00:00:00.185 –> 00:00:05.945

Joe: The spooky season is officially over and we know it's over because it

00:00:05.945 –> 00:00:11.015

was ushered in by the spookiest thing of all seeing Christmas commercials.

00:00:11.345 –> 00:00:12.785

Before Halloween.

00:00:13.295 –> 00:00:14.645

But it's November now.

00:00:14.645 –> 00:00:19.115

And one of the best things that I think I do, one of my favorite things

00:00:19.115 –> 00:00:22.475

at least is my annual gift guide.

00:00:22.475 –> 00:00:26.525

And so I am doing today's episode a very special episode of the

00:00:26.555 –> 00:00:29.585

2023 solo preneurs gift guide.

00:00:29.885 –> 00:00:35.045

Over the years I've published a great many gift guides on my blog from the

00:00:35.045 –> 00:00:39.395

freelancers gift guide to the podcasters gift guide, to working from home.

00:00:39.395 –> 00:00:45.245

And even for hobbies like pens and cigars, this year is no different.

00:00:45.485 –> 00:00:51.005

Given my new focus on helping solo preneurs, and the fact that

00:00:51.005 –> 00:00:54.125

they'll work from home gift guide started to feel a little stale.

00:00:54.695 –> 00:00:57.935

I've decided to change things up for 2023.

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There are a few ways.

00:00:59.435 –> 00:01:00.305

I've changed things up.

00:01:00.335 –> 00:01:03.875

Number one is this is now the solo preneur and creator's gift guide and not the

00:01:03.875 –> 00:01:08.585

work from home gift guide, but I've also decided to move this guide to medium.

00:01:08.825 –> 00:01:13.505

Now, if you would like to learn more about why, if you'd like to hear my

00:01:13.505 –> 00:01:19.055

thinking for my whole content strategy, moving into 2024, you can do that as a.

00:01:19.415 –> 00:01:21.905

Podcast Foundry member.

00:01:22.265 –> 00:01:26.645

You can sign up over at how I built diet slash pro, or you can get ad free,

00:01:26.675 –> 00:01:29.285

extended, and early access episodes.

00:01:29.525 –> 00:01:32.915

If you're listening in apple podcast by subscribing directly.

00:01:33.215 –> 00:01:36.515

In apple podcasts, but that's what we're going to talk about today.

00:01:36.755 –> 00:01:41.375

The 2023 solo preneurs gift guide, where to find all these great things

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and what to buy, whether it is for you, the solar prenuer creator.

00:01:45.545 –> 00:01:50.315

Uh, or for the solo preneur or creator in your life, but that's

00:01:50.315 –> 00:01:52.805

it let's get into the intro.

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And then the gift guide.

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Hey everybody, and welcome to How I Built It, the podcast that helps

00:01:59.362 –> 00:02:03.772

busy solopreneurs and creators grow their business without

00:02:03.777 –> 00:02:05.452

spending too much time on it.

00:02:05.992 –> 00:02:11.302

I'm your host, Joe Casabona, and each week I bring you interviews and case studies

00:02:11.452 –> 00:02:15.852

on how to build a better business through smarter processes, time management.

00:02:16.052 –> 00:02:18.152

And effective content creation.

00:02:18.512 –> 00:02:22.682

It's like getting free coaching calls from successful solopreneurs.

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By the end of each episode, you'll have one to three takeaways you can

00:02:27.632 –> 00:02:33.242

implement today to stop spending time in your business and more time on

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your business or with your friends, your family reading, or however

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you choose to spend your free time.

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Okay, so let's dive into the gift guide.

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I have broken this down into several sections.

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Uh, and I should say that everything will be available in the show

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notes, which you can find in the description of your podcast player.

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Or over at how I built.

00:02:58.726 –> 00:03:00.916

It slash three, three and nine.

00:03:01.216 –> 00:03:05.296

That's going to include links to both the gift guide on medium.

00:03:05.656 –> 00:03:08.476

Any more visual gift guide over@casabona.org.

00:03:09.376 –> 00:03:11.626

You can learn the difference between those two things.

00:03:11.776 –> 00:03:13.456

Uh, if you become a member.

00:03:13.786 –> 00:03:14.926

Again, that's over it.

00:03:14.956 –> 00:03:19.336

How I built it it's last join, or if you sign up directly in apple podcasts.

00:03:19.366 –> 00:03:22.456

So I'll also say that the gift guide.

00:03:22.786 –> 00:03:24.256

And the description.

00:03:24.586 –> 00:03:26.626

Does include affiliate links.

00:03:26.656 –> 00:03:29.626

This gift guide is affiliate link supported.

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I will also say that I don't recommend anything that I don't think is good.

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So.

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Rest assured that this is not just some affiliate link farm.

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There are a lot of things I recommend here that don't have affiliate links.

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So.

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Anyway, let's get into the guide.

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First, let's talk about recording and video conferencing as a solo preneur,

00:03:50.956 –> 00:03:55.456

your likely meeting with lots of people via zoom, creating content

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attending, or even presenting webinars.

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And so you need good.

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Recording gear.

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I personally think the El Gato face cam.

00:04:05.746 –> 00:04:09.556

Is one of the best web cams that you can buy.

00:04:10.006 –> 00:04:11.806

It's got a great price.

00:04:11.836 –> 00:04:13.276

It's got great picture.

00:04:13.606 –> 00:04:18.136

And it comes with software to really help you dial in that picture.

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Uh, that is a 10.

00:04:20.116 –> 00:04:21.196

EDP camera.

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And so if you do want to go for the upgrade.

00:04:25.546 –> 00:04:28.066

You know, maybe you're doing more streaming or the good, the

00:04:28.066 –> 00:04:30.856

gifty, the loved one in your life is doing more streaming.

00:04:31.186 –> 00:04:35.536

And you want 4k quality check out the El Gato face cam pro my friend,

00:04:35.566 –> 00:04:41.806

Brian picked that up this year and he sent me a side by side of the El Gato

00:04:41.836 –> 00:04:46.846

face cam pro 4k and his 10 80 DSLR.

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And I couldn't tell the difference.

00:04:48.856 –> 00:04:52.786

So a really good quality in that tiny little camera.

00:04:53.596 –> 00:04:58.066

Um, so that is, those are the cameras that I recommend.

00:04:58.066 –> 00:05:01.426

I've tried a bunch of different ones and I'll Gado just really makes good stuff.

00:05:01.936 –> 00:05:04.576

Uh, if you want to see my actual live stream set up, right?

00:05:04.576 –> 00:05:06.016

This is like a thousand dollar camera.

00:05:06.016 –> 00:05:08.266

So I'm not going to recommend that in a gift guide.

00:05:08.866 –> 00:05:14.086

Um, but I do link to my own live stream kit, and that has the camera, the

00:05:14.086 –> 00:05:18.826

lens, and any, anything else that I needed to make this whole setup work?

00:05:20.326 –> 00:05:21.766

You'll also need a good microphone.

00:05:21.766 –> 00:05:23.596

You don't want to use the built-in microphone.

