Webinar Wednesday 216 – January 28, 2026

API TRANSACTIONS: /user/transactions endpoint returns user transactions (00:03:09)

• The Brilliant Directories API has been enhanced with two new features, which are related to connecting data with third-party platforms, and can be particularly useful for those using the API, especially for fetching user transactions (00:03:09).
• A new endpoint, the /user/transactions endpoint, has been introduced, allowing users to ping and fetch user transactions, which can be handy for technical purposes, such as creating third-party native apps or interfaces (00:03:21).
• The /user/transactions endpoint enables the fetching of transactions and returns the user's transactions, providing a great way to pull more data into third-party applications or interfaces (00:03:34).

LEAD MATCHING API: Override auto-match and assign leads via IDs or emails (Zapier) (00:03:42)

• The lead matching API allows visitors to contact members through the site, and leads can be created from third-party forms and pages or imported using the API, with the ability to route leads based on auto-match settings, but now leads can be sent to specific user IDs, member IDs, or email addresses (00:03:42).
• Leads can be sent to specific members using the API, Zapier, or other integration tools by defining the user ID, enabling the creation of custom lead forms for individual members or groups, and funneling leads directly to them outside of the directory site (00:04:06).
• This new functionality brings increased flexibility, allowing for more control over lead distribution, and enables the creation of custom lead forms that can bring leads directly into the site for specific members or groups (00:04:18).

MAPS PERFORMANCE: Fewer Google Maps API requests on Pretty URL location searches (00:04:26)

• Google Maps has become more stringent with its pricing, prompting the introduction of additional efficiencies to reduce Google Maps API requests, which is particularly important for high-traffic sites, but less of a concern for starter sites with lower traffic levels (00:04:26).
• The Google Maps API still offers generous free limits, making it suitable for sites with lower traffic, such as starter sites or those in the early stages of development (00:04:32).
• To stay ahead of potential issues with Google Maps pricing, additional efficiencies have been implemented to minimize the number of Google Maps API requests, especially for enterprise-level sites with high traffic (00:04:37).

COUPON FLEXIBILITY: Control credit card prompts when $0 checkouts use coupons (00:04:57)

• The coupon code feature, available with the easy coupon codes add-on, is a great marketing tool that allows offering new members a free month, a discount, or a percentage off, and can be applied to items like leads and digital products (00:05:03).
• When a coupon code brings the price to $0, it previously prompted users to add a credit card on file, even if they didn't need to, but now this control is in the user's hands (00:05:21).
• The setting to choose whether to ask for a credit card when the price is $0 after applying the coupon code is available in the finance and coupon codes section, where users can create new coupon code settings (00:05:41).
• This setting allows users to select yes or no, and it's recommended to set it to no, especially for leads, digital products, and paper post, to avoid adding friction and hide the credit card field when the coupon code is 100% off (00:06:05).
• The new feature provides flexibility and control over the coupon code process, allowing users to customize the experience for their members, and it was previously available only for signups and upgrades (00:06:31).

ADMIN SECURITY: Block repeated invalid admin login attempts automatically (00:06:37)

• Additional admin security measures are being implemented to block repeated invalid admin login attempts automatically, which is part of a series of security updates to help keep accounts secure (00:06:37).
• The security updates for admin login are numerous and this new measure adds to the existing list, providing enhanced protection for accounts (00:06:42).
• It is recommended to use 2FA, or two-factor authorization, when logging into the BD admin area, which involves receiving a code via email to complete the login process, adding an extra layer of security (00:06:56).

VIDEO SUPPORT: Video posts now support Rumble, TED Talks, and Wistia (00:07:08)

• Video support has been enhanced to include Rumble (company), TED (conference) Talks, and Wistia videos, in addition to existing support for YouTube, Vimeo, and Tik Tok, allowing users to easily share video content by simply putting the URL into the field (00:07:08).
• The video post type now supports multiple video platforms, making it convenient for users to share videos from various sources without needing to embed them manually (00:07:14).
• Users have the option to either use the video post type with a shared link or embed the video directly into the description of the post, providing flexibility in how they want to share their video content (00:07:28).

DDC STATUS: Directory Discount Club status now visible in your website dashboard (00:07:33)

• Directory Discount Club members with Brilliant Directories receive perks, including the ability to purchase additional lifetime sites at discounted rates, and can now view their membership status in their website's dashboard, indicated by a badge next to their name (00:07:33).
• The badge in the dashboard serves as a visual indicator of Directory Discount Club status, and members can use this to verify their membership and take advantage of discounted rates for additional purchases (00:07:52).
• To make additional purchases, such as lifetime plans or VIP add-ons club, Directory Discount Club members can currently reach out to the team for assistance with their discounted rate, although plans are in place to add buy links directly to the dashboard for convenience (00:08:03).
• The Directory Discount Club status is generally attributed to users who have three or more lifetime sites associated with their account, and the new badge feature provides a clear visual indication of this status (00:08:13).

