podcast episodes One piece of content = 10x distribution points 4) B2C Growth Stack: • Pick HUGE TAM Key: $5 CPM or less = profitable 5) The SEO Playbook • Wait for DA 40+ Focus on long-tail keywords nobody fights for. 6) Why This All Works: Traditional marketing = campaigns (start/stop) You're not "doing marketing" Big difference Notable Quotes: "The closer your ad is to content on the platform, the less you're going to have to pay for it." - Cody Schneider 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 FIND CODY ON SOCIAL | |||
| How to grow an internet audience in 2025 | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:48:33 | |
Join me as I chat with Dr. Tyler Lemco, known for co-founding Epic Mealtime (600M+ views), where we discuss strategies for building an internet audience from scratch. The conversation covers practical advice for content creators, including bio optimization, platform selection, and content strategy. We explore the balance between algorithmic success and authentic content creation, while emphasizing the importance of starting small and scaling gradually. Episode Timestamps: Key Points: Content Strategy Framework: 1. Pick a platform to focus on Platform-Specific Insights: Key Takeaways: 1) The Creative-for-Hire Trap • Good money but no equity upside 2) Framework for Content That Works: • Pick ONE platform to focus on (seriously) 3) The YouTube Revenue Reality: • Shorts: 3M views = $418 (+12k subs) Strategy: Use shorts for growth, long-form for revenue 4) The ABC Growth Framework: A) Build an Audience first Don't try all at once. Master each phase! 5) Social Bio Formula: • Show Credibility Pro tip: Write for non-followers, not existing ones 6) Starting Fresh vs Legacy Account: • 94 engaged followers is better than 31,000 dead ones 7) Content Market Fit Truth: • Takes 6-24 months to find Bonus: For creators starting out - just START. You figure it out by doing, not planning. The only difference between launching and not launching is deciding you've launched. Notable Quotes: 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](https://www.startupempire.co/) FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND TYLER ON SOCIAL Tyler’s Website: https://www.tlem.co/ | |||
| 10 Newsletter Business Ideas to start in 2025 | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:39:29 | |
In this episode, I share comprehensive guide to launching profitable newsletter businesses in 2025, focusing on niche markets and proven monetization strategies. The episode covers various newsletter concepts ranging from local news to B2B decision-makers, with detailed implementation steps and revenue projections for each model. Special emphasis is placed on using newsletters as a foundation to build larger businesses through multiple revenue streams. Timstamps: Link Mentioned: Matt’s full article: https://www.newsletteroperator.com/p/10-newsletter-business-ideas Matt’s Twitter/X: https://x.com/JMatthewMcGarry Key Points: 1) Marketing Newsletter for Global Talent • Target overseas marketers seeking US jobs • Structure: Monetization path to $28k/mo: 2) Platform-Based Newsletter Pick ONE tool (Figma, Notion, Perplexity AI) and go deep. The gold mine here: 3) Local Real Estate Investor Newsletter The math: Total: $190k/year with just 10k subscribers! 4) B2B Decision Maker Newsletter The secret sauce: 5) Visual News & AI Newsletters Two massive opportunities: A) Meme-based news B) Industry-specific AI tips 6) Local Community Newsletter The playbook: Real example: Naptown Scoop makes $400k/year in one city! 7) The bigger opportunity? Don't just think "newsletter" Start with newsletter, expand into empire. Pro tip: for ANY of these: Pick one and start this weekend! Notable Quotes: "Newsletter businesses are a cheat code... you can build a marketplace, you can build an agency, you can build so much on top of a newsletter." "You don't need 100,000 subscribers to make $100,000 a year. With 5-10,000 subs, you can make $190,000 a year." 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 | |||
| "Y Combinator Is Overrated" - Inside the brain of this 20-Year-Old Who Built Multiple Viral Products | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:49:14 | |