00:05:24.106 –> 00:05:30.106

Uh, and so the microphone that I recommend is the Sam sun Q2 you that Sam son.

00:05:30.616 –> 00:05:31.666

Not Samsung.

00:05:31.696 –> 00:05:33.496

So S a M S O N.

00:05:33.976 –> 00:05:34.546

Q2.

00:05:34.546 –> 00:05:34.996

You.

00:05:35.416 –> 00:05:36.796

Solid quality.

00:05:36.826 –> 00:05:41.356

Great price comes highly recommended by me and a lot of other podcasters.

00:05:42.046 –> 00:05:44.266

Uh, so really good microphone.

00:05:44.686 –> 00:05:48.166

Uh, if you prefer a headset, if you just like don't want the microphone.

00:05:48.706 –> 00:05:50.356

Um, in your face, right?

00:05:50.356 –> 00:05:51.106

The whole time.

00:05:51.466 –> 00:05:53.086

Uh, and you prefer a headset.

00:05:53.116 –> 00:05:57.526

The Sennheiser PC eight USB headset is really good.

00:05:57.706 –> 00:06:00.496

I think that's the one that we use for.

00:06:01.186 –> 00:06:02.476

Uh, LinkedIn learning.

00:06:02.476 –> 00:06:05.596

And so I have one just off to the side here.

00:06:06.166 –> 00:06:08.176

And works really well.

00:06:08.236 –> 00:06:11.026

So again, just something better than the built-in microphone.

00:06:11.896 –> 00:06:15.826

Uh, and again, if you want to see more recording gear, I do

00:06:15.826 –> 00:06:18.556

have a podcasters gift guide that I'll link to in the show notes.

00:06:20.566 –> 00:06:24.046

Now camera is, is a lot of the battle.

00:06:24.256 –> 00:06:28.396

I'm maybe half the battle, but one surefire way to make yourself look

00:06:28.396 –> 00:06:30.676

better on camera is having good lighting.

00:06:31.306 –> 00:06:33.556

I've made adjustments to my lighting.

00:06:33.946 –> 00:06:37.876

Uh, with the same camera and I've managed to like, look a lot better.

00:06:38.326 –> 00:06:41.746

So with good lighting, your camera doesn't have to do.

00:06:42.436 –> 00:06:43.666

The hard work.

00:06:43.816 –> 00:06:46.516

Uh, or doesn't have to work as hard, I should say to capture you.

00:06:47.116 –> 00:06:49.276

Uh, and you won't look like you're recording in a cave.

00:06:49.276 –> 00:06:52.156

So there are lots of different lighting setups.

00:06:52.426 –> 00:06:55.576

I list a few of my favorite here on the gifts on the gift guide.

00:06:55.996 –> 00:06:57.166

Uh, Phillips hue lights.

00:06:57.166 –> 00:06:58.786

I like these because they're smart lights.

00:06:58.816 –> 00:06:59.866

They connect to.

00:07:00.556 –> 00:07:02.356

Uh, apple home kit.

00:07:03.346 –> 00:07:07.126

And they're automateable so, uh, as I'm recording this gift guide,

00:07:07.126 –> 00:07:10.906

you know, my Phillips hue lights are all like Christmas-y colors.

00:07:11.416 –> 00:07:16.486

Um, you'll know if you watch my YouTube channel that they're usually purple.

00:07:16.486 –> 00:07:19.756

If I'm recording for rss.com, they are orange.

00:07:20.146 –> 00:07:22.066

And I can change all of that.

00:07:22.456 –> 00:07:25.186

I also have a Phillips hue, light bulb upstairs.

00:07:25.186 –> 00:07:27.106

That turns red when I'm recording.

00:07:27.106 –> 00:07:28.456

So my family knows.

00:07:29.026 –> 00:07:30.286

So Phillips hue lights.

00:07:30.286 –> 00:07:33.586

There's just a lot of fun, really easy to automate.

00:07:34.036 –> 00:07:35.596

And are very versatile.

00:07:35.596 –> 00:07:38.386

I've got strip lights, I've got the light bulbs and it looks,

00:07:38.476 –> 00:07:40.156

it really does a lot too.

00:07:40.816 –> 00:07:42.946

Improve the quality of your recording.

00:07:43.906 –> 00:07:49.006

Uh, I also have El Gato key lights and these are, you know, flat panel lights.

00:07:49.486 –> 00:07:51.256

Uh, that will let you evenly.

00:07:51.466 –> 00:07:52.636

I have one behind me.

00:07:52.636 –> 00:07:53.896

That's the key light air.

00:07:54.316 –> 00:07:56.746

Uh, that is a backlight, so that.

00:07:57.526 –> 00:08:02.146

You know, my silhouette, I guess like, there's like a clear differentiation

00:08:02.146 –> 00:08:03.526

between the foreground and the background.

00:08:04.456 –> 00:08:05.026

So.

00:08:05.926 –> 00:08:07.846

If you're going to be doing any kind of appreciable

00:08:07.846 –> 00:08:09.166

recording you or your loved one.

00:08:09.556 –> 00:08:10.186

The legato key.

00:08:10.186 –> 00:08:11.566

The lights are really good.

00:08:11.866 –> 00:08:13.276

I usually offer a warning.

00:08:13.606 –> 00:08:14.806

Don't get price gouged.

00:08:14.836 –> 00:08:17.056

The key light should be around 1 99.

00:08:18.106 –> 00:08:20.056

Well, the key light air should be around 1 29.

00:08:20.656 –> 00:08:23.476

So they are pricey, but they are also smart lights.

00:08:23.836 –> 00:08:28.456

They are controllable via your computer and they're automateable as well.

00:08:29.416 –> 00:08:33.976

Um, if you don't want to spend that much on lights, Uh, newer,

00:08:34.066 –> 00:08:38.896

N E w E R has a two-pack of lights that just sit on stands.

00:08:39.316 –> 00:08:41.026

You can set them up while you're recording.

00:08:41.356 –> 00:08:45.526

Uh, or loom makes something called the LUME cube for video conferencing.

00:08:46.126 –> 00:08:50.146

And so, uh, that's just something that sits right next to your webcam

00:08:50.416 –> 00:08:52.096

that lights your face evenly.

00:08:52.966 –> 00:08:57.196

But I am a huge fan of the hue lights and the El Gato key lights.

00:08:57.196 –> 00:08:57.946

I think that.

00:08:58.456 –> 00:09:02.146

Uh, yes, they are pricey, but they do a really good job of.

00:09:02.836 –> 00:09:03.946

Improving the lighting.

00:09:03.946 –> 00:09:05.356

So especially.

00:09:06.046 –> 00:09:09.196

If, you know, someone is going to be doing a lot of video work.

00:09:09.646 –> 00:09:12.586

This might be a nice gift to get them that they.

00:09:13.786 –> 00:09:16.156

Might not want to spend the money on themselves.

00:09:16.276 –> 00:09:16.636

So.

00:09:17.266 –> 00:09:19.456

Uh, that's strongly recommend those.

00:09:19.936 –> 00:09:21.766

Okay, so that's, that's recording.

