This blog is based on an insightful conversation between Bethany Meadows and Diana Lee on the Time to Thrive podcast. Diana is the founder of Waggle.ai and the Aligned AF community, helping solopreneurs harness AI to streamline operations, align business with personal values and scale sustainably.

For entrepreneurs who feel overwhelmed by AI or think it's only for “tech people,” Diana breaks it down into simple, practical steps. Let’s explore how small business owners can get started with AI and use it to work smarter, not harder.

From Pharmacist to AI Advocate

Diana’s journey into AI wasn’t a straight path. She spent over a decade in pharmacy before transitioning into software engineering and digital transformation. The turning point? Discovering ChatGPT while rewriting her resume. What started as a simple tool to save time quickly became a game-changer for her entire business and life.

She realized that AI could help solopreneurs—especially those balancing work and family—reclaim their time and scale their businesses efficiently.

Key takeaway: You don’t need a tech background to use AI. The key is being open to learning how it can support your goals.

AI Isn’t Here to Replace You—It’s Here to Assist You

One major fear around AI is that it will replace human jobs. But Diana sees AI as an enhancer, not a replacement. For solopreneurs and small business owners, AI can handle repetitive tasks so that you can focus on what truly matters—growing your business and making an impact.

Instead of thinking of AI as automation that removes the human touch, she encourages business owners to see it as a way to amplify their authenticity by freeing up time for meaningful client interactions.

Key takeaway: AI helps entrepreneurs do more of what they love by handling what they don’t.

The Easiest Way to Start Using AI

For those new to AI, Diana suggests a simple approach:

1. Start with ChatGPT. Download the app or visit the website and use voice-to-text or type in a message like, “Here’s my business. Here’s where I’m stuck. Help me get unstuck.”
2. Use it as a brainstorming partner. AI can help generate ideas, refine messaging, and offer solutions when you feel stuck.
3. Treat it like a tool, not a crutch. AI is most powerful when it complements your expertise—not replaces it.

Key takeaway: The first step to using AI is simply opening it up and asking for help. No complicated prompts or tech knowledge required!

AI in Goal-Setting and Business Planning

One of the most overlooked uses of AI is in strategic planning. Diana and Bethany discuss how business owners often struggle with goal-setting because they don’t have a sounding board. AI can help by:

• Generating a list of business goals based on your industry and vision.
• Providing structure and clarity for growth strategies.
• Helping refine messaging for branding and marketing.

Key takeaway: AI isn’t just for automation—it’s a valuable partner in business strategy.

Overcoming the Fear of AI

Many entrepreneurs hesitate to use AI because they fear it will take away their uniqueness. Diana emphasizes that AI is only as good as the input you provide. By feeding it your brand values, tone, and vision, you can train AI to reflect your voice.

Rather than resisting AI, business owners should see it as a necessary evolution—just like social media once was. Those who embrace it early will have a competitive edge.

Key takeaway: AI doesn’t replace authenticity—it enhances it when used correctly.

Take Your First AI Step Today

If you’ve been hesitant about AI, now is the time to start small. Open ChatGPT, introduce yourself and your business, and ask for help in an area where you feel stuck. The more you use it, the more you’ll see how AI can become a powerful partner in your entrepreneurial journey.

Key takeaway: AI is no longer the future—it’s the present. Learning to use it now will set you up for long-term success.

To learn more about Diana Lee and Waggle.ai, visit waggle.ai.