Join me as I chat with Avi Schiffmann, Founder and CEO of friend.com, as we discuss technical challenges in AI memory systems and broader startup philosophy. Avi emphasizes the importance of creating new categories rather than competing in existing ones, while advocating for personal growth and confidence as crucial elements of entrepreneurial success. The discussion covers both technical aspects of AI development and philosophical approaches to startup building. Episode Timestamps: Key Points: 1) First, a HUGE opportunity in AI: Memory as a Service (MaaS) for AI chatbots 2) On building in existing categories: The real advantage of startups? 3) MINDSHARE is the only true moat Example: Lesson: Better product ≠ Winning product 4) On raising VC: 5) The REAL key to startup success: Personal confidence over YC advice How to build it: "No one great ever thought they couldn't be great" 6) On working style: "You don't need to be at your computer to be working" • Best ideas come in shower/walks 7) Final wisdom: "You have a short bubble of consciousness while alive. Don't waste it working on something you're not confidently proud about." Stop preparing. Notable Quotes: 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 FIND AVI ON SOCIAL Friend: https://friend.com | |||
| My 2024 Year in Review | 25 Dec 2024 | 00:55:39 | |
My comprehensive year in review covering personal achievements, business developments, and investment strategies in 2024. I share a detailed breakdowns of my wealth allocation, business portfolio performance, and social media growth. The review emphasizes a shift toward business simplification, increased focus on AI and technology integration, and the importance of building sustainable, scalable ventures. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) BIG WINS 2024: • Had a baby 2) Portfolio breakdown (fascinating): • 75% stocks Top holdings: 3) Business Updates: Late Checkout Agency (LCA): Boring Marketing & Boring Ads: • Both crushing it 5) Key productivity unlocks: • Switched to Yerba Mate for afternoon energy 6) Platform Growth 2024: YouTube: 11K → 146K subs 7) Best decision framework: "Friday Afternoon Test" - Only make big decisions Friday PM when tired 8/ MAJOR hiring insight: "Day Zero Integrity Test" 9/ Key lessons: • Trust but verify (especially with remote teams) 10) 2025 Focus: • Finding long-term business partners Notable Quotes: 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](https://www.startupempire.co/) FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg | |||
| pov: brainstorming $1M+ startup ideas with Daniel Dalen | 23 Dec 2024 | 01:05:13 | |
Join me as I chat with Daniel Dalen, CEO and Founder of Ecomflow, as we explore various startup ideas and business opportunities, focusing on embeddable businesses and the Shopify ecosystem. We discuss the potential of credibility badges, analyzing both successful and unsuccessful business concepts while sharing insights on product development, aesthetics, and bootstrapping versus venture capital approaches. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) First startup idea: "Best Product of Year" Certification Business • Similar to Better Business Bureau model 2) Second concept: "Embeddable Businesses" • Greg built http://offerbutton.com as an example 3) Fascinating insight on software categories: Luxury Software is DEAD • Users care more about design than status 4) On building Shopify apps: • Massive opportunity in DTC ecosystem 5) Building mindset insights from Daniel Dalen: • Bootstrap over VC if possible 6) Hot Take from Greg: "The wealthiest people have the least amount of recurring meetings" True wealth = control of your time 7) Key lesson on content: Stop asking for likes/subs Notable Quotes: 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 FIND DANIEL ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/danielvandalen | |||
| How to get 145k followers on LinkedIn in 1 year | 20 Dec 2024 | 00:15:27 | |
I share my experience growing from zero to 145,000 LinkedIn followers in 14 months, generating millions in revenue. I detail specific strategies for LinkedIn growth, including leveraging the new video tab, creating engaging story posts, and utilizing infographics. The presentation explains how to properly monetize a LinkedIn following through strategic content posting and lead magnet implementation. This talk was given at Andrew Wilkinsons IP2 conference Learn more about IP3
00:00 - Intro Key Points: 1) The ACP Framework: 2) Why LinkedIn in 2025? 3) LINKEDIN HACK #1: Video Content LinkedIn just added a video tab. Nobody knows this yet. Pro tip: Videos are getting INSANE reach right now 4) LINKEDIN HACK #2: Stories that Convert 5) LINKEDIN HACK #3: Viral Infographics 6) THE MONETIZATION STRATEGY 7) LEAD MAGNET MASTERY: 8) KEY TAKEAWAY: Notable Quotes: 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 | |||
