It’s Been 2 Years Since ChatGPT Came Out. How do Solopreneurs Use It?

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

#Joe Casabona #Tech Startups #Business #Entrepreneur #Automation #Systems #Process #Joe Casabona — Systems Coach #Tech #Solopreneurs

42:14

Episode Description: Jessica B. Harris may have been born and raised in New York City, but she has Tennessee roots through her father and has spent much of her life split between homes in the Northeast and the South – specifically New Orleans. For more than fifty years, she has been a college professor, a writer, and a lecturer, and her many books have earned her a reputation as an authority on food of the African Diaspora, as well as a lifetime achievement award from the James Beard Foundation. A few years back, Netflix adapted her book, High on the Hog: A Culinary Journey from Africa to America , into a 4 part docuseries. And I’m very proud to say that she’s a longtime contributor to Southern Living with a regular column called The Welcome Table. This episode was recorded in the Southern Living Birmingham studios, and Sid and Jessica talked about her mother’s signature mac and cheese, the cast-iron skillet she’d be sure to save if ever her house were on fire, and her dear friend, the late New Orleans chef Leah Chase. For more info visit: southernliving.com/biscuitsandjam Biscuits & Jam is produced by : Sid Evans - Editor-in-Chief, Southern Living Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Jeremiah McVay - Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 26:59

MP3•Episode home

It’s been two years since ChatGPT went mainstream, and AI has completely transformed how we work. While I maintain some hesitancy and skepticism in using AI, it has made it’s way into my daily life for certain tasks. While I’ll tell you all about that, I also talk about why the human touch will always matter, no matter how advanced these tools get.

So strap in (yes, I wrote these words without any intervention from AI) for a look into how I’ve been using AI as a solopreneur. And don’t worry — I’ve mostly edited out the rambling rants.

Top Takeaways

AI tools like ChatGPT have improved significantly, especially with features like custom GPTs and web-connected capabilities, but there’s room for growth in personalization.
AI has become an essential tool in my workflows, particularly for providing fresh perspectives during ideation and research, and “rubber ducking.”
As we move forward, it’s important to balance efficiency with authenticity, using AI for support while ensuring it doesn’t replace meaningful human interactions and creativity.

Links

(00:00) - Intro
(01:52) - I'm AI Hesitant
(05:49) - How I'm Using AI
(09:41) - ChatGPT is Replacing Google
(12:48) - My Thoughts on Apple Intelligence
(13:58) - What is a Photo?
(18:53) - Feedback — How You're Using AI!
(22:31) - The Future of AI
(25:41) - Wrapping Up

★ Support this podcast ★

485 episodes

It’s Been 2 Years Since ChatGPT Came Out. How do Solopreneurs Use It?

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

321 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

So strap in (yes, I wrote these words without any intervention from AI) for a look into how I’ve been using AI as a solopreneur. And don’t worry — I’ve mostly edited out the rambling rants.

Top Takeaways

AI tools like ChatGPT have improved significantly, especially with features like custom GPTs and web-connected capabilities, but there’s room for growth in personalization.
AI has become an essential tool in my workflows, particularly for providing fresh perspectives during ideation and research, and “rubber ducking.”
As we move forward, it’s important to balance efficiency with authenticity, using AI for support while ensuring it doesn’t replace meaningful human interactions and creativity.

Links

(00:00) - Intro
(01:52) - I'm AI Hesitant
(05:49) - How I'm Using AI
(09:41) - ChatGPT is Replacing Google
(12:48) - My Thoughts on Apple Intelligence
(13:58) - What is a Photo?
(18:53) - Feedback — How You're Using AI!
(22:31) - The Future of AI
(25:41) - Wrapping Up

★ Support this podcast ★

485 episodes

#Joe Casabona #Tech Startups #Business #Entrepreneur #Automation #Systems #Process #Joe Casabona — Systems Coach #Tech #Solopreneurs

All episodes

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
We’re Trying No Summer Camp AGAIN 17:30

