
The Startup Ideas Podcast
The Actual Process Behind a $10.5K/Month Directory Website
Wed, 12 Feb 2025
Get the exact system used to build profitable local directories: https://www.gregisenberg.com/directoryThe episode features Frey Chu explaining his methodology for building profitable directory websites, using dog parks as a case study. He demonstrates how to identify opportunities through keyword research, validate ideas through social proof, and implement a basic yet effective directory structure. The discussion emphasizes that even simple directory websites can generate significant passive income through various monetization methods, while also serving as a foundation for larger business opportunities.Timestamps:00:00 - Intro03:40 - Examples of Profitable Directories and their traffic10:35 - Why Build Directories12:23 - Finding and validating directory ideas26:44 - Data collection and enrichment42:21 - WordPress implementation46:36 - Monetization strategiesKey Points:• How to identify profitable directory website opportunities using keyword research and competition analysis• Step-by-step process for validating directory ideas using Reddit and social listening• Data collection and enrichment techniques for building comprehensive directories• Simple implementation strategy using WordPress or other CMS platforms• Monetization strategies including AdSense, affiliate marketing, and potential SaaS opportunities1) First, find your niche:• Use Ahrefs "near me" searches• Look for 30-100K monthly searches• Target keyword difficulty under 20• Avoid seasonal/branded keywords• Find niches with fragmented search intent2) Validate your idea:• Check competition on Google• Look for basic/outdated directories• Browse Reddit discussions• Confirm real user pain points• Set a "bounty" on weak competitors3) Data Collection Strategy:• Use Google Maps scraping tools (like Outscraper)• Focus on exact category matches• Collect key data points:- Name, address, phone- Reviews & ratings- Hours & location links- Street view images4) Data Enrichment • Add unique features competitors lack• Include amenity details (shade, benches, etc)• Use AI tools to automate enrichment• Focus on solving specific user problems• Make data actually USEFUL5) Building The Directory:• Start with simple "static pillar pages"• Target city-specific keywords• Include:- Table of contents- Location details- Embedded maps- Reviews- Internal linking structure6) Monetization Options • Display ads (most passive)• Affiliate partnerships• Lead generation• Data collection/email lists• Potential SaaS upsellNotable Quotes"AdSense has been the closest thing that I've ever experienced to passive income." - Frey Chu"People are monetizing directories wrong. They're just putting AdSense... The opportunity is actually to build software on top of these directories." - 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 FREY ON SOCIALX/Twitter: https://x.com/freychuYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreyChuFrey’s Newsletter: https://shipyourdirectory.kit.com
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