EVENTS TOOLS: Add to Calendar button for event posts (Soon) (00:08:19)

• An "Add to Calendar" button will be introduced for event posts, allowing users to add events to their Google, Apple, or Outlook calendar (00:08:19).
• The button will work by prompting users to choose which calendar they want to add the event to, and then it will redirect to the chosen calendar, instantly adding the event after the user hits save (00:08:26).
• The "Add to Calendar" feature is expected to be available by the next webinar and will be connected to the events post type, making it easier for users to keep track of events (00:08:43).
• The feature will provide a convenient way for users to add events to their calendars, streamlining the process and reducing the likelihood of missed events (00:08:48).

IMAGE OPTIMIZATION: Auto-convert member uploaded images to WebP format (Soon) (00:08:54)

• Image optimization is being improved with the introduction of an auto-convert feature that will change member-uploaded images to the WebP format, which is a more optimized format than JPEGs, GIFs, and PNGs (00:08:54).
• The WebP format can save about 80% of disk space on the file size of the image in many cases, making it ideal for sites with a lot of user-generated content, such as Facebook (00:09:13).
• The auto-convert feature will be available soon, allowing site owners to activate it and reduce the file size of member-uploaded images, resulting in smaller file sizes and improved site performance (00:09:21).
• The use of WebP format is expected to help sites with a large amount of user-generated content to have smaller image file sizes, making them more efficient and similar to other major sites (00:09:27).

AI EDITORS: Edit pages, newsletters & posts with AI (Soon + Edit & Create Widgets with AI) (00:09:37)

• AI editing tools are being developed to allow users to interact with AI while working on web pages, newsletters, and posts, and potentially even widgets, with the ability to create custom modules inside Brilliant Directories (00:09:37).
• The AI editing tools are expected to be released in the next couple of months, following the completion of some New Year's to-do list items, and will mark a shift from AI creation tools to AI editing tools (00:09:49).
• Users are encouraged to leave comments with questions or thoughts about the upcoming AI editing tools, and feedback is also being sought on new pricing changes that are planned to take effect in March (00:10:11).
• The new pricing changes will be discussed further, and users can ask questions and provide feedback, with the goal of making a smooth transition, likely happening in March (00:10:24).
• David will be providing more information about the new pricing changes, and users can engage in a conversation about the updates and provide feedback (00:10:30).

We're Shifting to Simpler Pricing (00:10:37)

• The current pricing model of Brilliant Directories has been relatively consistent since its beginning, offering a lifetime website plan and optional website add-ons for enhanced functionality, but a change is being planned to simplify the pricing model and make it more accessible to new users (00:11:11).
• The primary goal of the pricing change is to make the pricing of Brilliant Directories simpler and more accessible, as the current model can create friction and confusion with multiple decisions to be made upfront, including the number of websites, pricing plan, and add-ons (00:11:56).
• The tentative change will introduce a three-subscription-tier model, with prices starting at around $49 per month for the lowest tier and $149 per month for the highest tier, and as users move up the tiers, they will unlock more functionality and higher limits (00:12:41).
• The lifetime plan will no longer be available once the pricing change happens, and individual add-ons will also be discontinued, replacing the current system with a simple three-tier subscription model (00:13:15).
• The pricing change is expected to take place around March 2026, but the details are still tentative, and feedback is being sought from users to help finalize the plans and provide a clearer upgrade path as users grow with their websites (00:12:34).

Why is Pricing Changing? (00:13:22)

• The pricing change is intended to create a simpler model that makes it easier for users to understand and choose a plan, with the goal of lowering the barrier to entry for new and early stage projects and builders, especially with a lower price point making it more accessible worldwide (00:13:22).
• The new pricing model aims to reduce the number of decisions and questions users face when selecting a website plan, add-ons, and payment frequency, such as monthly or yearly, by providing a more straightforward and easy-to-understand system (00:13:32).
• The starter plan, also known as the essentials plan, will be priced at $49 per month or $299 per year, which equates to approximately $25 per month, and will include a large discount on the annual plans to incentivize users to commit to a longer-term plan (00:13:52).
• The decision to change the pricing is not a reaction to a sustainability issue, but rather an effort to make Brilliant Directories, which was founded between 2009 and 2012, more accessible to a wider range of users (00:14:10).

