AI for Business Owners: Is Claude CoWork Better Than ChatGPT?

If you’re a solo business owner who’s been using ChatGPT, you’ve probably wondered whether Claude is worth looking into.

This episode gives you a clear, practical breakdown so you can make an informed decision without guessing.

Marisa shares her own experience adding Claude Cowork to her tech stack and explains what’s actually different about the Cowork feature.

This episode is for solo business owners who regularly create content. If you’re writing newsletters, producing podcasts, building courses, or managing social media on your own, this comparison will help you decide which tool fits your work.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Why Claude CoWork and ChatGPT are built for different things, and how to use that to your advantage
• What the Claude Cowork feature actually does and why it’s different from a regular AI chat
• How a simple folder system can eliminate the back-and-forth of uploading files every session
• How Claude’s skills can act like a team of specialists on demand
• How to move your ChatGPT memory directly into Claude without starting over
• The right AI tool is the one that matches how you work. Once you understand what each tool was built to do, using AI gets a lot simpler.

 

Key Podcast Takeaways

• ChatGPT helps you think. Claude helps you build and execute.
• You can’t push AI to its full potential until you understand what it was built to do.
• As a solo business owner, AI doesn’t replace your thinking; it supports your execution.

 

Key Quotes to Remember

“ChatGPT helps you think. Claude helps you build and execute.”

“You can’t push AI to its full potential until you understand what it was built to do.”

“It doesn’t replace your thinking — it supports your execution. And that’s a big difference.”

 

Running a solo business means doing everything yourself. That gets exhausting, and it slows you down.

AI Lab for Soloprenurs helps you use AI in ways that actually fit your business. You’ll stay current, work faster, and finally feel like you’re ahead instead of catching up.

Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.   https://www.marisashadrick.com/community

 

Follow Marisa on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

If this episode was helpful, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe and leave a comment.

How to Leave a Podcast Review

Thanks so much for your support!

 

Watch Episode #149 on YouTube

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority Podcast

Episode #149

Marisa Shadrick 

Introduction

If you’re a solo business owner who’s been tinkering with ChatGPT and wondering whether Claude is worth exploring, this episode is for you. I’m going to give you a clear breakdown of Claude, Claude Cowork, and how it compares to ChatGPT so you can make an informed decision.

Welcome to the Amplify Your Authority podcast. I’m your host, Marisa Shadrick. I’m glad you’re here.

The Overwhelm Solo Business Owners Feel

I recently looked back at some old journal entries. One stood out. I had written: “I can’t go at this pace. Something’s got to give.”

That may resonate with you. A solo business owner wears many hats. We create content, write social posts, build courses and webinars, design email sequences, and make every business decision ourselves. That is a lot of brain power.

When AI arrived in 2022, I jumped on board. I knew I needed help. ChatGPT served me well. I had trained it to write in my voice, and we had a comfortable working relationship. But AI is not just about writing. Technology can help us with so much more than just answering questions or generating text.

Why Marisa Started Looking at Claude

This year, I decided to take a closer look at Claude because of a new feature it introduced: Claude Cowork.

Before I explain that, let me give you some background. Most AI language models offer subscriptions. Free versions exist, but they have usage limits. Paid tiers run around $20 per month. For what these tools can do, that price surprised me at first. But the technology has grown significantly since its early days.

Claude’s Background and History

Claude is Anthropic’s flagship product. It was founded in 2021 by siblings Dario and Daniela Amodei, along with other former OpenAI researchers.

In 2022, the model was being trained and tested internally. That same year, ChatGPT launched publicly and got a lot of attention. Claude was still in development. It was publicly launched in 2023.

In 2024, Anthropic introduced the Claude family: a set of models that includes Opus, Sonnet, and Haiku. From 2024 to 2025, both Claude and ChatGPT underwent frequent updates. In 2026, Claude introduced Cowork. That is when I got my subscription and committed to taking a closer look.

All of these rapid changes can feel overwhelming. But we are still in the early stages of AI development. Companies like Anthropic have major investors, including Amazon and Google. OpenAI has Microsoft behind it. The competition between these tools benefits us. The tools keep getting better, and right now the price has stayed steady.

Claude Models Explained: Opus, Sonnet, and Haiku

Here is a quick overview of the current Claude models as of this recording.

Opus is the most intelligent. It is best for hard problems, deep analysis, and complex code. Sonnet balances intelligence and value. It is great for daily work, coding, and long documents. Haiku is built for speed and low cost. It handles quick answers and simple tasks well.

The more a model thinks, the slower it runs, but the more accurate the output. You can use Opus for analysis or complex tasks, then switch back to a lighter model for simpler work. That way, you preserve your token usage.

How Tokens Work and What to Expect

Each Claude subscription includes a set number of tokens. Tokens are used when you work in Claude chat or in Cowork. More complex tasks use more tokens.

In my experience, even working heavily inside Claude Cowork on big tasks like building code and doing deep analysis, I only hit the token limit twice in three weeks. And when I did, I only had to wait a few hours before I could continue. You do not have to wait a full day or week. It just needs a short break, and then you are back to work.

For solo business owners doing content work, the basic tier should be more than enough.

Extended Thinking Mode

Extended thinking is not a model. It is a mode. You can toggle it on for any model to have Claude work through a problem more carefully.

When you turn it on, Claude takes extra time before responding. It breaks the problem into steps, explores options, and plans its approach. This uses more tokens but produces a more thorough output. For solo business owners doing content work, you probably will not need it often. But it is there when you do.

What Claude Cowork Is and How to Access It

When you open Claude in a browser, you will not see Cowork. It is only available through the Claude desktop app, which you download to your computer.

Once installed, you can pin it to your taskbar and open it whenever you need it. Inside the app, you will see all the same features as the browser, plus a few extras. One of them is Cowork. There is a button at the top that lets you switch between Cowork and chat.

Cowork moved me from conversation to collaboration. It was designed for office work. It can handle complex backend tasks and give you polished, finished output. I will explain more in a moment.

How Claude Reads Your Folders

Once Claude is on your desktop, you can give it permission to access a specific folder on your computer. It can then read everything inside that folder, including any subfolders.

It can read transcripts, screenshots, notes, research documents, and more. You do not have to upload files the way you do in ChatGPT. You simply give Claude access to the folder, and it can see everything inside it.

Here is how I set mine up. I organize my content by topic. Each topic gets its own folder. Inside that folder, I put my research, my perspective on the topic, any lead magnets or diagrams related to it, and anything else I have created around that subject. When I am ready to create new content, Claude already has everything it needs.

How Skills Work in Claude Cowork

Once Claude has access to your folder, the next step is deciding what you want it to create. Many of us repurpose content across multiple formats: email newsletters, blog posts, podcast show notes, LinkedIn articles, and social media posts. In Claude Cowork, you create a skill for each one of those assets.

A skill is like an expert. Each skill knows the exact format, word count, tone, and flow for that specific piece of content. If you want show notes, that skill knows how to deliver them. If you want a blog post, that skill knows how to structure it.

I spent about two weeks building 10 to 12 skills for everything I produce each week. Now, when I am in Cowork, I can simply say, “write this week’s Monday Marketing Memo,” and Claude already knows which skill to use. I do not even have to name the skill. It picks it up from context.

Once a piece is done, I can review it, save it, and move on. Then I say, “write a blog post,” and Claude passes the work to the next skill. It is like handing off a baton from one expert to the next.

Creating Multiple Content Pieces from One Topic

The final step in my workflow is social media. I have a skill for that too. It pulls a quote, creates carousel copy, writes a 60-second reel script, drafts a text-only post, and more. All from the same topic folder.

This matters for solo business owners because when content creation takes longer than it should, something else does not get done. And the internal cost is even higher. You feel overwhelmed. You feel like you are never catching up. You cannot take the time to think about your next launch or promotion.

Having that weight removed changes everything. It also removed the frustration I used to feel about social media. It used to be a time drain. Now it is fast, and the content is better.

Why This Matters for Solo Business Owners

Think of Claude Cowork as a smart assistant that can not only read your documents but also take initiative. That is a big difference from a chat tool that just answers questions.

You give it a big job, and it breaks it into smaller steps. It asks questions if something is unclear. And it runs code behind the scenes when the task requires it.

For example, if you need a PowerPoint presentation, you can ask Claude to create one. Give it your topic, your key points, and the number of slides you want. You can even provide your brand kit with specific fonts, your logo, and your brand colors. The output is usually 90 to 95 percent finished. There are very few tweaks needed.

That level of output allowed me to cancel a separate tool I was using just for PowerPoint creation. I expect that pattern to continue. The more sophisticated these tools become, the fewer tools we will need. I think most solo business owners will eventually get down to one, two, or maybe three core tools.

Claude vs ChatGPT: The Real Difference

Claude is not just another ChatGPT. If you already use ChatGPT and are wondering whether to make a change, here is something worth knowing. You can transfer your ChatGPT memory directly into Claude.

Inside Claude’s settings, there is a prompt you can copy and paste into ChatGPT. ChatGPT will then produce everything it knows about you and your preferences. You copy that output and paste it into Claude. Claude is now ready to go with the same knowledge your other AI had. You do not have to start from scratch.

Now, should you switch? That depends on your business and how you work.

ChatGPT is excellent for brainstorming, quick answers, ideation, conversational back-and-forth, and research. It is great when you need clarity or want to compare options. Its image generation has also improved significantly.

Claude is excellent for multi-step tasks, working within your files, and producing finished output.

The simplest way I can say it: ChatGPT helps you think. Claude helps you build and execute.

