The Path to $100,000 ARR - What Flopped with Paid Ads

Everyone says ASO is dead. They're wrong.In this video, I’m sharing 5 free ASO tools I personally use to help indie apps grow organically — no ads, no fluff. We used these exact tools to take a niche AI app from $100 → $80,000 in revenue, purely through keyword research and App Store traffic.This isn’t your typical “download this tool” video. I walk you through how to spot winning keywords, what metrics to look for, and how we stack tools like Google Trends, AppFollow, and Fox Data to rank faster and grow revenue.👉 Whether you're launching a brand new app or looking to scale downloads, this step-by-step breakdown shows you how to:✅ Find high-intent, low-competition keywords✅ Validate keyword trends using Google Tools✅ Use tools like AppFollow, FoxData, VidIQ, and moreTools featured in the video:Google Trends - https://trends.google.com/trends/AppFollow - https://watch.appfollow.io/apps/1Fox Data - https://foxdata.com/en/Google Keyword Planner - https://business.google.com/in/ad-tools/keyword-planner/VidIQ - https://vidiq.com/Ready to actually grow? This is the stack we use daily.🚀 Need expert help with your UA or ASO strategy? Visit → https://appmasters.com*********************************************SPONSORSEveryone's talking about web2app funnels - the breakthrough strategy maximizing mobile revenue. But building them in-house takes months of development. web2wave eliminates the complexity with their innovative all-in-one platform✅ AI funnel generator✅ powerful drag-and-drop quiz builder✅ streamlined payments✅ comprehensive analytics✅ smart A/B testing✅ and moreLaunch high-performing web2app funnels in days, not months.Visit https://web2wave.com/ to create your web2app funnel for free.*********************************************Apps are shifting billions. Timing is everything. iOS users are your VIPs.If you're in e-commerce and still running last year's playbook, you're already behind.The State of eCommerce App Marketing 2025 by AppsFlyer breaks down $4.2B in spend to show exactly how top Shopping apps are winning - from smarter UA and AI-driven scaling to the death of “just Android” and the rise of web-to-app.Peak season is coming. Want to win it? Check out the report: https://shorturl.at/Av8fR*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

12 Aug 14min

In this episode, we’re joined by Sharad Shankar, Founder of AndOr Communications Pvt Ltd, the team behind the viral AI photo editing app LightX, which has surpassed 50M installs on Android and 8M+ on iOS. Originally launched as a paid app, LightX transitioned to a subscription model in 2019 and has since evolved into a powerful, AI-driven platform for image generation and editing.An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Sharad’s career spans roles in mobile engineering and building high-impact, user-focused products. In this conversation, Sharad shares his full growth playbook — from ASO, paid ads, and SEO to Web2App conversion strategies and cracking the Google Play featured placement.He also reveals how he led a team of 60+ to turn LightX into a breakout success. This episode is a must-watch for anyone building or scaling a mobile app in 2025 and beyond.You will discover:✅ How LightX went from a paid app to top-grossing AI subscription✅ Mobile growth playbook: ASO, ads, SEO, Web2App & more✅ The secret to getting featured on Google Play✅ Building user-first products with a strong USP✅ Managing & scaling a 60+ member teamLearn More:Explore LightX:Web Product: https://www.lightxeditor.com/ iOS App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lightx-photo-editor-retouch/id1400740705 Android App Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lightx&hl=en_IN Connect with Sharad:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharad-shankar-796b773/ https://andor.in/Work with us: https://www.appmasters.comIndie App Santa: https://www.indieappsanta.comGet training, coaching, and community: ⁠https://appmastersacademy.com/*********************************************SPONSORSArcads is the fastest and best indie-friendly platform to create authentic, AI-powered UGC-style video ads — all from just text input.- Emotionally resonant, human-like videos- Perfect for app demos, testimonials, and paid social creatives- Built for speed, built to convertWhether you're launching or scaling, Arcads makes it easy to test and iterate video ads.Try it now: https://www.arcads.ai/?comet_custom=appmasters*********************************************Everyone's talking about web2app funnels - the breakthrough strategy maximizing mobile revenue. But building them in-house takes months of development. web2wave eliminates the complexity with their innovative all-in-one platform✅ AI funnel generator✅ powerful drag-and-drop quiz builder✅ streamlined payments✅ comprehensive analytics✅ smart A/B testing✅ and moreLaunch high-performing web2app funnels in days, not months.Visit https://web2wave.com/ to create your web2app funnel for free.*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

