Let me stop you right there. This post is not a listicle of the top 10 free AI tools for small businesses or something like that.

It’s more of a promise.

My focus since I started my business has been on helping social media marketers & small business owners learn how to connect with their audience and create contact for social media marketing — but at the moment — I'm on a quest to learn all there is to know about AI, marketing, and business, and I'm taking you along for the ride!

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here to stay, and it's revolutionizing how we do business.

Right now for the sake of this article, I’m specifically talking about generative AI like ChatGPT (free, but worth the $20 a month), Jasper (truly questioning if it is worth it at $500 a year now that ChatGPT is out), and whatever Google has by the time this article comes out. BARD? I guess…

I'm genuinely stoked about the endless opportunities AI presents, but I'm also aware of the challenges it brings to the table.

In today's AI-driven landscape, the divide between the well-resourced and the under-equipped is widening, and small businesses might feel like they're hustling just to stay in the game. But that's where I come in. I'm here to help you navigate this bold new world, so you can not only keep up but thrive in it.

Why AI Excites Me (And Why It Should Excite You Too!)

AI has come a long way since the days of clunky robots and sci-fi fantasies. Today, AI-driven algorithms analyze data, predict consumer behavior, and streamline operations. In the world of marketing, AI helps create personalized content, targeted advertising campaigns, and effective customer engagement strategies.

But enough about the cool stuff AI can do—let's talk about why I'm so excited about it. I believe that AI has the potential to level the playing field for small businesses.

With the right tools and knowledge, even the smallest fish in the pond can compete with the big guys.

Think of AI as your secret weapon: it can help you work smarter, not harder, and punch above your weight in the business arena.

Better yet, think of ChatGPT as a $20 a month intern who can help you with a lot of things. You just need to ask it. Seriously I’m talking strategy, email, blogs, and things like party planning. I will be explaining more on my Instagram page and here but I am excited about the possibilities. And also what it means for my own business as I transition to helping people understand how to use generative AI in their small business (always with a social media marketing or regular marketing angle).

The Nuances: Not All That Glitters Is Gold

I'm a realist, and I understand that AI isn't a magic solution for everyone. While it can be a game-changer for many small businesses, it can also widen the gap between those with access to this cutting-edge technology and those without.

It's essential to understand what you can and cannot do with AI, and to carefully weigh the pros and cons before jumping on the bandwagon.

For instance, AI-driven marketing tools can be pricey, and there are countless new apps, showing up every day — and not every small business can afford them. Or know which ones are worth it.

It's important to know your budget and prioritize your spending.

Also — AI is only as good as the data it's fed. If your business doesn't have a large customer base or a wealth of data to analyze (not to mention companies that aren’t allowed to use ChatGPT right now), OR you don’t personally understand how to use prompts to get the best output, AI might not deliver the results you're hoping for.

Helping Small Businesses Make Sense of AI

As someone who's passionate about helping small businesses succeed, my goal is to provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to harness the power of AI.

Here are a few things I'll be exploring in future articles/videos/etc:

1. Affordable AI tools for small businesses: You don't have to break the bank to get started with AI. I'll introduce you to budget-friendly tools that can help you dip your toes into the AI waters.

2. Strategies for making the most of AI: I'll share tips on how to effectively use AI to boost your marketing efforts, streamline your operations, and improve your bottom line.

3. Staying informed: AI is a rapidly evolving field, and it's crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest developments. I'll keep you in the loop about the latest trends, breakthroughs, and industry news.

4. Ethical considerations: As we embrace AI, we must also be mindful of the ethical implications. I'll discuss how to use AI responsibly and ensure that your business practices align with your values.

5. Real-life success stories: Let's learn from others who are doing smart things with technology and AI! I'll share inspiring stories of small businesses that have successfully integrated AI into their operations and marketing strategies, and the lessons we can take away from them.

6. Navigating potential pitfalls: AI isn't without its challenges. I'll delve into common roadblocks and offer guidance on how to overcome them.

7. Building a data-driven culture: To truly make the most of AI, it's essential to develop a data-driven mindset within your organization. I'll share tips on fostering a culture that embraces data and analytics, empowering your team to make informed decisions. Also also — ask, where is your data going?!?

8. Networking and collaboration: As a small business owner, you don't have to face the AI frontier alone. I'll introduce you to communities, forums, and resources where you can connect with other entrepreneurs, share experiences, and learn from one another.

Join Me on This Exciting Journey of Marketing AI

As we embark on this adventure together, I'm committed to making this space a valuable resource for small business owners like you.

Expect a healthy mix of humor, food puns, personal tangents that may never go anywhere — and practical advice, all served up in a conversational and easy-to-digest format.

I'm well aware that the world of AI can seem overwhelming, but — as I have tried to do with social media — I'm here to help you make sense of it all and give you the tools you need to succeed.

So buckle up, and let's explore the thrilling intersection of business, marketing, and AI together! Let me know what you’re interested in hearing about.