| The framework for building AI startups from a product design genius | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:42:51 | |
Join me as I chat with Mike Hudack, CEO of Sling Money, as we deep dive into AI startup strategy by discussing frameworks for building AI companies, product development approaches, and go-to-market strategies. The conversation covers practical advice for entrepreneurs considering AI ventures, from choosing between B2B and B2C models to pricing strategies and competition analysis. Hudack shares insights from his experience at Facebook and current venture Sling Money. Timestamps: Key Points: 1) On picking AI startup ideas: Look for repetitive, time-consuming tasks that: Examples: Flight booking, restaurant reservations, scheduling 2) The most promising AI companies right now: • Green Lite - Automating financial compliance All solving specific, manual problems with tight feedback loops. 3) Framework for choosing what to build: Run a "regret minimization" exercise: 4) On B2B vs B2C products: B2B: B2C: 5) On pricing AI products: Formula: Pro tip: You CAN raise prices later if you build something people truly love. 6) Go-to-market strategy for AI products: • Build in public 7) On competition: Don't be afraid to copy primitives (basic features everyone needs) BUT: Most important lesson: Build something YOU deeply care about. The most successful products come from genuine passion, not just market opportunity. Notable Quotes: 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 FIND MIKE ON SOCIAL Mike’s Website: https://hudack.com/ | |||
| [DELETED ON YOUTUBE] Best Products of 2025 (Apps, Video Games, AI) | 28 Nov 2025 | 01:03:08 | |
Join me as I sit down with Jonathan Courtney to host the second annual “Sippy Awards,” the most prestigious award show in tech for the products, games, and tools that shaped 2025. We crown our most-hyped products for 2026, favorite games of the year, best productivity tools, and best products under $100. We also dive into analog tools like Traveler’s Notebook, hi-fi systems, Japanese porcelain, and simple clothing uniforms as ways to make everyday life better and de-fragment your brain.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
03:23 – Most Hyped Product of 2026
14:43 – Game of the Year 2025
19:49 – The Way to Innovate
25:41 – Premium Domains
29:56 – Best Productivity Product
42:02 – Favorite Product of 2025
54:10 – Best products under $100.
Key Points
The Sippy Awards are a playful but serious way for Greg and Jonathan to highlight the products and games that genuinely improved their lives in 2025.
They argue that cult classics (Wind Waker, Pinkerton, Kid A, Breath of the Wild, Elden Ring) come from creators who put the audience last and follow their own taste, even at the risk of initial backlash.
Distinctive visual identities and premium dot-com domains are framed as both trust builders for users and commitment devices for founders.
Their favorite productivity and lifestyle tools—ChatGPT, Things, Endel, Traveler’s Notebook, YouTube Premium, Japanese porcelain—show how small, well-crafted tools reshape daily workflows and rituals.
Analog practices (morning pages, notebooks, hi-fi listening) and simple clothing uniforms are presented as ways to de-fragment your brain, reduce decision fatigue, and focus on what matters.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: thevibemarketer.com
Startup Empire - get your free builders toolkit to build cashflowing business - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire-toolkit
Become a member - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire
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
Unscheduled CEO Podcast: https://www.unscheduledceo.com/
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jicecream
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-courtney-4510644b/ | |||
| How to get your first customers (even with ZERO audience) | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:50:00 | |
Join me as I chat with Jonathan Courtney, Co-Founder and CEO of AJ&Smart, as we dive deep into various lead generation strategies. Jonathan shares his strategies and frameworks for building a client pipeline without having a large online following. 00:00 - Intro 1) The Dream 100 Strategy: Example: Web design agency targeting founders? Start with podcast hosts, community leaders 2) The Canvas Strategy (for reaching out): 3) Go Where Your Audience Lives: No promotion, just pure value. 4) The Power of Strategic Gifting: 5) Content Creation (if you choose to): 6) Key Mindset Shift: Stop obsessing over: Start focusing on: 7) The ROI is INSANE: Pro Tip: Review your Dream 100 list every quarter. Most businesses forget this and focus on low-leverage tasks instead. Links Mentioned: The Dream 100 Google Sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a7d1GSZoJq_pT2Ptbvc9HsZWPxNsQDhRcUvT6d1V2Jw/edit?gid=0#gid=0 The Canvas Strategy Ep: https://youtu.be/fr5xG_bTV44 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 FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jicecream | |||
