26 SEPT

Episode #8: Why Every AI Project Needs a PRD (Even if You’re Not a Developer)

In this episode, Paul & Sean welcome Peter Lowe back, as he discusses the significance of Product Requirements Documents (PRDs) in software development, sharing insights on how he utilizes a custom GPT to streamline the creation of PRDs. The conversation explores the impact of PRDs on development efficiency, the use of Lovable for building prototypes, and the future of work with AI integration. Peter emphasizes the importance of clarity and collaboration in product development, highlighting real-world applications and the potential for micro-SaaS solutions. Takeaways PRDs clarify the problem and objectives of a project. Development time can be significantly reduced with a clear PRD. AI can augment human capabilities in the workplace. Micro-SaaS presents new opportunities for developers. AI tools can help identify vulnerabilities in applications. Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047 Peter can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteralunlowe/ Resources: https://www.youtube.com/@Mark_Kashef https://www.promptadvisers.com/services Lovable (AI-powered prototyping tool): https://lovable.dev/ ShadCN (React & Tailwind UI component system): https://ui.shadcn.com/ Superbase (Supabase) (database used in Lovable apps): https://supabase.com/ Product Requirement Document (PRD) - https://www.atlassian.com/agile/product-management/product-requirements Vibe Coding - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibe_coding

44 min

12 SEPT

Episode #7: AI for Marketers: No Code, No Excuses

In this episode, Paul and Sean welcome Peter Lowe, an expert in AI and prompt engineering. They discuss Peter's background, his journey into AI, and the importance of effective prompt engineering in utilizing AI tools like Mind Studio. The conversation covers the creation of custom GPTs, building knowledge bases, and the future of AI in business, emphasizing the need for strategic thinking and investment in the initial setup to achieve optimal results. Takeaways Peter Lowe has been working with AI for over two years. Effective prompt engineering is crucial for better AI results. Vague prompts lead to vague results; clarity is key. Building custom GPTs can streamline processes in organizations. Investing time upfront in AI setup pays off in the long run. Mind Studio is a no-code tool for creating AI workflows. Knowledge bases enhance the effectiveness of AI tools. AI can replace repetitive tasks, allowing for strategic focus. The future of AI involves integrating various tools for efficiency. Understanding the cost and capabilities of AI models is essential. Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047 Peter Lowe can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteralunlowe/ Resources: MindStudio (Main platform): https://www.mindstudio.com/ MindStudio Chrome Extension: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/mindstudio/njommheeefdkhenodpfoflmeoampaggk 🤖 AI Frameworks / Prompts Prompt Framework: CRAFT Context, Role, Audience, Format, Task (Peter also adds Tone sometimes) Prompt Engineering GPT (no public link, but worth noting): “GPT that asks you qualifying questions before generating your final prompt.” 📚 Other Mentions Make.com and Zapier.com: For comparison with MindStudio

34 min

15 AUG

Episode #6: Agentic AI: Not Just Smarter, Now It Acts on Its Own

In this episode of Ctrl Alt Dev, Paul and Sean discuss the evolution of AI, focusing on agentic AI, which empowers AI systems to take initiative without waiting for instructions. They explore real-world applications, particularly an SMS-based reactivation agent designed to engage dormant leads. The conversation emphasizes the importance of customer retention and how AI can enhance business processes by automating tasks and improving follow-up strategies. The guys also highlight the future potential of AI in business, advocating for a shift from traditional sales methods to a more automated, efficient approach. Takeaways The conversation is about real software development challenges. AI can enhance customer retention strategies. The SMS reactivation agent is designed to engage dormant leads. AI agents can remember past interactions for better engagement. AI can help scale businesses without replacing human jobs. Chapters Introduction to Control Alt Dev The Evolution of AI: From Rules-Based to Agentic AI Real-World Applications of Agentic AI The Dead Leads Reactivation Agent The Importance of Retention in Business Future of AI in Business Operations Scaling with AI Agents Wrap-Up and Next Steps Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047

19 min

8 AUG

Episode #5: One Brain to Rule Them All - Building Smarter Projects with AI

In this episode, Paul Rhodes and Sean Sale discuss the concept of the 'AI brain'—a system designed to enhance project delivery and business efficiency through artificial intelligence. They explore the evolution of AI, particularly its ability to retain memory, and how this capability can transform project management and client interactions. The conversation delves into the practicalities of building an AI brain, integrating it with business processes, and the future potential of AI in various industries. Takeaways The AI brain enhances project delivery and business efficiency. Integrating AI with existing business processes is crucial. Client-specific AI models can enhance service delivery. AI can assist in onboarding and training new staff. Manual curation of data is essential for accuracy. Chapters Introduction to AI Brain The Evolution of AI and Memory Building the AI Brain: Structure and Data ntegrating AI with Business Processes Client-Specific AI Models Automation and Data Management The Future of AI in Business Conclusion and Reflections Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047

26 min

1 AUG

Episode #4: From Idea to Prototype in 8 Hours: How To Validate an Idea with No Code

