The Best AI Tools for Side Hustlers (And What I Actually Use)
Let’s get one thing clear: I don’t have time to waste. And I know you don’t either.
That’s why when it comes to building side hustles with AI, I only use tools that actually move the needle — no “shiny object” fluff, no bloated software I’ll drop in two weeks. Just smart, lean tech that makes things faster, easier, and more profitable.
Here’s my real-world tech stack — broken down by what it does, why it matters, and how I use it.
🧠 1. ChatGPT / GPT-4
Purpose: Brainstorming, copywriting, content strategy
Why I use it: It’s like having a writing partner and strategist in your pocket. I use it for product descriptions, blog outlines (like this one), and even business naming.
Affiliate Tip: If you're sharing prompt packs or templates that work with ChatGPT, this is a natural upsell.
🧰 2. Notion
Purpose: Planning, content calendars, product databases
Why I use it: This is the command center for every project I run. I use it to organize product ideas, map out launches, and deliver digital templates.
Monetize: Every template you sell = delivered through Notion = reason to upsell your digital products.
✨ 3. Canva Pro
Purpose: Visual content, mockups, social posts
Why I use it: Canva Pro saves me hours. From social templates to product thumbnails, it’s how I keep everything looking polished with minimal effort.
Affiliate Tip: Share your Canva designs + link to Canva Pro. Easy win.
💸 4. Gumroad
Purpose: Digital product sales
Why I use it: It’s simple, customizable, and built for creators. I use it to sell my planner and plan to list additional templates here too.
Strategy: Every freebie or blog post should have a Gumroad-linked upsell.
📬 5. ConvertKit
Purpose: Email list + automations
Why I use it: This runs my opt-in forms and email flows. I use it to deliver lead magnets, follow up with subscribers, and promote products without sounding like a robot.
CTA Tip: If someone downloads your freebie, ConvertKit does the follow-up — it’s a must-have.
🎨 6. Midjourney (or Leonardo AI)
Purpose: Image generation
Why I use it: For blog headers, product imagery, and branded content — these tools let me stand out visually without hiring a designer.
Note: Use tools like these to create consistent 3:2 blog images in your brand’s glow style.
🛠️ Honorable Mentions:
Make.com (for automations)
Tally Forms (clean Notion-compatible forms)
Koala Writer or Jasper (if you're scaling blog content with SEO focus)
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a dozen tools.
You need the right ones — and the confidence to use them well.
Start with the ones above, test them, and layer in more as you grow.
The point isn’t perfection. It’s momentum.
💼 Ready to build with these?
I mapped every one of these tools into my AI Side Hustle Planner, so you can skip the guesswork and get to building.