00:09:22.396 –> 00:09:27.196

And, uh, recording and lighting and all that fun stuff.

00:09:27.646 –> 00:09:32.536

Let's move on to the home office set up because.

00:09:33.286 –> 00:09:38.746

Uh, when you're a solo preneur, um, you are probably working from home.

00:09:39.676 –> 00:09:42.706

Uh, and I know I said earlier that my work from home guide was getting

00:09:42.706 –> 00:09:45.496

stale, but that doesn't mean that some of that stuff can't help.

00:09:46.876 –> 00:09:47.686

Solopreneurs.

00:09:48.586 –> 00:09:50.686

And, uh, again, that's a core feature.

00:09:51.316 –> 00:09:53.686

For many solopreneurs, their ability to work from home.

00:09:54.616 –> 00:10:00.076

It also means that you want to have A good office to work from Uh, The kitchen

00:10:00.106 –> 00:10:04.426

table or the couch was okay is a temporary setup, but longer-term you need a more

00:10:04.456 –> 00:10:09.226

economic solution So here are some items that i recommend as somebody who's

00:10:09.226 –> 00:10:11.656

worked from home for most of his life.

00:10:11.656 –> 00:10:13.846

Okay, so let's start with desk chair.

00:10:13.876 –> 00:10:16.846

Good desk chair is important for someone who works from home.

00:10:17.446 –> 00:10:21.796

You're going to be spending, I don't know, six, seven, maybe

00:10:21.796 –> 00:10:23.836

10 hours a day in that chair.

00:10:24.166 –> 00:10:25.306

Or at least around that chair.

00:10:25.816 –> 00:10:29.446

So you want a good one Steelcase while expensive makes the best.

00:10:29.926 –> 00:10:32.296

Uh, I'm a big fan of my Steelcase chair.

00:10:32.386 –> 00:10:34.156

It, uh, it does.

00:10:34.666 –> 00:10:36.406

Everything I needed to do so.

00:10:36.826 –> 00:10:38.686

Uh, it's really adjustable.

00:10:39.016 –> 00:10:40.276

Uh, it's comfortable.

00:10:41.446 –> 00:10:45.646

And it again, it has a lot of settings to support.

00:10:45.646 –> 00:10:47.176

Whoever is sitting in it.

00:10:48.106 –> 00:10:50.266

Uh, if you're looking for something more affordable.

00:10:51.196 –> 00:10:54.016

Hon H O N chairs seem pretty popular.

00:10:54.016 –> 00:10:56.476

So if you're not trying to spend like a thousand dollars on a

00:10:56.476 –> 00:10:58.336

chair, Han chairs are like 300.

00:11:00.016 –> 00:11:02.956

I would say spend at least 300 bucks on a desk chair.

00:11:03.406 –> 00:11:03.706

Right.

00:11:04.096 –> 00:11:05.716

Uh, you're again, you're sending in it.

00:11:06.256 –> 00:11:07.156

Most of the day.

00:11:07.396 –> 00:11:07.786

So.

00:11:08.596 –> 00:11:10.666

And again, this could be a great gift, right?

00:11:10.666 –> 00:11:16.906

If you, if you have like a sibling or a child, Um, who not a child.

00:11:17.236 –> 00:11:19.126

Your child, your kids.

00:11:19.546 –> 00:11:20.416

Uh, offspring.

00:11:20.836 –> 00:11:24.796

Uh, who worked from home and they're not willing to spend 300 bucks on a chair.

00:11:25.396 –> 00:11:27.286

This might be a good gift for them.

00:11:27.286 –> 00:11:27.586

Right.

00:11:28.606 –> 00:11:29.476

Either way.

00:11:30.226 –> 00:11:31.726

I want to tell you about.

00:11:32.236 –> 00:11:34.576

Another thing that was like a game changer for me.

00:11:34.636 –> 00:11:37.006

Rollerblade wheels for office chairs.

00:11:37.966 –> 00:11:40.306

I didn't think of these until I saw them on Twitter.

00:11:40.306 –> 00:11:41.716

West boss tweeted about them.

00:11:42.196 –> 00:11:44.656

But these wheels make the chair sturdier.

00:11:45.736 –> 00:11:48.016

And much easier to roll on carpets.

00:11:48.016 –> 00:11:49.336

I have a carpet in my office.

00:11:50.056 –> 00:11:54.856

So these, these rollerblade wheels for office chairs are a game changer.

00:11:54.886 –> 00:11:56.476

I am a huge fan.

00:11:56.746 –> 00:11:58.936

Highly recommend for anybody.

00:11:59.386 –> 00:12:00.826

Who has.

00:12:01.996 –> 00:12:03.436

Uh, who has.

00:12:04.306 –> 00:12:04.906

The.

00:12:05.446 –> 00:12:07.516

An office chair right there.

00:12:07.576 –> 00:12:11.086

They're from owl office owl set of five replacement chair.

00:12:11.536 –> 00:12:12.586

Castor wheels.

00:12:12.586 –> 00:12:13.966

They're less than 20 bucks.

00:12:14.716 –> 00:12:17.776

And it just a game, super easy to install.

00:12:18.376 –> 00:12:19.336

Game changer.

00:12:19.486 –> 00:12:21.106

Big, big fan.

00:12:21.856 –> 00:12:23.836

Of these wheels.

00:12:24.976 –> 00:12:25.876

Game changer.

00:12:26.536 –> 00:12:27.046

Okay.

00:12:27.616 –> 00:12:29.386

So that's the, that's the chair.

00:12:29.446 –> 00:12:30.676

Let's talk about the desk.

00:12:31.516 –> 00:12:32.806

Uh, I have a standing desk.

00:12:32.836 –> 00:12:33.736

It's the Jarvis.

00:12:33.736 –> 00:12:36.466

It's the fully Jarvis or the Jarvis by fully.

00:12:37.036 –> 00:12:40.186

Uh, fully is now owned by Herman Miller, who also happened

00:12:40.186 –> 00:12:41.686

to make really good chairs.

00:12:42.706 –> 00:12:43.876

But I have, and I love it.

00:12:44.416 –> 00:12:45.736

I have the option to stand.

00:12:46.006 –> 00:12:47.386

During portions of my day.

00:12:47.716 –> 00:12:48.466

And that's really good.

00:12:49.306 –> 00:12:51.796

I also have the by flexi spot.

00:12:52.906 –> 00:12:53.746

It's fantastic.

00:12:53.746 –> 00:12:54.406

Full disclosure.

00:12:54.406 –> 00:12:56.236

They sponsored this podcast previously.

00:12:56.836 –> 00:12:58.966

They provided the desk to me.

00:12:59.266 –> 00:13:00.106

For free.

00:13:01.006 –> 00:13:05.236

But it's, I would say just as good as my fully desk.

00:13:05.356 –> 00:13:07.666

Uh, the main difference between them is that the.

00:13:08.956 –> 00:13:09.826

by flexi spot.

00:13:09.856 –> 00:13:10.606

The one I have.

00:13:11.086 –> 00:13:15.136

Has a child lock on the controller, which is great because my kids like

00:13:15.136 –> 00:13:19.156

to play with the controller and I would prefer that they didn't.