Current Customers Are Grandfathered In (00:14:24)

• Current customers with lifetime plans will not lose their plans and will be fully grandfathered in, with no changes to their current lifetime sites and add-ons, and the VIP add-ons club will still include all additional perks offered in the future (00:14:24).
• There will be no forced upgrades, and customers can keep their subscriptions active without worrying about changes to their VIP add-ons club and lifetime sites (00:14:50).
• Founding members will continue to receive the same benefits and support as before, with no compulsory changes or upgrades required (00:15:01).
• Campaigns are being run to offer discounted rates for lifetime sites and VIP add-ons club memberships to existing customers before the switch to newer plans, which will also have value (00:15:14).
• The opportunity to lock in a better value is available to customers who want to purchase lifetime sites or VIP add-ons club memberships at a discounted rate before the pricing plan change, which is expected to occur around mid-February or March 1st (00:15:21).
• Directory Discount Club members will still be able to purchase lifetime plans after the pricing plan change, in accordance with the promise of the directory discount club to offer lifetime sites forever and in perpetuity (00:15:58).

Directory Discount Club (DDC) Explained (00:16:16)

• Directory Discount Club (DDC) members will have exclusive access to lifetime website moving for $2.49, and the option to add the VIP add-ons club for $2.49 per year, which averages about $20 per month, offering a better value than the starter plan (00:16:16).
• To determine if one is a DDC member, they can check their dashboard, and if they own three or more Brilliant Directories sites, they are automatically a DDC member and will see a badge in their dashboard, or they can contact support for assistance (00:16:41).
• Nothing will change for users who purchased tiers from AppSumo, as they will continue to receive support and keep their purchased tiers in perpetuity (00:17:17).
• Users who are not DDC members and have a lifetime plan will be able to add new sites with the new pricing tiers, while DDC members will have links to add new sites for $2.49 per site in their account (00:17:36).
• A link is provided at brilliantdirectories.com/lastch, where users can lock in lifetime sites for $2.49, get the VIP add-ons club, or opt for a bundle that includes a lifetime site and VIP club membership, offering a $50 savings (00:18:12).
• The company will continue to deliver core features to users and not gatekeep anything, with DDC members being considered special legacy grandfather members who can continue to purchase lifetime sites at a discounted rate (00:18:50).

What Happens Next (00:19:11)

• The current pricing change will not affect any existing lifetime sites or VIP add-on subscriptions, and users will be grandfathered in with their current plans (00:19:11).
• Users who purchase subscriptions before the pricing change takes effect will also be grandfathered in and will not experience any surprise changes or forced upgrades (00:19:22).
• The goal is to continue supporting and rewarding founding users, who are valued for their loyalty and participation (00:19:39).

Difference between Full Developer Access and lower-tier options (00:19:43)

• Full developer access is an admin role that allows a staff member, colleague, or developer to work on a site, invited by the site owner, with access to specific sections in the admin related to developing the site, but not to financials, and access points can be customized (00:19:43).
• The owner of the site has the highest status, referred to as the "head honcho" of the directory site, and is the one who invites others to have full developer access (00:20:01).
• Lower-tier options have limited access compared to full developer access, which is why it is advised to upgrade to get full developer access, with the owner of the site controlling the level of access granted to invited developers (00:19:54).

Do lifetime site owners need new plans for add-ons? (00:20:28)

• Lifetime site owners who want to add add-ons later in the year will need to subscribe to one of the newer plans, unless they are a Directory Discount Club (DDC) member, which would allow them to get the add-ons later through the VIP add-ons club (00:20:34).
• If a lifetime site owner is not a DDC member and wants add-ons that are not included in their current lifetime plan, they can choose from one of the three newer plans available as needed (00:20:45).
• Efforts will be made to ensure a smooth transition for lifetime site owners who need to switch to a new plan to access desired add-ons, with support available to address any questions or concerns (00:20:56).

Is AI-powered member post creation still planned? (00:21:06)

• The plan for AI-powered member post creation is still in place and is expected to be implemented around mid or end of February, allowing members to create posts using AI in their member dashboard (00:21:06).
• The AI updates will enable logged-in members to utilize AI for post creation, providing an enhanced experience (00:21:20).
• Additionally, an image optimization update is forthcoming, which will support the WEBP format and reduce file sizes, resulting in improved page load speeds due to smaller page sizes (00:21:27).
• The upcoming update is anticipated to have a positive impact on page score speeds, as smaller page sizes typically lead to better performance (00:21:33).

