The Startup Ideas Podcast

• 4 microSaaS ideas you can build to make $100k/month

  In this episode, Sari Azout, Founder and CEO of Sublime,  explores various startup ideas and business concepts. The discussion centers on the evolving nature of startups in the AI era, emphasizing the importance of focusing on specific, well-defined problems rather than broad solutions. Sari shares multiple business ideas, from parental control services to creative tools, while discussing the philosophy behind building successful products in today's market.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and setup00:57 - Startup Idea 1: DrScreenTime06:39 - Startup Idea 2: Business-in-a-box ideas13:34 - What becomes scarce in an AGI world? 14:38 - Founders and Their Approaches16:10 - Akio Morita Simplicity Principle 17:01 - Startup Idea 3: Podshot 22:10 - Discussion on micro-startups 25:53 - Testing Ideas and Positioning29:03 -  Feedback and Intuition33:04 - Startup Idea 4: Meme generator Key Points:• Discussion of several innovative startup ideas including "DrScreenTime" (parental control franchise), PodShot, and meme generator • Exploration of business-in-a-box concepts and the future of trades/crafts• Analysis of micro-startups vs. traditional startup approaches1) The "Franchise for Parental Controls" Idea Parents are desperate for help managing screen time. Current solutions = messy.Opportunity: In-home screen time consultants who:- Set up controls- Create family rules- Recommend apps/toolsRevenue model:• $2K setup fee• Recurring affiliate revenue• Think "Dr. Screen Time" 2) The "Business in a Box" Trend Big insight: What becomes scarce in an AI world?Answer: People doing things with their hands!Opportunity: Modern craft business franchise• Partner with local artists• Supply chain + education• Target: offline-first experiences• Status = disconnecting from screens3) The Trade School Revolution Huge opportunity in modernizing trade education:• Lambda School model for trades• Zero upfront tuition• Revenue share after job placement• Bundle with business tools/marketing• Focus: plumbing, electrical, etc.Why? Trades becoming MORE valuable in AI era4) The Micro-Startup Strategy Modern startup playbook:1. Have a 10-year vision2. Unbundle into micro-products3. Start with easiest/viral pieces4. Build distribution firstKey insight: "Nobody searches for an inspiration engine"5) Product Development Philosophy Two types of founders:• Artists (creative vision driven)• Scientists (iteration driven)Choose your path but stick to it.Sari’s 2024 goal: "Take less feedback, trust intuition more"6) The Meme Generator Opportunity Final killer idea: Long-form to meme converter• Input: articles, presentations, links• Output: culturally relevant memes• Train on curated meme library• Potential $10M+ SaaS businessWhy? No idea goes mainstream without memes Key Takeaway:2024 startup strategy:1. Build close to OR far from AI2. Focus on what becomes scarce3. Start micro, think macro4. Distribution not ProductNotable Quotes:"No idea will become mainstream if it's not captured in a meme." - Sari Azout"Screenshots are the new bookmarks." - GregLCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.coFIND ME ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenbergInstagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/FIND SARI ON SOCIALSublime: https://sublime.appX/Twitter: https://x.com/sariazoutSubstack: https://sublimeinternet.substack.com

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• DeepSeek R1 - Everything you need to know

  Greg's DeepSeek Cheetsheet: From Installation to Expert Prompting: https://www.gregisenberg.com/deepseekRay Fernando, a former Apple engineer, gives an in-depth tutorial on DeepSeek AI and local model implementation. The conversation includes detailed guide for setting up local AI environments using Docker and OpenWebUI, and how to implement DeepSeek on mobile using the Apollo app.Key Points:• Comprehensive overview of DeepSeek AI and its reasoning capabilities• Discussion of data privacy concerns when using Chinese-hosted models• Detailed tutorial on running AI models locally using Docker and OpenWebUI• Comparison of different AI model providers (Fireworks, Grok, OpenRouter)• Mobile implementation of AI models using Apollo appTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:34 - Overview of DeepSeek05:29 - Data privacy concerns with Chinese-hosted models08:02 - Running Models Locally with OpenWebUI10:06 - Comparing Hosting Providers: Fireworks and Groq16:54 - Cost Comparison of using/running AI Models18:35 - Improving Prompts for Better Outputs22:41 - Running AI Models Locally: A Step-by-Step Guide37:09 - Mobile AI implementation discussion45:27 - Future implications and closing thoughts1) DeepSeek's R1 Model - What's the big deal?• On par with ChatGPT's reasoning capabilities• Open source & free to use• BUT hosted in China (data privacy concerns)• Incredible for analysis and content generation2) Alternative Ways to Use DeepSeek:• Fireworks AI ($8/million tokens)• OpenRouter• Grok API• Local hosting (safest for sensitive data)3) Running AI Models Locally Step-by-step setup:• Install Docker• Use OpenWebUI• Download models via Ollama• Configure API connectionsPro tip: Takes 5 mins to set up, saves hours of worry about data privacy4) Mobile AI is HERE!• Apollo app lets you run models locally on phone• Download smaller, optimized models• Works offline• Perfect for quick analysis on the go5) Temperature Settings Explained:High temp (0.8-1.0) = Creative modeLow temp (0-0.3) = Logical modeChoose based on your needs!6) FUTURE PREDICTIONS • Watch-based AI coming soon• Emergency response applications• Real-time negotiation assistance• Advanced audio analysis7) Getting Started Tips:• Start with public data on DeepSeek• Experiment with different models• Use temperature settings wisely• Focus on practical use casesNotable Quotes:"We're in this new deep-seek world where if you figure out the model that works for you and the tasks that you want to accomplish, you might be able to out-compete whoever you're competing against." - Greg"Please don't be fearful or don't feel like you're left behind. If you're just finding out about this, you're not that far behind. We're all actually still trying to understand what this intelligence can give us." - Ray FernandoLCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.coFIND ME ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenbergInstagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/FIND RAY ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://x.com/RayFernando1337YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RayFernando1337Ray's Website: https://www.rayfernando.ai

