Don't Start with AI. Start with the Problem

Most small business owners reach for AI before they know what problem they're trying to solve — and that's why they quit a week later. The fix is a different starting point.In this episode, I'll walk through why "open ChatGPT and figure it out" is the wrong way to start with AI, and what to do instead: pick one repetitive task in your business, use AI to create a first draft, and refine from there. I'll also cover why prompting is a learnable skill (not a personality trait), why the "I automated my whole business with AI" posts are misleading, and how to think about your first month with AI like an on-ramp instead of a cliff.This is part of the AI for Small Business miniseries — a run of episodes on what AI actually changes for small business owners, what's worth using, and what's a waste of time.After 15+ years helping small businesses get more visible — and 30+ years writing code, starting at age 12 — I've watched plenty of people fail with new tools by starting with the tool instead of the problem. AI is no different. This is the on-ramp that actually works.CHAPTERS:0:00 Why most small business owners get stuck with AI0:49 The mistake: opening AI without a clear problem to solve1:35 Step 1: Pick one repetitive task in your business2:20 Step 2: Use AI for a first draft, not the final product3:35 Why your "polish" still matters3:45 Step 3: Don't expect perfection on the first try4:35 Prompting is a learnable skill5:10 Ignore the "I automated everything" hype5:45 The on-ramp metaphor: starting slow is normal6:20 How small wins compound into real leverageMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:🎧 Earlier in the AI for Small Business miniseries: 4 Jobs You Shouldn't Trust AI With (and 3 You Should) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQdxM05GCo🎧 Earlier in the AI for Small Business miniseries: How to Tell If AI Is a Fad or a Real Shift - https://youtu.be/xYY4HccJi2A?si=pbipRhdKdukQT6NYABOUT SMALL BUSINESS BIG VISIBILITY:A podcast for small business owners who want practical, real-world strategies to grow without burnout. Hosted by Jason McKenzie — founder of Boise Web and a 15+ year veteran helping small businesses become more visible, more profitable, and more sustainable.Episode 394🔗 https://smallbusinessbigvisibility.com/#AIForSmallBusiness #SmallBusinessOwner #SmallBusinessMarketing