| Inside the Brain of a 17-Year-Old $1M/Month AI Founder | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:49:20 | |
Join me as I chat with Zach Yadegari, Co-Founder of Cal AI, as we discuss his frameworks and strategies for building and scaling viral AI Apps. Learn his step-by-step formula creating viral apps. 00:00 - Intro 1) The Core App Features: • Skin scan for diagnosis Key insight: Keep it SIMPLE. Basic features done well better than complex features done poorly. 2) UX Design Strategy: - Start with basic wireframes Pro tip: Design screens thinking about how influencers will showcase them in content. 3) Growth Strategy: Target audience = concerned parents Look for creators with 250k+ views/video 4)Monetization Structure: Weekly pricing model works best: Strategy: People will delete/resubscribe when needed 5) Technical Implementation: - Use ChatGPT API with custom prompts 6) Marketing Angles: - Target anxious parents 7) Key Success Factors: • Heavy disclaimers 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 FIND ZACH ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/zach_yadegari | |||
| 3 AI app ideas that are goldmines (and how to grow them) | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:41:48 | |
In this episode, I am joined by Dan Shipper, co-Founder and CEO of Every, as we explore a wide range of AI startup ideas and business opportunities Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 1) Advanced Voice Notes Imagine voice notes you can actually talk to! The future of media might be media you can talk to. 2) N of 1: Personalized Data Science Marketplace Remember Netflix's $1M algorithm challenge? Market size: Think Kaggle but for everyone. 3) Great Books Reimagined Classic literature is valuable but hard to digest. The opportunity: Two markets: 4) The Luxury AI Paradox Key insight: As AI makes things cheaper, human-made becomes luxury. Examples: Opportunity: Look for what AI is making cheap, then create premium human-made alternatives. 5) Voice-First Products Huge trend: Kids growing up with voice interfaces (Apple Watch + Siri) Opportunities: TAM: Could capture 1-5% of existing markets just by being voice-first. 6) Distribution Strategy for AI Apps Dan's approach: 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 FIND DAN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/danshipper | |||
| Growth Genius Leaks Million Dollar SEO Plan | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:45:03 | |
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 1) Most AI companies are leaving money on the table Case study: InteriorAI (by Pieter Levels) - Missing out on ~50K/month 2) Jacky's million dollar SEO plan with Reddit: - Find keywords where Reddit ranks #2 (tons right now!) 3) Keyword Research Gold: "AI video generator" trends: - Search volume is exploding 4) Dark Horse Opportunity: Adult AI Market - Extremely low keyword difficulty (KD: 2) 5) Community Building in 2024: - @JackieChou hitting $80K/month Key Takeaway: To win in 2024: Do what VC-funded startups won't: - Target neglected platforms 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 FIND JACKY ON SOCIAL | |||
| Build a high traffic startup using AI, Webflow and Zapier | 02 Dec 2024 | 01:28:50 | |
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 1) First directory: GuilteyChef.com - AI-generated recipes from top restaurants Key insight: People want to recreate restaurant dishes at home 2) Second directory: BestDubai.com - Bought domain for $1.2k (incredible deal) Smart move: Added referral tags to outbound links = restaurants see traffic source 3) The Tech Stack - Webflow for website No coding experience needed! 4) The Secret Sauce: Schema markup Why it matters: 5) The Process: 1. Get place ID from Google Maps One place ID = complete page with images, content & SEO 6) Monetization strategies: Pro tip: Let restaurants find YOU through analytics 7) Key Learning: 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 FIND OMAR ON SOCIAL 5 Day Sprint - Build with AI: https://www.skool.com/5-day-sprint/about | |||
