New to iOS/subscription apps – looking for honest advice on how to start, find ideas, and get first users

Hey everyone,
I’m completely new to the app business side (coming from a different background) and trying to break into iOS subscription apps, ideally targeting the US market.
Right now I have more questions than answers, so I’d really appreciate any honest advice from people who’ve been through this:

1. How do you actually start when you have almost no experience in apps?
   Should I begin by offering services first (like AI automation / done-for-you for small businesses) and then build a product, or go straight into building a small app?
2. How do you find real ideas that people will actually pay for?
   I keep hearing “solve a painful problem”, but I’m not sure where to look for validated pain points that still have room in 2026. Any specific methods, tools, or places you use?
3. Marketing & getting first users
   With a very limited budget, what actually works in the early days? ASO, Reddit, TikTok, communities…? What would you focus on first if you were starting from zero today?
   I’m not looking for hype or “just build something” answers. I want realistic advice from people who’ve shipped and made money (or failed and learned).
   Any tips, resources, or even “don’t do this” warnings would be hugely appreciated.
   Thanks in advance.