Will existing site images be auto-converted to WebP? (00:21:39)

• The question of whether existing site images will be auto-converted to WebP format has been raised by Roy, and it is unclear if this will happen, but new images will definitely be converted to WebP format (00:21:39).
• There is a possibility that a tool may be created in the future, likely in a phase two, to convert existing images to WebP format, as this is considered a good idea (00:21:51).
• The team will be asked about the possibility of auto-converting existing images to WebP format, and it is unclear if this will be a retroactive process (00:21:46).

Can a lifetime site be transferred to another user? (00:21:59)

• Users can still transfer lifetime sites to other users or create a new user or client account, and the new user will inherit the lifetime site (00:21:59).
• There is no requirement for the new user to have a subscription to receive the transferred lifetime site (00:22:06).
• A potential restriction may be implemented for Directory Discount Club members who purchase lifetime sites, where if they transfer the site to a non-DDC member, the new person would have to choose a new plan (00:22:19).
• For legacy lifetime sites, the lifetime status will likely still be honored during the transfer, as a fair approach for all parties involved (00:22:30).

Are new template sites coming? (00:22:35)

• New template sites are being developed, with a focus on providing themes and designs for specific niches, such as lawyers, plumbers, or lead matching, to give users a head start (00:22:43).
• The development of new themes and designs is currently underway, with the expectation that they will be released in the coming weeks and months (00:22:43).
• In addition to the new template sites, existing themes and demos are also being refreshed, with updates to their design and overall appearance (00:22:56).
• The refresh of existing themes and demos is intended to improve their design and look, providing users with updated options for their sites (00:22:56).
• Dan's question about new template sites prompted the announcement of the upcoming releases and updates, which are expected to benefit users working with specific niches (00:22:35).

Plans to share posts across multiple sites (00:23:02)

• The ability to share posts across multiple sites was previously discussed, with an example being the option to share an event posted on one site to another site, similar to passport functionality (00:23:02).
• Site owners, such as BD site owners with multiple sites, can currently share posts between sites using web hooks and the post creation API, along with tools like Pabi or Zapier, which can create a new post with the shared data on an alternate BD website (00:23:25).
• To allow members to share posts across sites on their own, there are access restrictions, including the need for a membership account on the site where the post will be shared, and considerations for moderating the shared content, which can be managed by the site owner or a developer (00:23:47).

VIP discount for lifetime 3-site plan purchases (00:24:06)

• A question is asked about the VIP discount for a lifetime three-site plan purchase, and it is stated that the current prices are fully discounted and unlikely to go lower (00:24:06).
• The prices for the lifetime three-site plan are noted to be at their lowest point, and it is suggested to visit the last chance page to choose the needed options (00:24:13).
• The checkout page allows for the selection of the quantity of VIP add-ons or clubs needed, which can be updated as necessary for those purchasing three sites (00:24:25).
• The ability to update the quantity of VIP add-ons or clubs on the checkout page is highlighted as a useful feature for customers like Bella who are purchasing a lifetime three-site plan (00:24:31).

How to control spam emails (00:24:38)

• To control spam emails, it is essential to specify the type of spam emails, such as people filling out forms on a site or other spam-related issues, and one of the first steps to take is to go to the general settings and then to the integrations tab (00:24:38).
• In the integrations tab, it is recommended to restore the recommended block list, which includes known spam-related submissions from around the internet, such as adult-related content or characters known to be used in spam emails (00:24:57).
• Additionally, it is possible to block spoof characters, also known as homoglyphs, which are characters that resemble regular alphabet letters but are often used in spam emails, and this can be done by restoring the list of homoglyphs and checking the option to block any form submissions containing these characters (00:25:19).
• Another way to control spam emails is to block disposable email addresses, which are throwaway email addresses often used by spammers to sign up for free accounts or spam sites, and this can be done by blocking these email addresses, which will require users to sign up with a real company email or a reputable email service provider (00:25:58).
• By implementing these three methods, including restoring the recommended block list, blocking homoglyphs, and blocking disposable email addresses, it is possible to effectively control spam emails and reduce the amount of spam submissions on a site (00:26:30).

