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Displaying 21 - 40 of 508 in total

S2 #486

Stop Explaining What You Do and Start Showing It with Charlotte Crowther

Picture this: you're on a discovery call, your kids are making noise upstairs, and you're trying to explain what you do while mentally juggling dinner plans. Sound familiar? You're not alone—and there's a solution that goes way beyond just "trust me, I'm good."I sat down with Charlotte Crowther, the mastermind behind some of the most recognizable frameworks in online business, to uncover how signature frameworks can transform your entire business. From eliminating the dreaded "so what exactly do you do?" conversation to creating content that practically writes itself, Charlotte breaks down why visual frameworks aren't just pretty diagrams—they're business-changing systems.We dive into the hidden costs of winging it every time, why acronyms aren't always the answer, and how one simple visual can become the blood running through your business veins. Plus, you'll discover the one question every solopreneur should ask before creating their framework.Wondering how you can take your business from Chaos to Clarity? Take the Business Overwhelm Diagnostic.Special thanks to Kit for letting us use their studios! Learn more about them here.Top Takeaways:Frameworks are knowledge organizers, not just pretty visuals — they give structure to your expertise using both verbal and visual elements to help people understand faster and remember longer. Start with the outcome, not your content — instead of mining through your 100 newsletters for a framework, ask "what specific result do I want to enable?" then design backwards from there.Your framework becomes your business operating system — it informs your content strategy, sales conversations, course structure, and even team training, creating consistency across everything you do.Show NotesSignatureFramework.coSponsor MagnetUnveiling my Personal Brand with Hollie ArnettLeave Feedback at streamlinedfeedback.com
S2 #485

How to Keep Up With AI Without Losing Your Mind with Charlie Guo

Remember when ChatGPT first came out and it felt revolutionary? Well, that was just the beginning. Things are moving so fast in the AI world that by the time you figure out one tool, three new ones have launched. That's exactly why I brought Charlie Guo on the show—he's an AI engineer who actually understands this stuff and can explain it without making your head spin.We talked about what's actually happening behind the scenes with AI right now, why most "AI agents" aren't really what they claim to be, and Charlie's brilliant system for turning your random thoughts into polished blog posts. If you're feeling overwhelmed trying to keep up with AI while juggling your business and family, this episode will help you cut through the hype and focus on what can actually save you time.Feeling overwhelmed in your business? Take the Business Overwhelm Diagnostic. Top TakeawaysAI got way better at thinking things through, which is likely why we’ve seen an explosion in tools and use. They are much better at “reasoning” now.Most "AI agents" are just fancy automation tools that follow scripts you set up, not true assistants that can figure things out on their own and take action without your constant guidance.AI is finally starting to connect to your actual apps (like your email, calendar, and project management tools), which means we're getting closer to having a real digital assistant that can do stuff for you.You can turn car ride rambling into first drafts by recording voice memos of your ideas, then having AI organize them into actual articles—no more staring at blank screens.Let AI handle the grunt work, but keep the good stuff for yourself—use it for research and organizing, but don't let it write your insights or replace your personal voice that connects with people.Test AI with your own tasks every few months to see what it can actually do for your specific business instead of getting caught up in all the marketing hype about what it might do someday.Show NotesThe State of AI EngineeringTutorial: How to streamline your writing process with Whisper and GPT-4Dealing with AI Fatigue
S2 #484

When AI Writes Your Code: Success, Horror Stories, and What's Next with Susan Boles

