
Should You Build Your Own Tools With AI? 4 Questions to Ask First
AI makes it easier than ever to build your own software, but does that mean you should start canceling subscriptions? ------------ Joe Casabona , host of the Streamlined Solopreneur podcast, has been experimenting with replacing paid tools using AI. But even with his software engineering background, there are some tools he wouldn't dream of replacing. Joe joins Zac and me to share his four-question framework for deciding what to build, what to buy, and when to leave things alone. We talk about fixing broken workflows before creating new tools, realistic first projects for beginners, and the hidden costs of maintaining your own software. Joe also explains why AI should handle tasks without replacing the creative thinking that makes your work valuable. Key Points Before building your own tool, consider four things: your skills, expertise, available tools, and how dependent your business is on the software. Fix your workflow before replacing your software. A new tool won't necessarily solve a broken process. Consider the hidden costs of building and maintaining your own tools, including troubleshooting, security, and the time spent switching. Start small with AI-built tools, focusing on simple, single-purpose projects that solve a specific problem. Know when to keep paying for software. Some tools provide expertise and reliability that aren't worth trying to recreate. Use AI for tasks, not craft. Automate repetitive work without handing over your creativity, judgment, or understanding of your audience. Resources ------------ Connect with Joe! Joe's Website: https://casabona.org Streamlined Solopreneur: https://streamlinedsolopreneur.com Tools Builder Cohort Waitlist: https://streamlined.fm/waitlist Conscientious AI Use: https://lovehate.ai Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcasabona/ Joe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joecasabona/ Connect with Zac! Zac Brown Creative Solutions: https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/ Zac on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thezacbrownshow/ Zac's New Radio Drama: https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheZacBrownShow (Coming Soon) Zac's Book: https://tr.ee/Ligq6Q587M Tools Mentioned Claude and Claude Code: https://claude.ai Lovable: https://lovable.dev Todoist: https://todoist.com Focus To-Do: https://www.focustodo.cn/ Kit: https://kit.com Ecamm Live: https://geni.us/BJIbG9 Obsidian: https://obsidian.md Notion: https://notion.so Stream Deck: https://www.elgato.com/ WordPress: https://wordpress.org ---------------------- Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15 CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns. Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated. Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community. Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder. ---------------------- JeffSieh.com - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting , visual marketing , and producing podcasts and live videos . Additionally, as a seasoned speaker , I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.