Claude’s coding strength is what enables it to generate slide decks, diagrams, PDFs, and structured documents at such a high level. That is why so many developers have used it. And that same strength is what makes it so powerful for content workflows.

AI Still Needs Your Review

AI tools are not perfect. They are getting better, but you still need to review everything.

Watch for statements that seem absolute without a clear source. Ask Claude where the information came from. Watch for word choices that do not quite match your voice. Most of the time, the output will be 90 to 95 percent ready. But you do still need to review it.

One tip for editing: use the read-aloud feature in Google Drive or Microsoft Word. When we read our own writing, our brain often fills in missing words automatically. Having it read back to you helps you catch what you might otherwise miss.

Where to Start: Simple First Steps

Here is a simple place to begin.

Start thinking of each week’s content as one topic. Create a folder for that topic. Put everything related to it in that folder. That single shift will help you stay focused and make Claude much more effective.

Next, create your first skill for the one thing you do every single week. If the idea of writing a skill prompt feels intimidating, use ChatGPT to help you write it. These tools are not competing with each other. ChatGPT will help you draft the prompt, and you paste it into Claude. You may need to refine it a couple of times, but you will get there.

After one session, you will likely know whether this is a game-changer for your business.

Final Takeaway

Not every tool is right for every business. But if you are a solo business owner creating regular content, a tool like Claude Cowork is worth exploring.

You can’t push AI to its full potential until you understand what it was built to do.

Until next time, take care.

How Do My Articles Get Discovered? 3 Steps to Rank in AI Search

You’ve written the blog post. You’ve done the research. You hit publish, and nothing happens. If that sounds familiar, the problem likely isn’t your consistency. It’s how your content is structured.

Search has changed. AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google’s AI Overview now pull answers directly from published content. That means the articles that get found are the ones built for both human readers and AI search engines. The old approach of volume and keywords is no longer enough.

This episode is for solopreneurs who are tired of writing content that sits unseen. Marisa walks through a practical, three-part approach for writing long-form content that is discoverable without chasing trends or burning out.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Why posting consistently still leaves some articles invisible, and what determines whether content gets found
• How AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google’s AI Overview decide which articles to surface and reference
• What does it mean to write for two target audiences at once, and why skipping one of them costs you visibility
• How to use your past content to identify the 3–5 topic pillars your audience wants
• Why the structure of your article matters more than the word count, and what AI is scanning for
• The one bonus formatting tip that AI search engines favor in blog posts
• Why a small library of well-structured articles can outperform years of inconsistent posting

 

Key Podcast Takeaways

• Structure and clarity matter more than posting frequency because one well-built article has a longer shelf life than dozens of rushed ones
• Writing for AI search engines means answering the main question at the top, using clear subheads, and including standalone statements that AI can quote
• Solopreneurs can compete with larger brands by going deeper on fewer topics rather than trying to match volume

 Key Quotes to Remember

“Consistency isn’t the problem anymore, and many are burning out just trying to put out more content thinking that it’s going to change something.”

“Well-written long-form content has a long shelf life. One strong discoverable article can bring new readers month after month.”

“Consistency is a habit, but discoverability is a strategy. You need both and you can do both.”

 

You don’t need to post more; you need to post smarter. When you build content around clear topics, structure it for both readers and AI, and commit to depth over volume, your articles keep working long after you publish them.

Marisa Shadrick

AI Marketing Strategist & Certified Copywriter 

 

Download this free resource…

Learn how to research ideas that turn into credible content your audience trusts: https://learn.marisashadrick.com/research

 Ready to Use AI the Right Way in Your Business?

The AI Lab for Solopreneurs is a private membership community where Marisa shows coaches, consultants, and service providers how to use AI ethically and strategically — not just faster.

You’ll get custom prompts, AI skills development, graphic templates, mini courses, and live coaching calls.

The price is currently $37/month. It goes up to $49 in April.

Join here: marisashadrick.com/community

 

Follow Marisa on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

If this episode was helpful, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe and leave a comment.

How to Leave a Podcast Review

Thanks so much for your support!

 

Watch Episode #148 on YouTube

 

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your AuthorityEpisode #148The Problem with Content That Goes Unseen

In this episode, we’re talking about what makes long-form content discoverable so you can leverage organic marketing.

 

A lot of people love to write. With AI, people are writing even more content. But they’re finding it isn’t discoverable. It’s not bringing traffic to their blog posts the way they hoped.

 

Search is changing. We must adapt. We’re going to talk about how to structure your article, so it has a better chance of being discovered by AI search engines and indexed by Google.

 

Addressing Misconceptions

Let’s start with some common misconceptions. Many people say you post more consistently and on many platforms.

 

Consistency can work. However, if the content isn’t structured correctly, it doesn’t matter how frequently you post. It’s not going to get the traction you’re looking for.

 

Before we focus on consistency or try to publish everywhere, we need to go back to the basics. It’s not complicated. You can implement this easily when you’re writing content.

 

The Consistency Trap

Let’s talk about the consistency trap. That advice made sense when volume drove reach. But that’s only part of the story now.

 

You can post every single day and still be invisible. The frustration isn’t the work behind writing articles. It’s having those articles sit there without being seen or read.

 

We’ve all been there. You spend a long time researching. You come up with a great idea. You write the blog post. You do everything you think you need to do — and it’s crickets.

 

Some people then look at what’s working for others and try to copy it. But that copycat method often doesn’t work because it isn’t aligned with their audience or their pillar content.

 

Consistency isn’t the problem anymore. Many people are burning out just trying to put out more content, thinking it’s going to change something.

 

How Search Has Changed

So, what has actually changed? Search has changed. It’s time to adapt — especially as solo business owners.

 

Google’s AI Overview, Gemini, ChatGPT, and Perplexity are now pulling answers from published content. These platforms favor articles that are clearly structured, answer a real question, and align with a defined topic. The old approach was volume and keywords. The new approach is clarity, depth, and structure.

 

Google itself says what matters is whether content is genuinely useful and written for people — not whether it manipulates rankings. They also use the acronym E-E-A-T, which stands for experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness.

 

Finding Your Content Pillars

You might wonder how to avoid talking about only one topic. You can use past content to figure out what your content pillars are.

 

If you publish on YouTube or have a podcast, go to the platform where your audio or video is uploaded. You can also look at newsletters or blog posts. Extract that content and have AI analyze it. That gives you valuable information about which pieces of content resonated most with your audience.

 

From there, choose 3 to 5 pillar topics. This helps you either create or refine your content pillars — and you’ll know your audience wants to hear about them because the data confirms it.

 

Here’s something many people don’t realize well-written long-form content has a long shelf life. One strong, discoverable article can bring new readers month after month.

 

Step 1: Write for Two Audiences

So what does a discoverable article look like? There are three things that make an article discoverable. Let’s go through each one.

 

Number one: you’re writing for two target audiences. The first is your ideal reader — a human. The second is AI search engines like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google.

 

You have to take a topic and refine it for your audience. But you also need to create a structure that AI search engines can find.

 

That means answering the main question right at the top of the article — not buried below. It also means using clear subheadings that signal to AI what the article is about. Keep the article tight.

 

When I was learning to write articles, I was taught to include sticky statements — think of them as tweetable quotes woven into your paragraphs. This is what AI likes. It can scan and find those standalone statements. It can pull them and use them as answers to a question.

 

A Resource to Help You

I want to take a moment to tell you about AI Lab for Solopreneurs. Inside, you’ll access on-demand training on ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and more. Join monthly AI coaching calls so you never fall behind. Use custom GPTs built for your business, done-for-you Canva templates, and a growing AI resource library.

 

These trainings turn complexity into simplicity for solopreneurs. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee at marisashadrick.com/community.

 

Step 2: Build Around Topics, Not Keywords First

Step two: build around topics, not keywords first. You can add keywords later once you’ve chosen your topic.

 

Ask yourself: what do I teach, or what do I sell? What educational content can I create around that — rather than chasing trends?

 

I use research to analyze everything — my audience, their needs, competitors, even trends. Then I decide what type of content I can deliver that fits within my content pillars. Once I decide on a topic, I do deep research on it.

 

That research can feel overwhelming at first. But I’ll share a resource later that simplifies the process. It gives you so much useful information to shape your personal insights based on credible data.

 

This helps you create rich, long-form content — we’re talking about 1,200 to 2,000 words. That depth is what makes an article comprehensive enough for AI to favor it, if it’s structured correctly.

 

Step 3: Structure Your Content

Step three brings us to structure your content.

 

Answer the question in the first paragraph. Someone scanning your article should be able to tell what it’s about just from the subheadings. Your subheadings should reflect the questions your audience is asking online or the answers they’re seeking.

 

Cover the topic thoroughly from all angles. This builds credibility and authority. If you’ve done research and can cite sources, that’s even better. This isn’t about word count. It’s about creating depth and making the article genuinely useful for the reader.

 

Bonus tip: If your article would benefit from frequently asked questions, add 4 or 5 of them. Include the question and the answer. AI loves this format. It’s primarily recommended for blog posts, but you can test it and see if it works for you.

 

Why the Long Game Matters

So why does all this matter? Because we’re playing a long game.

 

You spend a lot of time writing articles and blog posts. You want to position yourself for longevity — not just check something off your content calendar. You want your content to provide value for you and your readers on an ongoing basis, month after month.

 

When you consistently publish within a defined topic area, you become known for that topic. You become the expert. That matters for your brand, your audience, and for AI search engines.

