How I use Pinterest and Google Trends to find startup ideas

In this episode, we dive deep into uncovering validated startup ideas by leveraging anti-trends on Pinterest and Google Trends. I'll walk you through my workflow, showing you exactly how to use these tools to spot emerging trends, identify key problems and solutions, and find creators and websites thriving in these niches. If you're looking for a fresh approach to finding your next big startup idea, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss!

1) What are anti-trends and how to spot them
•  Anti-trends = opposite of what's hot right now
• Example: "AI-free" products when EVERYONE is jumping on the AI bandwagon
•  Why it works: Creates a unique moat + appeals to overlooked market segments
•  How to spot anti-trends: Real-world observations, Social media chatter, Consumer studies (e.g. recent study shows AI mentions LOWER purchase intent)
•  Pro tip: Always be on the lookout for what's NOT being talked about

2) Tool: Pinterest deep dive:
• Shows monthly/weekly changes
• Reveals related trends
• Displays popular pins
•  Example: "Slow living" trend analysis gives insights into minimalism, cozy bedrooms, etc.

3) Tool: Google Trends + Glimpse hack:
• 5-year view of trend growth
• Related trends
• Social platform activity
• Topic maps
•  Pro tip: Look for steady, sustainable growth rather than spikes

4) Competitive research workflow:
1. Use Claude AI to list top creators/websites in your niche
2. Analyze their traffic/backlinks with Ahrefs
3. Check creator growth on ViewStats

5) Key questions to ask:
• What products/services can I create for this anti-trend?
• Where's the audience hanging out?
• Any low-hanging fruit in terms of SEO?
• Which geographic markets are underserved?

6) Remember: Anti-trends are about serving overlooked markets
• There's often less competition and more passionate audiences in these niches
• Don't be afraid to go against the grain!

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

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How I use Reddit and AI to find winning startup ideas: https://youtu.be/8vXoI7lUroQ

Episode Timestamps: 
00:00 Intro
00:59 What are anti-trends and how to spot them
03:12 Tool 1: Pinterest
07:40 Tool 2: Google Trends 
08:52 Tool 3: Glimpse
13:07 Tool 4: Claude AI finding top creators/websites
15:23 Tool 5: Ahrefs for analyzing traffic/backlinks 
17:28 Tool 6: ViewStats checking creator growth