Part 2: Marketing New Apps Sucks (But Preparation Saves You)

While I spend most of my time deep in C#, SQL, and JavaScript building my open-source local AI tool SheepCat (🐑🐈), I recently took on a side quest. I started building an app to support a friend's fitness business. During the build, we identified a massive gap in the market: there is a desperate need for a local-first directory for Personal Trainers (PTs) that doesn't use the predatory "Bark model." We didn't want an app that charges PTs exorbitant fees just for the privilege of being introduced to a lead. Our solution was beautifully simple: If you are part of the directory, you get a profile page. If a client wants to message you, they message you directly. No middleman holding leads hostage. Building it was the fun part. Then came the marketing. And let’s be honest: marketing new apps sucks. Navigating the New SEO: Welcome to GEO To get eyes on this, I’ve been experimenting with GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). If you haven't dived into it yet, it is essentially the new SEO. I