 

If you deviate too often to follow a trend, you dilute the signal. This matters especially for solopreneurs. We can’t compete with large organizations that have entire teams creating content. But you can compete in depth and clarity.

 

Long-form content helps readers understand you, your business, your brand, and your perspective. They see your frameworks. They begin to know you in a way that short-form content doesn’t allow.

 

If you’ve been inconsistent, don’t feel guilty. A small library of long-form content that’s structured well and focused will outperform years of inconsistent posting. Know your value and build your topic authority.

 

How to Move Forward

Let’s make this practical.

 

Stop worrying about posting all the time, chasing trends, or trying to game the algorithm. That’s exhausting. Instead, ask yourself: do I have 3 to 5 content pillars?

 

Then make sure your articles are structured properly. Inside the AI Lab, we work on this. The structure can differ between a blog post and a LinkedIn newsletter, so create a template for each format.

 

Do your research. You want credible statistics, various insights, pros and cons, consumer perspectives, and audience pain points.

 

I have a free resource you can download that gives you prompts to get the best research from an AI tool — and a second prompt to pull insights and align them to your content pillars. Go to MarissaShadrick.com/research.

 

Final Thought

Consistency is a habit. But discoverability is a strategy. You need both — and you can have both.

 

Slow down a little. Do good research. Create templates that align with the type of long-form content you’re writing. Then watch what it can do.

 

Thanks for tuning in. Until next time, take care.

The Wrong Way to Use AI

Most solopreneurs started using AI to save time,  and it worked, at least at first. Content came out faster. Tasks got done quicker. But speed came with a cost, and many are now seeing the consequences of that approach.

This episode takes an honest look at how AI has been used over the past two years and why using it only for content production is the wrong way to use AI. If your engagement has dropped or your results feel flat, this episode is for you.

Marisa shares what she believes is the real power of AI for solopreneurs, and it has less to do with what it writes and more to do with what it can analyze, systematize, and improve behind the scenes.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Why cranking out content faster may actually be hurting your business
• What Merriam-Webster’s 2025 word of the year reveals about where AI adoption went sideways
• The backend use case for AI that most solopreneurs are completely overlooking
• Why researchers say audiences are developing an “AI suspicion penalty,” and what that means for your trust
• The difference between using AI as a content machine versus using it as a thinking partner
• Three specific ways to use AI that can actually move your business forward

 

Key Podcast Takeaways

AI is more valuable as a backend systems tool than a content production tool

Your audience wants your voice and your perspective — speed cannot replace trust

The question you bring to AI matters more than the tool itself

 

Key Quotes to Remember

“AI isn’t really a productivity tool. It’s not about how fast we can crank things out.”

“AI is only as strategic as the person directing it. Point it at captions and it writes captions. Point it at your business and it builds systems.”

“Your audience doesn’t need more content from you necessarily. They need you, your voice, and your perspective.”

The tool hasn’t changed, but the question you bring to it can change everything.

This year is the year to move AI from the front end to the back end and use it in a way that actually builds your business.

 

Marisa Shadrick

AI Marketing Strategist & Certified Copywriter

 

Ready to Use AI the Right Way in Your Business?

The AI Lab for Solopreneurs is a private membership community where Marisa shows coaches, consultants, and service providers how to use AI ethically and strategically — not just faster.

You’ll get custom prompts, AI skills development, graphic templates, mini courses, and live coaching calls.

The price is currently $37/month. It goes up to $49 in April.

Join here: marisashadrick.com/community

 

Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 

Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 

Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

If this episode was helpful, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe and leave a comment.

Thanks so much for your support!

 

Watch Episode #147 on YouTube How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority Podcast

Episode 147

The Wrong Way to Use AI — And What Solopreneurs Should Do Instead

The Rush to Use AI

If you’ve been using AI to write captions, draft emails, and knock out content faster, that’s not a bad place to start. However, that rush to use AI for quick tasks is the very reason so many of us are using it wrong. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Today, we’re going to talk about the ethical way to use AI.

Welcome to the Amplify Your Authority podcast. I’m your host, Marisa Shadrick. Today, we’re diving into a loaded topic: AI use. There are a lot of different views and perspectives out there.

How AI Adoption Evolved

Some people love AI. Others resist it. What I want to share is what I’ve seen evolve over the last few years.

In 2024, many people dug their heels in. They didn’t want to use AI, and there was real resistance. Then they started experimenting. They said, “Wow, I can actually produce things pretty quickly.” So 2025 became the year of testing — playing in the sandbox, so to speak.

What did that produce? It helped us do a lot of things faster. But there was a consequence. Now we have to look at AI differently and ask: how can we use it to improve the bottom line, create more clients, and serve people better — without burning out?

AI Isn’t Really a Productivity Tool

The big attraction was saving time. But AI isn’t really a productivity tool. It felt that way at first because we were cranking things out faster. Watching words appear on the screen was compelling and fun.

We soon realized, though, that the output wasn’t the greatest. AI was pulling from the internet, mixing it up, and giving it back to us. Chances are someone else had already said the same thing somewhere else. That’s why we started seeing so many em dashes, the word “delve,” and a similar rhythm across posts. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

The Real Question

AI isn’t about how fast we can produce. It’s about how efficiently we can do what we’re already doing — and how we can use it to improve, analyze, and work alongside us.

The choice isn’t “don’t use it” or “use it for everything.” The real question is: how do we coexist with AI? Because it’s here to stay. Every industry is implementing some form of AI integration. We’re going to adapt and adjust. But we can decide for ourselves how we’re going to use it — with integrity and as responsible content creators.

The problem isn’t the tool. It’s our focus. The pressure to produce more has always existed. But do we have to lean into that? Can we lean into quality instead? Can we lean into our own perspectives, experiences, skills, and backgrounds?

The Human Is Always in the Loop

People often say there needs to be a human-in-the-loop. I think the human is always in the loop. We bring AI to support what the human is already doing.

We are the decision-makers. We choose which AI tool helps us reach a specific goal. So let’s look at what created the controversy we’re seeing now.

AI made things easier. It lowered the bar of entry. It became easier to produce more content. We saw people creating entire books with AI, and I don’t think there’s anything inherently wrong with that. It really comes down to how people use it. Used with integrity, AI can help you communicate more clearly, spot where you repeated yourself, or find places where an explanation fell flat.

Speed Slowed Down Connection

AI sped up production. But it also slowed down the connection. Getting up to speed with AI tools takes time. You have to learn, experiment, and verify that what it gives you is actually correct.

Here’s the thing — everybody is learning. Nobody has it all figured out. Everyone is slowing down a little before they can speed up.

It’s worth noting that Merriam-Webster’s 2025 word of the year was “slop.” They define it as digital content of low quality, produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence. We went from trying to be more productive to producing slop. And your audience is savvy. They can tell.

Accountability and the Absolutes

If you put a minimum prompt in, you get junk out. There’s now a call for accountability, and I think that’s a good thing. We have to be careful about what we put out on the internet.

We’re producing more and enjoying it less. The audience is noticing. AI is not the problem. The human should always be in control.

You have to stick to your absolutes whenever you integrate anything new. Ask yourself: Does this align with my brand? Does it align with my values? Does it protect my brand voice and keep me consistent across all platforms and media?

Those absolutes are your constraints. AI has actually given us an opportunity to get clear on them. Because to produce good content with AI, it needs to know a lot about your business — your audience, your products, your transformation. That process has forced many solopreneurs to pause and ask, “Wait, am I actually clear on this?”

A Better Question to Ask

Instead of asking “What can AI write for me?” or “What new tool should I try?” — ask a better question. Ask: What can help me with the task at hand? What is the goal I’m trying to reach? What is the simplest path? Where are the bottlenecks? What resources or tools will I need?

AI can help you analyze all of that.

Using AI to Find Blind Spots

You can use any AI tool for this — Perplexity, ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini. Start by painting the picture. Most mobile apps have a microphone, so you can simply talk through the outcome you want and ask AI to help you see your blind spots.

For example, if you have a course in draft mode, you can ask AI to analyze the structure and tell you what’s missing. Would this satisfy a student? Have you left anything out? Is there something your audience needs to know before they can implement this?

You can do the same with a lead magnet. Ask AI: Why isn’t this converting? Is it the title? Is it the resource itself? Is the audience not at the right level of awareness yet? Is there something they need first before this becomes valuable to them?

Use AI to audit the things that aren’t performing — or the things that are performing but leaving you exhausted. Can AI help you find a better way so you have more margin?

Backend Systems Over Frontend Content

The more I use AI, the more I notice it is more helpful on backend systems than frontend content. I’ll say that again: AI is more useful on backend systems than frontend content.

I do use it for audience-facing content. I research one topic per week, then create different formats — video, written, newsletter — all on the same topic, built for each platform. But the real value of AI for coaches, consultants, and solopreneurs is on the backend.

You wear so many hats. You are the salesperson, the face of your brand, the writer, the content creator, the social media manager — everything. Backend systems matter enormously for a solopreneur. When you think of AI as a tool for analysis, improvement, and systematization, that is where the power lies.

The goal is to use these technologies to get more leads, serve our audiences well, and improve revenue — without compromising our values.

Assessing Where You’re Spending Time

Organizations that use AI only for surface tasks access only about 5% of what AI can actually do. Many solopreneurs are in that category — using it mainly for social media content while their time gets absorbed and revenue-generating work gets pushed aside.

You have to assess where your time is going. Where is the bottleneck? Are you spending time on social media for vanity numbers, or are people downloading your resource and joining your email list? If it’s working, keep going. If it isn’t, ask AI to help you audit it and identify a better path.

