Indie Founder

I share a recent breakthrough in my entrepreneurial journey with Podsqueeze. After experimenting with various marketing strategies, I discovered the power of targeted press releases. Initially, I struggled with traditional PR methods, but I found success by reaching out to niche podcasting newsletters. This approach not only increased our visibility but also connected us directly with our target audience. I emphasize the importance of finding your niche and leveraging industry-specific channels for effective outreach. Tune in to learn how to apply these insights to your own projects!Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction and Podcast Promotion (00:00:07)Early Perceptions of Entrepreneurship (00:01:12)First Tech Job and Startup Culture (00:02:25)Discovering Bootstrapping vs. VC Startups (00:04:48)Growth Plateau and Entrepreneurial Skills (00:05:57)Defining Startups vs. Businesses (00:07:00)Learning Marketing Channels (00:08:02)Initial Attempts at PR and Press Releases (00:09:16)Press Release Agencies and Fiverr Experience (00:11:31)Understanding Press Release Feeds (00:13:48)Breakthrough with Niche Newsletters (00:16:53)Success with Newsletter Outreach (00:18:57)Key Lesson: Go Niche for PR (00:21:16)Closing and Call to Action (00:22:18)Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:Tools and Websites"Twitter": "00:00:07""Fiverr": "00:11:31""Reddit": "00:17:57""Yahoo": "00:14:54""MSN": "00:14:54""Google": "00:08:02"Concepts and Terms"Press Releases": "00:09:16""SEO (Search Engine Optimization)": "00:08:02""Backlinks": "00:09:16""Cold Emails": "00:08:02""Niche Marketing": "00:21:16"Notable Mentions"Podsqueeze": "00:05:57""ChatGPT": "00:16:53""Peter Levels": "00:04:48"Summary of Key Points"The importance of finding niche newsletters for press releases": "00:21:16""The difference between startups and bootstrapping businesses": "00:07:00""The realization of using press releases effectively within the podcasting community": "00:18:57"

I discuss the definition of a successful entrepreneur and what constitutes a company. I share my perspective on profitability and value creation, emphasizing that a true business should be self-sustainable. I explore the role of luck in entrepreneurship and reflect on my journey with Podsqueeze, including the challenges of replicating success. I conclude that a great entrepreneur can build multiple successful businesses or maintain one over time. I also touch on the importance of continuous learning and the potential of diversifying ventures.Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction and Listener Appreciation (00:00:08)Defining a Company and Profitability (00:01:27)The Reality of Unprofitable Startups (00:02:32)Tiago’s Definition of a Business (00:03:47)Value Creation and Self-Sustainability (00:05:00)What Makes a Great Business (00:06:02)Entrepreneurial Spirit vs. Entrepreneurial Success (00:07:17)The Role of Luck in Entrepreneurship (00:08:31)Podsqueeze: Luck or Skill? (00:10:44)Trying to Replicate Success (00:11:52)Redefining a Great Entrepreneur (00:12:46)The McDonald’s and Amazon Example (00:13:54)Longevity and Sustaining Success (00:16:15)The Challenge of Competition (00:18:32)Continuous Learning and Growth (00:19:47)Future Goals and Diversification (00:22:00)Finding Good Advice and Building a Network (00:23:05)Delegation and Serial Entrepreneurship (00:23:45)Conclusion and Farewell (00:24:11)