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• I Met Charlie Munger and Discovered How Billionaires Really Think

  Meet David Senra, the guy who turned his obsession with reading about successful people into a million-dollar podcast. He's read over 300 books about the world's biggest entrepreneurs and shares all the best bits on his show, Founders. In this episode, David breaks down exactly how he finds golden nuggets of wisdom in these books, building deep relationships with founders, and insights from meetings with figures like Charlie Munger.Timestamps:00:00 - Intro and Founders Origin Story 07:10 - The importance of Naming and Branding14:56 - Energy Transfer in Relationships and Cities 19:51 - How to become World-Class25:03 - Startup Idea 1: Founders for Kids26:52 - The Value of Biographies31:28 - The Power of Long Attention Spans37:42 - You’re never too late39:32 - Innovative ways entrepreneurs monetized their business44:05 - Work - Life Balance Problems with High Achievers48:38 - Meeting with Charlie Munger55:22 - Monetization strategy and business model of Founders 1:01:28 - Biography recommendations and reading strategies1:08:55 - Career Advice from Charlie Munger1) On Building a World-Class Podcast:"Find what you're meant to do and let time carry the weight"David's moat: 375+ books read, connecting historical figures across episodes. To compete, you'd need to read all those books first.And he keeps going. 2) On Business Models:Fascinating approach to podcast monetization:• Only 2 long-term partners (2-year contracts)• Focus on brand partnerships vs CPM• Deep relationships with founders first• Think Nike/Tiger Woods, not traditional podcast ads3) On Learning from History:"Biographies are the closest thing to finding a cheat code in real life"Every great entrepreneur studied other great entrepreneurs:• Elon read Franklin, Ford, Tesla• Edison read every bio in Detroit library• Jobs studied Edwin Land4) On Work Ethic & Balance:Key insight: Almost every legendary figure sacrificed balance for greatnessOne exception: Ed Thorpe (Episode 222)• Built first quant hedge fund• Amazing father/husband• Stayed in shape• Lived a thrilling life5) On Memory & Knowledge:It's not natural talent - it's "maddening repetition"David's method:• Rereads highlights daily• Re-listens to old episodes• Updates/re-edits past content• Constantly connects historical figures6) STARTUP IDEA "Founders for Kids" - Comic book-style biographies teaching entrepreneurship to childrenWhy it works:• Proven model (worked for @SamParr)• Huge educational value• Underserved market• Scalable content7) Key Quote Worth Remembering:"Money comes naturally as a result of service" - Henry FordThe best entrepreneurs don't chase billions - they chase excellence in service.8) Final Wisdom:Want to be world-class? The competition isn't as fierce as you think.Most people:• Never try• Quit quickly• Lack patienceNotable Quotes:"I think podcasting is building relationships at scale." - David Senra"Money comes naturally as a result of service." - Henry Ford (quoted by David Senra)LCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.coFIND ME ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenbergInstagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/FIND DAVID ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://x.com/FoundersPodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@founderspodcast4055Founders Podcast: https://www.founderspodcast.com/

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• Why 2,500 Subscribers Is All You Need For $1M