Sometimes the biggest outcome comes from a small adjustment. Just a slight shift can produce a completely different result.

Most of us are not using even 5% of what AI can offer. We’re doing surface-level work. In 2026, I believe this is the year of systems — the year people figure out how to leverage AI to improve their return on investment, whether that’s money or time.

Full Disclosure and a Real Example

I have an AI use policy on my website — right alongside my terms and privacy policy. Full disclosure about how I use AI. That kind of transparency will shape how businesses show up in 2026.

Here is a real example of using AI on the backend. I have a newsletter called the Monday Marketing Memo. I pulled three months of newsletters and the analytics for each one. I loaded them into ChatGPT and Claude and asked: What’s working? What’s missing? How can I improve the open rate and click-through rate?

AI gave me suggestions. I reviewed them, decided what was doable, and then asked them to rebuild my newsletter template based on those improvements. I then took that new template into Claude and created a Skill — an expert assistant that knows exactly how to draft my weekly newsletter. Now, when I bring in my weekly research and topic, Claude uses that Skill to generate a draft in my voice.

That is how you leverage AI. It analyzed what I had, suggested improvements, rebuilt the template, and now runs the system going forward.

Three Ways to Use AI

Here are three specific ways to use AI that can move your business forward.

First, use it to analyze. Give it data, ask it questions, and let it surface what you’re not seeing.

Second, use it to systematize. Ask it to build a process or a template you can reuse.

Third, use it as a thinking partner. If you’re at a crossroads and not sure which direction to take, give AI some context and ask it to walk through the pros and cons with you.

When you use Claude, it will ask you many questions before producing anything. That is a good thing. If you’re using ChatGPT, you may need to push back and ask it to explain its reasoning. Each tool is a little different, but they are more similar than they are different.

You don’t need more tools right now. You need to figure out which tools work best for your specific business and goals.

Why This Matters: Trust Is an Asset

Your audience is developing what researchers call an AI suspicion penalty. They are disengaging from anything that feels automated.

You’ve probably seen it on LinkedIn. Someone sends you a connection request, you accept, and immediately you get a pitch. That is automated. There’s no relationship, no context — just a pitch. That erodes trust before it even begins.

Automated, AI-generated content reduces engagement. We know this. Speed cannot replace trust. For solopreneurs who are the brand, trust is everything. Your audience doesn’t need more content from you. They need you — your voice, your stories, your point of view.

What to Do Differently

Stop using AI to produce more of the same faster. If it’s working for you, keep going. But if it isn’t, let AI help you analyze why and find a better path.

Start using AI to make better decisions and to systematize what you’re already doing.

One action you can take this week: find one thing you’re doing right now — on the backend or otherwise — and ask AI, is there a better way to do this? Is this the best use of my time? Is it generating leads? Audit one thing and see what comes back.

About the AI Lab for Solopreneurs

I have a private membership called the AI Lab for Solopreneurs. We use AI ethically. I show members how to communicate with AI — whether that’s Claude, Gemini, or ChatGPT — to grow their business.

It comes from a solopreneur, for solopreneurs. We focus on strategy, backend systems, and the time-consuming tasks. You get custom prompts, Claude Skills, graphic templates, mini courses, and live coaching calls.

The current price is $37 per month. It goes up to $49 in April, and it will increase again in the fall as we continue adding more.

Join here: marisashadrick.com/community

Closing

AI is only as strategic as the person directing it. Point it at captions, and it writes captions. Point it at your business, and it builds systems. The tool hasn’t changed — but the question you bring to it can change everything.

If you found this episode helpful, please rate and review the podcast. And if you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe. Until next time, take care.

AI for Coaches: Using Short-Form Video as a Lead Generation Tool

If you’ve been avoiding video, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: Video isn’t just a trend.

For coaches and consultants, it’s one of the most powerful ways to build trust and generate leads.

In this episode, I’m sharing what finally changed my mind, along with the stats, the strategy, and the simple setup I personally use to create short-form video without the overwhelm.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Why video builds trust faster than text for coaches and consultants
• The stats behind short-form video and why 30–60 seconds is the sweet spot
• Three common misconceptions about video content
• How to turn your existing content into 60-second video ideas
• A simple 4-part video structure anyone can follow
• How to choose the right platform for your audience
• The minimal equipment setup that keeps things simple

 

Key Takeaways

• Short-form video (30-60 seconds) is highly effective for coaches and consultants looking to generate leads and connect with prospects.
• Repurposing your existing content makes video creation manageable and sustainable.
• Focus on clarity, consistency, and audience relevance over trying to be everywhere.

 

Quotes to Remember

“Video is not creating new work. Video is redistributing what you already have.”

“If coaching is built on trust and trust is built on connection, then video is a great way to build that connection.”

“It’s not about becoming a YouTuber. It’s about meeting your audience in the format that they prefer.”

 

Closing Thoughts

You don’t have to be a tech expert or a “natural” on camera to make video work for you. You just have to be willing to show up as yourself because that’s exactly what your audience is waiting for.

Start small, stay consistent, and trust that your voice, your story, and your expertise are more than enough.

When you create consistent videos, you can build the kind of trust that turns listeners into leads and leads into loyal clients.

 

Free ResourceCapture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand Identity

INTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 

Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

If this episode was helpful, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe and leave a comment.

Thanks so much for your support!

 

Watch Episode #146 on YouTubeHow to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority Podcast

Episode 146

AI for Coaches: Using Short-Form Video as a Lead Generation Tool

 

Why Video Matters for Coaches and Consultants

Video content is no longer optional for coaches and consultants. However, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. In fact, it can become one of your best lead generation tools.

 

Coaching is personal. It’s intimate, instructional, and insight-driven. Because of that, your audience needs to trust you before they invest.

 

Video builds that trust faster than text. With video, people can hear your tone, your humor, and your empathy. They can see your personality and energy — and that matters.

 

Most buying decisions are emotional first. When someone resonates with you, they connect. As a result, they’re far more likely to join your email list or book a call.

 

Text has its place. Even so, video creates a level of connection that text simply can’t replicate. The good news is, it’s easier than ever to create.

 

The ROI of Short-Form Video

Everyone wants to know the return on investment. However, ROI isn’t always financial. Sometimes it’s about the return on your time and energy.

 

The Wise Owl 2026 report offers some telling numbers. For example, 91% of businesses now use video. In addition, 63% of people prefer learning about a product or service through short video over text.

 

Here’s the bottom line. According to the same report, 85% of marketers say video has helped them generate leads. Therefore, this isn’t something to keep putting off.

 

This isn’t about becoming a YouTuber. Instead, it’s about meeting your audience in the format they already prefer.

 

3 Common Misconceptions About Video ContentMisconception 1: Video Has to Be Long

Many coaches believe video must be 7, 15, or even 30 minutes long. However, the data tells a different story.

 

According to recent surveys, 30–60 second videos scored the highest effectiveness at 51%. In contrast, videos over two minutes dropped to just 5–4%. Therefore, shorter is actually stronger.

 

You can do a combination of long and short form. Even so, the sweet spot is clearly 30–60 seconds. The good news is — you can do that.

 

Misconception 2: You Should Post Everywhere

If video works, it’s tempting to post on every platform. However, that’s a great way to burn out.

 

Instead, focus on what you can do consistently. Ask yourself what’s sustainable — not what’s possible. As a result, you’ll show up more regularly without running on empty.

 

Misconception 3: You Don’t Know Where to Start

This is a common one. However, the truth is you already have content.

 

Blog posts, newsletters, emails, frameworks, and courses — all of it is rich material. For example, a single long-form piece can easily yield multiple short video ideas. Therefore, video isn’t creating new work. It’s redistributing what you already have.

 

Practical Tips for Creating Short-Form VideoTip 1: Turn Long-Form Content Into 60-Second Videos

You don’t need new ideas. Instead, pull from what you’ve already created. Here are some examples to get you started.

 

Consider sharing an original quote and unpacking it on camera. Alternatively, highlight one key tip, one misconception, or one step from your framework. You could also share a client transformation, answer a frequently asked question, or address a common objection.

 

The goal is simple. Give your audience one micro win in 60 seconds. As a result, one long-form piece can easily generate 10 short video scripts — that’s more than two months of content.

 

Tip 2: Follow a Simple Format

Keep your script to 80–100 words for a 60-second video. Because time is limited, every word needs to count.

 

Start with a hook that gets straight to the point. Then explain why it matters, deliver the tip, and close with a call to action. That’s it — hook, why it matters, tip, call to action.

 

Once you get comfortable, you won’t even need a script. Instead, you’ll instinctively know when to move to the next section.

 

Tip 3: Decide on a Teleprompter

Teleprompters work well for some people. However, they’re not for everyone. For example, a teleprompter can feel unnatural if you’re not used to it.

 

For shorter videos, consider simply knowing your topic, your tip, and your call to action. Meanwhile, if you make a mistake, just keep going. You can edit it out in post-production.

 

Tip 4: Choose the Right Platform

Don’t ask which platform is most popular. Instead, ask where your audience is most engaged. Start there.

 

Once you’ve gained confidence and feedback, you can expand to a second platform. As a result, you’ll grow your reach without starting from scratch.

 

Tip 5: Give Your Videos a Direction

Short-form videos should do more than build brand awareness. Therefore, before you hit record, get clear on your goal.

 

Are you growing your email list? Driving website traffic? Booking discovery calls? Because without direction, even great content can fall flat.