How to automate blog content creation with ChatGPT (00:26:42)

• Automating blog content creation with ChatGPT is possible, and one of the easiest ways to do this is by using Zapier, which can be used to create member spotlight articles or best of lists (00:26:42).
• When a member joins a site and fills in their information, it can automatically send that information through a web hook into Zapier, which can then tell ChatGPT to create a spotlight article and post it to the site automatically as a blog post (00:27:31).
• The trigger for this automation is when a new member saves their information for the first time, and it will not be repeated if a member resaves their information, but Google Sheets can also be used as a trigger by adding a new title or topic to a new cell or row (00:27:50).
• By using Google Sheets as a trigger, users can enter a list of article topics or titles they want, and when a new record or row is added, the workflow will automatically start publishing articles to the site using ChatGPT (00:28:07).
• There is a vision to integrate this functionality inside the Brilliant Directories dashboard, where users can input keywords they want to rank for, and the AI will come up with article topics, add them to a queue, and then create posts for the site on a scheduled basis (00:28:38).
• This integrated system would allow users to approve topics created by the AI and then have the content created on a schedule, resulting in high-quality articles that can rank for SEO and AI SEO (00:29:05).
• The current workflow using Zapier and ChatGPT can already be used to automate blog content creation, and users are encouraged to experiment with it and share their results (00:29:26).

Can lifetime plans and VIP add-ons be transferred? (00:29:38)

• Lifetime plans purchased before the transition can be transferred to new users, allowing them to retain the original plan's benefits (00:29:50).
• For lifetime plans purchased after the transition using the DDC perk, which is part of the Directory Discount Club, transferring them to new users will require those users to choose one of the three available plans (00:29:56).
• The DDC perk cannot be transferred to new users when transferring lifetime sites purchased with this perk, meaning the new users will not inherit the original buyer's Directory Discount Club benefits (00:30:01).

How to upload member images via CSV using external image URLs (00:30:07)

• A user, Leia, has a CSV file with member information and wants to upload images from LinkedIn to her BD site, but currently, the images must be uploaded to the media manager first, and the image URL must be from the media manager to be uploaded via CSV (00:30:07).
• The image URLs from LinkedIn do not have a normal file extension, but the URL is still serving an image, and web servers do not need a file extension to send the image, which is why LinkedIn's Content Delivery Network (CDN) can display the image without a file extension (00:31:49).
• To determine the image format, it is suggested to copy the image URL and paste it into a program like Adobe Photoshop, which can read the image file from the HTTP URL, and this method can be used to verify the image format (00:32:20).
• Currently, the BD site does not support uploading images from external URLs via CSV, but it is a good suggestion for improvement, and Leia can pass this on to the BD support team for consideration (00:32:40).
• The image format must be a JPEG or PNG, and it cannot be a web page with an image, but rather an actual image file, which is why Google Drive and other services may have similar limitations (00:31:02).
• The use of CDN and modern image formats can make it difficult to determine the image file extension, but it is still possible to use the image by copying and pasting the URL into a program that can read the image file (00:32:03).

Plans for a funnel-building add-on in BD (00:32:51)

• Plans are being considered to create an add-on that allows users to create funnels with BD form capture, thank you message, and link to payment form, which would enable workflows with delayed emails to be sent after a form is filled out (00:32:51).
• Currently, BD has a limitation and it is recommended to use other workflow or funnel tools, but users can send a thank you message and link to a payment form in an email after a form submission (00:33:17).
• The form manager in BD allows users to redirect form submissions to another page with additional information, send an email notification, or display a success popup message after a form is filled out, providing some basic funnel functionality (00:33:38).
• The email notification sent after a form submission can be customized with a chosen template, and can include additional information such as a payment link, but delayed follow-up emails are not currently possible (00:34:00).
• The possibility of adding delayed follow-up emails, such as waiting two days before sending a follow-up email, may be explored later in the year as a potential enhancement to the funnel-building capabilities (00:34:27).
• Users can currently create a basic one-time funnel by redirecting to another page or sending an email after a form is submitted, but more advanced funnel-building features are being considered for future development (00:34:39).

Why DDC is limited to 3-site owners and availability for all lifetime users (00:34:50)

• The Directory Discount Club (DDC) status is currently limited to owners of at least three sites, and this limitation is not intended to be a form of gatekeeping, but rather a existing structure (00:34:50).
• Owners of three or more sites automatically become DDC members, regardless of whether they purchased the sites at the same time or at different times, making the membership criteria more lenient (00:35:15).
• As a DDC member, individuals will be able to continue purchasing sites at a special discounted rate as a gesture of appreciation for their investment and support in Brilliant Directories (00:35:31).
• The DDC membership is not only available to those who purchase three sites, but also to lifetime users, who will have access to the discounted rates and other benefits (00:35:08).
• The current structure of the DDC is designed to reward and show appreciation to members who have invested in and supported Brilliant Directories, with the goal of providing a positive experience for all members (00:35:38).