  Jonathan "Jicecream" Courtney believes that in 2025, basic marketing still outperforms everything: a simple 90-minute webinar turns 200 attendees into 20 buyers, even with just 2,500 subscribers. The framework is dead simple - 20 minutes on your story, 15 minutes on the solution, 20 minutes showing the transformation, then offering them a choice between DIY or done-for-you. He goes into it in this episode.Key Points:• Detailed breakdown of successful webinar funnel structures and challenge funnels• Discussion of basic marketing fundamentals that still work in 2025• Exploration of how software companies can use traditional funnel marketing techniquesTimestamps:00:00 - Intro03:17 - Greg’s New Year Reflections11:19 - JC's transition from CEO to an advisory role22:07 - How to make deals with influencers25:10 - Detailed breakdown of webinar funnels30:28 - The structure of webinar funnels37:07 - How to use funnels for SaaS products and challenge funnels explained 47:25 - Product recommendations and wrap-up1) The Basic Funnel Formula Still Works:• Email list → Webinar → Product sale• Even with just 2,500 subscribers• Live training converts WAY better than direct email• 90-min webinar can turn 200 attendees into 20 buyers2) Perfect Webinar Structure (by Russell Brunson):• 20min: Your story & struggles• 15min: The "vehicle" (solution you discovered)• 20min: Impact & transformation• Present options: DIY vs accelerated path• Close with clear next steps3) Challenge Funnels Are Underrated:• Perfect for SaaS & digital products• 30-day format with daily support• Free trial + structured program• Examples:- Notion + Second Brain challenge- Fitness apps + weight loss challenge- Meditation apps + mindfulness challenge4) The Warm-Up Step is CRUCIAL:• Direct pitching rarely works• Need a middle step to build excitement• Options:- Webinars- Challenges- Info sessions- Live trainings5) List Partnerships Done Right:• Never cold pitch for list access• Build relationships first• Consider paid partnerships ($10k can be worth it for 1M+ list)• Focus on value alignmentKEY TAKEAWAY:Basic funnels still work incredibly well in 2024, but you need:1. A list (even small)2. Warming step (webinar/challenge)3. Clear transformation story4. Tactful executionNotable Quotes:"Most of the real basics work so goddamn well today. Like 2025, we can launch a product using basically just the same webinar. Just email your list, send them to a webinar." - JC"When a company is doing well, they don't want me involved... They want the strategic advice. They want access to connections." - Greg IsenbergLCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.coFIND ME ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenbergInstagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/FIND JONATHAN ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/JicecreamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-courtney-4510644b/AJ&Smart: https://ajsmart.com/

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  51:54
• This AI Writing Hack Made Him Millions (Full Breakdown)

  Nicolas Cole delivers a comprehensive masterclass on writing with AI, demonstrating how to combine human expertise with AI capabilities to create high-quality content. The discussion covers practical frameworks for content creation, including how to structure articles, generate hooks, and test ideas. Cole emphasizes that AI should be viewed as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement for human writers, and success comes from understanding fundamental writing principles first.Learn how to use AI to create high-quality content: https://www.gregisenberg.com/write-with-aiTimestamps:00:00 - Intro01:03 - Why Learn to write with AI05:06 - Choosing a Content Topic07:38 - Framework for idea development12:40 - The role of AI in the Idea generation process16:39 - The Editor-in-Chief approach to writing with AI18:53 - Creating a Compelling Hook28:28 - Framework for structuring an article34:13 - The "10 Magical Ways" framework45:54 - Collaborating with AI for improving output49:37 - The Power of Education in the Digital AgeKey Points:• Framework for using AI as a writing tool while maintaining quality• How to effectively prompt AI for content ideation and refinement• The "10 Magical Ways" framework for structuring content• The importance of making strategic decisions before writing begins1) The biggest mindset shift:AI isn't replacing writers - it's AUGMENTING them.Just like Photoshop didn't kill designers, it created 1000x more designers.Just like Instagram didn't kill photographers, it made everyone a photographer.2) Key Framework: The Editor-in-Chief Method Don't treat AI as a writer - treat it as your junior staff writer.YOU are the editor making high-level decisions.AI helps execute your vision.3) Writing Process Revolution:- Don't start writing immediately- Make key decisions BEFORE writing:- Clear headline promise- 3 main tangible points- Format for each section90% of value comes from these decisions!4) The "10 Magical Ways" Framework:Every piece of content can be broken down into:- Tips- Steps- Lessons- Stats- Examplesetc.Pick your format FIRST, then structure accordingly.5) Pro Tip: Use AI ConversationallyTwo approaches:1. Chunk-by-chunk dialogue2. Massive single promptMost people fail by sitting in the middle.Start conversational, then compress into mega-prompts.6) Quality Control Method:1. Generate multiple versions2. Apply your taste/judgment3. Refine best options4. Test against goalsRemember: AI suggestions need human curation!7) The Education Leverage Play:Learning frameworks = AI superpowersWhat took experts years to master can now be:1. Learned quickly2. Taught to AI3. Scaled infinitelyThis is the real opportunity!8) Bottom Line:The future belongs to "orchestrators" - people who:- Understand frameworks- Make high-level decisions- Use AI as a tool- Maintain quality controlDon't fight the future - leverage it! Notable Quotes:"AI is not a silver bullet. On some level, you do have to have a baseline understanding of how the thing is supposed to work so that you can prompt AI in order to do it." - Nicolas Cole"90% of the value is not in the writing. It is in the fact that you said what you're going to give [the reader]." - Nicolas ColeLCA helps Fortune 500s and fast-growing startups build their future - from Warner Music to Fortnite to Dropbox. We turn 'what if' into reality with AI, apps, and next-gen products https://latecheckout.agency/BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/Startup Empire - a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.coFIND ME ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenbergInstagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/FIND COLE ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://x.com/Nicolascole77Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicolascole77/featuredWrite with AI: https://writewithai.substack.com

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  55:15

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