The Business Brain Weekly Round Up
Hey there Reader
Ever feel like your two brains—one juggling strategy and the other putting out fires—just aren't cutting it anymore?
You're not alone.
This week on Business Brain, we dive into why the smartest entrepreneurs know when it’s time to bring in a "Third Brain"—and no, it’s not just another app or AI tool.
With special guest Michael Greenberg, we explore how hiring strategic thinking (yes, you can do that!) can elevate your business and your sanity.
Then, today, we flipped the script and dug into what we’re calling the “Credibility Funnel”—because building trust isn't just a buzzword, it's your business’s secret growth engine.
If you’re feeling the bandwidth burn, these episodes are your mental espresso.
Weekly Episodes
3rd Brain + Michael Greenberg
Business Brain 650
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Put Episode 650 to Work:
Before diving into AI or automation, small business owners must first get the basics right—because if your processes are messy, your tech will only amplify the chaos.
Start with the Fundamentals Document your core processes clearly—know how your business runs. Set up a solid data structure before exploring AI tools. Focus on connecting your essential systems (CRM, project management, invoicing) before adding advanced layers like automation.
Assess Customer and Team Readiness Not every business is ready for AI—and that’s okay. The most successful digital upgrades happen with businesses that tried and failed before. They’re ready to fix what’s broken. Don't invent new spending—optimize what’s already in the budget.
Use AI Where It Actually Helps AI shines at creating connective content (think: summaries, emails, proposals). But it only works well with 70%+ human input—you must guide it. Feed AI real examples, proven frameworks, and your voice to get good results.
Get Your Data in Order Centralize all data in one clean, well-organized place. Use standard file naming and folder systems. Remember: Garbage in, garbage out—bad data makes AI and automation useless.
Plan for Growth Standardization is what helps businesses jump from $500k to $1M in revenue. Pick one key service or product and build repeatable, efficient delivery systems around it.
Go Even Deeper:
🧠
Smart Business Use Trade Schools For Hiring
Watch Now→
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The Credibility Funnel + FridAI
Business Brain 651
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Take Action with Episode 651:
The Credibility Funnel
Credibility builds trust — and trust drives conversions.
- Go beyond the sales funnel: credibility must be nurtured in parallel.
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Components of a strong credibility funnel:
- Your story – authentic, relatable origin or mission
- Unfair advantages – unique skills, experiences, or tools
- Tools/resources – visible investments in tech, systems, and processes
- Presentation – polished branding, design, and delivery
- Customer service – fast, human-like support, even when automated
2. Visualization Tools for Impact
Show, don’t just tell — visual clarity builds buy-in.
- Napkin AI – a simple, intuitive tool for mapping business models, strategies, or customer journeys
- Visual aids improve communication with stakeholders and team members
- Example: Turn your credibility funnel into a diagram that can be used in pitch decks or on your site
3. AI in Customer Support
Automate answers without losing the personal touch.
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Case Study: Gumroad
- Uses Helper AI for fast, customized responses
- Avg. cost: $0.20 per solution vs. human labor at $2–$4+
- Reduces backlog, increases customer satisfaction
4. AI as a Personal Business Assistant
Your always-on advisor for decision-making and problem-solving.
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Tools like ChatGPT can help:
- Write business plans
- Navigate legal forms (e.g., IRS documents)
- Draft emails or contracts
- Brainstorm product features or pricing models
5. Data Privacy and Risk Management
Power comes with responsibility — protect your data.
- Always anonymize client data when using AI tools
- Review TOS for AI platforms to understand how data is used
- Use encrypted or in-house AI tools for sensitive content
💬 Discussion Questions
- How can AI tools improve your business’s credibility and efficiency?
- What are potential risks of using AI in business, and how can they be mitigated?
- In what ways could you implement AI-powered customer support in your business?
Go Even Deeper:
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Tech Tips of The Week:
Create a Content Library Today: Start a folder on your device or cloud storage to save ALL your content. Videos, posts, images - everything goes in! This treasure trove will be a lifesaver when you need to repurpose content or reach new followers.
Master One Platform First: Instead of spreading yourself thin, focus on dominating one social media platform. Consistency is key! Post regularly, engage with followers, and watch your audience grow. The algorithm will reward your dedication.
Use Time-Lapse for Engaging Content: Your smartphone likely has a time-lapse feature - use it! Set up your phone to capture behind-the-scenes moments, like unboxing inventory or prepping for an event. It's an easy way to create eye-catching content that showcases your business journey.
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Finance Friday
Want smarter money habits? Here are 3 under-the-radar financial strategies:
1️⃣ Use a rolling 13-week cash flow forecast – Stay proactive, not reactive, with spending decisions.
2️⃣ Set a salary cap for yourself – Reinforces discipline and protects runway.
3️⃣ Outsource bookkeeping early – Free up mental bandwidth and avoid costly tax-time errors.
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FridAI
This week we explored, AI-powered customer support, spotlighting Gumroad’s use of Helper AI to send highly relevant and personalized responses to podcast outreach. Dave praises the system’s ability to recognize context and deliver human-like interaction while being completely automated. Shannon and Dave agree that tools like these now allow small businesses to offer enterprise-level support and engagement—once impossible for solo entrepreneurs.
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Quick Links:
Guest Co-host: Michael Greenberg from 3rd Brain
Shannon’s Tribe Business Group on X
Third Brain provides Digital Operations (and AI and automation… just a few steps earlier)
Before you build a sales funnel, build your credibility funnel
Business Brain 259 about Credibility Funnels
FileMaker
Gumroad using Helper AI Support Agent for Instant Responses
Whether you're trying to buy back your time, boost your brand’s believability, or just figure out why your to-do list feels like it’s plotting against you, we’ve got you covered.
These two episodes serve up a healthy dose of insight, humor, and practical steps to supercharge the way you work and communicate.
We’re not just here to share advice—we’re building better brains together, one episode at a time.
So pour another cup of coffee (or something stronger, we won't judge), hit that play button, and let’s keep growing your business the smart way.
And hey—don’t forget to subscribe, because your fourth brain might just be our next guest.
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Dave Hamilton & Shannon Jean
Business Brain
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