00:13:19.216 –> 00:13:19.786

So.

00:13:20.356 –> 00:13:21.976

They're both programmable.

00:13:22.006 –> 00:13:23.266

They're both really sturdy.

00:13:23.296 –> 00:13:26.746

I would say, look at both and see what options you're looking for.

00:13:27.286 –> 00:13:28.306

In a standing desk.

00:13:28.306 –> 00:13:32.986

If you're looking for something more affordable, there are converters.

00:13:33.586 –> 00:13:38.746

That will turn your desk into a standing desk, fully used to make one,

00:13:38.746 –> 00:13:40.486

but it looks like they don't anymore.

00:13:41.116 –> 00:13:44.296

Uh, so there are like there's one from the New York times has a,

00:13:44.356 –> 00:13:45.616

I guess this is why our cutter.

00:13:46.246 –> 00:13:48.706

Has a three basket standing desks converters.

00:13:49.156 –> 00:13:52.936

I have another former sponsor Moft has something like this.

00:13:52.936 –> 00:13:59.386

It's this kind of origami laptop stand thing that one of the.

00:14:00.106 –> 00:14:03.976

Folding options turns your desk into a standing desk.

00:14:03.976 –> 00:14:05.566

And I've used that before and it was really good.

00:14:05.566 –> 00:14:05.866

So.

00:14:07.066 –> 00:14:09.406

Moft dot U S if you're looking for.

00:14:09.856 –> 00:14:13.876

Maybe just something to convert your current desk into a standing desk.

00:14:15.676 –> 00:14:19.156

Other economic stuff, something to, again, we just talked about this.

00:14:19.396 –> 00:14:22.246

Something to elevate your laptop or monitor is great because then you're not

00:14:22.246 –> 00:14:24.376

hunched over or very close to your screen.

00:14:24.946 –> 00:14:28.396

12 south makes a lot of really great stuff in this department.

00:14:29.386 –> 00:14:30.886

So you would just find something.

00:14:31.516 –> 00:14:33.406

I think that works for you or your loved one.

00:14:33.406 –> 00:14:34.546

I like the park slope.

00:14:34.816 –> 00:14:36.676

That again from 12 south.

00:14:37.156 –> 00:14:38.416

Really nice stand.

00:14:40.306 –> 00:14:43.426

Uh, good mouse goes a long way in economics and productivity.

00:14:43.966 –> 00:14:48.766

I think the logic tech MX master three combined ergonomics

00:14:48.766 –> 00:14:50.296

and productivity really well.

00:14:50.536 –> 00:14:54.106

It's got multi-device support, ergonomic design for comfort.

00:14:54.496 –> 00:14:59.446

And lots of programmable buttons to make your computer easier to use.

00:14:59.446 –> 00:14:59.866

So.

00:15:00.406 –> 00:15:03.406

I love the logic tech MX master three.

00:15:04.036 –> 00:15:05.446

It's a really great mouse.

00:15:05.506 –> 00:15:07.276

It goes for around a hundred bucks.

00:15:08.806 –> 00:15:10.816

Uh, now I don't use an ergonomic keyboard.

00:15:10.816 –> 00:15:14.356

I have the key Cron K2 pro mechanical keyboard, which you've

00:15:14.896 –> 00:15:16.756

probably heard me typing on.

00:15:17.416 –> 00:15:18.796

Uh, but I'm an ideas, man.

00:15:18.796 –> 00:15:23.566

And I've heard great things about the economic keyboard from Microsoft.

00:15:23.566 –> 00:15:25.486

I think it's just called air economic keyboard.

00:15:25.936 –> 00:15:28.156

Uh, this is a, an affordable option, right?

00:15:28.156 –> 00:15:30.886

There's the Kinesis ergonomic keyboard as well.

00:15:30.886 –> 00:15:34.996

But the Microsoft one is, is less than half the price.

00:15:34.996 –> 00:15:36.676

So if you're looking to test the waters.

00:15:37.306 –> 00:15:39.946

On an ergonomic keyboard, I would recommend Microsoft's.

00:15:41.686 –> 00:15:44.476

Now, if you really want to go the extra mile, you could get a monitor arm.

00:15:44.896 –> 00:15:47.476

The ones by fully are really pretty.

00:15:48.016 –> 00:15:50.176

I I've always wanted one, but.

00:15:50.926 –> 00:15:54.136

Uh, that they don't fit the monitor.

00:15:54.136 –> 00:15:54.766

I have.

00:15:55.816 –> 00:15:58.576

I got the mic, the studio, the apple studio display.

00:15:59.206 –> 00:16:01.876

So I didn't get the visa option or whatever.

00:16:02.326 –> 00:16:03.016

So.

00:16:03.886 –> 00:16:06.556

If you have a monitor that supports this, definitely check it out.

00:16:06.586 –> 00:16:09.976

I did have one by Amazon that served me really well for a long time.

00:16:11.266 –> 00:16:14.506

So that is home and economics.

00:16:15.046 –> 00:16:18.556

Uh, and why don't we take a quick break?

00:16:19.636 –> 00:16:22.606

And, uh, hear a word from our sponsors.

00:16:23.945 –> 00:16:24.575

Okay.

00:16:24.575 –> 00:16:31.355

And we are back, let's get into the, at home technology, having the right tech.

00:16:31.805 –> 00:16:33.515

Can make a world of difference.

00:16:34.145 –> 00:16:37.505

And I have a bunch of recommendations for you to help you work.

00:16:38.015 –> 00:16:40.145

Uh, even if you have kids at home, So.

00:16:41.195 –> 00:16:42.245

Before we get to that bit.

00:16:42.665 –> 00:16:44.375

Let's talk about backups and storage.

00:16:44.825 –> 00:16:46.715

Everything we do is on our computers these days.

00:16:46.715 –> 00:16:50.975

And so you need a good backup and storage solution.

00:16:52.775 –> 00:16:55.295

External hard drive is number one on this list.

00:16:55.835 –> 00:16:59.645

I've used the Western digital, my book for as long as I could remember.

00:17:00.065 –> 00:17:03.635

Um, I've, I've had the eight terabyte model for a long time.

00:17:03.635 –> 00:17:05.525

I upgraded to the 12 terabyte model.

00:17:06.545 –> 00:17:10.745

I think the convention is two to four times your hard drive space.

00:17:11.315 –> 00:17:14.675

Uh, so I'm kind of just under the four, the four times.

00:17:15.335 –> 00:17:19.415

But having an external drive to do onsite backups.

00:17:20.525 –> 00:17:21.665

Is really important.

00:17:22.235 –> 00:17:26.345

Uh, equally as important is having cloud or offsite backups.

00:17:26.915 –> 00:17:30.545

This is, you know, having something off site, especially if you work from

00:17:30.545 –> 00:17:33.605

home, if something happens with your computer or your equipment at home.

00:17:34.835 –> 00:17:36.545

In offsite, backup can save you.

00:17:36.545 –> 00:17:39.905

So, uh, there's only one service I recommend for this and it's

00:17:39.905 –> 00:17:41.585

Backblaze full disclosure.

