Iran War Crisis How SEO Freelancers Founders Are Surviving This Economy

In this episode of SEO Kwentuhan, Gab and Gelo dive into the real impact of the Iran war crisis on freelancers and agency founders. From rising expenses to losing clients, they share how they’re adapting, cutting costs, leveraging AI, and finding ways to stay afloat in a tough economy.

If you’re feeling the pressure, questioning your next move, or simply looking for practical ways to survive (and even grow) during uncertain times—this conversation is for you.

Tune in and discover how to stay resilient when everything around you is changing.

Transcript Summary

00:00 – 00:40

Gelo opens the comeback episode of SEO Kwentuhan.Gab introduces the topic: the Iran war crisis and its economic impact.Focus: how SEO freelancers and agency founders are adapting and surviving.

00:41 – 01:22

Discussion begins with rising fuel prices (diesel potentially reaching ₱150–₱200/liter).Gab highlights uncertainty in pricing.Gelo notes transportation costs as one of the first major impacts.

01:23 – 03:05

Reduced travel and more time spent at home.Shift in food consumption:Less meat, more fish and vegetablesEnergy-saving habits:Limiting appliance useSetting aircon to 24°CEarly monitoring of electricity bills.

03:06 – 04:19

Gelo emphasizes awareness of:Electricity usageWater waste (e.g., open faucets)Small habits can lead to significant savings.

04:20 – 06:13

Discussion on fuel “price lock” strategies.Pros:Protection from price increasesCons:Risk if prices dropObservation: smaller gas stations often have longer queues.

06:13 – 07:29

Gab shares mindset changes:Teaching kids to avoid wasteBuying only what is necessaryFocus on eliminating excess consumption.

07:30 – 08:37

Gab (agency perspective):Focus on long-term clientsAvoid clients expecting quick SEO resultsPrioritize resilient industries:Strong: solar, essentialsWeak: luxury, non-essential sectors

08:37 – 12:08

Gelo’s strategies:Increasing emergency fund (up to 12 months)Using high-yield savings accountsCutting unnecessary AI/LLM subscriptionsStrong shift to AI automation:80% execution via AI10% strategy10% validationGoal: save time and reduce costs.

12:08 – 13:33

Importance of health during crisis:Illness increases financial burdenRising healthcare costsAdvice: prioritize physical health and consistency.

13:34 – 16:12

Water-saving approach:Installing deep wells (province setup)Electricity-saving approach:Exploring solar panel installationGoal: reduce dependence on utilities.

16:12 – 18:02

Aircon optimization techniques:Set to 24°CUse timers (off at 4 AM, on at 7 AM)Balance between comfort and efficiency.

18:02 – 20:08

Community tips:Meal planningAvoid unnecessary purchasesReduce subscriptionsStart home gardening or aquaponicsKey idea: reduce expenses while increasing income.

20:08 – 23:14

Gelo:Lost a client and chose to reassessExploring collaborations and new opportunitiesGab:Evaluate client industries before accepting workFocus on essential sectorsAvoid vulnerable industries like travelTarget stable markets.

23:14 – 25:38

Advice to freelancers:Upskill, especially in AIImprove systems and workflowsMarket becoming more competitive due to layoffsShift toward an AI-first approach.

25:38 – 27:40

Lifestyle changes:Fewer outingsMore home-based activities (e.g., board games)Cost-saving habits:Brewing coffee at homeCooking instead of ordering.

27:40 – 30:19

Gab (agency adjustments):Slight price increases due to inflationProviding team support/allowancesLess flexibility in negotiationsFocus on sustainability.

30:19 – 32:58

Emotional challenges:Frustration with rising costs and policiesPersonal struggles:Health issues affecting productivityEmphasis on resilience.

32:58 – 35:54

Discussion on taxation:Comparison with lower-tax countriesConcern over heavy tax burden in the PhilippinesImpact on small businesses.

35:54 – 37:23

Strong emphasis on emergency funds:Personal savingsBusiness buffer (3–6 months).

37:23 – 40:05

Introduction of “FU Money”:Fund for opportunities or emergenciesAdvice:Save consistentlyPrepare for client loss scenarios.

40:05 – 43:23

Investment perspectives:Conservative approach: hold cashOpportunistic approach: invest in declining marketsExamples:Solar-related stocksHigh-yield savings accounts.

43:23 – 45:04

Advice for overwhelmed freelancers:Read mindset-focused booksImprove skills and portfolioExplore alternative career paths.

45:04 – 47:13

Actionable steps:Audit finances and skillsReflect on past performanceTake ownership and actAvoid victim mindset and focus on solutions.

47:13 – 48:28

Closing encouragement:Stay resilientContinue learning and adaptingPodcast sign-off and invitation to follow their content.

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