Originally featured in Affiverse Magazine, Issue 3
When you only work four hours a day, a lean, efficient Martech stack isn’t optional – it’s essential.
I’ve spent over 20 years in digital marketing, and now run a profitable online business as a content strategist and ghostwriter, working just four hours a day. I needed a setup that tells me what’s working, automates the boring stuff, and lets me create content without friction.
Here’s how my Martech stack keeps everything running—without overwhelming me.
1. Tracking What Works (Without the Fluff)
If you’re running an online business, you have to know where your results are coming from. Otherwise, you’re just guessing.
I keep tracking lean:
- Google Analytics 4 – Gives me a clear view of where traffic is coming from and how visitors behave.
- Substack Analytics – Since my newsletter is my main asset, I track open rates, subscriber growth, and reader engagement.
2. Automating the Repetitive Stuff
After a health scare in 2023, I cut my working hours dramatically. That meant automating everything that could be automated.
Here’s what handles the heavy lifting:
- Zapier – Connects apps and handles key actions like syncing newsletter signups to Notion.
- Motion – My AI scheduling sidekick. It prioritises tasks automatically and keeps my calendar realistic.
3. Creating Content (Fast and Well)
Content is the heart of my business. But I don’t start from scratch every time.
These tools help me work faster and smarter:
- Readwise + Readwise Reader – I save everything interesting I read, and it all syncs to Obsidian. Instant research and quote bank.
- Perplexity AI – My research assistant. It finds credible sources fast and cuts through Google clutter.
- ChatGPT – Helps with brainstorming, structuring ideas, and speeding up content creation.
- Canva – I’m no designer, but Canva lets me create great-looking newsletters, proposals, and social content.
These tools don’t replace the writing process—they just speed up the messy middle.
4. Staying Focused on Results
A stack is only useful if it drives results. Here’s how mine connects:
- LinkedIn Analytics + AI tools = smarter content strategy
- Zapier + Motion = automation and focus
- Readwise + Perplexity = always-fresh research
- ChatGPT + Claude = faster writing and editing
- Substack = direct line to my audience
5. Audience Growth Without the Burnout
Publishing is only half the game—distribution matters too.
- Substack Chat + Notes – Great for deeper connections and community
- Bluesky – A fun place to test post ideas before they hit LinkedIn
- Canva – Makes it easy to create visuals that grab attention without slowing me down
How to Choose Your Stack
Want to build your own system? Start here:
- Focus on your needs – Tools should solve problems, not just be trendy.
- Prioritise integrations – They should talk to each other.
- Avoid unnecessary complexity – More tools ≠ better results.
- Test before committing – Many offer free trials.
Final Thoughts
AI isn’t about replacing creativity—it’s about removing friction.
Every tool I use has a job:
- Track what’s working
- Eliminate repetitive tasks
- Speed up content creation
- Help me grow without burnout
This is how I run a lean, profitable business in just four hours a day—and still have energy left for what matters most.
Want to see the full system in action?
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