00:17:41.585 –> 00:17:43.565

Backblaze is a former sponsor of this show.

00:17:44.075 –> 00:17:47.015

I was using them before they sponsored the show.

00:17:47.705 –> 00:17:52.805

Easily the best offsite backup solution for solo, preneurs, and creators.

00:17:52.805 –> 00:18:00.035

So again, if this is something for a loved one, Get them a gift card and they

00:18:00.035 –> 00:18:01.985

can set up their own Backblaze account.

00:18:02.975 –> 00:18:05.885

The last bit, the last two bits here, I don't, I don't know that they're

00:18:05.885 –> 00:18:09.905

necessary, but if you want to go the extra mile, one is network area storage or Nass.

00:18:10.475 –> 00:18:13.565

This is something that allows you to store data over a home

00:18:13.565 –> 00:18:15.365

network from multiple devices.

00:18:16.445 –> 00:18:19.865

I currently have the Synology to, uh, bay storage, Nass.

00:18:20.525 –> 00:18:23.285

Uh, and so what I'll do here is.

00:18:23.825 –> 00:18:27.425

Move older files into cold storage on the Nass.

00:18:27.425 –> 00:18:31.355

So any like big files that I really don't need immediate access to

00:18:31.355 –> 00:18:33.605

anymore, we'll go to the Nass.

00:18:34.025 –> 00:18:37.565

Uh, just a heads up that if, if you do buy this, it's the bay only.

00:18:37.565 –> 00:18:38.525

So you'll have to get.

00:18:39.155 –> 00:18:40.805

Some hard drives.

00:18:41.015 –> 00:18:41.375

Right.

00:18:41.405 –> 00:18:45.125

And for the total cost, I know some people who have also gone the route

00:18:45.125 –> 00:18:47.105

of a Mac mini as their home server.

00:18:47.675 –> 00:18:50.915

Um, I, I think like if you're looking just for like dedicated

00:18:50.915 –> 00:18:52.325

storage and assets, still better.

00:18:52.835 –> 00:18:56.495

I haven't had both at this point, but I got the base level Mac mini.

00:18:57.005 –> 00:18:59.975

So I'm not really using that for deep storage.

00:19:00.845 –> 00:19:04.295

And then the other thing I would mention here is a portable hard drive, right?

00:19:04.295 –> 00:19:07.025

And with the cloud, there's a lot less need for a portable storage,

00:19:07.535 –> 00:19:09.215

but I still like to have some on me.

00:19:09.305 –> 00:19:12.035

I like the Western digital portable hard drive.

00:19:12.035 –> 00:19:12.995

That's really nice.

00:19:12.995 –> 00:19:13.925

And a good price.

00:19:14.525 –> 00:19:15.425

Uh, and.

00:19:16.055 –> 00:19:17.255

Even though it is pricey.

00:19:17.255 –> 00:19:19.355

I'm a huge fan of Samsung's T seven.

00:19:19.535 –> 00:19:20.525

Portable SSD.

00:19:21.005 –> 00:19:22.295

It's so small.

00:19:22.895 –> 00:19:24.365

And has so much storage.

00:19:24.875 –> 00:19:29.615

I actually love it so much that my full photos library is exclusively on that.

00:19:30.035 –> 00:19:32.015

It's backed up to iCloud as well, but.

00:19:32.795 –> 00:19:37.655

When I tell my computer where my iCloud or where my photos library is, I pointed

00:19:37.685 –> 00:19:43.325

to this external storage, so that can take my photos library with me wherever I go.

00:19:43.535 –> 00:19:43.895

Uh, it's.

00:19:43.895 –> 00:19:44.435

It's great.

00:19:44.495 –> 00:19:45.575

So big fan of that.

00:19:48.545 –> 00:19:50.885

Okay, let's move on to headphones and other tech.

00:19:50.885 –> 00:19:52.445

So let's talk about headphones.

00:19:53.855 –> 00:19:55.025

I'm an audio file.

00:19:55.445 –> 00:19:59.255

I love my headphones, my AirPods pro two.

00:19:59.855 –> 00:20:01.055

Are my favorite headphones.

00:20:01.085 –> 00:20:03.365

They're always in my pocket and they're actually the only

00:20:03.365 –> 00:20:04.685

noise canceling headphones.

00:20:04.685 –> 00:20:05.465

I keep with me.

00:20:06.065 –> 00:20:10.175

I recently flew and only took my AirPods pro two with me, and they

00:20:10.175 –> 00:20:11.765

worked great like gangbusters.

00:20:11.765 –> 00:20:12.245

So.

00:20:12.845 –> 00:20:14.405

Big fan of those.

00:20:14.435 –> 00:20:18.305

Definitely a much better solution than my AirPods max, because you can't fold them.

00:20:18.305 –> 00:20:18.725

They're big.

00:20:18.755 –> 00:20:19.235

They're heavy.

00:20:19.895 –> 00:20:23.075

Uh, and they're just not, they're not very delightful to travel with.

00:20:23.855 –> 00:20:24.365

So.

00:20:25.415 –> 00:20:27.125

Big fan of the AirPods pro two.

00:20:27.965 –> 00:20:31.355

Uh, if you, or who you're shopping for is more of an ear buds person.

00:20:31.895 –> 00:20:33.965

I've always been a fan of skull candy headphones.

00:20:35.045 –> 00:20:38.165

And if you're looking for over the ear, uh, I can't really

00:20:38.165 –> 00:20:40.865

recommend the AirPods max anymore.

00:20:41.195 –> 00:20:46.265

I'm hoping in 2024, we get a version two that's way better than version one.

00:20:46.865 –> 00:20:48.455

The sound quality is pretty good.

00:20:48.455 –> 00:20:51.485

Like if you're willing to plug them in, but if you're looking for

00:20:51.485 –> 00:20:55.415

great over the ear noise, canceling headphones, the Bose quiet comfort,

00:20:55.445 –> 00:20:57.425

45 noise canceling headphones.

00:20:58.475 –> 00:20:59.525

Our fantastic.

00:21:00.065 –> 00:21:02.375

Whether you work from home or an officer, a coworking space,

00:21:02.375 –> 00:21:03.725

or you have kids at home.

00:21:04.535 –> 00:21:06.125

These will help you focus.

00:21:06.425 –> 00:21:09.935

Uh, and because they fold up, they're better for traveling as well.

00:21:11.585 –> 00:21:14.615

If you're looking for good sub $200 over the ear headphones, I

00:21:14.615 –> 00:21:17.855

recommend the audio Technica ath M 15.

00:21:18.725 –> 00:21:19.535

They're lightweight.

00:21:19.565 –> 00:21:21.125

They block out most noise.

00:21:21.695 –> 00:21:23.615

And they sound incredible.

00:21:24.155 –> 00:21:29.225

Uh, I've had these going on a decade almost, and they are now a permanent

00:21:29.225 –> 00:21:31.775

fixture with my electric drum set there.

00:21:31.775 –> 00:21:33.065

The headphones I use for that.

