Joe's Audio Notes
Joe’s Audio Notes is my raw, unfiltered space to share thoughts on podcasting, automation, solopreneurship, and whatever’s on my mind. Originally private, this feed is now public, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what I’m working on, what I’m experimenting with, and how I’m streamlining my own systems. Subscribe at https://notes.casabona.org to get new episodes delivered straight to your inbox.
Wed, April 16, 2025
Automate to Build Relationships
There is a horrid trend right now. People are using automation and AI to automate humanity out of their processes. Today, I got a god awful pitch, and it’s not the first garbage pitch I've received this week. I get dozens from supposed professionals helping clients book shows. This one was pitching the wrong podcast. Look, automation is great. It can help reduce friction, but if you take away all of it, you'll slip and fall. You can't automate relationship building. If you're using it to skip that, you need to be better. Pitches like this go straight to spam because they show zero effort in understanding my show. Remember, relationship building is not a numbers game. Use automation to focus on what really matters.
Sun, April 06, 2025
Why Real Content Still Matters
After watching a documentary on the making of Wicked and seeing the care put into practical sets, I started thinking about how audiences connect with what's real — whether it's in movies or content. There's an ineffable difference between practical effects and CGI, just like there's a difference between human-created content and AI-generated stuff. Even if people can't articulate why, they know when something is real. And that matters. Have thoughts? send them to https://streamlinedfeedback.com Check out my other shows at https://network.streamlined.fm
Wed, April 02, 2025
It's an Idea Feast
After a busy stretch of travel and deep work, I’m back with a fresh round of thoughts—because I’m in an idea feast right now. In this episode, I talk about the cycle of creative output, why I've been thinking a lot about friction (both adding and reducing it), and how that ties into my core message of helping solopreneurs create spacious lives. I also share how I'm experimenting with short-form video creation thanks to a new camera setup and some well-placed automation. Oh, and if you’re wondering what torpedo bats and Ichiro Suzuki have to do with business strategy…you’ll want to give this one a listen. Join my newsletter: https://casabona.org/join Check out the rest of my podcasts: https://network.streamlined.fm
Wed, March 05, 2025
What's my "Close" Rate?
Podcast Episode: Tracking My Close Rate & Improving My Offers Welcome to all the new listeners from Pod News! Thanks for checking out the show. If you ever have feedback, you can always share it at streamlinedfeedback.com . Today, I’m diving into a question my friend Courtney asked me: What’s your close rate? Turns out, I wasn’t tracking it, which is a problem in itself. In this episode, I talk about: How I built a custom CRM in Notion to track leads, prospects, and wins The different statuses I use to categorize potential clients (including my hard “no” for no-shows) Why tracking my sales timeline is helping me refine my offers The surprising success of my Podcast Power Hour —and why it might be my best offer yet I also reflect on a key shift in my approach: moving away from trying to fit every lead into a predefined offer and instead focusing on what they actually need. More data = better decisions, and I’m already seeing improvements! Links How I Built My CRM Give feedback or ask a question : streamlinedfeedback.com Join my newsletter : notes.casabona.org Disclosure: This episode description was written by ChatGPT.
Sat, March 01, 2025
My Coaching Tech Stack
I’ve been rethinking my async coaching tools lately, and after much trial and error, I’ve landed on a setup that finally makes sense. In this episode, I share why I’m leaving ClarityFlow (formerly ZipMessage), the friction I encountered with it, and what I’m using instead. Spoiler: Zoom Chat is way more powerful than I expected, and it integrates seamlessly into my existing workflow. I also break down my full coaching tech stack: Zoom Chat for async coaching conversations Tella for high-quality video responses Google Drive for document deliverables Links Subscribe to my newsletter: notes.casabona.org Share your thoughts: streamlinedfeedback.com Disclosure: This episode description was written by ChatGPT.
Thu, February 27, 2025
This Show is Public Now!
Welcome to the first public episode of Joe’s Audio Notes ! After much deliberation, I’ve decided to make this feed public rather than merging it into Streamlined Solopreneur . Why? Because episode numbers matter to me—a lot. My whole podcasting system relies on pre-determined episode numbers, and adding these voice notes to Streamlined Solopreneur would have messed with that flow. This episode also dives into changes I’ve made to my brand, including renaming podcast workflows to streamlinedpodcaster.com and consolidating my content under casabona.org . I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you were on the private feed, how do you feel about this going public? Let me know at streamlinedfeedback.com . Mentioned in This Episode: streamlinedpodcaster.com network.streamlined.fm notes.casabona.org streamlinedfeedback.com Disclosure: This description was generated with the help of ChatGPT.
Thu, February 20, 2025
Am I Outsourcing Critical Thinking to AI?
Lately, I’ve been using my dog’s outdoor breaks to record thoughts and send them to ChatGPT. It’s helped me reclaim time, but I’m questioning whether I’m thinking through ideas or just outsourcing critical thinking. In this episode, I explore that dilemma, share insights on content creation, and reflect on consistency in short-form content. Plus, a quick update on whether I’ll make these audio notes public. This description was written by ChatGPT based on the episode transcript.
