AI-Infused Workflow for Idea Generation and Content Creation

Recently, I had the pleasure of being a guest on Larry Swanson's podcast Content + AI, where we discussed my AI-infused blogging workflow. Larry and I first met at a networking event organised by Janus Boye from Boye & Co.

We immediately hit it off, sharing a wealth of common experiences as content veterans. Now that Larry has moved to the Netherlands, it was a perfect opportunity for a deeper collaboration.

Our podcast conversation touched on many topics, but today I want to focus on the AI-enhanced workflow that has changed and enriched my professional life.

The Podcast with Larry Swanson

Talking with Larry was a fantastic experience. His insights into content creation and podcasting were enlightening, and it was great to exchange ideas with someone so knowledgeable.

During our discussion, I shared how AI has become an integral part of my content creation process. This workflow not only boosts productivity but also makes the entire process more enjoyable by eliminating monotonous tasks.

Here's a detailed look at my AI-powered workflow, which I believe can inspire and inform other online professionals.

The Workflow Breakdown

My workflow consists of three main phases: Ideation and Inspiration, Production, and Distribution and Optimisation.

Ideation and Inspiration

In this phase, I explore creative angles and gather insights using AI tools to fuel my content creation process.

1. Harnessing AI for Ideation: I utilise ChatGPT’s natural language capabilities, coupled with a pair of AirPods, to brainstorm while on long walks. This helps me uncover fresh, original angles on topics I want to explore, finding unique hooks and analogies. (and shoot photographs for the blog).
2. Interviews: When approaching companies or founders for interviews, I use ChatGPT to map out the information landscape and prepare thoroughly. Conducting interviews via Google Meet and recording them with Fireflies.ai provides a comprehensive transcript for later use.
3. Research with Perplexity: For in-depth and up-to-date research, I turn to Perplexity. It offers factual information along with sources, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the data I gather.

By the way, I am not sold to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and I am also actively looking and comparing other AI language models.

Production

Here, I transform ideas into structured content, leveraging AI to streamline drafting and editing.

1. Story Development: Crafting a coherent storyline is crucial. I outline the main topics and content using plain text, then convert it into Markdown for easy linking and image integration.
2. Instructions for ChatGPT: I provide ChatGPT with detailed instructions, clarifying my preferences and requirements. This includes both what I want and what I do not want in the content.
3. Drafting and Editing: After generating an outline, I request a full article from ChatGPT, which I then transform into Markdown for further refinement. I paste the Markdown into Ulysses and let it rest overnight for a fresh perspective the next day.
4. Final Touches: Editing is done using LanguageTool, integrated into Ulysses, to eliminate clichés, hyperbole, and awkward phrasing. I add callouts and integrate the content into my wider blog. For visual elements, I choose my own photographs to maintain authenticity and use Canva for additional images.

Distribution and Optimisation

In this final phase, I prepare, publish, and promote my content, ensuring it reaches the right audience effectively.

1. Translation and Publication: Depending on the language, I translate the content and prepare it for publishing via Ulysses to platforms like Ghost (for English) and WordPress (for Dutch).
2. Meta Information: I ask ChatGPT for engaging introductions and SEO-friendly meta information, including categories and tags.
3. Social Media and Newsletters: Using the same ChatGPT thread, I generate ideas for social media posts tailored to platforms like X and LinkedIn. Occasionally, I also draft content for my weekly newsletter.
4. Ongoing Analysis: Although not covered in this article, I use AI tools for content analysis and optimisation, a topic I'll delve into in a future post.

My personal view

This AI-infused workflow has significantly enhanced my writing process, making it more efficient and enjoyable. By leveraging AI, I can focus on creativity and engagement while maintaining my role as a web strategist.

Stay tuned for my upcoming interview with Larry Swanson on podcasting, and subscribe to my newsletter for the latest updates.

And don’t forget to check out the podcast:

Rob Hoeijmakers: using AI to transform blogging workflows

Rob Hoeijmakers is an independent web strategist based in Amsterdam. He’s using AI tools to streamline his research and writing workflows.

Content+AILarry Swanson