The Tool Shed
Hereβs a look under the hood at the hardware and software tools I use to run my business.
βThe best investment is in the tools of oneβs own trade.β
Software
Freedom. This handy mobile app and desktop software keep me off social media and news sites for periods of deep work throughout the day. I highly recommend using Freedom to solve the problem if you find yourself distracted.
Headliner. This software automatically publishes my audio podcast to YouTube, plus it creates YouTube Shorts and small snippets for Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
Gusto. A platform to manage my payroll, benefits, and more.
ConvertKit. I share a few different email newsletters with my audiences and clients. If you are interested in taking your email marketing to the next level, I recommend giving ConvertKit a try.
Boomerang. It can be difficult to follow up and catch up via email. I use Boomerang to make specific emails reappear at the top of my inbox based on parameters like whether someone replied or after a period of time. This is especially helpful after sending invoices or agreements to remind me.
Waking Up app. I use this app for my ongoing practice of mindfulness and meditation.
Otter.ai. This service uses AI to write automatic meeting notes with real-time transcription, recorded audio, automated slide capture, and automated meeting summaries. Iβm currently experimenting with it for my podcast transcripts too.
Hardware
(CAMERA) Lumina 4K Webcam: Studio-Quality Webcam Powered by AI. Look Great on Every Video Call. Compatible with Mac and PC (Atomic Grey)
(FOR LIGHT) Neewer Ring Light Kit:18"/48cm Outer 55W 5500K Dimmable LED Ring Light, Light Stand, Carrying Bag for Camera, Smartphone, YouTube, TikTok, Self-Portrait Shooting, Black, Model:10088612
(STANDING DESK) FEZIBO Standing Desk. You donβt have to spend thousands of dollars on a fancy-pants standing desk. FEZIBO sits on top of your existing desk and rises smoothly with the click of a lever. My back sucks, and this standing desk tool has been a blessing.
(MICROPHONE) Audio-Technica Microphone and Boom Arm. This is the gear I use for virtual keynotes, webinars, and podcasting. Audio-Technica AT-EDU25 Dynamic Handheld USB/XLR Microphone with Knox Gear Pop Filter, Boom Scissor Arm and Shock Mount.
(FOR PODCASTING) Sennheiser Professional Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones HD 280 PRO. These are the headphone cans I use for podcasting specifically.
(FOR CASUAL VIDEO CALLS) Apple AirPods Pro 2. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds, Up to 2X More Active Noise Cancelling, Adaptive Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio, MagSafe Charging Case, Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone.
(FOR WEBINARS AND VIRTUAL KEYNOTES) Shure SE215 PRO Wired Earbuds - Professional Sound Isolating Earphones, Clear Sound & Deep Bass, Single Dynamic MicroDriver, Secure Fit in Ear Monitor, Plus Carrying Case & Fit Kit - Clear (SE215-CL).
Other
PET CORRECTOR. Hit mute. Spray this off-camera into the air. Peggy instantly stops barking at the Amazon person like magic!
The Original McKenzie Lumbar Roll by OPTP - Lower Back Support. Do it. It would help if you had this to sit up straight and manage your posture.
Affiliate Disclosure
The links above are affiliate or partner links of tools I use and recommend. I would never recommend something I donβt enjoy myself. I will earn a small commission if you buy these services or products. Bookmark this page and return to discover new tools from time to time.