Welcome back to Issue #2 of your Weekly Side‑Income Roundup.
If you missed issue #1, every week I’m delivering you tools we’re actually testing, easy strategies you can apply fast, and a little inspiration to jumpstart your week.
Here’s what’s on tap this week:
- Free AI tools that don’t feel like trial scams
- Reels templates that actually work—no creative burnout
- One simple email strategy that’ll pay for itself
- A sneak peek at a smarter way to automate your visuals
Let’s get into it.
THIS WEEK’S BIG IDEA
👉 Free AI Tools That Don’t Feel Free
There’s a flood of AI tools these days—most feel like experiments with limited value. This week, I want to highlight Google AI Studio. You can prototype with Gemini models right in your browser, no payment required. Whether it’s generating images, testing content ideas, or automating a small task, this tool punches above its “free” label.
Our Take: If you’re tired of trial barriers or hidden paywalls, try this one. Use it for a small project this week like brainstorming, image tweaks, or even early outline testing. Let me know what you build.
TOOLS OF THE WEEK
Here are three tools we’re actually using right now. No hype, just results.
Create AI images, upscale graphics, remove backgrounds, and auto‑generate visuals—all in one free toolkit.
🔥 Instagram Reels Templates You Can Use Right Now
Native Instagram templates—tap “Use Template,” drop your content, and publish. No editing headache.
🔥 Amazon’s AI Video Generator Is Now Free
Create 21-second product clips from still images with automatic transitions and text overlays.
Our Take: Whether you sell products or services, this tool gives you fast video content that looks polished.
TODAY’S QUICK WINS
Two actionable moves you can apply immediately:
💯 Make Your Emails Irrestistible
We’re past seasonal hooks like Labor Day. Instead, use current, ongoing themes (like “Fall reset” or “September clarity”) in your copy or subject line to create relevance.
💯 37 Email Marketing Best Practices from Twilio
This guide pulls together writing, formatting, and email structure tips all in one place. Pick one tweak, like clearer CTA placement and apply it this week.
FROM OMC
🚗 The 2025 Traffic Playbook: 5 Proven Sources That Still Work (and 3 to Avoid)**
My latest breakdown on traffic channels that remain effective, including an action plan for each. Don’t stick with old strategies that stopped working, use these instead.
Our Take: Email and partnerships are still king. Pick one strategy to test over 30 days.
AI SPOTLIGHT
🤖Canva’s Smart Visual Workflow
Canva upgraded its AI tools and is now merging visual prompts with Sheets for easy, data-driven graphics. Need a chart or social post quickly? The AI now handles it with minimal effort.
Our Take: Great for solo creators on deadline. Just keep one question in mind: does the tool move me forward, or hold me back?
UNTIL NEXT WEEK…
Choose one of these wins:
- Test Google AI Studio
- Use a Reels template
- Refresh your email for now
- Try the Traffic Playbook strategy
Let the small steps lead to momentum.
Talk soon,
Aidan