00:21:33.365 –> 00:21:34.925

So I still use them every day.

00:21:37.175 –> 00:21:37.475

Okay.

00:21:37.475 –> 00:21:40.085

Let's get into other miscellaneous tech really quick.

00:21:40.085 –> 00:21:44.165

Before we move on to like the comforts of home and productivity tools.

00:21:44.285 –> 00:21:46.865

Um, Other tech and accessories.

00:21:47.615 –> 00:21:48.725

I'm going to recommend the stream hat.

00:21:49.025 –> 00:21:49.865

The stream deck.

00:21:50.195 –> 00:21:51.125

I've got two.

00:21:51.755 –> 00:21:53.345

Powerhouse of automation.

00:21:54.065 –> 00:21:58.175

And just like quick access stuff, I'm able to switch scenes.

00:21:58.955 –> 00:22:01.565

In e-com live so quickly because of my stream deck.

00:22:01.925 –> 00:22:07.235

I can launch apps and shortcuts and change my lighting quickly

00:22:07.235 –> 00:22:08.135

because of my stream deck.

00:22:08.165 –> 00:22:09.395

I'm a huge fan of it.

00:22:09.905 –> 00:22:14.285

Uh, everything from, um, setting up podcast recordings to

00:22:14.285 –> 00:22:17.525

livestream, overlays, lighting, launching apps, and so much more.

00:22:18.215 –> 00:22:20.285

I can't recommend the stream deck enough.

00:22:20.345 –> 00:22:22.295

I think it's the perfect gift for anybody.

00:22:22.595 –> 00:22:25.175

Who spends a lot of time at their desk.

00:22:26.135 –> 00:22:28.415

And then some portable accessories, right?

00:22:28.415 –> 00:22:30.305

So anchor, chargers, and hubs.

00:22:30.635 –> 00:22:33.335

If you need a good portable charging solution, there's

00:22:33.365 –> 00:22:34.415

no one better than anchor.

00:22:35.345 –> 00:22:39.065

A few that I have that I really love is the GaN prime hybrid

00:22:39.065 –> 00:22:40.475

power bank and wall charger.

00:22:41.075 –> 00:22:44.285

This is a power bank that plugs directly into the wall with pass

00:22:44.315 –> 00:22:48.305

through charging so you can charge your devices and then unplug it from the

00:22:48.305 –> 00:22:50.975

wall and continue charging your devices.

00:22:51.935 –> 00:22:54.665

I also have the mag save three in one charging cube.

00:22:54.755 –> 00:22:56.165

It's perfect for travel.

00:22:56.555 –> 00:22:58.775

You can charge your, your iPhone.

00:22:59.285 –> 00:23:00.125

Air pods.

00:23:00.575 –> 00:23:02.675

And apple watch.

00:23:03.155 –> 00:23:04.625

All from this one cube.

00:23:05.165 –> 00:23:05.975

It's perfect.

00:23:07.415 –> 00:23:09.845

And then they have the nano USB-C power bank.

00:23:09.875 –> 00:23:11.765

Plug this directly into your phone.

00:23:12.155 –> 00:23:13.205

For a little extra juice.

00:23:14.225 –> 00:23:16.025

For iPhone and iPad stands.

00:23:16.565 –> 00:23:18.695

I love the ones by lab 22.

00:23:18.695 –> 00:23:21.965

I have the iPhone stand and the iPad stand on my desk.

00:23:22.385 –> 00:23:23.435

They are beautiful.

00:23:23.435 –> 00:23:24.365

They're sturdy.

00:23:24.875 –> 00:23:26.585

And they work really well.

00:23:26.645 –> 00:23:28.625

I can't recommend them enough.

00:23:29.075 –> 00:23:30.155

Love those things.

00:23:30.665 –> 00:23:31.025

Okay.

00:23:31.025 –> 00:23:32.405

So those are the accessories.

00:23:33.065 –> 00:23:35.555

Let's move on to productivity tools.

00:23:36.065 –> 00:23:38.795

Working by yourself can be tough, especially if there's

00:23:38.795 –> 00:23:39.965

a lot of distractions.

00:23:41.285 –> 00:23:45.065

But with the right tools, you can better stay on task.

00:23:45.665 –> 00:23:47.915

Or at least easily pick up where you left off.

00:23:49.175 –> 00:23:50.795

I'm a big fan of analog tools.

00:23:50.795 –> 00:23:52.175

I know they're super personal.

00:23:52.715 –> 00:23:56.225

I will list the, again, you can find the links to all of this in the show notes.

00:23:56.825 –> 00:23:58.475

But these are the ones that I like.

00:23:59.615 –> 00:24:01.175

The sidekick notebook.

00:24:01.745 –> 00:24:03.245

It's a really nice notebook.

00:24:03.755 –> 00:24:04.715

Premium field.

00:24:04.715 –> 00:24:07.505

Great paper works with fountain pens and it lays flat.

00:24:07.535 –> 00:24:09.965

So I'm always looking for that in an old book.

00:24:11.435 –> 00:24:13.325

And then the sidekick note pad.

00:24:13.745 –> 00:24:15.635

Is a horizontal pad.

00:24:15.995 –> 00:24:18.695

That sits directly under your keyboard.

00:24:18.725 –> 00:24:20.945

It has a notes section and a task section.

00:24:21.365 –> 00:24:21.875

So.

00:24:22.925 –> 00:24:23.855

Really easy for me.

00:24:23.855 –> 00:24:25.115

I've been writing down on it.

00:24:25.115 –> 00:24:27.425

I've been writing down timestamps.

00:24:27.845 –> 00:24:30.455

For a chapter markers for this episode.

00:24:30.965 –> 00:24:31.625

I love it.

00:24:31.655 –> 00:24:34.475

I know it's like $37 at the time of this recording.

00:24:34.805 –> 00:24:39.275

That feels like a lot for a notebook, but I've had mine for four or five months.

00:24:40.055 –> 00:24:41.765

And it's been serving me really well.

00:24:41.765 –> 00:24:42.725

So big fan of that.

00:24:43.085 –> 00:24:46.625

Both of those are made by cortex brand, which also makes the theme system journal.

00:24:47.795 –> 00:24:51.395

And then I've talked about this before, but the William Hannah Classic notebook.

00:24:51.455 –> 00:24:52.505

This is my planner.

00:24:52.925 –> 00:24:54.335

Uh, it's leather bound.

00:24:54.335 –> 00:24:55.115

It's really nice.

00:24:55.115 –> 00:24:57.095

And it's got a lot of different refills.

00:24:57.665 –> 00:25:00.875

So I will break down my refills and the pro show.

00:25:01.325 –> 00:25:03.455

But I'm a big fan of it.

00:25:03.905 –> 00:25:05.765

Uh, it works really well for me.

00:25:07.925 –> 00:25:11.855

And then I also mentioned this last year, but the analog to do system from Ugmonk,

00:25:12.335 –> 00:25:14.015

I'm an analog guy through and through.

00:25:14.015 –> 00:25:16.505

I haven't been using the analog system as much.