I share my journey with Podsqueeze, reflecting on two years of entrepreneurship. I discuss the impact of seasonality on our business and the brutal nature of the market. I explore the challenges of balancing investment and salary, leading to a decision to scale down operations. I highlight our shift towards B2B clients and the lessons learned from targeting larger companies. I also address the differing motivations between my co-founder and me, and my thoughts on potentially selling the company. Lastly, I invite listeners to reach out with questions or for support. Tools and Websites- "Podsqueeze": "00:01:35"- "Google Services": "00:09:22"- "GPT (likely referring to OpenAI's GPT)": "00:07:14"- "Twitter": "00:24:18"- "LinkedIn": "00:24:18"- "Email": "00:24:18" Books- "\"How to Exit\" by Rob Walling": "00:22:16"- "Book on Selling a Company": "00:23:19"Introduction to the Episode (00:00:08)  The speaker welcomes listeners back after a long hiatus and shares personal reflections on entrepreneurship.Realizations and Learnings (00:01:35)  The speaker discusses significant realizations and lessons learned during their entrepreneurial journey.Seasonality in Business (00:02:49)  Insights on how Podsqueeze experiences seasonal fluctuations in customer engagement and business performance.Market Realities (00:04:58)  The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding market dynamics and how they impact business success.Understanding Market Size (00:06:04)  Discussion on measuring market size and the challenges of identifying potential customers for Podsqueeze.Investment and Expenses (00:08:18)  Overview of the financial structure of the company and the investments made to support growth.Challenges in Entrepreneurship (00:10:25)  The speaker reflects on the harsh realities of entrepreneurship and the market's indifference to hard work.Co-founder Dynamics (00:12:25)  The speaker shares their experiences and challenges in the relationship with their co-founder.Decision to Scale Down (00:14:15)  Discussion on the decision to reduce costs and scale down operations instead of seeking external funding.B2B Targeting Strategy (00:18:09)  The speaker explores the transition towards targeting larger companies and the challenges faced in this approach.Cultural Differences in Sales (00:20:19)  Insights on the difficulties of expanding sales efforts outside Portugal and the importance of cultural understanding.Future Considerations (00:21:19)  The speaker contemplates the future of Podsqueeze and the differing motivations between them and their co-founder.Preparation for Selling (00:23:19)  The speaker discusses the importance of preparation for selling their company, Podsqueeze.Reflection on Business Journey (00:24:18)  The speaker shares thoughts on their entrepreneurial journey and invites listeners to reach out for questions.  Conclusion of Episode (00:24:33)  The episode wraps up with a farewell and a promise to see listeners next time.

The discussion kicks off with reflections on a challenging year for Podsqueeze, marked by slower growth than anticipated. A deep dive into sustainable marketing reveals the pivotal role of SEO in boosting traffic. There's a closer look at the company's 18% monthly recurring revenue growth, peppered with candid thoughts on churn issues. Insights about the dynamics of the co-founder relationship emerge, emphasizing the need for confidence in business. Looking ahead, goals for 2025 focus on reducing churn and exploring fresh monetization strategies.

I dive into my journey of managing a residential building after buying our first apartment. I share the ups and downs of dealing with a crumbling building, a lackluster management company, and a diverse group of neighbors from different cultural backgrounds. I talk about how I took charge, rallied the residents, and navigated through conflicts to improve the living conditions. I offer insights on community building, conflict resolution, and the challenges of property management. Perfect for indie makers looking for real-life problem-solving inspiration!LinksFollow me on Twitter (X)Follow me on LinkedinTimestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction to Building Management (00:00:00)  Tiago introduces the episode, sharing his experience managing a residential building.The Apartment Purchase Journey (00:01:22)  Tiago discusses the process of buying their first apartment and the challenges faced.Challenges of the Building's Condition (00:02:34)  He reflects on the poor condition of the building and the need for repairs.Learning About Remodeling (00:03:38)  Tiago shares his learning curve regarding remodeling and construction.Issues with Construction Companies (00:04:41)  He discusses the difficulties in finding trustworthy construction companies in Portugal.Neighbors Association Meeting (00:05:45)  Tiago recounts the first neighbors association meeting and the management company's poor performance.Cultural Clashes Among Residents (00:06:52)  He highlights the mix of cultures and the resulting challenges in communication among residents.Frustrations with Management (00:08:57)  Tiago expresses frustrations over the lack of progress in addressing building issues.Taking Initiative to Mediate (00:10:06)  He decides to take action to mediate conflicts and improve the situation.Understanding Neighbor Dynamics (00:11:14)  Tiago reflects on the complex dynamics between different neighbors and their cultural differences.The Need for Change (00:12:18)  He recognizes the urgency of addressing the building's deteriorating conditions.Facing Resistance (00:13:30)  Tiago encounters resistance from neighbors when trying to mediate conflicts.Deciding to Take Over Management (00:14:37)  He resolves to take charge and remove the ineffective management company.Creating Communication Channels (00:15:40)  Tiago establishes a WhatsApp group for better communication among neighbors.Planning a Secret Meeting (00:16:45)  He organizes a secret meeting to discuss the management issues without the company present.Overcoming Nervousness (00:17:39)  Tiago shares his feelings of nervousness before the meeting with neighbors.Voting on Management Change (00:18:38)  The neighbors vote to remove the management company and appoint new managers.Confronting the Management Company (00:19:39)  Tiago describes his experience confronting the management company to cancel the contract.Negotiating the Contract Cancellation (00:20:35)  He discusses the challenges faced during negotiations to cancel the management contract.Podcast Episode TimestampsChallenges with Management (00:22:28)  Tiago discusses frustrations with the building management company and the roadblocks they created.Regaining Momentum (00:23:27)  He reflects on nearly giving up but finds renewed energy to address urgent building issues.Voting for Change (00:24:21)  Tiago describes successfully convincing neighbors to pay for necessary repairs and his new role as administrator.Managing Neighbor Disputes (00:25:24)  He talks about the complexities of addressing diverse neighbor complaints and maintaining impartiality.Hiring Competent Professionals (00:26:26)  Tiago emphasizes the importance of hiring trustworthy professionals over merely seeking the lowest costs.Starting Repairs (00:28:38)  He shares the beginning of construction work on the building's facade and the positive changes observed.Celebrating Progress (00:30:37)  Tiago expresses satisfaction with the completed facade repairs and the sense of contribution he feels.Personal Growth Reflection (00:31:41)  He reflects on overcoming self-doubt and the importance of trusting oneself in challenging situations.Future Improvements (00:33:37)  Tiago concludes by mentioning ongoing improvements needed for the building and his excitement for future updates.