3 days ago17:30

17:30

Last year, my wife and I made the somewhat terrifying decision to skip summer camp for our kids to save $9,000-$10,000 and spend more intentional time together. It wasn't perfect—I gave myself a solid B—but we survived, and more importantly, we're doing it again this year. The financial savings were huge, but the real motivation was recognizing we're in a limited window where our kids actually want to hang out with us. Since we have the flexibility as solopreneurs to create our own schedules, why not use it? Last year taught me some hard lessons about communication, boundaries, and realistic expectations. This time around, I'm better prepared with clearer work boundaries, more structured activities for the kids, and honest conversations with my wife about what we both need to stay sane. Want a peek into how I’ve created more time? Check out my free automations database and AI swipe file at https://casabona.org/streamlined Top Takeaways The real cost of summer programs goes beyond money —it's about recognizing the limited time window when your kids actually want to spend time with you, and leveraging the flexibility that comes with being self-employed. Structure matters for everyone —kids need predictable routines to avoid emotional meltdowns, and parents need clear work boundaries to prevent every meeting request from hijacking their already limited schedule. Time blocking becomes non-negotiable when you have less time to work—protecting your green zone (peak productivity hours) and limiting meetings to one day per week helps maximize focused work time. ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
I Vibe Coded a Client Project 18:27

8 days ago18:27

18:27

I'll be honest—I don't officially do web development anymore. But when a nonprofit asked for help, I thought I could knock out a simple WordPress portal in 25 hours using no-code tools like Zapier and Advanced Custom Fields. Boy, was I wrong. What started as a straightforward project quickly turned into a nightmare of under-scoping and tool limitations I never saw coming. Zapier didn't work with WordPress custom post types the way I expected. Advanced Custom Fields still requires custom coding for Gutenberg blocks after seven years. Google Sheets automation had quirks I'd never encountered. It was starting to look more like 60 hours, not 25. That's when I reluctantly turned to ChatGPT for help—and it completely saved my butt. Instead of writing custom code from scratch or going back to the client with double the budget, I started "vibe coding." I'd describe the problem, ChatGPT would write the solution, and we'd iterate together. It wrote nearly 2,000 lines of code for me, handled complex features I would've needed premium plugins for, and let me stay flexible when the client requested changes. The result? A 30-hour project instead of 60, a happy client, and a reminder that sometimes the tools we resist most can be the ones that save us. *Want 40+ automations plus my AI swipe files? Head over to https://casabona.org/streamlined* Top Takeaways Vibe coding can be a massive force multiplier, even if you're not a developer—ChatGPT walked me through everything and cut my project time in half Always scope projects more carefully by testing tool limitations upfront, especially when assuming "obvious" features exist (spoiler: they often don't) AI coding made me more flexible and agreeable to client requests because I wasn't emotionally attached to hand-written code Show Notes I built an app with AI and now I’m scared for WordPress How to vibe code: 11 vibe coding best practices to start building with AI ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
The Human in the Loop : AI That Actually Sounds Like Me with Corey Koehler 55:29

10 days ago55:29

55:29

When I first started using AI in my business, I was hesitant — it felt like a shortcut that might strip away my voice. But in this conversation with Corey Koehler, I learned that when you set it up the right way, AI can actually amplify your voice and make your work better — and faster. Corey shares how he went from spending hours grinding through client work and side projects to building an AI-powered system that slashed his production time, boosted his income, and gave him more time with his family. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to create consistent content or build your business while keeping your family first, this episode will give you a clear, practical blueprint for making AI actually work for you — without losing your soul along the way. I want to hear from you! Send your feedback to https://streamlinedfeedback.com . Top Takeaways AI isn’t just for shortcuts — it’s an amplifier for your creativity and problem-solving if you build the right systems around it. Setting up "projects" inside ChatGPT (or Claude) lets you preload important context — like your business model, ideal customer, and writing style — so you're not starting from scratch every time. Authenticity still matters: letting AI write for you without human editing risks sounding bland and disconnected — “human in the loop” is key. Show Notes Corey’s Freebie Redefining Retirement Corey on LinkedIn Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Brain Friendly Systems for Professionals who want to Do It All with Skye Waterson 47:05

17 days ago47:05

47:05

My therapist recently asked if anyone had ever talked to me about ADHD. While I've never been formally diagnosed, that question sparked a journey into understanding how our brains work—especially when running a business. That's why I was thrilled to chat with Skye Waterson, an ADHD strategist who helps entrepreneurs build "brain-friendly" systems. Skye discovered her own ADHD during her PhD studies and has since developed an approach called "Unconventional Organisation" that works with your natural thinking patterns instead of against them. If you've ever found yourself with 30 browser tabs open, jumping between half-finished projects, or creating elaborate systems you abandon by Tuesday, this conversation might be exactly what you need. Skye's practical approach cuts through the noise and focuses on what actually moves your business forward while leaving room for you to be present with your family. I want to hear from you! Send your feedback to https://streamlinedfeedback.com . Top Takeaways Most of us genuinely have fewer than five truly urgent tasks each day—learning to identify what has actual external consequences versus what just feels urgent can instantly reduce overwhelm Create systems that match your natural processing style rather than forcing yourself to use tools that don't work for your brain Find dopamine sources outside your business—hobbies and interests prevent you from creating unnecessary complexity just to keep things exciting Show Notes ADHD Focus Filter Skye on Instagram (message “streamlined”) Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
How I’ve Configured my Stream Deck 21:13