00:25:16.955 –> 00:25:20.975

Because of the other tools I use, but if, if you're looking for a really nice gift,

00:25:21.545 –> 00:25:25.055

That works well on a home desk setup.

00:25:25.655 –> 00:25:28.385

Uh, and it also is a nice system for capturing to dues.

00:25:29.105 –> 00:25:31.055

The analog system by Ugmonk.

00:25:31.055 –> 00:25:32.255

Monk is really nice.

00:25:33.575 –> 00:25:35.225

As far as digital communication.

00:25:35.315 –> 00:25:39.605

You know, I have my own apps that I like to do us for task management,

00:25:39.605 –> 00:25:41.165

mind node for mind mapping.

00:25:41.555 –> 00:25:44.495

Bear and notion for note-taking and Ulysses for writing.

00:25:45.335 –> 00:25:48.125

I would recommend you pick up an app store gift card here

00:25:48.125 –> 00:25:49.325

for the person in your life.

00:25:49.955 –> 00:25:52.325

Uh, and then they can buy the apps that they want.

00:25:53.285 –> 00:25:56.915

Uh setup is also a really great subscription service that gives you

00:25:56.915 –> 00:26:03.335

access to a ton of mac and ios apps Uh i have set up and i save a ton of money

00:26:03.335 –> 00:26:09.545

every year Paying 15 bucks a month to get access to apps i'd be paying much

00:26:09.545 –> 00:26:18.125

more than that for So those are the productivity tools Let's move into

00:26:18.125 –> 00:26:22.265

comforts of home Starting with coffee

00:26:24.665 –> 00:26:25.955

I need good coffee.

00:26:25.955 –> 00:26:27.305

I love good coffee.

00:26:27.875 –> 00:26:30.605

My favorite coffee these days is coma tier.

00:26:31.385 –> 00:26:35.885

They flash freeze already brewed coffee into pods, and then send them to you.

00:26:36.605 –> 00:26:39.065

Uh, it's perfect for hot or iced coffee.

00:26:39.275 –> 00:26:42.185

Super easy to make and to travel with.

00:26:42.785 –> 00:26:44.975

It it, I think it's like three days.

00:26:44.975 –> 00:26:46.235

It can last three days.

00:26:46.655 –> 00:26:48.005

Without being refrigerated.

00:26:48.005 –> 00:26:50.075

So if you know you're going on a trip.

00:26:50.465 –> 00:26:52.745

That has crappy in-room coffee, which is everybody.

00:26:54.185 –> 00:26:55.625

Bring these pods with you.

00:26:56.015 –> 00:26:56.795

Add hot water.

00:26:56.795 –> 00:26:57.845

You have great coffee.

00:26:58.145 –> 00:26:59.045

It's darn good.

00:26:59.855 –> 00:27:01.445

Other great beans that I recommend.

00:27:01.445 –> 00:27:03.005

My current favorite is.

00:27:03.935 –> 00:27:05.435

Jazzy Java by.

00:27:06.035 –> 00:27:11.865

Reading coffee company right here in Pennsylvania, Rook coffee out in Jersey.

00:27:11.865 –> 00:27:13.275

They make a Nicaraguan blend.

00:27:13.275 –> 00:27:13.905

That's really good.

00:27:14.295 –> 00:27:18.315

And crew coffee makes something called doom cup, super dark and delicious.

00:27:18.675 –> 00:27:20.115

They're from upstate New York.

00:27:20.475 –> 00:27:23.115

A really great coffee lens here.

00:27:23.535 –> 00:27:25.785

I will say, like, I don't really like, like fruity.

00:27:26.235 –> 00:27:27.315

Uh, tasting coffee.

00:27:27.315 –> 00:27:27.765

So.

00:27:28.275 –> 00:27:33.195

Um, you know, mine are more on the like richer C uh, Savory richer flavors.

00:27:33.765 –> 00:27:36.885

Uh, not really like this sweet fruity stuff.

00:27:38.145 –> 00:27:39.135

Uh, coffee gear.

00:27:39.195 –> 00:27:41.145

Everyone has their own way of making coffee.

00:27:41.835 –> 00:27:44.655

I have a bunch, but I have an espresso.

00:27:44.685 –> 00:27:46.425

I got that for Christmas last year.

00:27:47.025 –> 00:27:48.165

And I love it.

00:27:48.225 –> 00:27:49.815

It's a perfect office companion.

00:27:49.815 –> 00:27:55.245

When I need a little afternoon boost find the right pods and you're good to go.

00:27:56.055 –> 00:27:59.325

Uh, now, if you are buying whole beans, then you need a good coffee grinder.

00:27:59.685 –> 00:28:01.665

And, oh man, I didn't know.

00:28:01.665 –> 00:28:04.515

I could love a device so much, but my wife got me.

00:28:04.995 –> 00:28:08.235

The Oxo brew, conical, Burr coffee grinder.

00:28:08.775 –> 00:28:09.675

It's beautiful.

00:28:09.675 –> 00:28:12.255

It holds three quarters, uh, pounds of beans.

00:28:12.705 –> 00:28:18.135

Has several steps for the perfect grind and an auto grinder for up to 30 seconds.

00:28:18.165 –> 00:28:19.905

It's absolutely perfect.

00:28:19.935 –> 00:28:20.565

I love it.

00:28:22.305 –> 00:28:25.575

Uh, now throughout the rest of this guide, you know, I linked to clothes

00:28:25.575 –> 00:28:27.135

and things to wear around the house.

00:28:27.495 –> 00:28:29.385

I'm going to skip over those for the most part.

00:28:29.865 –> 00:28:32.505

Except for something that I don't have, but I really want.

00:28:33.015 –> 00:28:34.935

Which is these Mojave's slippers.

00:28:34.965 –> 00:28:36.765

They look super comfortable.

00:28:36.765 –> 00:28:38.115

I've heard great things about them.

00:28:38.535 –> 00:28:41.295

Uh, and they have a little like nice color flare to them.

00:28:41.295 –> 00:28:45.075

So I want the orange and gray ones, but they look really nice.

00:28:45.075 –> 00:28:48.165

I haven't really seen them recommended anywhere else except for upgrade.

00:28:48.615 –> 00:28:50.355

Uh, which is one of my favorite podcasts.

00:28:50.835 –> 00:28:53.355

And I want to just call them out here.

00:28:54.355 –> 00:28:57.505

So let's close out with travel and getting out of the house.

00:28:58.615 –> 00:29:00.325

I'm going to recommend a couple of bags.

00:29:01.105 –> 00:29:03.805

I have the mezzo backpack from Waterfield design.

00:29:03.805 –> 00:29:05.665

Sadly, they don't make that anymore.

00:29:06.235 –> 00:29:08.515

Uh, but they do have several comparable ones.

00:29:08.995 –> 00:29:16.135

And I also just picked up the, uh, our L 10 leader sling bag from nomadic.

00:29:17.335 –> 00:29:18.505

That's a great bag.

00:29:18.565 –> 00:29:19.825

It fits perfectly.

00:29:19.825 –> 00:29:21.115

You can put a laptop in it.