In this episode, Sean and Paul discuss the concepts of vibe coding and minimum viable products (MVPs), exploring how tools like Replit are revolutionizing the development process. They share insights on the importance of MVPs in validating ideas, the practical applications of Replit in creating MVPs without extensive coding knowledge, and the limitations that come with scaling these products. The conversation emphasizes the need for a disciplined approach to MVP development and the potential of AI tools in the software industry. Takeaways MVPs are essential for validating ideas before full-scale development. The gap between idea and execution has shrunk due to AI tools. MVPs should focus on solving core problems with minimal features. Replit is a powerful tool for ideation and prototyping. Legal and compliance issues must be addressed when launching products. Chapters - Introduction to MVPs and Vibe Coding - Understanding Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) - Exploring Replit for MVP Development - Real-World Applications of Replit - Limitations and Considerations for Scaling - Conclusion and Future Insights Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047

32 min

25 JULY

Episode #3: Turning Your Website into a Lead Machine (Without Paid Ads)

In this episode of Control Alt Dev, Sean and Paul discuss the evolution of content strategy and its impact on lead generation for software development businesses. They explore the importance of keyword optimization, the use of long-tail keywords, and the significance of case studies in building trust with potential clients. The conversation also covers technical aspects of content optimization, the role of featured snippets, and the necessity of regular content audits to maintain relevance. Finally, they reflect on the changing customer journey and how effective content can drive engagement and leads. Takeaways The importance of evolving content strategy over time. Using a traffic light system to prioritize keywords. Content must feel natural to rank effectively. Regular publishing is crucial for maintaining visibility. Case studies build trust in B2B relationships. Engagement metrics are essential for measuring success. Ctrl Alt Dev is a podcast for software founders, digital leaders and curious builders navigating the fast-changing world of tech, AI, and business. Hosted by two veteran tech founders, Paul Rhodes & Sean Sale. each episode cuts through the hype with honest conversations, sharp war stories, and frameworks that actually work. Expect real talk on pricing, project chaos, automation, and scaling, all designed to help you build smarter, lead better, and stay sane. Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047

21 min

18 JULY

Episode #2 - Would You Build a House Without Plans? Then Don’t Build Software Without This

In this episode of Ctrl Alt Dev, Paul Rhodes and Sean Sale discuss the critical importance of charging for specifications, also known as paid discovery, in software development. They explore how this practice protects both clients and developers by ensuring clarity and alignment on project goals. Through various analogies, including the architect analogy, they emphasize the necessity of a structured discovery phase to avoid misunderstandings and costly mistakes. The conversation also touches on the evolution of software development practices, the human element in discovery, and the importance of aligning values with clients for successful long-term partnerships. Takeaways Charging for discovery protects both clients and developers. Free quotes often lead to vague specifications and scope creep. The architect analogy illustrates the importance of planning. Discovery should focus on outcomes, not just outputs. The human element in discovery is irreplaceable by AI. Ctrl Alt Dev is a podcast for software founders, digital leaders and curious builders navigating the fast-changing world of tech, AI, and business. Hosted by two veteran tech founders, Paul Rhodes & Sean Sale. each episode cuts through the hype with honest conversations, sharp war stories, and frameworks that actually work. Expect real talk on pricing, project chaos, automation, and scaling, all designed to help you build smarter, lead better, and stay sane. Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047

40 min

11 JULY

Episode #1 - AI, Uncertainty and that Fiverr Email

In this episode, Paul and Sean discuss the transformative impact of AI on software development, exploring how automation, low code, and no code solutions are reshaping the industry. They share personal experiences, insights on job security, and the importance of adapting to new technologies. The conversation highlights the role of AI in code reviews, testing, and bug fixing, emphasizing the need for developers to leverage these tools to enhance productivity and tackle complex problems. Takeaways AI is rapidly changing the landscape of software development. Low code and no code solutions are becoming more powerful. Job security in tech is being challenged by AI advancements. Developers need to adapt and level up their skills. AI can significantly reduce the time for code reviews. Using AI tools can lead to more efficient testing processes. The future may hold the possibility of bug-free software. AI should be viewed as a productivity enhancer, not a replacement. Understanding how to effectively use AI is crucial for developers. Building custom AI solutions can be a viable option for businesses. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Business 02:49 The Evolution of Software Development 05:57 AI's Impact on Job Security 09:07 Leveraging Low Code and No Code Solutions 12:06 The Role of AI in Code Reviews 15:04 AI in Testing and Bug Fixing 17:59 The Future of AI in Software Development Paul and Sean can be found here: Paul Rhodes - paul@ggapps.co.uk 01527306370 Sean Sale - sean@justapplications.co.uk 0121 2851047 Resources: Fiverr CEO Micha Kaufman’s viral email on AI → Find it here ChatGPT Claude GitHub Copilot CodeRabbit Sintra – AI assistant Paul uses for book notes and implementation planning

33 min

Ctrl Alt Dev

Episodes

Episode #8: Why Every AI Project Needs a PRD (Even if You’re Not a Developer)

Episode #7: AI for Marketers: No Code, No Excuses

Episode #6: Agentic AI: Not Just Smarter, Now It Acts on Its Own

Episode #5: One Brain to Rule Them All - Building Smarter Projects with AI

Episode #4: From Idea to Prototype in 8 Hours: How To Validate an Idea with No Code

Episode #3: Turning Your Website into a Lead Machine (Without Paid Ads)

Episode #2 - Would You Build a House Without Plans? Then Don’t Build Software Without This

Episode #1 - AI, Uncertainty and that Fiverr Email

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