9 Aug 1h 6min

In this episode, we’re joined by Sharad Shankar, Founder of AndOr Communications Pvt Ltd, the team behind the viral AI photo editing app LightX, which has surpassed 50M installs on Android and 8M+ on iOS. Originally launched as a paid app, LightX transitioned to a subscription model in 2019 and has since evolved into a powerful, AI-driven platform for image generation and editing.An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Sharad’s career spans roles in mobile engineering and building high-impact, user-focused products. In this conversation, Sharad shares his full growth playbook — from ASO, paid ads, and SEO to Web2App conversion strategies and cracking the Google Play featured placement.He also reveals how he led a team of 60+ to turn LightX into a breakout success. This episode is a must-watch for anyone building or scaling a mobile app in 2025 and beyond.You will discover:✅ How LightX went from a paid app to top-grossing AI subscription✅ Mobile growth playbook: ASO, ads, SEO, Web2App & more✅ The secret to getting featured on Google Play✅ Building user-first products with a strong USP✅ Managing & scaling a 60+ member teamLearn More:Explore LightX:Web Product: https://www.lightxeditor.com/ iOS App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lightx-photo-editor-retouch/id1400740705 Android App Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lightx&hl=en_IN Connect with Sharad:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharad-shankar-796b773/ https://andor.in/Work with us: https://www.appmasters.comIndie App Santa: https://www.indieappsanta.comGet training, coaching, and community: ⁠https://appmastersacademy.com/*********************************************SPONSORSArcads is the fastest and best indie-friendly platform to create authentic, AI-powered UGC-style video ads — all from just text input.- Emotionally resonant, human-like videos- Perfect for app demos, testimonials, and paid social creatives- Built for speed, built to convertWhether you're launching or scaling, Arcads makes it easy to test and iterate video ads.Try it now: https://www.arcads.ai/?comet_custom=appmasters*********************************************Everyone's talking about web2app funnels - the breakthrough strategy maximizing mobile revenue. But building them in-house takes months of development. web2wave eliminates the complexity with their innovative all-in-one platform✅ AI funnel generator✅ powerful drag-and-drop quiz builder✅ streamlined payments✅ comprehensive analytics✅ smart A/B testing✅ and moreLaunch high-performing web2app funnels in days, not months.Visit https://web2wave.com/ to create your web2app funnel for free.*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

9 Aug 1h 7min

They turned a simple AI learning app into a $1.8 million business, with one genius move: Web-to-App Funnels.In this video, I break down how Coursiv generated $1.8M in its first year of launch, their exact Instagram & YouTube ads, landing page psychology, onboarding flow, and the brilliant scarcity-based pricing tactic that hooked me.Whether you’re building an AI app or just want to skyrocket user acquisition, this is your funnel playbook.You'll learn:✅ How Coursiv grew to $1.8M+ with smart funnel design✅ Why their quiz-based onboarding converts like crazy✅ The psychology behind their paywall with a countdown✅ Tips to implement Web-to-App strategies for your app✅ Why long pricing pages boost conversions (with examples)Whether you’re building an AI app or want to skyrocket your app's growth, this breakdown is packed with real-world tactics that work.🚀 Learn more about Coursiv → https://coursiv.com/IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/coursiv-ai-tools-mastery/id6478281150Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.zimran.coursiv&pli=1💬 Drop a comment with your favorite funnel strategy or questions you have.Work with us: ⁠https://www.appmasters.com⁠Indie App Santa: ⁠https://www.indieappsanta.com⁠Get training, coaching, and community: ⁠⁠https://appmastersacademy.com/⁠*********************************************SPONSORSArcads is the fastest and best indie-friendly platform to create authentic, AI-powered UGC-style video ads — all from just text input.- Emotionally resonant, human-like videos- Perfect for app demos, testimonials, and paid social creatives- Built for speed, built to convertWhether you're launching or scaling, Arcads makes it easy to test and iterate video ads.Try it now: ⁠https://www.arcads.ai/?comet_custom=appmasters⁠*********************************************Apps are shifting billions. Timing is everything. iOS users are your VIPs.If you're in e-commerce and still running last year's playbook, you're already behind.The State of eCommerce App Marketing 2025 by AppsFlyer breaks down $4.2B in spend to show exactly how top Shopping apps are winning - from smarter UA and AI-driven scaling to the death of “just Android” and the rise of web-to-app.Peak season is coming. Want to win it? Check out the report: ⁠https://shorturl.at/Av8fR⁠*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