How to give team members access without sharing main login (00:35:46)

• To give team members access to a website without sharing the main login, it is possible to invite them as a new admin via email, allowing for the assignment of different roles such as full access, content manager, or developer, each with their own set of limitations and access permissions (00:35:46).
• The admin roles that can be assigned include full access, content manager, and developer, with each role having restricted access to certain pages, such as financial pages or member information, to ensure that team members only have access to the sections of the website that are relevant to their tasks (00:36:22).
• It is also possible to create custom admin rules, which involve limiting the pages that team members have access to in the sidebar menu, and if they try to access pages they are not authorized to view, they will be redirected back to the main dashboard page of the admin (00:36:47).
• By inviting team members as new admins and assigning them specific roles and permissions, it is possible to maintain control over the website and ensure that sensitive information is protected, making it the safest way to collaborate with others on a website (00:37:08).
• The process of inviting a new admin involves going to the admin accounts in the settings section, selecting the option to invite an admin via email, and then choosing the admin role and permissions for the team member, which can be done by selecting from preset roles or creating custom rules (00:36:07).

Where to edit “verify your account” or profile page content (00:37:21)

• To edit the "verify your account" profile page content, users can log in as a member and access the admin bar to make changes, which can include modifying text labels and editing widgets (00:37:21).
• The text on the verify listing page can be edited by changing the label in the admin bar, and users can also fully recode the page by editing the Bootstrap theme account verify listening widget if needed (00:38:06).
• The form on the verify account page can be edited to modify the information being collected, such as state license number and tax exemption number, and users can capture more or less information as required for their industry and website (00:38:45).
• To identify what can be edited on the page, users can click on "show widgets" and "hide widgets" to highlight the editable areas, making it easier to make changes to the page content (00:39:20).
• The default form on the verify account page may ask for specific information, such as state license number and tax exemption number, but this can be modified to suit the needs of the user's industry and website (00:39:00).

Tutorials for using external forms to route leads by city or state [insert link] (00:39:29)

• There are videos and tutorials available on using external forms to link leads to members by city or state, and one such video is about using a third-party form like Typeform or Jotform to create contacts and member records, which can also be applied to create lead records and match them based on location or categories (00:39:29).
• External forms like Typeform, Jotform, or Zoho forms can be used to capture submissions and send the data into a website using the API or integration tools like Pabi or Zapier, although Zapier is not the only option and there are other tools available (00:40:02).
• A video is available that shows how to use a third-party form to create contacts and member records, and this methodology can be followed to create lead records and match them based on city, state, or category (00:40:25).
• There are several integration tools available that can be used instead of Zapier, including Autokit, formerly known as Sure Triggers, and about six other options that can be found on the apps and integrations page (00:41:04).
• These integration tools can be used to achieve the same integration with third-party forms and create leads on a website, and they can be explored as an alternative to Zapier due to cost or other reasons (00:41:20).
• The apps and integrations page can be shared to provide more information on the available integration tools, and a video on using a third-party form to create contacts and member records can also be shared to help with the process (00:41:26).

Recommended way to sell event tickets on the site (00:41:43)

• To sell event tickets on the site, it is recommended to create an event post and link it to a digital product that represents the event ticket, which can be achieved by creating a digital product for the event ticket and linking it to the event post, allowing users to purchase the ticket directly on the site (00:41:43).
• The process involves creating an event post and a digital product for the event ticket, with the digital product being priced according to the cost of the ticket, and then linking the two together, effectively allowing users to buy the ticket on the site (00:42:03).
• A video is available that demonstrates how to create and sell event tickets using this method, which although dated, still provides a useful guide on the workflow, which may have been improved or simplified since its release (00:42:39).
• One of the benefits of using digital products for event tickets is the ability to export a list of people who have purchased the ticket, which can be useful for events where a list of attendees is required, such as at the door (00:43:12).
• The recommended approach provides a viable solution for selling event tickets on the site, although it may require an extra step, and it is possible to marry the event post and digital product together to handle ticket sales (00:43:25).

Will the member AI feature be an add-on or included? (00:43:36)

• The member AI feature is likely to be included for all, allowing users to choose which membership plans and post types can utilize the AI creation tools, with the necessary settings to be prepared for release (00:43:36).
• The AI feature will be integrated into the existing platform, enabling users to control its accessibility for different membership plans and post types, making it a valuable addition to their websites (00:43:42).
• The release of new features, such as the member AI, can be presented as community news, giving the impression that the website owners are actively developing and improving their platform, which is partly driven by user feedback and ideas (00:44:00).
• The development of new features is a collaborative effort, with user feedback and ideas contributing to the creation of new platform features, which ultimately benefits all users (00:44:15).
• Arlon's question about the member AI feature has been addressed, confirming that it is not expected to be an add-on, but rather a standard feature that will be included for all users (00:43:36).