| How This Guy Makes His Entire Year's Revenue in Black Friday WEEK | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:35:58 | |
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 1) The Store Credit Hack Why it works: 2) The Premium Play 3) The Bundle Builder 4) The Bonus Stack Psychology: Value over Discount 5) The Subscription Push 6) The QVC Strategy 7) The Campaign Timeline 8) The Profit Reality Remember: Black Friday isn't just a discount day. 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 FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jicecream | |||
| 3 startup ideas from the co-founder of Loom (make $120k/mo) | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:42:21 | |
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: 1) The Anti-TripAdvisor Traveler Key features: How to build MVP: 2) The New "Path" - Dunbar's Social Network Why it could work: 3) Time Capsules of Shared Memories Key features: Monetization: Inspiration: Remember Klout? Leverage nostalgia! 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 FIND SHAHED ON SOCIAL | |||
| How to start a Holding Company | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:47:32 | |
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: 1) What's a Holdco? 2) Why go Holdco? 3) Types of Holdcos: 4) How to start your Holdco journey: 5) The secret sauce? 🤫 6) Centralize or nah? 7) Who's it for? 8) Ready to dive in? 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 FIND MICHAEL ON SOCIAL | |||
| 3 AI startup ideas to build in 2025 (and how to grow them) | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:49:56 | |
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: 1) AI Co-Founder: Your 24/7 virtual partner with ZERO equity 2-4) AI Co-Founder cont'd: 5) Silent Refactoring as a Service: Your code's guardian angel 6-7) Refactoring Service cont'd: 8) Niche-specific AI-powered content curation 9) Content curation tips: 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 FIND ARVID ON SOCIAL | |||
| How to build a $1M+ Consumer SaaS App (step-by-step guide) | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:50:08 | |
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: 1) TikTok organic = BIGGEST underpriced distribution channel right now 2) E-commerce tactics are invading the app world 3) Carousels perform better than Short-form video on TikTok?! 4) TikTok Shop Affiliate Center = goldmine for app ideas Win-win-win situation! 5) High LTV niches are UNDERSERVED on TikTok - 10k downloads / month 6) Myth: TikTok users are all young 7) Rethink influencer marketing for TikTok 8) Capitalize on internet "cults" & movements 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 FIND JOSEPH ON SOCIAL | |||
| Reviewing Claude Opus 4.5 | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:59:42 | |
I sat down with James, the Boring Marketer, to stress-test Claude 4.5 Opus against Gemini 3 Pro for real-world coding and design work. Together we live-build and compare landing pages and clickable prototypes for an “EstateClear” probate-family dashboard, then zoom out into conversion copywriting frameworks, “elevated direct response” brand voice, and ad creative workflows. The episode is a practical walkthrough of how non-technical builders can go from idea → landing page → prototype → ads using modern AI tools without vibe-coded, low-converting sites.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
02:00 – Startup Idea: EstateClear
03:17 – Claude Opus 4.5
04:47 – Gemini 3.0 Pro
09:02 – Reviewing Opus’ landing page
11:16 – Reviewing Gemini’s version
12:17 – Comparing the two
17:29 – Reprompting Opus 4.5 and Gemini
19:02 – Google’s vertically integrated stack (AI Studio, Anti-Gravity, TPUs, Workspace)
21:50 – Nano Banana Pro and ad creative experiments
27:35 – Opus 4.5 builds a clickable EstateClear prototype
31:38 – Gemini’s prototype and comparing product depth
36:40 – Anti-Gravity + Nano Banana workflow for mockups and code
44:41 – Claude Skills Workflow and Best Practices
56:41 – Final Thoughts
Key Points
Claude 4.5 Opus can act like a senior engineer for non-technical builders when paired with a tight skill and tools setup.
Conversion wins come more from “elevated direct response” copy and clear page architecture than from fancy visuals alone.
Claude’s front-end design skill meaningfully reduces “AI-looking” gradients and vibe-coded layouts, producing cleaner, production-grade UIs.
Live tests show Opus 4.5 generates more refined layouts and deeper product thinking, while Gemini often injects clever AI product features.
