Tools
Speed Reading Tool
Spreeder
I've been using Spreeder forever, it's always the first bookmark on my browser toolbar. I recommend selecting the 'Speed Variability' option in the settings, and then testing out your comfortable max words per minute. It's an excellent tool that channels your focus, and saves you time.
Secure Voice-to-Text
FUTO Voice
If you're an android user, FUTO Voice presents a top-notch alternative to Google's voice-to-text. Instead of harvesting your data via Google's cloud, it works entirely on-device with no data stored. And it has far better transcription and punctuation, all while respecting your privacy.
De-Googled Androids
Rob Braxman Store
Rob Braxman offers de-Googled phones that do not require a Google sign-in to operate. If you are interested in an android stripped of all the spyware and bloat, Rob's shop is a great option. He also sells secure email, VOIP, VPN, as well as other services.
Secure Communications Platform
Element
Collaborate with your team using this secure, self-hosted Slack alternative. Offers encrypted messaging, calls, and video conferencing, with features like polls, file sharing, and robust integrations---all built on top of Matrix. Element is included with most plans offered by Federated Computer (see below).
Shared Inbox & Helpdesk
Freescout
An open source option for team inboxes that gives Zendesk and Help Scout a run for their money. Build a company helpdesk with unlimited users, tickets, and inboxes. It comes with all the features you'd expect like internal notes, merging conversations, moving conversations between mailboxes, saved replies, satisfaction ratings, and much more. Freescout is included with plans offered by Federated Computer (see below).
Self-Hosted Collaboration
Nextcloud
Presents a secure alternative to Google Workplace or Microsoft 365 for your team. Offers self-hosted collaborative file storage, mail, calendar, team chat, video conferencing, and office suite; supports all major document, spreadsheet and presentation file formats and works in all modern browsers. Nextcloud is at the core of the plans offered by Federated Computer (see below).
Open Source Video Software
OBS Studio
Almost needing no introduction; OBS is a free software application used for video recording and live streaming. Proof that open-source can compete in the market, it has continued to be the first choice among professionals and amateurs alike.
Private Hosting Suite
Federated Computer
Dedicated self-hosting for Wordpress, unlimited email accounts, and a suite of privacy-focused tools that replace Google Workplace, Slack, Zoom, and more. Built using Nextcloud Hub as it's core, it includes some of my favorite tools like Element and Freescout. Set up your own personal cloud, as well as enjoy fast customer support with real people.
Wordpress Themes & Plugins
Thrive Themes
Most of my sites are built on Thrive Themes, a conversion-focused website and landing page builder for Wordpress, with plugins for lead generation, quizzes, and courses. It comes with many marketing tools built-in, boasts a wide variety of integrations, and is easy to use.
Marketing Automation
MailerLite
A good email autoresponder for small businesses, with a free option for up to 1,000 subscribers. Create newsletters, email automations, landing pages, websites, and more. It's easy to use, affordable, and has decent tracking tools included.
Marketing Automation
ConvertKit
Works well for individuals or bloggers, with a Wordpress plugin that allows you to embed forms to build your subscriber list. Best for solo-preneurs who aren't tech-savvy, and has a limited free option. It comes with a decent spread of integrations that make it worth recommending.
Marketing Automation
AWeber
A tried-and-true platform for email marketing, automation, segmentation, and sign-up forms. Has pretty good tracking and reporting tools, with tons of email templates to choose from, and integrations for pretty much everything.
Marketing Automation & CRM
ActiveCampaign
Advanced marketing automation with CRM features, and a boatload of integration options. You can build complex email funnels with features like SMS text, a/b testing, predictive sending, segmentation, lead scoring, dynamic content, detailed reporting, and a whole lot more.
Checkout Pages
ThriveCart
Collect payment using embeddable checkout pages with upsell funnels and many marketer-friendly features. Offered as a one-time payment with a lifetime license, which makes it a fair deal compared to much of the competition. Integrates with all your favorite apps and continues to receive steady updates and new features.
Automation & Integrations
Zapier
Bring it all together, automating workflows and linking applications. Everybody uses it for a reason, and if you want to test it out, they offer a free option with 100 Zaps per month. Provides 3rd-party integrations connecting 1,000+ different apps.
Freelancing & Remote Workers
Upwork
One of the largest recruiting pools of various freelancers and contract workers for hire. You can find people to perform monotonous maintenance tasks in your tech stack, or those who specialize in higher-value jobs.
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