24 days ago21:13

21:13

One of my favorite things to do at Disney World growing up was get on attractions and press all the buttons . They really made it feel like you were accomplishing things. Maybe that’s why I like the Stream Deck so much. I've been using Stream Decks for about five years now, starting with a 15-key model before expanding to a 32-key XL and adding two more devices to my setup. These programmable button panels have become an essential part of my workflow, helping me control everything from video production to home automation. While many see Stream Decks as tools just for streamers, I've integrated them deeply into my daily work—managing focus sessions, tracking time, controlling my lights, and executing shortcuts that save me dozens of clicks every day. They've become my personal control room that helps me work more efficiently and stay focused, whether I'm recording podcasts, creating videos, or doing deep work. Top Takeaways Stream Decks aren't just for streamers—they're incredibly versatile productivity tools that can automate repetitive tasks across your entire workflow, from video production to time tracking and home automation. Custom buttons with visual icons make actions more memorable than keyboard shortcuts, especially for complex or infrequently used commands that are hard to remember. Controlling my environment (like turning lights on/off, changing colors, or setting focus modes) with a single button press helps me transition between different work modes instantly, saving mental energy and reducing friction. ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
How I’m Prepping my Business for Vacation 22:04

4 weeks ago22:04

22:04

I solemnly swear I’ve never worked on a family vacation. Can you honestly say that? I can’t. From checking emails in Magic Kingdom to recording podcasts at the beach, I've been guilty of putting work before family time, even on vacation. After some not-so-great experiences (including a previous Disney trip that didn't go as planned), I've decided my upcoming Disney vacation with my family will be different. This time, I'm setting firm boundaries by not bringing my laptop, using devices like Brick to physically prevent me from checking emails in the parks, and setting clear expectations with clients. The truth is, most of us aren't handling truly mission-critical work—the world won't end if we're unreachable for a week. My kids are excited about this trip, and I refuse to be that parent staring at my phone while standing in "the happiest place on earth." Top Takeaways I'm leaving my laptop at home and only bringing an iPad with keyboard for genuine emergencies, making the "pain" of working greater than the "pain" of the emergency itself. Using tools like the Brick app and Focus mode lets me physically block myself from checking work communications while at Disney, helping maintain boundaries during family time. Setting proper expectations with clients in advance is crucial—I've already notified everyone I'm actively working with that I'll be completely unavailable and explained why. Practicing "willful forgetfulness" about work matters helps reduce anxiety—most things that feel urgent aren't truly emergencies, and my business is designed to function if I step away briefly. Show Notes Brick App - App used to block distractions during vacation Joe's Audio Notes - For follow-up thoughts after returning from Disney Newsletter Signup - To stay updated with the latest content Streamlined Feedback - To share how you handle work during vacations ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
3 Automations I’m Using in my Business (from Easy to Hard) 20:44

5 weeks ago20:44

20:44

You’ve probably seen Rube Goldberg machines — those ridiculous setups where a marble rolls down a track, flips a switch, lights a match, and somehow makes toast. They’re fun to watch… but terrible for actually getting anything done. That’s how most automations feel when you’re first starting out: over-engineered, fragile, and hard to maintain. But real business-saving automations? They don’t need to be complicated. In fact, some of the ones that save me the most time are stupidly simple. In this episode, I walk through three automations I actually use — starting with a single-app setup inside Notion, moving to a form-to-database connection, and ending with a wild (but wonderful) workflow that ties together a whole bunch of tools. And yes, that last one does feel like a Rube Goldberg machine… but it works beautifully. If you want to see how these work or grab templates, head to casabona.org/automation . Top Takeaways Start with simple, single-app automations. You’ll reduce points of failure and make it easier to trust your systems. The best automations evolve. I’ve been tweaking some of mine for years. Don’t build for complexity. Build for clarity, reliability, and ease. Show Notes Watch on YouTube My Automations Database Zapier Make Notion Tella Hazel Send feedback here! ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
How to Take a Sabbatical as a Solopreneur with Maegan Megginson 58:20