Explore the delicate dance between work and rest in the life of entrepreneurs. Discover the importance of delegating tasks to boost productivity and reclaim personal time. Hear personal stories, including a conversation with a friend about the quest for fulfillment amid dissatisfaction in both traditional jobs and startups. Learn how redefining productivity can lead to greater well-being, and why working smarter, not harder, is essential for success. Find out how implementing strategic investments can facilitate growth while enhancing life satisfaction.

I dive into the art of networking at conferences, focusing on my experiences at the Web Summit in Lisbon. Having attended for three years, I share tips on navigating the event, securing a media ticket, and making meaningful connections. I emphasize the importance of networking over attending talks, recounting my interactions with various companies, especially in the AI sector. I offer practical advice for improving networking skills and highlight the long-term benefits of building relationships. It's a friendly and insightful guide for indie makers looking to maximize their conference experiences.Links and Mentions"Web Summit": "00:00:00""Tiago's Twtter (X)": https://x.com/wbetiago"Auphonic": "00:15:49""AppSumo": "00:09:29""Rocket Hub": "00:10:33"TimetampsTimestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction to the Episode (00:00:00)Overview of the Web Summit (00:01:10)Ticket Acquisition Challenge (00:02:12)Conference Layout and Atmosphere (00:03:15)Networking Over Talks (00:04:23)Networking Strategies (00:05:27)AI Trends at the Conference (00:06:22)Interesting Companies Encountered (00:08:28)Media Ticket Benefits (00:13:43)The Power of Networking (00:15:49)Networking Approach and Mindset (00:17:52)Conclusion on Networking Importance (00:20:00)Networking Skills Development (00:21:51)Positive Web Summit Experience (00:21:51)Media Ticket Benefits (00:21:51)Previous Podcast Episodes (00:23:02)Listener Engagement (00:23:02)Call for Reviews (00:23:02)

I dive into the potential impacts of Donald Trump's election victory on indie businesses, especially in the SaaS sector. I discuss the differences between the U.S. and European business environments, noting how higher purchasing power in the U.S. can benefit indie makers. I also touch on corporate tax rates, tariffs, and currency fluctuations. While I acknowledge some possible economic benefits, I raise concerns about the oversimplification of complex political issues and the potential negative consequences on climate change. I encourage listeners to stay informed and engaged in these discussions.Links & Mentions Tools, Websites, and Links- Indie Maker Merch (00:01:20) - https://indiemakermerch.com- My Twitter Handle: https://x.com/wbetiago- Web Summit (00:01:20) Concepts and Terms- SaaS (Software as a Service) (00:04:28)- NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) (00:06:37)- Corporate Tax (00:12:47)- GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) (00:15:10)TiemstampsIntroduction to the Episode (00:00:06)  Tiago introduces the podcast episode focusing on the impact of Trump’s election on indie businesses.Tiago's Perspective on Trump (00:02:21)  Tiago shares he is not a Trump supporter but acknowledges some Republican economic measures.Trump's Election and Media Bias (00:03:31)  Tiago discusses the media's biased portrayal of Trump and his election campaign.Business Environment Differences (00:04:28)  He reflects on the contrasting business environments in the U.S. and Europe, particularly in purchasing power.Currency Fluctuations Post-Election (00:05:26)  Tiago notes the increase in the dollar's value after Trump's election and its impact on his business.NATO and U.S. Influence (00:07:54)  Discussion on Trump’s stance on NATO and its implications for European countries.Tariffs and Their Effects (00:10:09)  Tiago explains Trump’s proposed tariffs and their potential impact on international trade.Corporate Tax Reduction (00:12:47)  He discusses Trump’s plan to lower corporate tax rates and its effects on business investments.OpenAI and Potential Changes (00:15:10)  Concerns about how Trump’s administration might affect OpenAI and its operations.GDPR and U.S. Business Influence (00:16:25)  Tiago raises points about GDPR restrictions and potential changes under U.S. influence.Complexity in Politics (00:17:39)  Tiago expresses concern over the oversimplification of complex political issues in current discourse.Concerns About Climate Change (00:22:10)  He shares his worries about the lack of focus on climate change in the political landscape.Concerns about Political Climate (00:23:12)  Tiago discusses the terrifying impact of political decisions, particularly on climate and societal issues.Indie Makers' Responsibility (00:24:28)  Emphasizes the need for indie makers to voice their opinions and engage in complex discussions.Raising Voices Against Simplification (00:25:47)  Tiago stresses the importance of combating simplistic rhetoric and encourages thoughtful discourse.Global Perspectives (00:26:56)  Briefly reflects on the economic implications for countries like India and invites audience engagement.