00:29:21.775 –> 00:29:25.465

And nomadic in general just makes great backpacks, huge fan.

00:29:26.245 –> 00:29:29.605

And then of course, if you're looking for a good messenger bag, you can't

00:29:29.605 –> 00:29:32.635

go wrong with Timbuk two, I've been recommending them for over a decade.

00:29:34.105 –> 00:29:35.725

Uh, as far as travel accessories.

00:29:36.685 –> 00:29:37.765

I have a Kindle scribe.

00:29:37.795 –> 00:29:39.115

I love my Kindle scribe.

00:29:39.895 –> 00:29:41.575

It's easy to highlight.

00:29:41.575 –> 00:29:42.355

It's got the pen.

00:29:42.385 –> 00:29:43.945

You can take handwritten notes.

00:29:44.305 –> 00:29:47.485

It's a really compact device with a lot of different purposes.

00:29:48.355 –> 00:29:50.785

I also put air tags in everything.

00:29:51.505 –> 00:29:54.535

So if you're traveling, air tags are the perfect companion to

00:29:54.535 –> 00:29:55.615

keep track of all your stuff.

00:29:56.815 –> 00:29:59.395

And if you want to use your headphones that you just bought

00:29:59.395 –> 00:30:00.505

from the headphone section.

00:30:00.955 –> 00:30:04.195

Uh, to tap in to the inflight entertainment system on a plane.

00:30:04.765 –> 00:30:06.685

Get the air fly by 12 south.

00:30:06.925 –> 00:30:08.305

It's perfect.

00:30:08.365 –> 00:30:10.345

It's compact works really well.

00:30:10.945 –> 00:30:13.615

And you can use your own headphones to listen.

00:30:14.245 –> 00:30:16.315

Or a watch in flight entertainment.

00:30:18.045 –> 00:30:22.005

Let's round out the travel section with books and ways to

00:30:22.005 –> 00:30:23.175

get out of the house, right?

00:30:23.205 –> 00:30:26.355

No, I mean, I feel like no solo preneurs guide would be.

00:30:26.865 –> 00:30:28.365

Complete without books.

00:30:29.205 –> 00:30:31.725

Uh, but I'm not going to recommend the books that everybody recommends.

00:30:31.725 –> 00:30:35.355

Here are four of my favorite books that I don't think are recommended enough.

00:30:36.165 –> 00:30:38.235

Uh, at your best by Kerry new Hoff.

00:30:38.535 –> 00:30:42.585

That's a book about how to recognize your energy levels and do your

00:30:42.585 –> 00:30:44.565

best work when you're at your best.

00:30:45.405 –> 00:30:46.965

That was really a game changer for me.

00:30:47.325 –> 00:30:48.285

I loved that book.

00:30:48.735 –> 00:30:54.675

Uh, forget the funnel by Georgie, uh, Georgiana Laudi and Claire Soland trope.

00:30:55.005 –> 00:30:57.345

Uh, JIA and Claire, talk about the importance of

00:30:57.345 –> 00:30:58.785

learning from your customers.

00:30:59.475 –> 00:31:01.155

And that really resonated with me.

00:31:01.575 –> 00:31:03.705

Uh, you don't really need a complex sales funnel.

00:31:03.705 –> 00:31:05.835

As much as you need to speak your customer's language.

00:31:06.755 –> 00:31:08.465

This is personal by Brendan Dunn.

00:31:08.705 –> 00:31:11.795

My friend, Brendan is super smart and his approach to personalizing

00:31:11.795 –> 00:31:13.115

your emails is fantastic.

00:31:13.655 –> 00:31:16.535

If you've ever gotten an email about a product that you've

00:31:16.535 –> 00:31:18.035

already bought from a company.

00:31:18.455 –> 00:31:19.355

Uh, Brennan.

00:31:20.315 –> 00:31:23.255

Gives you a method to fight against this in your own business.

00:31:23.915 –> 00:31:25.865

Uh, so highly recommend that book.

00:31:26.195 –> 00:31:28.565

And then made to stick by chip and Dan Heath.

00:31:29.075 –> 00:31:32.975

Uh, this talks about how some ideas catch fire and others don't has a lot

00:31:33.005 –> 00:31:36.365

to do with telling good stories, which I've been on a bit of a kick of lately.

00:31:37.175 –> 00:31:40.565

Um, and so let's round out with ways to socialize.

00:31:40.895 –> 00:31:42.725

Solopreneurship can be really lonely.

00:31:42.995 –> 00:31:46.835

So here are some ideas to help your loved one or yourself socialize.

00:31:47.375 –> 00:31:50.375

Uh, you can find a coworking space in your area.

00:31:50.645 –> 00:31:52.235

You can do dinner and a movie.

00:31:52.505 –> 00:31:55.925

You can find escape rooms, uh, or you can.

00:31:56.225 –> 00:31:58.565

Do a bunch of other recreational things.

00:31:58.925 –> 00:32:03.335

Uh, find a bed and breakfast, cigar lounge, my personal favorite.

00:32:04.505 –> 00:32:08.825

Wine tasting museum tour a night out in the closest city

00:32:08.825 –> 00:32:10.835

or a gym or club membership.

00:32:11.315 –> 00:32:12.755

All of these things.

00:32:12.995 –> 00:32:17.225

Uh, could help with kind of the mental health of your solo preneur.

00:32:18.215 –> 00:32:21.425

Another thing that I'll recommend here, that I didn't include in the gift guide.

00:32:22.265 –> 00:32:24.065

Better help, better help.com.

00:32:24.515 –> 00:32:25.835

Uh, I've been seeing a therapist.

00:32:26.225 –> 00:32:27.275

And she's great.

00:32:27.305 –> 00:32:28.475

She just kind of helps me.

00:32:28.985 –> 00:32:32.135

Um, bounce ideas and, and, you know, kind of.

00:32:33.305 –> 00:32:37.505

Give me advice and help me recognize when I'm overstimulated

00:32:37.505 –> 00:32:38.825

and stressed and things like that.

00:32:38.825 –> 00:32:43.835

So that's it for the 2023 solo preneurs gift guide.

00:32:44.195 –> 00:32:45.515

I hope you enjoyed it.

00:32:45.515 –> 00:32:46.835

Let me know what your favorite.

00:32:47.195 –> 00:32:49.745

Uh, recommendation is, or if you're picking up anything for

00:32:49.745 –> 00:32:51.365

yourself or your loved one.

00:32:51.665 –> 00:32:53.465

You can find all of the shownotes.

00:32:53.465 –> 00:32:56.075

That's all of the links that I talked about here, as well

00:32:56.075 –> 00:32:57.275

as links to the gift guide.

00:32:57.605 –> 00:33:00.305

Over at how I built it slash 3, 3, 9.

00:33:00.665 –> 00:33:03.215

In the pro show i'm going to talk about how i put this guide together

00:33:03.425 –> 00:33:07.985

why i moved it to medium and my content strategy moving forward but that's

00:33:07.985 –> 00:33:13.205

it for today thanks to our sponsors thank you for listening And until next

00:33:13.205 –> 00:33:16.025

time get out there and build something