Does the Lifetime Site seal include full developer access? (00:44:26)

• The lifetime site seal includes full developer access, with lifetime plans having the full developer tools access (00:44:26).
• Lifetime plans come with the developer hub, which includes features such as ht access, MySQL database, web hooks, and the API, allowing for higher-level site customization (00:44:42).
• The full developer access and features will continue to be included in future lifetime plans for users who have the DDC, in addition to the current lifetime plans (00:44:58).

How to handle members who miss payments without downgrading (00:45:08)

• When handling members who miss one or two payments, the goal is to collect revenue from them for the service provided, and being flexible is key, such as offering an upgrade to a yearly plan to make payments easier (00:45:25).
• If someone misses a payment, there is no need to immediately downgrade or put their account on hold, as it is possible to view past due transactions and send reminder emails or make phone calls to prompt payment (00:45:52).
• The system can be set up to automatically send up to three past due reminder emails, which can be spaced out over a few days after the initial payment is missed, to nudge members to update their credit card and pay their past due payment (00:46:20).
• Reminder emails can be a huge help in collecting past due payments and maximizing recurring revenue, and just because someone has missed a payment, it does not mean they want to stop paying, as various issues such as credit card limits or expirations may have occurred (00:46:41).
• Being proactive and contacting members by phone can also be an opportunity to ask about their experience with the service and potentially upsell, turning a past due payment into a chance for more sales (00:47:04).
• The transactions history can be used to identify past due members, and their contact information, such as phone numbers, can be used to reach out to them and prompt payment (00:45:58).

Examples of white-labeled sites and admin differences (00:47:22)

• The front end of all Brilliant Directories sites does not display any information indicating that the site is powered by Brilliant Directories, regardless of the plan, and the site owner has full control over it (00:47:36).
• Whitelabeling the admin area means removing all Brilliant Directories help assets, such as the help center popup and links to the Brilliant Directories documentation, so that only the site's settings are visible in the admin area (00:47:50).
• To white label the admin area, site owners can simply email the Brilliant Directories support team, provide their website URL or site ID number, and request that their admin area be whitelabeled (00:48:19).
• Whitelabeling the admin area is available to anyone, but it is recommended to keep the help and support links if they are not necessary to remove, as they can be very helpful (00:48:53).
• The only parts of the admin area that will still reference Brilliant Directories after whitelabeling are the help tools, such as the BDB bot and the help center popup, which will be removed to complete the whitelabeling process (00:47:56).

Can BD be used as a marketplace? (00:49:09)

• Brilliant Directories is not a multi-vendor marketplace like Fiverr, where the website takes a commission from completed projects or products purchased, and it does not require oversight for fraud and chargebacks, as it does not take a commission from transactions (00:49:21).
• Brilliant Directories can be used as a marketplace to connect users with service providers, such as dentists, lawyers, or plumbers, where the service providers pay to be listed or pay for leads, and the website owner sells leads to multiple service providers (00:49:45).
• The marketplace created with Brilliant Directories involves matching two people, one with a need and one with a service, and they get connected with each other, with what happens after they connect being their own business (00:50:02).
• The cost of leads can vary depending on the category, with lawyer leads likely being more expensive than dog walker leads, for example, and the website owner can charge a modest amount for each lead, such as $5, $10, or $20 (00:50:09).
• Using Brilliant Directories as a marketplace has the advantage of not being on the hook for large amounts of money in case of lawsuits or disputes, as the website owner is not taking a commission from transactions and is not responsible for what happens after the connection is made (00:50:38).
• Creating a multi-vendor marketplace with commission-based transactions would require a lot of infrastructure and legal counsel to support it, which can be a lot of work unless the necessary resources are available (00:50:49).

Recommended platform for creating a branded app for a BD site (00:50:52)

• Brilliant Directory sites are mobile-friendly, and most app builders have web views, allowing users to create an app that loads their Brilliant Directories website without requiring additional coding, using a feature referred to as a "cheat code" for an app (00:50:52).
• The Brilliant Directories API is useful for creating a native app with a new interface that fetches data from the API, and users can hire a development company to code an entirely new native interface for their site, members, and API endpoints (00:51:28).
• When considering creating an app, it's essential to weigh the usefulness of having an app versus a mobile-friendly website and the potential return on investment, with the suggestion to start simple and create a minimum viable product to test the marketplace idea before reinvesting (00:51:59).
• To create an app without separate development, users can search for an app builder with web view functionality, which can work for a Brilliant Directories site's first initial app, allowing users to achieve a basic app without significant development costs (00:52:37).
• The approach to creating an app should be to start with a simple solution, test the idea, and then reinvest and expand the app's features after gaining traction, rather than trying to build everything at once (00:52:44).