Remember when coding meant years of computer science classes and debugging late into the night? Well, things have changed. I recently sat down with Susan Bowles, founder and fellow solopreneur, to dive into the world of "vibe coding" — essentially describing what you want to AI and having it write all the code for you.While I had a nearly flawless experience with ChatGPT writing 2,000 lines of WordPress code for an underscoped client project, Susan's journey with Google Scripts was more of a write-test-fail-repeat cycle. We explored how this technology is reshaping not just how we build things, but potentially eliminating entry-level programming positions while creating new challenges around security and best practices.The conversation took an interesting turn when I shared my recent Claude horror story — what started as a simple quiz creation turned into building an entire WordPress plugin, only to realize I should have just used Gravity Forms from the beginning. Sometimes the smartest tool isn't the shiniest one.Special thanks to Kit for letting us use their studios! Learn more about them hereWant my AI Swipe file? Go here: https://streamlined.fm/automationTop TakeawaysVibe coding works best when you already understand the fundamentals — AI is great at writing code, but terrible at making decisions about what that code should actually doSecurity remains a major blind spot — AI will happily tell you to put API keys in plain text unless you know enough to question itThe technology excels at helping you execute cool ideas quickly and get to beta testing faster, but shouldn't be the foundation of a fundable businessShow NotesPart 2 of this conversation on "Calm is the New KPI"My previous episode: "I Vibe Coded a Client Project"Cortex podcastAustin ChurchChatGPTClaudeLovableZapierMake.comConvertKit (now Kit)streamlinedfeedback.comDisclaimer: Claude pretty much wrote this whole description based on the transcript.
S2 #482

Ask Me Anything: Automation Questions Roundup

It’s an Automation AMA! From scheduling social media content to making kids' lunches (yes, really), fellow solopreneurs shared their biggest time-wasters. I ended up creating custom automation solutions for everything from podcast guest research to email management.Special thanks to Kit for letting me record in their Studios! I highly recommend them for email and newsletters!Get my free automations database at **https://streamlined.fm/automation** (powered by Kit, natch)Top TakeawaysSocial media scheduling can be mostly automated using a this kind of workflow: keep video details in Notion or Google Sheets, trigger Zapier when updated, and automatically schedule posts through Buffer or similar tools.Email overwhelm has multiple solutions including using Sanebox and Todoist for organization, plus Zapier watching for specific emails by subject or sender to automatically process them with custom workflows.Podcast guest research becomes manageable with tools like PodMatch for automated guest suggestions, intake forms for self-selection, and Google Alerts or PodScan to identify experts in your niche.AI transcription and summarization saves hours on client calls by automatically processing Zoom transcripts through ChatGPT with custom prompts for different call types (discovery, coaching, etc.).YouTube chapter creation gets easier when you use tools like Ecamm Live's marker button during recording, then search edited transcripts for your noted timestamps instead of relying on AI timing.The "one platform, do it well" approach beats spreading yourself thin across all social media—pick LinkedIn or another single platform and focus your automation efforts there.Show NotesSee the entire conversation hereHow I Keep my Email at Inbox ZeroAutomate Email Management with SaneBoxMy Brown M&M for Podcast Guest PitchingGrowth in Reverse PodcastPodMatchSanebox - Email filtering serviceTodoist - Task managementBuffer - Social media schedulingZapier - Automation platformNotion - All-in-one workspaceEcamm Live - Live streaming softwarepodscan.fm
S2 #481

My 4-App Travel System That Saves Hours of Trip Planning

I'm recording from Kit Studios in Boise while attending conferences, which got me thinking about something crucial to my business success—my travel system. As someone who travels frequently for networking and conferences, I've developed a streamlined approach that keeps me organized and stress-free on the road.My system revolves around two essential apps: Flighty for flight tracking (which often knows about delays before airlines do) and Apple Notes for keeping all trip information in one easily accessible place. But the real magic happens with my "New Trip" shortcut that automates the entire trip planning process—from creating calendar events to generating custom packing lists based on trip length and type.I also swear by checking bags instead of dealing with carry-ons, mainly because I travel with items that can't go through security, but also because it lets me move through airports quickly with just my backpack. Plus, I share some thoughts on Southwest's recent policy changes and how they might affect family-friendly travel.Special thanks to Kit for letting me record in their Studios! I highly recommend them for email and newsletters!Get my free automations database at https://streamlined.fm/automation (powered by Kit, natch)Top Takeaways:Flighty is a game-changer for frequent travelers — it provides real-time flight tracking with AI forecasting that often alerts you to delays before airlines do, plus it tracks connections and terminal transfer timesCreate a "New Trip" shortcut to automate trip planning — mine calculates trip length, adds calendar events, generates custom packing lists, and creates project templates in one tapSet up dedicated travel and conference focus modes — customize your home screen with essential widgets (time at home, flight info, maps) and silence non-essential notificationsLinksMy iPhone Focus ModesFlighty - Flight tracking app with AI forecastingApple Notes - For trip organization and quick referenceWidgetsmith - For custom widgets (QR code display)Whisper Memos - Voice note recordingTicci Tabs - Bookmark manager appTodoist - Project management for work tasksApple Reminders - For packing lists and personal tasksMacSparky - David Sparks' site (source of packing list shortcut inspiration)Send Feedback
S2 #480