6 weeks ago58:20

58:20

The last time I went on vacation, I told people I wasn’t bringing my laptop. You know what they said? “Good job! That’s great.” The proper reaction should have been, “Obviously. Why would you bring work on vacation?” But that’s not the culture we live in here in the USA. Overworking and hustling is glorified. That’s why I’m excited to talk to Maegan Megginson. Maegan is a licensed therapist and holistic business mentor who believes every solopreneur can and should take sabbaticals—not just to rest, but to actually create a healthier, more sustainable business. In fact, she’s made sabbaticals a cornerstone of her business model and helps others do the same. We talked about how solopreneurs can actually make time for a sabbatical (even if you’re the breadwinner), what it looks like to step away without disappearing, and how to come back stronger, while avoiding burnout. This wasn’t some woo-woo talk about “finding yourself.” It was a practical, grounded look at how to create space in your business when it feels like the last thing you can afford to do. I want to hear from you! Send your feedback to https://streamlinedfeedback.com . Top Takeaways Sabbaticals aren’t vacations—they’re intentional periods of rest and reflection, more like a “season of winter” in your business. A four-week sabbatical gives your nervous system time to truly settle, with the first two weeks decompressing and the second two weeks offering space for clarity and creativity. Planning is key: figure out your financial needs and start saving so you can pay yourself while you're off. Show Notes Maegan Megginson’s Website Deeply Rested Podcast Join the Deeply Rested Newsletter Stephen Hackett’s Sabbatical My 2025 Yearly Theme Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Tools To Make Video Production Easier 17:08

7 weeks ago17:08

17:08

Remember when late-night hosts went remote during the pandemic and somehow looked worse than your average Zoom call? Even with massive budgets, their setups were rough. Meanwhile, I’ve managed to build a solo video production workflow that looks better than theirs — with no crew. In this episode, I walk through the tools and tech I use to replicate a full video studio by myself. I share how I record faster, cut editing time in half, and publish polished content — whether it’s courses, YouTube videos, or shorts — all without burning out. If video production has ever felt overwhelming to you, this is your permission to simplify. Top Takeaways You don’t need a crew — you need a system. With the right tools and prep, you can create professional-looking videos solo, without wasting hours on editing or setup. Ecamm Live is the command center. It handles everything — multiple cameras, screen sharing, overlays, and real-time scene switching — all mapped to buttons on my Stream Deck. Gling.ai cuts editing time by 80%. It automatically removes filler words, silences, and bad takes using transcript-based editing. It’s a total game-changer for long-form content. Tella is perfect for shorts and quick demos. It’s like what Loom should have been. I use it for social media clips, explainer videos, and coaching follow-ups Show Notes Luria’s Episode Ecamm Live (use code CASABONA for 15% off) Tella Gling.ai How I’ve Configured my Stream Deck ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Less Friction, More Authority: How to Show Up Confidently on Camera with Luria Petrucci 1:11:50

8 weeks ago1:11:50

1:11:50

Video is becoming an essential tool for solopreneurs, and having good camera presence can help you build trust and authority faster. But showing up well on video isn’t just about buying the right camera—it’s about understanding energy, framing, lighting, and how to create an engaging presence. I sat down with Luria Petrucci , a longtime video expert, to break down what solopreneurs need to know about looking and feeling confident on camera—without overcomplicating it. Plus, we dig into the psychology of video—how your background, body language, and even the way you use a teleprompter can make a huge difference in how your audience perceives you. If video has felt like a heavy lift, this episode will help you simplify the process and get started with a system that works for you. I want to hear from you! Send your feedback to https://streamlinedfeedback.com . Top Takeaways The camera steals energy – You need to bring 2-3x more energy than you think to avoid looking flat on screen. Good audio is more important than good video – Viewers will tolerate lower-quality visuals, but bad audio will make them tune out immediately. Perfection is a procrastination tool – Many solopreneurs overthink the tech instead of just hitting record and improving over time. Show Notes Luria’s Gear Checklist Luria's Lighting Guide Joe’s gear recommendations Bold Video Bundle Teleprompter Mastery Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Do You Have an AI Swipe File? 22:04

