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.

I share the rollercoaster journey of my startup, Podsqueeze. I talk about our initial success, hitting a growth plateau, and the strategies we used to bounce back, like investing in SEO and launching new features. I dive into the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the importance of teamwork, and the challenges of maintaining motivation. I speak about the impact that ProductHunt and Backlinks had on our growth.Mentions Tools and Websites- "Podsqueeze" (00:24:13) - https://podsqueeze.com- "Product Hunt" (00:27:31) - https://www.producthunt.com- "Indie Maker Merch" (00:37:51) - https://www.indiemakermerch.com- "Tiago's Twitter" (00:36:38) - https://twitter.com/@wbetiagoTimestampsIntroduction to the Episode (00:00:01)  Tiago introduces the episode and its focus on overcoming challenges at Podsqueeze.Background of Podsqueeze (00:02:20)  Tiago shares the journey of Podsqueeze, detailing initial success and past entrepreneurial attempts.Initial Growth and Challenges (00:03:17)  The startup experiences rapid growth but soon faces a plateau in user engagement.Berlin Conference Experience (00:04:26)  Tiago describes attending a podcasting conference in Berlin, highlighting co-founder stress.SEO Strategy Implementation (00:06:40)  The team begins investing in SEO to improve website traffic and user engagement.Hiring External Help for SEO (00:07:35)  Tiago discusses the decision to hire an SEO auditor to enhance their strategy.Content Creation and Clusters (00:09:51)  The importance of keyword clusters and content creation for SEO is emphasized.Hiring a Content Writer (00:10:51)  Tiago reflects on the positive impact of hiring a content writer for their team.Launch of Video Clips Feature (00:11:51)  The team launches a new feature for creating video clips from podcasts.December Decline (00:13:00)  Tiago notes a significant drop in user engagement during December.New Product Launch (00:14:04)  A new product launch in January aims to revive interest and engagement.Mixed Results from Product Launch (00:15:23)  The latest product launch brings in traffic, but not as much as hoped.Continued Growth and Decline (00:16:25)  Despite initial recovery, the team notices another decline in user engagement.Discovery of Domain Authority (00:19:56)  The concept of domain authority is introduced as crucial for improving SEO.Building Backlinks for SEO (00:21:03)  The team focuses on acquiring backlinks to enhance their domain authority.Summer Struggles (00:23:13)  The summer months prove challenging, with a notable decline in user engagement and morale.The Initial Thoughts on Growth (00:24:13)  Tiago discusses his desire for more growth and the challenges of current earnings.New Product Strategies (00:25:13)  Plans to start a new product while maintaining focus on Podsqueeze's development.Traffic Insights from India (00:26:18)  Discovery of increased traffic from India but low conversion rates.Impact of Product Launch on Rankings (00:27:31)  Analysis of how the product launch affected Google rankings and traffic.Challenges with Indian Market Conversion (00:28:35)  Struggles to convert Indian users and advice received from industry friends.August Struggles (00:29:46)  A tough month for Podsqueeze with low engagement and user activity.September Growth (00:30:53)  A significant uptick in traffic and user engagement in September.Domain Authority Improvement (00:32:01)  Efforts to enhance domain authority through strategic backlinks and exchanges.Price Experiment Results (00:33:15)  Findings from A/B testing price changes and their impact on conversion rates.Reflections on Podsqueeze's Journey (00:34:24)  Tiago reflects on the evolution and resilience of Podsqueeze over the past year.Competitive Edge through Marketing (00:36:38)  Emphasis on the importance of marketing and SEO as a competitive advantage.Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook (00:37:51)  Tiago expresses excitement for the future and invites audience engagement.

