How I Built It

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?

I’m done letting AI dictate my content strategy and worrying about episode number parity while my downloads tank. After months of overthinking tactics, I’m simplifying everything by making my podcast the center of my content universe. Here’s how I’m cutting through the decision fatigue and getting back to what actually works: showing up generously for my audience.Article: How I Let AI Ruin My Podcast Content StrategySend feedback at https://streamlinedfeedback.com This description was written by Claude AI. ★ Support this podcast ★

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” n

I’m wrestling with whether I’m becoming too dependent on AI for critical thinking, especially after it helped me create an entire quiz for my business. While I don’t use it for actual writing, I’ve noticed I’m defaulting to AI for brainstorming, research, and problem-solving more quickly than I used to. I’m exploring the line between helpful automation and potentially weakening my own thinking muscles.What do you think? Send feedback to https://streamlinedfeedback.com This episode description was written by Claude AI.This was also published on my Audio Notes only feed, Joe’s Audio Notes. Let me know if you want to see more episodes like this.  ★ Support this podcast ★

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 shinies

I always say to use what you’ll actually use. For Famous Ashley Grant, that’s Google Workspace. And today, she’s telling us all about how she uses it to manage literally everything in her life – from client work to meal planning.Ashley's story hit home for me. Before implementing her system, she was constantly working too many hours, missing deadlines, and snapping at loved ones over simple questions like "what's for dinner?" Now she has a full system inside Google Sheets – and you’re going to learn exactly how it works. Want access to my database of 40+ automations and AI prompts for free? Get it here: https://casabona.org/streamlined Top TakeawaysHaving a central system for capturing tasks, ideas, and deadlines frees up mental space and reduces stress - Ashley calls her client work "quests" and "quest givers" to make tracking work more funTreating yourself as a "client" in your productivity system ensures your personal projects actually get completedQuick capture is essential - immediately add things to you

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 fo

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 fam

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:/

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 l

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 ne

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 (o

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

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

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"

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 TakeawaysStart with simple, single-app automations. You’ll reduce points of failure and make it easier to tru

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 li

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 a

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 goo

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