How to trigger workflows when follow-up invoice emails are sent (00:52:51)

• To trigger workflows when follow-up invoice emails are sent, a potential solution could be to use a web hook that is activated when billing reminder emails are sent out, which would provide information about the person and the specific billing reminder email being sent (00:53:05).
• The current email out box feature does not seem to be connected to when emails are sent, including Dunning emails and billing reminder emails, and therefore may not be a viable option for triggering workflows (00:53:24).
• A web hook for billing reminder emails would be a useful feature, as it would allow for further action to be taken based on the person's information and the specific billing reminder email being sent, and this idea may be worth exploring further with the support team (00:53:52).
• Neil from App Crazy initially asked about the best way to trigger Zapier or other workflows based on a second or third invoice being emailed, and this question led to the discussion about the potential use of a web hook for billing reminder emails (00:52:51).
• The support team may have alternative suggestions for triggering workflows when follow-up invoice emails are sent, and emailing them could provide additional guidance or potential solutions (00:54:00).
• The idea of implementing a web hook for billing reminder emails is considered low-hanging fruit and may be a relatively simple feature to implement, making it a potential solution worth exploring (00:54:21).

How to enable a cookie consent policy (00:54:27)

• To enable a cookie consent policy, there are various cookie consent tools available that can be embedded on a site, similar to a live chat, and they handle the heavy lifting, with some popular options including Cookie Pal, which has a free plan (00:54:27).
• These tools can be found by searching online, and they often provide a snippet of code that can be pasted into the site's design settings, typically in the footer or header, to enable cookie consent (00:55:07).
• The process of adding a cookie consent tool involves searching for the tool, selecting the desired option, and then embedding the provided code into the site, with many tools offering free plans and easy integration (00:55:15).
• The support center for Brilliant Directory provides resources and recommendations for cookie consent tools, including articles on how to add cookie consent and specific tools like Cookie Pal (00:55:19).
• Once a cookie consent tool is selected, it can be embedded into the site by pasting the provided code snippet into the design settings, allowing for easy implementation of a cookie consent policy (00:55:46).

Best way to validate business profiles during signup (00:56:02)

• To validate business profiles during signup, it is recommended to moderate new signups and make it part of the application process, which can be done by setting the account to "on hold" and requiring admin approval, allowing for notification when new signups are received (00:56:08).
• The membership plan can be edited to make new accounts not searchable on the site, or to require admin approval, and an email can be sent to new applicants with instructions on how to complete their profile, which will expedite the approval process (00:56:49).
• Creating a welcome email that encourages new applicants to complete their profile and provides step-by-step instructions can help to onboard new members and increase user-generated content, with the goal of keeping them engaged and coming back to the site (00:57:18).
• The welcome email should be positive and encouraging, rather than negative or punitive, and can be used to provide information on how to complete the profile and what benefits it will bring, such as increased visibility and credibility (00:57:40).
• Once the profile is approved, an alternate email can be sent to welcome the new member and provide further instructions, and a phone call can be made to help them choose the best plan for their needs and increase the potential revenue opportunity (00:59:15).
• Outreach, such as phone calls, can be an effective way to increase paid signups and maximize revenue potential, rather than just passively waiting for people to upgrade to higher tiers (01:00:28).
• The Brilliant Directories site has resources available, such as a blog post on how to onboard new members and create effective welcome emails, which can help to increase user engagement and retention (00:58:46).

How to add dynamic text to the main page heading (01:01:22)

• To create dynamic text in the main page heading, cycling between different trades like "find trustworthy plumbers, electricians, landscapers, and services", a little bit of coding is required, and the process starts by going to the design settings and homepage primary hero content (01:01:22).
• The dynamic text is achieved by putting the text in a span and giving it an ID, in this case, "terms", and then using ChatGPT to generate a script code that cycles through the different trades (01:01:57).
• The script code generated by chat GPT is then copied and pasted into the footer area of the homepage, and the changes are saved to see if the title works and transitions between the different trades (01:03:11).
• To make the dynamic term more visually appealing, CSS can be used to add a shiny AI-looking gold text gradient, which requires copying and pasting another script code generated by chat GPT into the CSS area (01:03:39).
• The process of adding dynamic text and a gold text gradient to the main page heading can be achieved with the help of chat GPT, but it does require some coding knowledge, and the steps can be followed by watching the replay and copying the code (01:04:02).
• The final result is a dynamic heading that cycles through different trades with a shiny gold text gradient, and the process demonstrates how chat GPT can be used to achieve custom design elements with a little bit of coding (01:04:53).