9 weeks ago22:04

22:04

I’ve been on a mission to help solopreneurs cut through friction—especially when it comes to using AI. And one major pain point? Staring at a blinking cursor, not knowing what to ask ChatGPT. If you’ve ever wasted time retyping prompts, getting inconsistent results, or forgetting what worked last time, this one’s for you. I finally built an AI swipe file—a collection of reusable prompts, templates, and context that lets me get better, faster results from tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini. In this episode, I break down how I’m using AI right now, what’s in my swipe file, how it saves me time, and which tools I use to manage everything. I also shared some prompts from listeners about how projects in ChatGPT are starting to replace parts of my swipe file. If you’ve been meaning to get more consistent with your AI usage—or want to avoid typing the same prompt for the 100th time—this is your sign to start a swipe file. Top Takeaways A swipe file isn’t just for copywriters—it’s a game-changer for AI. Think of it as SOPs for your AI tools: reusable prompts, saved context, and examples that give you consistent results without starting from scratch. ChatGPT Projects are starting to replace some of my swipe file needs by storing persistent context and instructions—great for repeatable tasks like show descriptions and editing guidance. AI is here to assist, not replace. Let it handle the scaffolding so you can focus on adding your personality and expertise on top. Want my actual swipe file? You’ll find it in my free automation database: streamlined.fm/join Show Notes TextExpander Streamlined Feedback Notion Obsidian Bear Notes Simplenote Raycast ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Why Solopreneurs Need to Embrace AI (the right way) with Damien Schreurs 49:45

10 weeks ago49:45

49:45

AI isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a game-changer for solopreneurs looking to streamline and automate their businesses. Or is it? I’ve always been AI hesitant, but I’ve also been using it a lot more. So today's guest, Damien Schreurs, and I discuss how AI is shifting from simple task automation to handling cognitive work, why people struggle to accept it, and how solopreneurs can embrace AI without losing their unique touch. We also get really in the weeds with AI-powered workflows that save time, reduce manual work, and help you focus on what matters most in your business. I want to hear from you! Send your feedback to https://streamlinedfeedback.com . For all of the links mentioned in this episode, go to https://streamlined.fm/468 Top Takeaways AI is the next big automation revolution. Just like electricity or the internet, AI is here to stay, and solopreneurs who adapt early will benefit the most. AI isn’t a robot—it’s an automation tool for thinking tasks. AI models don’t create original ideas, but they can analyze, summarize, and assist in decision-making. The best automation still needs human judgment. AI can process data, but it takes human experience to make strategic decisions and apply insights effectively. Show Notes Macpreneur Podcast & Website Joe Casabona on Macpreneur Should we use AI to write for us? The Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman & Michael Bhaskar AlphaGo Documentary AI Marketing Institute MindStudio Make.com Zapier Claude AI ChatGPT Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm Disclosure: ChatGPT generated most of this description from the episode’s transcript ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Unveiling my new Personal Brand with Hollie Arnett 39:55

11 weeks ago39:55

39:55

What started as a rebrand for Podcast Workflows turned into a full re-evaluation of my entire business. After conversations with my mastermind group and some deep reflection, I realized I wasn’t just serving podcasters—I was helping solopreneurs create space in their businesses through automation, systems, and smart workflows. Holly guided me through a brand strategy process that helped me clarify my audience, messaging, and positioning, leading to a full personal rebrand. For all of the links mentioned in this episode, go to https://streamlined.fm/467 Top Takeaways Niching down feels scary, but it makes it easier for the right people to find and hire you. Clarity in branding makes decision-making easier, from product offerings to content creation. A good brand should reflect your personality and values—mine even incorporates my love for baseball and spaciousness. Show Notes Niching down feels scary, but it makes it easier for the right people to find and hire you. Clarity in branding makes decision-making easier, from product offerings to content creation. A good brand should reflect your personality and values—mine even incorporates my love for baseball and spaciousness. ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Why Solopreneurs Need a Strong Personal Brand with Hollie Arnett 38:50

11 weeks ago38:50

38:50

Most solopreneurs already have a brand, whether they realize it or not—it's the perception people form about them based on their content, messaging, and presence. But without intentional branding, that perception is left to chance. Holly Arnett breaks down the difference between a personal brand and a business brand, the importance of branding beyond just logos and colors, and how a strong brand makes it easier to market yourself, attract the right clients, and streamline decision-making. Got something to say? Write in at https://streamlinedfeedback.com For all of the links mentioned in this episode, go to https://streamlined.fm/466 Top Takeaways A brand is not just colors and logos—it’s the perception people have of you. Branding is the process of shaping and controlling that perception intentionally. A strong personal brand makes you more recommendable—people should easily be able to describe what you do and who you help. Show Notes Hollie Arnett Makers and Moxie ★ Support this podcast ★…

Streamlined Solopreneur: Systems & Automation to Help Solopreneurs Reduce Friction

1
Shortcuts That Make Life Easier for Me 21:10

12 weeks ago21:10