 

Tip 6: Keep Your Equipment Simple

You don’t need a professional studio. In fact, all you need is a phone, a clip-on microphone, and CapCut.

 

CapCut stabilizes shaky footage and removes background noise. In addition, it lets you add text overlays and upload them directly to your platform of choice. Therefore, from recording to publishing, everything can be done from your phone.

 

Start Small, Stay Consistent

Short-form video is one of the most effective tools a coach or consultant can use. However, it only works if you actually start.

 

You already have the content. You already have the expertise. In addition, you now have a simple structure to follow.

 

Remember, video isn’t about chasing trends. Instead, it’s about helping your audience relate to you. Because when they can hear your heart and see your personality, connection happens naturally.

 

Start with 60-second videos — specifically 58–59 seconds. As a result, one video can work across every platform, from YouTube Shorts to Instagram Reels to LinkedIn.

 

If coaching is built on trust, and trust is built on connection, then video is one of the best investments of your time. Therefore, take what you already have and start there.

AI solopreneurs are navigating rapid change.

The tools are accelerating. The updates are constant. And it can feel overwhelming.

In this episode, Marisa explains why the real challenge isn’t technology. It’s the weight of change. And the real advantage in 2026 will belong to AI solopreneurs who prioritize clarity over complexity.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Why AI noise can feel overwhelming for solo business owners
• Why the real advantage isn’t more tech skills
• How AI will scale what you clearly understand
• The five skills that actually matter in your business
• Why is critical thinking essential when using AI
• How workflow development creates real leverage
• Why strategic restraint matters in an AI transition

 

Key Podcast Takeaways

• AI solopreneurs must focus on clarity before adding tools.
• AI amplifies confusion if fundamentals are unclear.
• Strategic thinking matters more than technical complexity.
• Systems create infrastructure, not just faster output.
• Editorial judgment protects trust and authenticity.
• Research tools based on function, not popularity.

 

Key Quotes to Remember

“The real advantage isn’t for those that have a lot of tech skills, but for those who value clarity over complexity.”

“AI predicts plausible language.”

“The AI solopreneur of 2026 will prioritize clarity over complexity. Always.”

 Closing Thoughts

The real advantage for AI solopreneurs is not technical mastery. It’s clarity.

When you think strategically, design strong workflows, and give AI thoughtful direction, you create sustainable growth.

 Free ResourceCapture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand Identity

INTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

If this episode was helpful, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe and leave a comment.

Thanks so much for your support!

 

Watch Episode #145 on YouTube How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority PodcastEpisode 145: AI Solopreneurs in 2026:  Clarity Over ComplexityOpening: The Weight of Change

For solo business owners, AI noise can feel overwhelming.

What you’re feeling may not be the weight of technology. It may be the weight of change.

Here’s the good news for AI solopreneurs in 2026.

The real advantage does not belong to those with the most tech skills. It belongs to those who value clarity over complexity.

Welcome to the Amplify Your Authority Podcast. I’m Marisa Shadrick.

Today, we’re talking about AI change and what it means for solo business owners.

AI Is Accelerating

AI tools are moving quickly.

New platforms. New updates. Constant notifications.

It can feel like running on a treadmill that won’t slow down.

AI adoption is accelerating. Clarity and strategy still matter.

In 2026, the advantage will not belong to the most technical solopreneur. It will belong to those who think clearly and strategically.

This Is Another Business Shift

I’ve navigated many shifts.

I started as a writer, submitting articles. Then I became a certified copywriter. That led to coaching and strategy consulting using AI.

Each shift felt intimidating at first.

I focused on fundamentals. I built on what I already knew.

AI is another shift. It is not going away.

As solo business owners wearing many hats, we can adapt without overwhelm.

Review Your Fundamentals First

Before AI scales anything, review your fundamentals.

How do you generate revenue?

Where are your bottlenecks?

Where are you spending too much time?

What outcome are you trying to create?

Do an internal audit.

If you lack clarity, AI will amplify confusion.

Technology will scale what you clearly understand.

The Real Advantage for AI Solopreneurs

You might think the advantage is advanced prompting.

Or AI agents. Or automation stacks.

It’s not.

Critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence are rising skills in an automated economy.

These are human skills.

Your advantage lies in strategic thinking, not in technical complexity.

Skill 1: Clear Communication

Communication has always mattered.

Now it matters even more with AI.

AI needs clarity.

If your input is vague, your output will be vague.

Instead of chasing perfect prompts, explain what you’re trying to accomplish.

Sometimes I use ChatGPT’s microphone to talk through the problem.

It becomes a dialogue.

Clear communication improves results.

Skill 2: Critical Thinking

AI predicts plausible language.

It is not always accurate.

You must verify information. Question it. Edit it.

Ask where the data comes from.

Make sure research is current.

Use deep research or web search when needed.

Critical thinking protects your decisions.

Skill 3: Workflow Development

Many solopreneurs use AI reactively.

They draft an email. Fix a post. Summarize a meeting.

Real leverage comes from repeatable systems.

I created an app using Lovable to track my time.

I discovered a bottleneck in content creation.

Then I built a structured workflow using ChatGPT, Notion templates, and Claude for polishing.

It became infrastructure, not just tool usage.

Systems create leverage.

Skill 4: Editorial Judgment

You must judge the output.

Polished does not mean effective.

Does it sound like you?

Will it resonate with your audience?

Does it build trust?

Marketing is a process of building trust.

Before publishing, evaluate and refine.

Skill 5: Strategic Restraint

There are countless AI tools.

New launches appear constantly.

FOMO creates cognitive overload.

Start with the outcome you want.

Research tools based on function, not popularity.

Test one tool inside one workflow.

AI should reduce overwhelm, not increase it.

A Simple AI Transition Framework

Lead your AI transition with clarity.

Identify your bottleneck.

Determine your desired outcome.

Map your workflow.

Research tools based on function.

Test one tool inside one system.

Clarity comes first.

AI Is Everywhere

AI is accelerating across industries.

It’s in business. It’s in healthcare. It’s in everyday tools.

It is not going away.

Don’t lose your creativity.

Practice critical thinking.

Design your workflow.

Give AI pushback.

Let AI scale what you do well.

Let it support what slows you down.

That is sustainable growth.

Have you noticed how AI Search is changing organic traffic?

Search looks different today, and many solo business owners are wondering if blogging and articles are still effective.

In this podcast episode, I break down what AI summaries mean for bloggers, newsletter writers, and solopreneurs who rely on organic traffic.

I’ll explain why clarity, structure, and thoughtful writing still matter, and how AI evaluates content for summaries.

There’s a strong case to return to strong writing fundamentals rather than shortcuts or hacks.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• How AI search summaries are changing user behavior
• The difference between content delivery and content discovery
• What AI looks for when referencing content in summaries
• Why structured, well-written content still matters
• Why strong writing fundamentals are becoming more important

 Key Podcast Takeaways

• Search is changing how information is presented, not how it is found
• A clear structure helps both readers and AI understand your content
• Good writing habits still matter and are being rewarded
• Going deeper into content is more effective than publishing more frequently
• Small, steady improvements compound over time

 Key Quotes to Remember

• “Search is changing how content is delivered, not how content is discovered.”
• “Visibility today isn’t about ranking first. It’s about being referenced.”
• “Good structure isn’t about gaming algorithms. It’s about making your thinking understandable.”
• “Discoverability isn’t just about being found. It’s about being worth citing.” WordPress Transcript Raw

 Closing Thoughts

Search will continue to evolve. Tools will improve. Interfaces will shift. But thoughtful, well-crafted content will always matter. If you stay grounded in clarity, structure your thinking well, and write with real people in mind, you will not be left behind. Take a breath. Go deeper instead of faster. Serve your audience with care. The fundamentals are not disappearing; they are becoming more important.

 Free ResourceWrite Better Content with the Support of a Trained AI Editing AssistantAI Editing Guide for Writers Who Value Craft

CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

If this episode was helpful, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe and leave a comment.

Thanks so much for your support!

 

Watch Episode #144 on YouTube How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority Podcast

Episode 144

How AI Search Is Changing Organic Traffic (And What Still Matters)

Have you noticed that search has changed?

Does that mean organic traffic is something of the past?

You can still maximize your written content reach with AI search. Let’s talk about how.

Hello everyone, and welcome to the Amplify Your Authority podcast. I’m Marisa Shadrick, your host.

You may have noticed that when you go to Google and run a search, it looks different. There’s now a summary at the top. You don’t see the long list of links to scroll through and click one by one the way you used to.

That change affects how people find information.

And naturally, you might be wondering… how will they find you now?

If you’re a solopreneur like me, you wear many hats. You write the content. You handle the marketing. You manage sales, social media, planning, course creation — everything.

So when something else changes, it can feel overwhelming.

Take a breath.

This is evolving. It’s new. No one has it perfectly figured out yet. It’s not about hacks. It’s not about gaming the system. It’s about understanding what’s happening and doing the best we can with what we know today.

Here’s the key shift:

Search is changing how content is delivered to people — not how content is discovered.

That’s important.

Let me say it again.

Search is changing how content is delivered, not how it is discovered.

The SEO fundamentals you’ve learned still matter. They still work. What’s happening is that we need to go a little deeper into what AI is looking for when it generates summaries.

Think about the traditional search journey.

You searched.You saw a list of URLs.You clicked one.You read.You went back.You clicked another.

Eventually, you found what you needed and made a decision.

Now?

You search.You get an AI summary.You make a decision.

There are fewer clicks. Experts are already reporting that behavior is shifting. When there are fewer clicks, people decide faster.