Google’s integration of Anti-Gravity, Nano Banana, and AI Studio points to a powerful end-to-end environment for shipping and promoting products.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: thevibemarketer.com
Startup Empire - get your free builders toolkit to build cashflowing business - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire-toolkit
Become a member - https://startup-ideas-pod.link/startup-empire
FIND ME ON SOCIAL
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/
FIND JAMES ON SOCIAL
X/Twitter: https://x.com/boringmarketer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jadickerson/ | |||
| Humanoid Military Robots and other crazy billion dollar ideas | 11 Nov 2024 | 00:47:59 | |
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: 1) Cybersecurity for AI companies 2) Moon-focused space startup 3) Kid-friendly smartphone alternative 4) Humanoid military robots 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 FIND JOHN ON SOCIAL | |||
| How to build $1M+ Viral AI Apps | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:38:43 | |
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: 1) Career AI: The all-in-one career advancement tool Distribution strategy: 2) Journal AI: Your AI-powered second brain 3) Language AI: The Duolingo disruptor Why it could work: 4) Blake's framework for building viral AI apps: 5) Pricing strategy: Optimize for (users^n * profit per user), where n is greater than 1 1. Get users to input personal info for "customization" • 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. 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 FIND BLAKE ON SOCIAL | |||
| 7 $1M+ AI startup ideas you can launch tomorrow with $0 | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:50:01 | |
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: 1) AI-Generated UGC Ads How to distribute: 2) AI Infographic Generator Distribution: 3) AI Journaling App Growth strategy: 4) Creator Business Model 2.0 Pro tip: Use community to ideate products for your audience 5/ AI Receptionist Target market: Local businesses struggling to hire front desk staff 6) Novel DTC products Key: Make it a consumable for repeat purchases 7) AI-powered outbound calls 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 FIND CODY ON SOCIAL | |||
| How to Build a Swipe File and Steal Like an Artist | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:35:51 | |
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: 1) We see 4,000-10,000 ads daily. Turn that consumption into creation with a swipe file. 2) Use My Mind to easily save & organize inspiration: 3) Look for pattern interrupts & scroll-stoppers. 4) Anatomy of a killer funnel: 5) IRL to URL: Don't forget offline lead gen! 6) Innovation isn't just about product. Consider: 7) Micro SaaS idea: AI Agent Funnel Scraper 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/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND JORDAN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/jrdnmix | |||
| How to build a $20m sales funnel from scratch | 28 Oct 2024 | 01:05:37 | |
Join me as I chat with Jonathan Courtney, Co-Founder and CEO of AJ&Smart, as we dive deep into how to build million dollar sales funnels. Jonathan shares his strategies and frameworks for creating sales funnels that will 10x your conversion rate Episode Timestamps: 1) Websites are not Funnels 2) The magic formula: 3) Ugly funnels convert better! 4) The power of long-form content: 5) Pixeling + retargeting = marketing gold 6) Email marketing isn't dead, it's EVOLVING 7) Physical products STILL WORK in digital age 8) The MIFGY secret (Most Incredible Free Gift Yet) 9) Key takeaway: Funnels aren't sleazy, they're ESSENTIAL 10) Want to dive deeper? 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/ Community Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses: http://communityempire.co/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jicecream | |||
| 2 $1M+ EdTech Startups you can launch tomorrow | 23 Oct 2024 | 00:56:29 | |
Join me as I chat with Sarah Lacy, Co-Founder of The Best Book Store , as we discuss a variety of EdTech startup ideas. Sarah also shares her the lessons she learned from studying Mark Zuckerberg and her advice for networking and storytelling Episode Timestamps: 1) Startup Idea 1: Pre-MBA Entrepreneurship Program for Tween Girls Key features: Monetization strategy: 2) Startup Idea 2: AI-Powered Author Coaching Bots Solution: Daily prompts & coaching from an AI avatar of the author! How it works: Potential authors to target: Business model: 3) Zuckerberg Insight 👀 What made young Zuck unique? EXTREME HUMILITY + self-awareness. "He knows when he doesn't know something, and he doesn't just go in to learn it. He gives himself... a position of extreme humility." - Sarah Lacy 4) Key takeaway: NETWORK + STORYTELLING = Startup success Remember: It's not just WHO you know, but HOW you pitch your idea! 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/ Community Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses http://communityempire.co/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL FIND SARAH ON SOCIAL | |||
| The blueprint for building cash flowing online directories | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:50:34 | |
