Indie Founder

• #2.9 - Reflections on 2024: Achievements, Challenges, and the Power of Sustainable Marketing

  I share a wrap-up of 2024, discussing both successes and challenges with Podsqueeze. I reflect on our disappointing growth compared to 2023 and the importance of sustainable marketing, particularly through SEO, which significantly increased our traffic. I analyze our MRR growth of 18% and the ongoing issue of churn, which remains a focus for 2025. I also touch on personal insights regarding my relationship with my co-founder and the need for confidence in our journey. Lastly, I outline goals for 2025, including reducing churn and exploring new monetization avenues.Contact InformationTwitter: https://x.com/wbetiagoTools and Websites"Podsqueeze": "00:01:14""SEO": "00:03:42""Flarecut": "00:18:30""Auto Shorts": "00:21:37"Metrics and Concepts"Domain Authority": "00:04:56""Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR)": "00:08:30""Churn Rate": "00:10:35""Keyword Research": "00:04:56""Backlinks": "00:04:56""Conversion Rate": "00:15:02"Timestamps by PodSqueezePodcast Introduction (00:00:08)  Tiago introduces the episode, reflecting on the year 2024 and sharing lessons learned.Disappointment in Growth (00:01:14)  Tiago discusses feelings of disappointment regarding Podsqueeze's growth compared to the previous year.Sustainable Marketing Focus (00:03:42)  The realization of needing a sustainable marketing strategy leads to a focus on SEO starting in late 2023.SEO Success (00:04:56)  Tiago shares the achievements in SEO, including significant traffic growth and improved domain authority.Monthly Recurring Revenue Growth (00:07:16)  The company's MRR grew by 18%, which Tiago considers a decent achievement in a competitive market.Churn Rate Challenges (00:10:35)  Tiago addresses the ongoing challenge of customer churn, which remains a focus for improvement in 2025.Marketing Experimentation (00:12:52)  The team experimented with various marketing channels, including YouTube and TikTok, yielding mixed results.Conversion Rates Insights (00:15:02)  Tiago explains the importance of conversion rates and how they vary by marketing source.Co-founder Relationship Dynamics (00:17:21)  Tiago reflects on the close relationship with his co-founder and the challenges faced during tough times.Seasonality Effects (00:18:30)  The impact of seasonality on business performance becomes evident, particularly during the summer months.Lessons from New Product Attempts (00:19:23)  Attempts to replicate success with new products prove difficult, highlighting the unpredictability of entrepreneurship.Market Timing Realizations (00:20:28)  Tiago discusses the significance of market timing and how competition affects new product launches.Mindset and Perspective (00:22:47)  Tiago emphasizes the importance of mindset in evaluating business performance and overcoming feelings of inadequacy.Podcast TimestampsConfidence and Mindset (00:24:54)  Tiago discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and confidence in the company's growth.Time as an Asset (00:25:53)  He emphasizes that time is the most valuable asset for entrepreneurs, more than money.Delegation and Investment (00:26:57)  Tiago reflects on the importance of delegating tasks to expedite growth and improve quality.Future Goals for 2025 (00:28:04)  He shares his aspirations for 2025, including salary goals and reducing customer churn.Self-Reflection and Learning (00:29:07)  Tiago expresses his growth as an entrepreneur and the lessons learned throughout the year.Excitement for the Future (00:30:17)  He concludes with enthusiasm for the upcoming year and invites listeners to engage with the podcast.

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• #2.8 - Navigating Residential Building Management: Overcoming Challenges and Cultural Clashes

  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.

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• #2.7 - Cracking the Productivity Code: Balancing Work Satisfaction and Personal Time for Indie Makers

  I dive into the tricky balance between work and rest that many indie makers face. I share my personal journey and talk about the constant pressure to work long hours and the feelings of dissatisfaction that can arise in both 9-to-5 jobs and startups. I emphasize the importance of finding fulfillment and suggest that entrepreneurs should delegate tasks and hire help to free up personal time. I share stories, including one about my friend Alex, to highlight the common struggles and offer practical advice for achieving a healthier work-life balance.Mentions"Tiago's Twitter (X)": "00:01:41""Podsqueeze.com": "00:14:10""RankChase.com": "00:17:26""ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds)": "00:23:28""SEO Audits": "00:25:53""Email Automation": "00:25:53"Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction to the Dilemma (00:00:10)  Tiago introduces the episode's main topic: the entrepreneur's dilemma of balancing work and rest.Personal Journey as an Entrepreneur (00:02:57)  Tiago reflects on his fulfilling experience as a full-time entrepreneur over the past few years.Conversations with Friends (00:04:20)  He shares insights from a conversation with his friend Alex about work fulfillment and dissatisfaction.Struggles with Work-Life Balance (00:05:23)  Tiago discusses the ongoing struggle between work satisfaction and the need for personal life.Optimizing Time for Productivity (00:09:51)  He compares entrepreneurship to being a top athlete, emphasizing the need to optimize time and routines.Realization of Duality in Work (00:11:59)  Tiago reflects on his desire for personal time versus the pressure to keep working.Phases of Entrepreneurship (00:15:17)  He outlines the two phases of entrepreneurship: exploration and augmentation, and their significance.The Importance of Delegation (00:19:49)  Tiago suggests raising money to delegate tasks, allowing more time for strategic work.Wealth Inequality Insights (00:20:50)  He discusses wealth inequality and how it relates to work hours versus productivity.Conclusion on Time and Investment (00:24:41)  Tiago concludes that investing money in delegation is key, rather than sacrificing personal time for work.The Importance of Delegation (00:25:53)  Tiago discusses the value of delegating tasks to save time for personal pursuits.  Reflection on Hiring Professionals (00:26:20)  He shares his experience of hiring a professional for SEO audits, which significantly improved efficiency.  Conclusion on Work-Life Balance (00:27:01)  Tiago concludes that delegating tasks allows him to rest and manage his business effectively.  Future Plans and Closing Remarks (00:27:30)  He plans to test his delegation theory and invites listeners to follow his journey.

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• #2.6 - Network Used To Be Awkward... Lets Talk About Websummit

  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)

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• #2.5 - Currency Fluctuations and Trump's Victory: Impacts on Indie Maker's Businesses

  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.

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