So visibility today is not just about appearing on page one.

It’s about being referenced in the summary.

AI still needs reliable resources.

Content still matters.Clarity still matters.Structured thinking still matters.

This shift is a return to responsible authorship.

Search will keep evolving. What won’t change is the need for thoughtful, well-crafted content that helps someone take the next step.

When I first began researching this, I heard every acronym imaginable: SEO, AEO, GEO, schema, markup, signals. It was overwhelming.

Here’s the relief.

You do not need to master all the technical language.

If you’ve been practicing good writing habits, you’re fine.

Schema, in simple terms, is labeling your content so systems understand what it’s about. Who wrote it. Whether it’s current. What type of content it is.

Tools like Yoast for WordPress handle much of this on the backend. You don’t need to code. You don’t need to become a developer. If you want reassurance, you can use Google’s Rich Results Test to check whether your structured data is recognized.

When you write clearly, you’re leaving breadcrumbs.

AI looks for clarity signals. It evaluates expertise, authority, trustworthiness, and content type.

It’s similar to asking a voice assistant to summarize who someone is. You get a clean, concise overview without clicking multiple links. That information comes from structured, credible sources.

The fundamentals of SEO have not disappeared.

Maintain one main topic per piece.Use relevant keywords thoughtfully.Understand your audience’s awareness level.Use proper headings.Include internal and external links.Add helpful images.Cite claims when appropriate.

All of that still matters.

Now let’s talk about writing craft.

This is where it gets encouraging.

When people worried AI would lead to lazy writing, what’s actually happening is the opposite. AI search is rewarding strong fundamentals.

Don’t simply ask AI to write an article for you.

You are the author.

Open with the answer near the top. Make the premise clear.

Write for skimming first, depth second. Respect attention spans. Use white space. Avoid blocks of text.

Edit ruthlessly. Strengthen transitions. Remove jargon. Clarify weak spots.

AI can help you refine your work. It can assist with editing. But the thinking must come from you.

Good structure isn’t about pleasing algorithms. It’s about making your thinking understandable.

One simple way to start? Speak your ideas out loud. Use your phone. Talk through the problem you see in your audience. Share your perspective. Then refine it. Add your frameworks. Add your insight. Add your experience.

That’s where authority lives.

Years ago, when I wrote for magazines, I studied the publication from cover to cover. I examined tone, perspective, length, even the ads. I wanted to understand the audience deeply.

Today we have AI to assist with research, but the responsibility to think clearly still belongs to us.

Here are a few practical reminders.

Discoverability is not just about being found. It’s about being worth citing.

Go a little deeper.

Write compelling subheads so readers immediately understand what the article covers.

Avoid cognitive overload. Write in simple English. Vary sentence length. Use short lines. Even one-word sentences.

We are returning to better writing.

So relax.

Don’t panic.

And remember:

Don’t chase every single change.Go deeper, not faster.Keep serving real questions from real people.Make small, steady improvements.Stay focused and repurpose thoughtfully from different angles.

You are not working harder. You’re working deeper.

And that depth builds credibility.

If this episode helped you, I would appreciate a rating and review.

If you’re watching on YouTube — yes, I’m back — I’d love for you to subscribe and leave a comment.

Thank you for listening. I’ll talk to you soon.

What I Wish I Knew Before Starting an Online Business: 9 Fresh Tips for Solo Startups!

Starting an online business today looks different from how it did a few years ago.

After years of building, refining, and working with solo business owners, I’ve had time to reflect on what actually matters and what keeps everyone busy, but unsuccessful.

In this episode, I’m sharing what I wish I knew when starting an online business, based on real experience, real mistakes, and lessons learned along the way.

If you’re early in your journey, this will help you focus on what truly moves you forward.

 

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

If you’re starting an online business, this episode will provide some insights:

• Why staying busy can feel productive while still holding you back
• The decision most new business owners delay, and why it matters more than they realize
• Why does some advice sound smart but doesn’t work in real life for solo business owners
• The overlooked asset that makes selling feel easier
• Why chasing what’s “working right now” often leads to exhaustion…and more

 Key Takeaways

• Starting an online business requires a strategy before tactics
• Being busy doesn’t mean you’re making progress
• One validated offer simplifies messaging, marketing, and execution
• Your values, goals, and constraints should guide your business decisions
• Every lesson, good or bad, becomes a mentor as you move forward

 Quotes to Remember

“Being busy doesn’t mean you’re making progress.”“Doubt is a visitor, not a roommate.”“Visibility without clarity just creates noise.”“The lessons will become your mentors.”

 Closing Thought

If you’re starting an online business, you don’t need to do everything; you need to do the right things. Start with strategy, keep it simple, and let clarity guide your next steps. If you need a complimentary strategy call, please visit: https://marisashadrick.com/contact/

 Audio Timestamps

00:00:00 Intro and why starting with strategy matters

00:01:00 Strategy vs. tactics explained

00:06:24 Why being busy doesn’t equal progress

00:07:31 One clear offer and validation

00:09:00 Managing doubt when starting an online business

00:10:38 Filtering advice and avoiding overload

00:11:55 Visibility without clarity creates noise

00:13:58 Podcasting and YouTube strategy insight

00:14:39 Why email list building matters early

00:16:22 The cost of chasing algorithms

00:18:27 Building a business that fits your life

00:20:33 Lessons as mentors and selling earlier

00:24:34 Final thoughts and next steps

 Join AI Lab for SolopreneursReady to learn how to work smarter with AI and amplify your personal authority? Find out more at https://marisashadrick.com/community Free ResourceCapture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand IdentityINTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

As always, I’m grateful for your support, and I would appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts. Your review would help this podcast reach a wider audience while continuing to provide you with valuable content.

Thanks so much for your support! CLICK HERE!

 How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority Podcast

Podcast Transcript: Episode 143

Title: What I Wish I Knew When Starting an Online Business

Host: Marisa Shadrick

Introduction: If I Were Starting an Online Business Today

Hey there, Marisa here. If you’re starting an online business—or you’ve recently started and feel overwhelmed—this episode is for you. I want to share what I would focus on today if I were starting from scratch, based on what I’ve learned over the years. This isn’t about trends or tactics. It’s about building with clarity instead of confusion.

Strategy vs. Tactics: The Foundation That Changes Everything

When I talk with new business owners, I often see people jumping straight into tactics. Posting here. Creating content there. Trying one platform after another. But without a strategy, tactics lead to burnout.

Strategy is your long-term direction. Tactics are the tools that support it. If a tool stopped working tomorrow and your business fell apart, it wasn’t a strategy—it was a tactic you relied on too heavily.

Being Busy Doesn’t Mean You’re Making Progress

One of the biggest lessons I learned is that activity doesn’t equal productivity. You can stay busy week after week and still not move forward. Progress comes from aligning your actions with your strategy, not just checking things off a to-do list.

Start With One Clear, Viable Offer

When you’re starting an online business, it’s tempting to build everything at once—courses, memberships, coaching, workshops. But one offer is enough. In fact, one offer is better.

Validation matters. Start with what your audience needs, not just what you want to teach. Listen to recurring questions. Do competitor research. Too many ideas create decision fatigue, unclear messaging, and burnout. Iteration always beats reinvention.

Doubt Will Show Up—and That’s Normal

Doubt is part of the journey. It whispers things like, What if I fail? Is anyone listening? Am I even qualified to do this?

Here’s what I’ve learned: doubt is a visitor, not a roommate. Fear only stays if you give it permission. You’ve come too far to let temporary doubt steal something that matters to you.

Not All Advice Is Meant for You

There’s no shortage of advice online, and much of it sounds smart. But strategy overload and framework hopping will leave you frustrated.

Discernment is a business skill. Take what aligns with your values, your audience, and your capacity—and leave the rest. You’re a solo business owner, not a company with a full team behind the scenes.

Visibility Without Clarity Creates Noise

More content without a plan doesn’t lead to growth—it creates noise. Especially now, with AI making it easy to produce content quickly.

Before you post, ask yourself: What am I selling? Who is this for? Where should I show up? Not every platform is right for every business. Test intentionally, then evaluate what’s actually working.

A Strategic Lesson on Podcasting and YouTube

If I were starting my podcast today, I would approach it differently. YouTube is a search engine. Podcast platforms are distribution channels. Starting with video first and repurposing to audio would have given me more long-term visibility.

This is what strategy looks like—choosing the right foundation before choosing the tactic.

Build an Email List Earlier Than You Think

Your email list is one of your greatest assets. It builds trust, familiarity, and connection over time. When people know your voice, your perspective, and your process, selling becomes easier.

Everything should point back to your offer and your email list—your calls to action, your content, and your funnels.

Chasing Algorithms Will Exhaust You

Algorithms change. Trends fade. When everyone jumps on what’s working right now, it quickly loses its power.

Quality and relevance matter more than volume. Don’t chase shortcuts. Build something sustainable instead.

Build a Business That Fits Your Season of Life

Your business should support your life—not replace one demanding job with another. Define success for where you are now and where you want to be in a few years.

Your values, goals, and constraints should guide your decisions and protect your time, energy, and focus.

The Lessons Will Become Your Mentors

There is a learning curve, and it’s normal. You don’t need perfection—you need simplicity. One offer. One strategy. Iteration over reinvention.

Selling is part of serving. The sooner you start conversations, the sooner you learn. Every experience—success or failure—becomes a mentor that helps you refine what you’re building.