Join me as I chat with John Rush, a serial entrepreneur, as we dive deep into how to build and scale directories. John shares his strategies and frameworks to for how to use AI and SEO to build and scale cash flowing directories. Episode Timestamps: 1) Why directories are hot right now: 2) How to find directory ideas: 3) Building your directory: 4) Promoting your new directory: 5) SEO strategy for directories: 6) Monetization strategies: 7) The power of directories for SaaS: 8) Realistic expectations: 9) Why start with directories: Pro Tip: Don't fall in love with one idea. Launch multiple directories, see what sticks after 30 days, then double down on winners! 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 [BoringMarketing.com](http://boringmarketing.com/) Community Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses http://communityempire.co/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND JOHN ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://x.com/johnrushx | |||
| The blueprint to build a $340k/mo premium dating app | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:46:07 | |
Join me as I chat with Anu Atluru, startup builder, angel investor, and writer, as we dive deep into how to build and scale premium dating apps, and Anu shares her thoughts on how to leverage status to position and growth hack your startup. Episode Timestamps: 1) The League 2.0: Dating app for modern status symbols a) Charged up to $2,499/month (!) for premium memberships - YC founders Key insight: Status markers have evolved beyond just education/job 2) Why now for League 2.0? a) More distribution channels to hack growth Example: Lox Club for Jewish singles crushing it 3) Controversial idea alert: AI girlfriends/boyfriends for niche demographics Opportunity for brave founders, but proceed with caution! 4) "Riz-maxing" app: Charisma coach in your pocket Think: Looksmaxxing app, but for personality 5) Report cards for life: Huge untapped opportunity People LOVE data about themselves! 6) Pricing strategy shift: Death of monthly subscriptions? Monthly feels like a "situationship" - users want commitment or freedom! 7) Content creation pro tip: Iterate on format until you find your groove a) Live vs. async Find your emotional center & natural aptitude! 8) Challenge: Create more novel content formats! 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/ Community Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses http://communityempire.co/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND ANU ON SOCIAL | |||
| 6 startup ideas from the tech Warren Buffett (make $120k/mo) | 14 Oct 2024 | 00:53:45 | |
Join me as I chat with Andrew Wilkinson, Co-Founder of Tiny, as we explore innovative startup ideas, and his frameworks for finding and building startups Timestamps 1) Robot Lawnmower Revolution 2) Sleep Apnea Gold Rush 3) Computer Vision for Small Biz 4) The Ultimate Negotiator 5) Sperm Freezing Made Easy 6) Community Building as a Service 7) Bonus: Undiagnosed Illness Detection 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/ Community Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses =http://communityempire.co/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND ANDREW ON SOCIAL | |||
| How to build a $400k/mo AI App using ASO, Organic Growth, and Paid Ads | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:48:14 | |
Join me as I chat with Romain Torres, Co-Founder of Arcads AI, as we discuss his frameworks and strategies for finding and building profitable AI Apps. Learn his step-by-step formula to building and growth hacking apps. Episode Timestamps 1) Three main strategies to grow mobile apps: 2) ASO (Apple Search Optimization) 101: 3) Organic social growth hack: 4) Paid ads strategy: 5) Case study: 17yo dev makes $400k/mo with AI calorie tracking app 6) Monetization hack: Niche down existing app ideas 7) AI is leveling the playing field: 8) Key takeaway: Success = Product-Market Fit + Execution 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 🎯 To build your own portfolio businesses powered by community you might enjoy my membership. You'll get my full course with all my secrets on building businesses, peer-groups to keep you accountable, business ideas every single month and more! Spots are limited. https://www.communityempire.co/ 📬 Join my free newsletter to get weekly startup insights for free: https://www.gregisenberg.com/ 70,000+ people are already subscribed. To improve your rankings your business on Google and using AI for SEO, sign up to http://boringmarketing.com/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND ROMAIN ON SOCIAL | |||
| Build Mobile Apps that Stand Out (Here's the Playbook) | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:47:02 | |
On this episode I sit down with indie app builder and designer Chris Raroque to break down how solo developers can make apps that truly stand out in a world of “vibe-coded” clones. Chris walks through concrete examples from his own products, Ellie (planning), Luna (budgeting), and Amy (calorie tracking), showing how small details in animations, interactions, and haptics dramatically change how an app feels. We dig into mascots and illustrations, iconography and typography, widgets and Apple Watch apps, and the design resources Chris studies to sharpen his eye. The episode is a practical blueprint for turning AI-assisted prototypes into polished, premium-feeling apps that users remember and keep coming back to.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
03:54 – Animation and Interactions
20:50 – Illustrations and Mascots
33:57 – Iconography and Typography
37:28 – Widgets
43:04 – Design Inspiration Resources
Key Points
In a world where anyone can ship an AI-generated app in 24 hours, polish and interaction design are the real differentiators.
Thoughtful animations, micro-interactions, and haptics can be the difference between a tweet that flops and one that goes viral.