5 Aug 18min

They turned a simple AI learning app into a $1.8 million business, with one genius move: Web-to-App Funnels.In this video, I break down how Coursiv generated $1.8M in its first year of launch, their exact Instagram & YouTube ads, landing page psychology, onboarding flow, and the brilliant scarcity-based pricing tactic that hooked me.Whether you’re building an AI app or just want to skyrocket user acquisition, this is your funnel playbook.You'll learn:✅ How Coursiv grew to $1.8M+ with smart funnel design✅ Why their quiz-based onboarding converts like crazy✅ The psychology behind their paywall with a countdown✅ Tips to implement Web-to-App strategies for your app✅ Why long pricing pages boost conversions (with examples)Whether you’re building an AI app or want to skyrocket your app's growth, this breakdown is packed with real-world tactics that work.🚀 Learn more about Coursiv → https://coursiv.com/IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/coursiv-ai-tools-mastery/id6478281150Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.zimran.coursiv&pli=1💬 Drop a comment with your favorite funnel strategy or questions you have.Work with us: ⁠https://www.appmasters.com⁠Indie App Santa: ⁠https://www.indieappsanta.com⁠Get training, coaching, and community: ⁠⁠https://appmastersacademy.com/⁠*********************************************SPONSORSArcads is the fastest and best indie-friendly platform to create authentic, AI-powered UGC-style video ads — all from just text input.- Emotionally resonant, human-like videos- Perfect for app demos, testimonials, and paid social creatives- Built for speed, built to convertWhether you're launching or scaling, Arcads makes it easy to test and iterate video ads.Try it now: ⁠https://www.arcads.ai/?comet_custom=appmasters⁠*********************************************Apps are shifting billions. Timing is everything. iOS users are your VIPs.If you're in e-commerce and still running last year's playbook, you're already behind.The State of eCommerce App Marketing 2025 by AppsFlyer breaks down $4.2B in spend to show exactly how top Shopping apps are winning - from smarter UA and AI-driven scaling to the death of “just Android” and the rise of web-to-app.Peak season is coming. Want to win it? Check out the report: ⁠https://shorturl.at/Av8fR⁠*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

5 Aug 20min

In this episode, we’re joined by Evelin Herrera, founder of the leading mergers & acquisitions firm for mobile apps and games. She helps hundreds of app founders navigate five to eight-digit exits and is the go-to voice when it comes to valuing, marketing, and selling apps.Evelin is the founder of EHVM, better known from the site www.evelinherrera.com, where more than 100 apps are listed for sale, and the creator of The Mobile Club, a community of app founders, investors, and operators. She breaks down what makes an app “EPIC”, the kind of product that gets serious exit multiples. From retention and community to branding, valuation metrics, and due diligence, Evelin shares what buyers are looking for.If you’ve ever thought about selling your app, this is the roadmap you didn’t know you needed.You will discover:✅ What makes an app “EPIC” and worth a 7-figure exit✅ The MOATs that boost your app’s valuation✅ Why branding, retention & community are make-or-break✅ How to prepare for a successful app exit or acquisitionLearn More:Connect with her for all things apps, valuation, metrics, and exits:https://x.com/herreraevel https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelinherrera/ Join the Mobile Club Community:https://evelinherrera.com/themobileclubCheck available apps on sale:www.evelinherrera.comWork with us: https://www.appmasters.com*********************************************SPONSORSArcads is the fastest and best indie-friendly platform to create authentic, AI-powered UGC-style video ads — all from just text input.- Emotionally resonant, human-like videos- Perfect for app demos, testimonials, and paid social creatives- Built for speed, built to convertWhether you're launching or scaling, Arcads makes it easy to test and iterate video ads.Try it now: https://www.arcads.ai/?comet_custom=appmasters*********************************************Everyone's talking about web2app funnels - the breakthrough strategy maximizing mobile revenue. But building them in-house takes months of development. web2wave eliminates the complexity with their innovative all-in-one platform✅ AI funnel generator✅ powerful drag-and-drop quiz builder✅ streamlined payments✅ comprehensive analytics✅ smart A/B testing✅ and moreLaunch high-performing web2app funnels in days, not months.Visit https://web2wave.com/ to create your web2app funnel for free.*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