Final Thoughts: Start With Strategy

If I were starting an online business today, I would focus on strategy first, then choose tactics that support it. Staying busy won’t get you where you want to go—but clarity will.

If this episode helped you, you’re welcome to reach out through my website and schedule a conversation. And if you’d like to support the show, I’d truly appreciate a five-star rating and review.

2026 Predictions: How Solopreneurs Can Thrive with AI

Ready to stop wearing all the hats in your solo business?

In 2026, AI integration will be as common as using your smartphone.

But if you’re a solo business owner who feels behind or overwhelmed by all the new tools, you’re not alone.

In this episode, I break down how to use AI and why strategy, simplicity, and your authentic voice are the keys to growth in the next wave of online business.

 What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• My top 3 predictions for 2026 and how they affect solo entrepreneurs
• The 3 leadership skills that will set you apart in the age of AI
• Why content marketing is about to explode, and how to stand out with heart and originality, not just more content.
• Why your story and perspective are still your biggest business assets
• Actionable steps for simplifying your offers, building a strong brand voice, and using AI effectively.

 Key Takeaways

• AI isn’t a magic fix; it mirrors what you give it. Your clarity and communication matter more than ever.
• Delegation is now about asking: Should I be doing this, or can AI?
• Imagination is your competitive edge. Margin gives you the space to innovate.
• Your brand message and personality are your biggest differentiators in a crowded, AI-generated world.
• Keep your business focused: one offer, one audience, one problem, one transformation.

 

Quote to Remember

1. “The next wave of profitable solo business owners will outsource the busy work to AI and double down on creativity, connection, and strategy.”
2. “We can coexist with AI, but we need to make sure that we’re using it to leverage what we’re already doing, and keep it simple.”
3. “People buy from you because they resonate with who you are, your values, your perspectives. So protect your brand, protect your voice, and be human.”

 Join AI Lab for SolopreneursReady to learn how to work smarter with AI and amplify your personal authority? Find out more at https://marisashadrick.com/community

 

 Free ResourceCapture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand IdentityINTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 

 

Audio Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Intro and why AI content is starting to blur00:01:20 – AI adoption trends and predictions for 202600:03:20 – Strategic use of custom GPTs and tools00:04:50 – Why prompting skills are your new superpower00:05:57 – The explosion of content: blogs, books, and newsletters00:08:02 – 3 leadership skills solopreneurs need for the future00:09:35 – How to simplify your offer, lead magnet, and audience00:12:05 – Rethinking delegation with AI as your assistant00:14:15 – Why imagination is your next best strategy00:16:28 – Protecting your voice and brand in the age of AI00:18:47 – Closing and community invitation

 

Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

As always, I’m grateful for your support, and I would appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts. Your review would help this podcast reach a wider audience while continuing to provide you with valuable content.

Thanks so much for your support! CLICK HERE!

 How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority PodcastPodcast Transcript: Episode 142Title: 2026 Predictions: How Solopreneurs Can Thrive with AIHost: Marisa Shadrick

 Introduction: Are You Saying Yes to No Team, No Time, No Traction?

Hey there, Marisa here. If you can say yes to no team, no time, no traction, then you’ll want to listen to this week’s podcast episode. I’m sharing some predictions for 2026 and how you can change your business outlook using AI.

 The Digital Shift Is Here

What a year it’s been! AI is showing up in every corner of business—from big companies to the tools we use daily. Solo business owners are either already transitioning or are on the edge of this shift. The numbers don’t lie: over 75% of small to mid-sized businesses have invested in AI, and nearly 80% see it as a game changer.

My prediction? By 2026, using AI will be as normal as using the internet or your smartphone.

 AI Isn’t Going Away—So Let’s Coexist

If you’re a solo business owner with no team and no traction, now’s the time to think about how to work with AI. I’m not into scare tactics, but here’s the truth: if you’re not using AI strategically by 2026, it’s going to show. Others will, and you’ll fall behind.

But here’s the catch—you can’t just prompt a tool and post the results. You need to be part of the process. Coexistence means staying involved while letting AI assist you.

 First Steps: Solve Your Bottlenecks

Where are you stuck? That’s where AI can help first. Maybe you need a thinking partner. Maybe you need help solving a business challenge like growing your email list. Your first custom AI assistant should serve your biggest need.

 Learn the Skill of Prompting

If you learn how to communicate with AI, that skill becomes transferable across tools—ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude—they all work better when you know how to guide them. I always suggest starting with ChatGPT, even for personal tasks like planning a Thanksgiving menu. Then transfer those skills to business.

ChatGPT can help you write blogs, emails, client content, and even course material—once you’ve trained it on your voice and your business.

 The Next Wave: Creativity, Connection, and Strategy

The next generation of successful solo business owners will outsource busywork to AI and focus on creativity, connection, and strategy. AI gives you margin, and margin gives you space to think and reimagine what’s possible.

 Prediction #2: Content Boom (But Simplicity Wins)

Get ready for more newsletters, blogs, and yes—books. AI has made book publishing more accessible, and the industry is thriving. But more content also means more noise. The solution? Be clear. Be simple. Be human.

Write like you’re speaking to someone across the kitchen table. That’s how you stand out.

 It’s Not About Quantity—It’s About Heart and Originality

In 2026, the differentiator won’t be how much content you publish. It will be how much you is in your content. Your brand, values, and stories matter more than ever.

 Three Essential Skills for Solopreneurs in 2026

Let’s shift gears. Here are three essential leadership skills I believe solopreneurs must nurture moving forward:

1. Clear Communication

AI mirrors what you provide. Communicate your brand, your audience, and your goals clearly to get good results. The clearer the direction, the stronger the output.

2. Ongoing Delegation

You’ve done everything yourself—but that mindset has to shift. It’s time to ask, “Should AI be doing this?” One offer. One lead magnet. One audience. One problem. One transformation. Keep it simple so you can refine and scale.

Delegation isn’t about hiring a VA anymore. It’s about using AI to take things off your plate and free up energy and focus.

3. Unlimited Imagination

This is your edge. AI gives you margin, and margin gives you room to imagine. Ask “what if?” and let curiosity lead the way. What once felt impossible is now within reach.

 AI Supports—It Doesn’t Replace You

You still need to lead your business. AI helps execute. Protect your voice. Protect your brand. Share your stories. Your personality is what makes your business unique—and that’s what people connect with.

People buy from you. Not just your product, not your features. You.

 Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple and Strategic

Stick to one offer, one problem, one solution, and do it well. Use AI to improve by 5% or 10% and build from there. Don’t get overwhelmed by tools and tactics.

You started your business for freedom and purpose—not burnout. Use AI to stay aligned with your mission and remove the bottlenecks that are holding you back.

A Fresh Perspective For Solopreneurs Who Feel Behind

I paused the marketing strategy talk to have a real conversation with you, especially if you’re feeling the weight of it all.

This episode isn’t about tactics or trends. It’s about remembering why you started, reframing the hard days, and finding a steady anchor when you feel overwhelmed.

Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a powerful lens that can shift how you show up and serve.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• How gratitude reframes setbacks and turns obstacles into opportunities for growth.
• Ways to shift from chasing conversions to truly serving and connecting, one person at a time.
• The power of gratitude to ground you during burnout, overwhelm, or loneliness as a solo business owner.
• Why gratitude matters more than ever as businesses move into a new AI chapter.
• Practical mindset reminders to carry into the new year, helping you see possibility instead of pressure.

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Your worth isn’t defined by effort or outcomes; it’s who you are and the mission you carry.2. Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a powerful shift in perspective that can transform both your business strategy and personal fulfillment.3. Every challenge, pivot, or failed launch is an invitation to grow and write a new chapter in your story.

 

Quotes to Remember:

“Gratitude turns duty into unwavering commitment to a person we don’t even know, but we remember. This moment serves someone.”“We can choose gratitude because change isn’t an enemy. It’s an invitation.”“Let gratitude be your strategy, your true strength that no circumstance, economy, or even a person can ever, ever, ever take away from you.”

 

Free ResourceCapture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand IdentityINTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 

Audio Timestamps:

00:00:00 Intro and why this episode is different

00:01:13 The posture of gratitude during tough seasons

00:03:09 How gratitude reframes outcomes and pivots

00:04:52 When loneliness or setbacks show up

00:06:34 Closing message for the holiday season

 

Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

As always, I’m grateful for your support, and I would appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts. Your review would help this podcast reach a wider audience while continuing to provide you with valuable content.

Thanks so much for your support! CLICK HERE!

 How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority Podcast

Podcast Transcript: Episode 141

Title: A Fresh Perspective For Solopreneurs Who Feel Behind

Host: Marisa Shadrick

 

A Grounding Message for Solopreneurs Who Feel Behind

Welcome to a very special edition of the Amplify Your Authority podcast. I’m your host, Marisa Shadrick, AI marketing strategist and certified copywriter. Today, we’re setting aside strategies and tech to speak to the heart of the entrepreneur. This episode is for the solo business owner who feels behind, burdened, or simply worn.Even though this message arrives during a season of gratitude, its message is timeless. Because we all need moments like this—a reset, a fresh perspective, and a reminder that we’re not alone. The mission to build something meaningful, purposeful, and aligned with who we are is still important. So take a breath—this one’s for you.

Gratitude Reframes the Hard Moments

There’s something about this time of year that slows us down. The air gets crisp, the world leans into a cozy rhythm, and we start reflecting—not just on what we’ve gained, but on who we’ve become.Gratitude is more than a thank-you—it’s a posture, a lens. It doesn’t ignore hardship. It helps us face what’s hard with new strength. When numbers dip, launches flop, or emails go unanswered, gratitude doesn’t fix the outcome—but it reframes the meaning. It whispers, “This too is growth.”