Sun, February 16, 2025
Perspective from SNL’s weird year
I just finished watching a four-part docuseries about Saturday Night Live and it’s really fascinating. Each episode covers different aspects of the show, from auditions to legendary sketches to the writing process. But what really stuck with me was the final episode, The Weird Year , all about SNL’s tumultuous Season 11. I had no idea that SNL was on the verge of cancellation, that Lorne Michaels had left for a while, or that they completely revamped the cast after Season 10. Season 11 was a rough year, but it was necessary . It helped them figure out what wasn’t working so they could come back stronger in Season 12, with some of the best cast members of all time. And honestly, I feel like Streamlined Solopreneur is in its own Season 11 right now. The show is almost a decade old. I changed the name last year, completely shifted the focus, and now…I feel stuck. I’ve been leaning on AI too much. I’ve lost some clarity. And like SNL, maybe I just need to let it fail a little bit . Try things. See what sticks. Get through the messy middle. This episode is more of a reflection than a solution, but it’s a reminder that every long-running project—whether it’s SNL or a podcast—hits a point where it needs to evolve. And that’s okay. If you’re feeling the same way about something in your business, maybe the answer isn’t to quit but to experiment. Also, if you haven’t seen this docuseries, it’s on Peacock, and I highly recommend it. Disclosure: This episode description was generated by ChatGPT based on a transcript.
Sat, February 15, 2025
I’m really proud of my daughter
I don’t like using my kids as life lesson material for content, but I couldn’t help noticing something about my daughter’s Girl Scout cookie sales. She originally set a goal of 300 boxes, hit it in two weeks, and now she’s about to double it. Why? Because she shows up—every weekend, out there selling cookies. And people notice. It got me thinking: Being exceptional isn’t about being the smartest or the best. It’s about showing up more than most people. That consistency makes the difference. This episode is a reflection on persistence, goal-setting, and why comparing yourself to others is a losing game. Instead, focus on your own goals, show up, and keep going—because that’s what actually sets you apart. And hey if you want cookies you can get them here: https://teresacasabona.com This description was written by ChatGPT based on the episode transcript.
Wed, February 12, 2025
I rearranged my office!
This weekend, I completely rearranged my office—and I couldn’t be happier with the results. What started as frustration with my camera framing turned into a full workspace transformation. In this episode, I break down: - Why I moved my desk and how it improved my video setup - The changes I made to declutter and improve cable management - The unexpected number of extra USB cables and extension cords I found (seriously, where did they all come from?) - Why I finally got rid of my massive softbox lights - My ongoing whiteboard dilemma and plans for even more optimization Timelapse of my Office Rearrangement https://youtu.be/H8Ar19kSBjE Got questions or office setup tips? Let me know!
Mon, February 03, 2025
Should This Podcast Stay Private or go Public?
My day started off completely off track thanks to a school delay, and honestly, it never recovered. But even with the chaos, I still managed to get a newsletter out and do some deep thinking about this very podcast. I launched Joe’s Audio Notes back in August as a private podcast to grow my email list, but now I’m wondering: is that really working? I’d love your input: Do you like having Joe’s Audio Notes as a private podcast? Or would you rather see it in the Streamlined Solopreneur feed? Let me know at StreamlinedFeedback.com . Disclosure: ChatGPT wrote most of this based on the transcript.
Sat, January 25, 2025
2025 starts in February
January has been chaotic, with travel to PodFest, family illnesses, and snow days all colliding. Despite technical issues, the PodFest talk went incredibly well, even leading to a potential client opportunity from the stage. Between catching up on work, including a nonprofit website redesign and recording a LinkedIn Learning course, the mindset that 2025 starts in February seems fitting. Disclosure: This summary was written by ChatGPT, based on the episode transcript.
Tue, January 14, 2025
I’m speaking at Podfest
I’m very tired but I’m excited that I’m speaking on stage for the first time in 5+ years. I’m hoping the trip will be restorative and allow me to reset. If you’ll be at Podfest, definitely say hi!
Fri, January 03, 2025
Building Automations and Evolving My Content Strategy
After a holiday break filled with family time and adjusting to life with a new puppy, I’m rethinking my content focus for 2025. From exploring live-streaming as a space for automation experiments to refining how I share my strengths in gear, processes, and systems, I’m gearing up for a purposeful year. Plus, thoughts on polishing my Podfest talk and getting back into a creative groove. Disclosure: ChatGPT wrote this description based on the episode transcript.
Fri, December 20, 2024
Sunsetting my membership (and a 16 day break)
What am I going to do with all this membership content now that my membership is defunct? Plus, what I’m doing with 16 days off.
Wed, December 04, 2024
My Black Friday Sale was a Failure.
