Business idea · SaaS
Gusto Payroll Solutions
Gusto Payroll Solutions: Gusto is an all-in-one online payroll and benefits software designed specifically for small businesses, streamlining payroll, tax filing, and HR management. It was pitched on The Side Hustle Show, hosted by Nick Loper, in the episode "Growing an Online Business to $100k a Month (Greatest Hits)" (aired October 23, 2025).
At a glance
| Podcast | The Side Hustle Show |
|---|---|
| Hosted by | Nick Loper |
| Episode | Growing an Online Business to $100k a Month (Greatest Hits) |
| Aired | October 23, 2025 |
| Category | SaaS |
| Real companies on the episode | Cricut, Mitt Mobile, Gusto, JenniferMaker.com, Shopify, Jennifer Maker |
The problem it solves
Many small business owners struggle with the complexities of payroll management and tax withholdings, which can be time-consuming and stressful.
How it makes money
Subscription-based model that charges businesses a monthly fee depending on their needs and number of employees.
Skills you need
Knowledge of payroll processing, HR regulations, software development for creating the platform, and customer service skills.
The market, and why this works now
Gusto Payroll Solutions leverages cloud computing and automation to simplify payroll processing for small businesses, particularly in light of increasing remote work trends that demand flexible, online solutions. A practical first-revenue strategy involves listing the service on platforms like G2, where small business owners actively seek payroll solutions and can compare offerings. However, founders should consider the regulatory complexities associated with payroll and tax compliance, as any misstep could lead to significant penalties and erode customer trust.
Our analysis, written after the episode. Not a quote from the show.
Real companies discussed on this episode
- Cricut
Cricut is a brand that produces cutting machines designed for crafting, allowing users to create intricate designs and projects.
- Mitt Mobile
Mitt Mobile is a mobile service provider that offers plans starting at $15 per month without contracts or hidden fees.
- Gusto
Gusto is an online payroll and benefits software designed for small businesses, offering services such as automatic payroll tax filing, health benefits, and 401k.
- JenniferMaker.com
JenniferMaker.com is a DIY and crafting website that provides tutorials, patterns, and resources for crafting projects, with a focus on using cutting machines like Cricut.
- Shopify
Shopify is a commerce platform that allows businesses to set up online stores and sell products, offering tools for design, marketing, and customer support.
- Jennifer Maker
Jennifer Maker is a creative brand focused on crafting, design, and tutorial content, particularly aimed at users of the Cricut crafting machine.
Where this idea came from
Podcast: The Side Hustle Show, hosted by Nick Loper
Episode: Growing an Online Business to $100k a Month (Greatest Hits)
Aired:
Summarized from the episode transcript. The show does not say which speaker raised each idea, so we credit the show, not a person.