Everyday Tasks Become Purposeful

Gratitude turns unglamorous tasks into commitment—uploading files, answering emails, formatting newsletters. These acts serve someone we may never meet, but who still matters. When the calendar is packed but our hearts feel empty, gratitude resets us. It reminds us: we don’t need to earn our worth through effort. We are already enough. We don’t have to do this work—we get to.

Why Connection > Conversion

Gratitude transforms how we serve. It softens ego, amplifies empathy. It shifts our mindset: from conversion to connection, from scaling to serving, from reaching everyone to reaching one person with care. Even when pivots feel unrecognized, algorithms change, or AI feels overwhelming, gratitude reminds us—change isn’t the enemy. It’s an invitation.

Let Gratitude Shape Your Future

Every obstacle becomes a lesson. Every detour a doorway. And even now, as AI changes how we work and create, we can be thankful—not just for the tools, but for the clarity and creative energy they return to us.Gratitude says we don’t have to fear the future. We can meet it with wonder. If your dream still feels far away, gratitude says thank you—for the vision, the longing, and the time to grow into it. You’re not stuck. You’re in a growth season.

When the Work Feels Lonely

When tech breaks or when loneliness creeps in—remember: you’re not alone. God is with you. And when clients trust you, when someone reaches out for guidance—gratitude says thank you. For the opportunity. For the unseen impact. For the chance to serve.

Your Journey Is Enough

Gratitude shifts our mindset from “How do I get more?” to “How can I give more?” And when you give more, people notice. They feel valued. They come closer. When you look back on the year, don’t call it a success or a failure—call it your journey.You showed up. You kept going. You kept learning. You stretched yourself. You continued to serve. Let gratitude be your strategy—your true strength that no one can take away from you.

Closing Words for the Season Ahead

I hope you see the beauty in what you’re building, even if it’s still unfinished. It matters. I hope you celebrate the quiet victories, even when no one claps. And I hope you greet the coming year not with pressure, but with possibilities.You’re doing important work. Keep going. Keep growing. And do it all with gratitude.May you and your family have a wonderful holiday season. Until next time, take care.

Build an AI That Thinks Like You Using ChatGPT Best Practices

Running a business as a solo owner means every task, every deadline, every piece of content falls on your shoulders.

Some weeks, the to-do list feels like a second job. And when you finally find a tool that can shave off 30 minutes here and there, it adds up.

That’s where I was a few months ago, deep in the writing process for my book, trying to keep up with client work, content, admin, all of it. (We wear many hats.)

I decided to give ChatGPT a shot to help edit some of the writing. I uploaded my rough draft with stories and insights, but the revision didn’t sound like me. The stories were mine. The insights were mine. But the voice? Filtered. Generic.

That’s when I realized, if AI is going to help us, it needs to know me. It needs more than a great prompt. It needs our decision-making process, our values, our tone, even our quirks.

 

In This Episode, I’ll Share My Process for Building A Helpful AI Assistant

If you’ve felt buried in work or disappointed by AI, I’ll show you a better way to use AI, whether it’s ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini,  that is not only strategic but a huge timesaver.

Whether you’re just starting or searching for more meaningful output, this episode will give you actionable steps to make AI work more effectively.

 

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Why adopting an AI strategy matters more than just acquiring prompt templates.
• The most common mistakes business owners make when using ChatGPT and how to avoid them
• The foundational documents you need to “teach” AI about your unique business and brand
• How to shift your mindset from overwhelmed admin to empowered strategist
• Simple steps to build specialized AI assistants for ghostwriting, marketing, and more.

 Key Takeaways

• You only need to create your foundational business documents once, and you’ll reuse them to train your custom AI assistants.
• The quality of your prompts depends on how much unique, specific information you provide to ChatGPT; otherwise, it fills in gaps with generic content.
• Your heart, worldview, and perspectives are what truly set your business apart, and AI can help you articulate them with greater clarity.

 Quotes to Remember

“It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing the right things better.”

“When you feed AI information about you, your business, and your brand, it becomes very unique to you, and not to somebody else’s business.”

“You are the one that’s going to make the difference as far as whether or not they choose to buy from you, that’s why your brand, your voice, is so important.”

 Free ResourceCapture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand IdentityINTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

 Audio Timestamps

00:00:00 – 00:00:44: Introduction & AI hesitation among solo business owners00:01:08 – 00:05:37: The many hats of solo entrepreneurs, and shifting your mindset00:05:37 – 00:06:45: Understanding reach, impressions, engagement, and conversions.00:07:51 – 00:09:02: The importance of clear AI input, and feeding context00:10:14 – 00:13:11: Building business, client, product, and voice profiles for AI00:13:38 – 00:16:32: The power of the Heart Profile and applying your true brand to AI00:16:38 – 00:19:28: Encouragement to start small, free resource, and closing remarks

 Follow Marisa on Social Media:

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisashadrick/

 Subscribe to the Podcast:

 Subscribe and receive each episode in your email inbox: https://marisashadrick.com/listen

 Rate, Review, & Subscribe:

As always, I’m grateful for your support, and I would appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts. Your review would help this podcast reach a wider audience while continuing to provide you with valuable content.

Thanks so much for your support! CLICK HERE!

 How to Leave a Podcast Review

Podcast Transcript

Amplify Your Authority PodcastPodcast Transcript: Episode 140Title: Build an AI That Thinks Like You Using ChatGPT Best PracticesHost: Marisa Shadrick

Why Solo Business Owners Hesitate with AI

Many solo business owners have waited, followed the AI buzz from the sidelines. And now, three years later, after ChatGPT was released, they’re starting to think about joining in or at least giving it a serious look. Yet with so many options and little training, they often try tools like ChatGPT only to be disappointed.

In this episode, we’re going to break down common mistakes, and I’ll show you how to get the best results using ChatGPT. You’ll walk away inspired and ready to build better prompts—and maybe even your first AI assistant—so you can start using AI for meaningful, high-leverage work.

Why You Need AI Now

Hello and welcome to the Amplify Your Authority Podcast. I’m Marisa Shadrick, AI marketing strategist and certified copywriter, and I’m excited to bring you this mini training. I’m going to give you insights into how ChatGPT works, why it matters for solo business owners, and best practices for using it effectively.

Let’s start with why you even need AI. Many people hesitate. It can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. But three years in, it’s here to stay. Companies are using it everywhere. It’s not going away—and solo business owners can’t afford to ignore it.

Wearing Too Many Hats: The Reality of Solo Business

In a corporate setting, different roles are handled by different people—sales, content, copywriting, and project management. But solo business owners? We do it all.

That means prompts to AI often feel rushed or surface-level because we’re stretched thin. It’s not carelessness—it’s overload.

AI matters not to do more, but to do what you’re already doing better. Imagine having an AI assistant that acts like a copy chief—overseeing all content to keep your voice and messaging consistent.

The first mindset shift we need: stop seeing yourself as just an admin and start thinking like a strategist.

Content Metrics: What They Really Mean

Let’s talk about content strategy. There are four stages: reach, impressions, engagement, and conversion.

Many post content hoping to grow their list, but what does engagement really mean if it doesn’t lead to conversion?

Reach is the number of people who see your content. Impressions are the number of times your content is shown. Engagement is how people interact with it. And conversion is when people take real action—buy, sign up, or register.

AI can help with content at all stages—but only if you start with strategy first and work backward.

Why Prompts Fail Without Context

AI is literal—like Amelia Bedelia. If your prompt isn’t clear or complete, it guesses. It pulls from the internet, not from you.

That’s why you need to feed it the right information: your voice, values, worldview, and more. You can’t expect strong output from weak input.

When I prompt AI, I share the context—what came before, what the goal is, and what happens next. When AI understands the why, it performs much better.

Feeding AI with Strategy: Business Docs Matter

AI is great at pattern recognition. So give it your patterns.

Start with these documents:

Business Profile (your value prop, offers, testimonials, story)

Client Profile (your audience’s pain points, surveys)

Product Profile (what you offer and why it matters)

Voice, Tone, and Style Guide (based on real content or transcripts)

Once you create these, you can reuse them again and again. You’ll save time and train your AI to think like you.

The Heart Profile: Making AI Sound Like You

While working on my book, I noticed something: AI could help, but my content was starting to sound flat. It lost my voice.

That’s when I created the Heart Profile—a deep dive into your values, worldview, personal beliefs, and what makes your message truly human.

AI can’t find that on the internet. But if you give it your humanity, it’ll reflect it back.

Once you have your foundational documents, you can create custom GPTs for different business needs—a ghostwriter, a content strategist, a copy chief—whatever role you want to offload.

Encouragement to Get Started

If ChatGPT isn’t your tool of choice, these documents work with Gemini, Claude, and others.

To help you get started, I’ve created a free resource: a Heart Profile questionnaire that helps you extract what makes your brand you.

Visit marisashadrick.com/heartto download it.

Record your answers in Google Docs using voice typing. Yes, it’s a detailed process—but it’s one you only do once. And the clarity it brings? Game-changing.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been on the AI sidelines, this is your time to step in with clarity and confidence. At the end of the day, you are the reason people buy. Not your offer. Not the algorithm. You.

Your brand and voice matter. AI can help you show up more often, more clearly, and with greater impact.

It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing the right things better.

So start small. Try a new prompt. Build your first AI assistant. Lead with strategy and humanity, and let AI do the heavy lifting.