I dive into the importance of setting aside ego in both entrepreneurship and personal life. I share personal stories and lessons learned, emphasizing that being an entrepreneur is a lifestyle that shapes one's worldview. I talk about how different professions influence perspectives and highlight the value of self-belief and adaptability. I encourage focusing on problem-solving, staying calm in conflicts, and trusting instincts. The episode blends philosophical insights with practical advice to help indie makers navigate their entrepreneurial journeys with humility and confidence.Mentions- indiemakermerch.com: "00:01:07"- Flarecut.com: "00:03:15"- twitter.com/@wbetiagoTimestampsIntroduction to Ego and Entrepreneurship (00:00:08)  Tiago introduces the theme of the episode: putting ego aside to become a better entrepreneur.Support for the Podcast (00:01:07)  Tiago shares ways listeners can support the podcast, including following him on Twitter and leaving reviews.Recap of Last Episode (00:02:08)  Tiago discusses insights from his previous episode featuring Halston, focusing on growth strategies and market shifts.The Impact of Professions on Worldview (00:04:20)  Tiago reflects on how different professions shape personal perspectives, using examples from judges and doctors.Understanding the Capitalistic World (00:07:47)  He discusses how society trains individuals to fit into a capitalistic system, affecting career choices and self-belief.Personal Journey in Entrepreneurship (00:09:59)  Tiago shares his initial doubts about entrepreneurship and the gradual realization of his capabilities.Overcoming Perceived Impossibilities (00:11:58)  He emphasizes that many goals seem impossible until one starts taking steps toward achieving them.Trusting Oneself in the Unknown (00:13:07)  Tiago discusses the importance of trusting instincts and adapting to challenges, drawing from his grandfather's experiences.The Role of Ego in Daily Life (00:18:02)  He explains how ego can lead to stress and conflict in everyday situations, particularly in traffic or arguments.Managing Conflict and Focus (00:19:05)  Tiago shares how putting ego aside helps in managing conflicts with neighbors and maintaining focus on goals.Arrogance in Professional Relationships (00:21:24)  He critiques the arrogance often found in service providers, linking it to incompetence and the need for self-protection. Podcast Episode TimestampsEgo and Conflict Resolution (00:22:24)  Tiago discusses how ego can escalate conflicts and the importance of finding solutions calmly.Learning from Experiences (00:23:24)  He reflects on the decision to cut ties with uncooperative professionals instead of engaging in fruitless arguments.Prioritizing Goals (00:25:25)  Tiago emphasizes understanding personal priorities to reduce frustration in social situations, like group trips.Winning vs. Priorities (00:27:15)  He shares insights on focusing on business goals rather than getting caught up in ego-driven conflicts.Martial Arts and Self-Control (00:28:21)  Tiago discusses how martial arts provide confidence and help manage ego in confrontational situations.Ignoring Negativity (00:29:24)  He advocates for ignoring verbal attacks, highlighting that self-assurance can defuse potential conflicts.Survival Mode and Protection (00:30:20)  Tiago differentiates between ignoring minor conflicts and the need for self-defense in serious situations.Lifestyle of an Entrepreneur (00:31:23)  He concludes by reflecting on how entrepreneurship shapes personal growth and the importance of self-confidence.

Elston shares his inspiring journey from a corporate career to indie maker, detailing the evolution of Tiny Host. The importance of validating business ideas and embracing user feedback is emphasized. He discusses targeting the no-code audience and the challenges of entrepreneurship beyond social media's glamor. SEO strategies for driving traffic are explored, alongside the distinction between high-quality content and AI-generated material. The conversation sheds light on the solo founder's experience, balancing ambition, and the significance of community in the indie space.