The Actual Process Behind a $10.5K/Month Directory Website

The Startup Ideas Podcast

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3M ago 54:10

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Get the exact system used to build profitable local directories: https://www.gregisenberg.com/directory

The 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 - Intro
03:40 - Examples of Profitable Directories and their traffic
10:35 - Why Build Directories
12:23 - Finding and validating directory ideas
26:44 - Data collection and enrichment
42:21 - WordPress implementation
46:36 - Monetization strategies

Key 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 opportunities

1) 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 intent

2) 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• Look for basic/outdated directories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 competitors

3) 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 images

4) 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 USEFUL

5) Building The Directory:
• Start with simple "static pillar pages"
• Target city-specific keywords
• Include:

- Table of contents
- Location details
- Embedded maps
- Reviews
- Internal linking structure

6) Monetization Options
• Display ads (most passive)
• Affiliate partnerships
• Lead generation
• Data collection/email lists
• Potential SaaS upsell

Notable 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 Isenberg

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FIND ME ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/

FIND FREY ON SOCIAL

X/Twitter: https://x.com/freychu
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreyChu
Frey’s Newsletter: https://shipyourdirectory.kit.com

221 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Business Ideas #Greg Isenberg