My iPhone Focus Modes

I've been on a mission to use my phone way less this year, sparked by reading The Anxious Generation and that magical Disney World trip where I barely touched my phone. The solution? iPhone focus modes - my secret weapon for controlling the fire hose of information instead of letting it control me.Think about it: you finally sit down to get some real work done, and your phone starts buzzing with calendar alerts, group chats going off, and random notifications. It's enough to make you want to throw it out the window.Focus modes let you take back control by choosing exactly who and what can reach you in different contexts.I've crafted focus modes for every part of my day - from the gym to my ultra-strict "Green Zone" mode for deep work (where I can literally only see time tracking widgets). Each mode has custom home screens, specific apps, and even changes my Apple Watch face to match what I'm doing.*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 TakeawaysFocus modes are custom "Do Not Disturb" profiles that let you control which people and apps can interrupt you based on what you're doing - think of them as digital boundaries for different parts of your day.You can automate focus modes to turn on based on time, location, or when you open specific apps, so you don't have to remember to switch them manually (my fitness mode turns on when I get to the gym, personal mode kicks in at 6 PM).The goal isn't to be unreachable, it's to be present - focus modes help you context switch with intention instead of fighting your phone for the ability to concentrate on what matters in that moment.Show NotesScreenshots: Lock Screens | Home Screens | Focus ModesThe Anxious GenerationScreenTime+OpalFlightyFitBodEcamm LiveFantasticalThe BrickMy 2025 Yearly ThemeLeave Feedback at https://streamlinedfeedback.comCheck out all of my shows at https://network.streamlined.fm
S2 #479

We’re Trying No Summer Camp AGAIN

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/streamlinedTop TakeawaysThe 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.
S2 #478

I Vibe Coded a Client Project

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 TakeawaysVibe 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 halfAlways 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 codeShow NotesI built an app with AI and now I’m scared for WordPressHow to vibe code: 11 vibe coding best practices to start building with AI
S2 #477

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

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 TakeawaysAI 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 NotesCorey’s FreebieRedefining RetirementCorey on LinkedInCheck out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm 
S2 #476

Brain Friendly Systems for Professionals who want to Do It All with Skye Waterson

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 TakeawaysMost 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 overwhelmCreate systems that match your natural processing style rather than forcing yourself to use tools that don't work for your brainFind dopamine sources outside your business—hobbies and interests prevent you from creating unnecessary complexity just to keep things excitingShow NotesADHD Focus FilterSkye on Instagram (message “streamlined”)  Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm 
S2 #475

How I’ve Configured my Stream Deck

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 TakeawaysStream 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.
S2 #474

How I’m Prepping my Business for Vacation

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 TakeawaysI'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 NotesBrick App - App used to block distractions during vacationJoe's Audio Notes - For follow-up thoughts after returning from DisneyNewsletter Signup - To stay updated with the latest contentStreamlined Feedback - To share how you handle work during vacations
S2 #472

How to Take a Sabbatical as a Solopreneur with Maegan Megginson

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 TakeawaysSabbaticals 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 NotesMaegan Megginson’s WebsiteDeeply Rested PodcastJoin the Deeply Rested NewsletterStephen Hackett’s SabbaticalMy 2025 Yearly ThemeCheck out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm 
S2 #471

Tools To Make Video Production Easier

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 TakeawaysYou 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-upsShow NotesLuria’s EpisodeEcamm Live (use code CASABONA for 15% off)TellaGling.aiHow I’ve Configured my Stream Deck
S2 #470

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

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 TakeawaysThe 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 NotesLuria’s Gear ChecklistLuria's Lighting GuideJoe’s gear recommendationsBold Video BundleTeleprompter MasteryCheck out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm 
S2 #469

Do You Have an AI Swipe File?

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 TakeawaysA 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/joinShow NotesTextExpanderStreamlined FeedbackNotionObsidianBear NotesSimplenoteRaycast
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