Episode 725 | SEO in the Age of AI, Freemium, When Brand Becomes Important, and More Advanced Listener Questions (with Ruben Gamez)

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Aug 6, 2024

Ruben Gamez, a SaaS founder, dives into the intricacies of brand building and freemium models. He shares surprising insights about the challenges of pursuing a freemium strategy as a bootstrapper. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of developing a strong brand identity, especially in the competitive SaaS landscape. Additionally, they tackle the evolving role of SEO in the age of AI, advocating for adaptability in marketing strategies and the significance of organic growth through user experience and effective communications.

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ADVICE

Freemium for Bootstrappers

Freemium is risky for bootstrappers because it delays revenue.
Focus on revenue early on for survival and marketing.

INSIGHT

Promoting Freemium

Promoting a freemium plan is crucial for its success, not just its existence.
Consider factors like support costs, viral potential, and market saturation.

ADVICE

Evaluating Freemium

When experimenting with freemium, monitor early indicators like branded searches and free plan usage.
Don't wait a year to evaluate; be decisive and adjust if necessary.

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In episode 725, join Rob Walling and Ruben Gamez as they answer several more advanced listener questions. They discuss the challenges of pursuing freemium as a bootstrapper and make a suggestion that might surprise you. Rob and Ruben also talk about why building your business as a SaaS founder is usually the best way to build your brand indirectly.

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Topics we cover:

2:31 – Considering a freemium plan as a bootstrapper
9:52 – Freemium, but without the intent to convert free users
12:24 – Raising prices as an alternative to starting a freemium plan
18:32 – When to start caring about your “brand”
25:10 – Investing directly in branding
31:00 – Revisiting your marketing funnels
34:08 – AI’s impact on SEO
38:20 – Google’s search results are already changing

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If you have questions about starting or scaling a software business that you’d like for us to cover, please submit your question for an upcoming episode. We’d love to hear from you!

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