I discuss the evolution of my podcast and why It went from "The Wannabe Entrepreneur" to "Indie Founder." I introduce Flarecut, my new AI tool that helps create short videos. I reflect on its market reception so far and why it might be failing.MentionsPodsqueeze (00:06:41) - https://podsqueeze.comFlarecut (00:12:52) - https://flarecut.comAuto Shorts (00:16:16) - https://autoshorts.comIndie Maker Merch (00:24:57) - https://indiemakermerch.comTimestampsIntroduction to Season Two (00:00:00)Tiago welcomes listeners to the new season, introducing himself as a Portuguese indie maker and founder.Rebranding the Podcast (00:01:14)He explains the decision to rename the podcast from "The Wannabe Entrepreneur" to "Indie Founder."Reflecting on Self-Confidence (00:02:29)Tiago discusses how the previous name reflected a lack of self-confidence and his journey towards self-acceptance.The Journey of Becoming an Entrepreneur (00:03:30)He shares his transition from a traditional job to becoming a full-time entrepreneur.The Evolution of the Podcast (00:04:30)Tiago reflects on the podcast's growth and the importance of its new name in his entrepreneurial journey.Introducing Podsqueeze (00:05:39)He introduces his current product, Podsqueeze, and its initial success in gaining traction.Challenges with Podsqueeze Growth (00:06:41)Tiago explains the stagnation in growth experienced with Podsqueeze after initial success.Reigniting Passion for Podsqueeze (00:08:51)He discusses efforts to reignite enthusiasm for Podsqueeze amidst challenges.Collaborative Discussions with Co-Founder (00:09:55)Tiago shares his conversations with his co-founder about motivation and exploring new projects.The Birth of Flarecut (00:11:01)He describes the ideation process for their new product, Flarecut, aimed at video creation.Developing Flarecut (00:12:52)Tiago outlines the development process and collaboration with their developer for Flarecut.Initial Launch and Market Response (00:15:12)He discusses the soft launch of Flarecut and the disappointing initial traction it received.Comparing Flarecut and Podsqueeze (00:17:16)Tiago reflects on the differences in traction between Flarecut and Podsqueeze.Marketing Loop Concept (00:19:23)He explains the marketing loop concept and its importance for product growth.SEO Insights from Podsqueeze (00:22:45)Tiago shares lessons learned about SEO from Podsqueeze and its potential impact on Flarecut's growth.Flarecut Growth Strategy (00:23:53)Tiago discusses the strategy for increasing visibility and growth for Flarecut over the next couple of months.Product Feedback Invitation (00:24:20)He invites listeners to try Flarecut for free and provide feedback on their experience with the product.Indie Founder Season Launch (00:24:40)Announcement of the first episode of the new season of the podcast, now titled "Indie Founder."Merch Store Promotion (00:24:57)Tiago promotes his new merch store, featuring indie maker-themed apparel and accessories to support the podcast.Future Merch Ideas (00:25:20)He considers creating additional merchandise specifically branded with the "Indie Founder" name for fans.Social Media Engagement (00:25:40)Tiago encourages listeners to reach out to him on Twitter for feedback and engagement, fostering community interaction.

In this episode, I dive into my latest thoughts on entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and productivity. I share exciting updates about my project, Podsqueeze, and my collaboration with João on a new product. I discuss the struggle of balancing work with personal life and question traditional metrics of productivity. We also touch on the culture of overworking and the importance of networking. LinksIndie Maker MerchSupport This PodcastTiago's TwitterTry PodsqueezeTimestamps (by podsqueeze)Balancing work and personal life (00:08:06)Exploring the challenges of managing work, exercise, family, and personal time while questioning traditional metrics of efficiency and productivity.Effectiveness in managing work time (00:10:11)Questioning the common routines and practices of successful entrepreneurs and exploring the true measures of efficiency and productivity in managing work time.Optimizing efficiency in work (00:13:43)Discussing different metrics for measuring efficiency in managing a team's work and exploring ways to apply these metrics to oneself for optimal productivity.Evaluating work performance (00:19:18)Exploring the concept of a 360 evaluation method used in some companies to assess work performance and considering its potential application in managing personal efficiency.The culture of overwork (00:20:25)Discussion on company culture, self-evaluation, and the impact of working hours on productivity.Optimizing efficiency (00:21:35)Exploring the concept of questioning the impact of tasks and finding the best use of time.Myth of overworking for success (00:22:50)Challenging the belief that working excessively leads to wealth, and questioning traditional paths to success.Alternative paths to wealth (00:24:00)Exploring unconventional methods of attaining wealth, such as owning assets and leveraging networking.Non-monetary forms of payment (00:25:14)Examining the value of favors, assets, and networking as alternative forms of compensation.Power of networking (00:26:33)Discussing the significance of networking, leveraging relationships, and the impact on business success.Measuring non-monetary impact (00:29:40)Challenges in quantifying the impact of networking and non-monetary returns in business.Redefining success and wealth (00:32:08)Questioning the traditional measures of success and wealth, exploring the value of non-monetary returns.Closing thoughts (00:33:25)Encouraging feedback and reflection on the episode's topics, emphasizing the value of unconventional ideas.