Mascots and custom illustrations give apps a recognizable personality and can transform empty states and onboarding into memorable moments.
Consistent iconography and basic typography choices have outsized impact on perceived quality, yet are often overlooked by “vibe-coded” apps.
Home screen, lock screen, and watch widgets act as retention engines by giving apps constant real estate in users’ daily flows.
Continuously studying well-designed apps and curated UI libraries sharpens design taste and makes it easier to brief AI tools effectively.
The #1 tool to find startup ideas/trends - https://www.ideabrowser.com
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/
The Vibe Marketer - Resources for people into vibe marketing/marketing with AI: thevibemarketer.com
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| How to build a creator empire in the age of AI and AR with Samir Chaudry | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:57:55 | |
Join me as I chat with Samir Chaudry, Co-Founder of Colin and Samir, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of content creation, technology, and the future of media. Timestamps: 1) AR glasses: The next big thing? 2) Content creation is evolving FAST 3) The "Exit Velocity" problem 4) Monetization strategy: Value Prop Extension 5) The future might value INEFFICIENCY 🤯 6) Events are the next big opportunity for creators 🎉 7) VR vs. AR: Place your bets 8) The creator's dilemma: Opportunity rich, time poor 9) Final wisdom from Tim Ferris 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 🎯 To build your own portfolio businesses powered by community you might enjoy my membership. You'll get my full course with all my secrets on building businesses, peer-groups to keep you accountable, business ideas every single month and more! Spots are limited. https://www.communityempire.co/ 📬 Join my free newsletter to get weekly startup insights for free: https://www.gregisenberg.com/ 70,000+ people are already subscribed. To improve your rankings your business on Google and using AI for SEO, sign up to http://boringmarketing.com/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND SAMIR ON SOCIAL | |||
| The ultimate startup naming guide (must watch for founders) | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:24:57 | |
In this episode, we dive deep into my process for naming my startups and businesses. I share my 4-step guide for coming up with memorable names for startups and how you can apply these principles to come up with your own scroll stopping name. Timestamps: 1) 3 types of names: 2) 3 winning name strategies: 3) Bad name examples: 4) Good name examples: 5) Hack your way to a novel name: 6) Use AI for brainstorming: 7) Greg's personal name list sneak peek: 8) Pro tip: It's okay to have bad names on your list. Keep refining! 9) Remember: A great name can be the difference between viral growth and crickets. 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 🎯 To build your own portfolio businesses powered by community you might enjoy my membership. You'll get my full course with all my secrets on building businesses, peer-groups to keep you accountable, business ideas every single month and more! Spots are limited. https://www.communityempire.co/ 📬 Join my free newsletter to get weekly startup insights for free: https://www.gregisenberg.com/ 70,000+ people are already subscribed. To improve your rankings your business on Google and using AI for SEO, sign up to http://www.boringmarketing.com/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg | |||
| Meet the man who growth hacked his app to 1M downloads | 30 Sep 2024 | 00:55:03 | |
Join me as I chat with Chris Josephs, Co-Founder of Autopilot, as we discuss his frameworks and strategies for growth hacking startups. Learn his step-by-step formula to building and converting attention, affinity, and authority into brand loyalty and startup growth. Timestamps: 1) Chris doesn't see himself as a marketer or growth guy. He's a SOCIAL ENGINEER. 2) The Pelosi Tracker origin story: 3) Chris's framework for building viral meme pages: 4) The UFC sponsorship case study: 5) Chris's viral formula: 6) Key to monetizing meme pages: 7) Startup idea alert: Live shopping streams for Gen Z women 8) Growth hack: Build relationships with journalists 9) Remember: Consistency is key in building your brand. 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 🎯 To build your own portfolio businesses powered by community you might enjoy my membership. You'll get my full course with all my secrets on building businesses, peer-groups to keep you accountable, business ideas every single month and more! Spots are limited. https://www.communityempire.co/ 📬 Join my free newsletter to get weekly startup insights for free: https://www.gregisenberg.com/ 70,000+ people are already subscribed. To improve your rankings your business on Google and using AI for SEO, sign up to http://boringmarketing.com/ FIND ME ON SOCIAL X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg FIND CHRIS ON SOCIAL | |||