Once again I learn the crucial lesson that being clear is better than being clever. So what’s next for The Unstuck Sessions ? Listen to find out.
Fri, November 29, 2024
I love it when a (Black Friday) plan comes together.
If you had asked me even a month ago, “Are you doing a Black Friday sale,” I would have said no. Here’s what changed and how it came together. Plus a quick update on the rebrand!
Thu, November 28, 2024
Something about the best laid plans of mice and men
I had every intention of not working today, the day before Thanksgiving. But the universe (and some mismanagement) had other plans.
Sat, November 23, 2024
I’m probably ditching Medium in 2025
My be everywhere strategy for this year was an incredible failure. But that doesn’t mean I don’t learn anything. Medium hasn’t panned out, but perhaps Substack is worth a little more effort.
Sat, November 23, 2024
What’s with all the social media apps
Social media has been on my mind lately, especially with there now being four popular(ish) text-based platforms: Twitter, Blue Sky, Threads, and Mastodon. Here’s what I think about all of them.
Thu, November 14, 2024
Thinking About my Content Strategy
I rethink my content strategy during an upcoming rebrand, realizing that my most popular topics—gear, automations, and productivity—fit well with my new focus on helping solopreneurs streamline their lives. I'm excited about this shift because it lets me explore more interests and better serve my audience.* *ChatGPT wrote this while I was helping my kiddo with her homework. It’s an accurate summary 😆
Mon, November 11, 2024
A Walkthrough of my new Brand!
My new branding is nearly ready for the public. I've already started rolling it out in some places, but wanted to give you a quick walkthrough of everything before it's officially official. Plus, I'm trying out a new mic. New home page: https://casabona.org/joe-casabona/ What's on my Desk Easter Egg: https://casabona.org/desk
Fri, November 08, 2024
Teeming with Automation Ideas
After a busy week filled with productive discovery calls, I’ve been exploring tools like Cast Magic and the OpenAI API, along with Zapier integrations, to streamline how I process and organize call insights. I’m teeming with ideas! Here’s how I’m thinking it will work.
Fri, November 01, 2024
Battling The Work Hangover
I’m dealing with a work hangover after wrapping an update to my LinkedIn Learning course PHP for WordPress, and now I’m struggling to regain my mental focus. In this episode, I share my thoughts on dealing with post-project fatigue, building momentum, and setting myself up for a productive week. Plus, I’m thinking about upcoming changes for all of my content in light of my imminent rebrand.
Fri, October 25, 2024
Reflecting on Personal Changes, plus my Brand Concept!
I share a quick update on life since CaboPress. I also discuss helping my parents move out of our childhood home, an emotional milestone for the family. On the business side, I’m rethinking my VIP day concept based on valuable feedback, and I’m excited to share a sneak peek at the branding project Holly Arnett is developing for me. Also, LET’S GO YANKEES!
Fri, October 04, 2024
What I’m thinking about as I leave CaboPress
Largely one question is on my mind: am I limiting myself by only helping build podcast systems?
Wed, September 25, 2024
Update on the Rebrand!
A quick update on the rebrand (and what word I want to “own) plus the possible future of this podcast.
Wed, September 11, 2024
Unwinding after chaos
The first half of the week has been chaotic. Now it’s time to settle down and take a slower pace with work.
Sun, September 08, 2024
Is short form video the way?
I’m watching a comedy special on Netflix based on a clip on saw on Netflix 10 hours earlier and now I’m wondering if my position on short form video is wrong.
Wed, September 04, 2024
How do you pick the right idea?
Today I’m grappling with the fact that I have too many ideas, and want to quell them before the end of the month.
Sun, September 01, 2024
What are your intangibles?
Today I’m thinking about tasks you don’t need to do for your podcast or business, but still decide to do for some intangible reason.
Thu, August 29, 2024
Do I have a podcast to podcast flywheel?
I’ve been thinking a lot about how my primary podcast the Streamlined Solopreneur serves my business outside of sponsorships. So in today’s episode, I talk about how it might be the lynchpin of a good content flywheel.
Mon, August 26, 2024
We Survived the Summer
It’s the first day of school and my business didn’t crumble, despite skipping summer camp and having all our kids home for the summer.
Sat, August 24, 2024
Strong feelings about AI
I’m listening to my favorite podcast, Cortex, and they are talking about AI. Here are my rough thoughts.
Fri, August 23, 2024
One Good Idea from Podcast Movement
I'm back home and thinking about my biggest takeaways from Podcast Movement. There's one idea that's rising above the rest.
Fri, August 23, 2024
Quick Recap on Podcast Movement
It’s the last day of Podcast Movement. I’m very tired, but I wanted to give my thoughts before heading out.
Fri, August 23, 2024
“Cigars are very important to me”
At Podcast Movement, someone asked me why cigars are very important to me. There are 3 reasons.
Trailer · Thu, August 22, 2024
Welcome to Joe’s Audio Notes!
A quick overview of what this show is (and why I’m trying it).
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