2 Aug 1h 11min

In this episode, we’re joined by Evelin Herrera, founder of the leading mergers & acquisitions firm for mobile apps and games. She helps hundreds of app founders navigate five to eight-digit exits and is the go-to voice when it comes to valuing, marketing, and selling apps.Evelin is the founder of EHVM, better known from the site www.evelinherrera.com, where more than 100 apps are listed for sale, and the creator of The Mobile Club, a community of app founders, investors, and operators. She breaks down what makes an app “EPIC”, the kind of product that gets serious exit multiples. From retention and community to branding, valuation metrics, and due diligence, Evelin shares what buyers are looking for.If you’ve ever thought about selling your app, this is the roadmap you didn’t know you needed.You will discover:✅ What makes an app “EPIC” and worth a 7-figure exit✅ The MOATs that boost your app’s valuation✅ Why branding, retention & community are make-or-break✅ How to prepare for a successful app exit or acquisitionLearn More:Connect with her for all things apps, valuation, metrics, and exits:https://x.com/herreraevel https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelinherrera/ Join the Mobile Club Community:https://evelinherrera.com/themobileclubCheck available apps on sale:www.evelinherrera.comWork with us: https://www.appmasters.com*********************************************SPONSORSArcads is the fastest and best indie-friendly platform to create authentic, AI-powered UGC-style video ads — all from just text input.- Emotionally resonant, human-like videos- Perfect for app demos, testimonials, and paid social creatives- Built for speed, built to convertWhether you're launching or scaling, Arcads makes it easy to test and iterate video ads.Try it now: https://www.arcads.ai/?comet_custom=appmasters*********************************************Everyone's talking about web2app funnels - the breakthrough strategy maximizing mobile revenue. But building them in-house takes months of development. web2wave eliminates the complexity with their innovative all-in-one platform✅ AI funnel generator✅ powerful drag-and-drop quiz builder✅ streamlined payments✅ comprehensive analytics✅ smart A/B testing✅ and moreLaunch high-performing web2app funnels in days, not months.Visit https://web2wave.com/ to create your web2app funnel for free.*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

2 Aug 1h 12min

Want to instantly increase your app's retention and revenue in just 30 minutes? 💥In this video, Steve P. Young reveals a simple retention hack used by top apps (even finance ones!): adding games inside your app with Gamezop.Why this works:✅ Just a 5% boost in retention = up to 95% more profit✅ 26% of users churn after day one — let’s fix that✅ Gamification keeps users coming back daily✅ It works for any app category: fitness, finance, utility, entertainment🔥 Featured Tool: GamezopPlug-and-play games, quizzes, horoscopes, even cricket news — all inside your app, with ad revenue sharing.✅ No coding headache✅ Takes less than 30 minutes✅ Boosts MAU, DAU, and RevenueGamezop enables apps to integrate games, quizzes, astrology, and sports. Ads shown inside this content generate earnings that are shared between Gamezop and the host platforms.Any app can embed Gamezop’s content platforms in 30 minutes to grow engagement and unlock additional revenue.Use this link to get started, and get a limited-time 60% revenue share:https://business.gamezop.com/?utm_source=appmasters*********************************************SPONSORSEveryone's talking about web2app funnels - the breakthrough strategy maximizing mobile revenue. But building them in-house takes months of development. web2wave eliminates the complexity with their innovative all-in-one platform✅ AI funnel generator✅ powerful drag-and-drop quiz builder✅ streamlined payments✅ comprehensive analytics✅ smart A/B testing✅ and moreLaunch high-performing web2app funnels in days, not months.Visit https://web2wave.com/ to create your web2app funnel for free.*********************************************Apps are shifting billions. Timing is everything. iOS users are your VIPs.If you're in e-commerce and still running last year's playbook, you're already behind.The State of eCommerce App Marketing 2025 by AppsFlyer breaks down $4.2B in spend to show exactly how top Shopping apps are winning - from smarter UA and AI-driven scaling to the death of “just Android” and the rise of web-to-app.Peak season is coming. Want to win it? Check out the report: https://shorturl.at/Av8fR*********************************************Follow us:YouTube: ⁠AppMasters.com/YouTube⁠Instagram: ⁠@App MastersTwitter: ⁠@App MastersTikTok: ⁠@stevepyoung⁠Facebook: ⁠App Masters⁠*********************************************

29 Juli 11min