How I’ve Made $350,000 From AI-Built Apps

Right now, I’m excited to share an article from Pete McPherson. Pete has constructed and offered AI-built apps, incomes over $350,000 with out expertise. On this submit, he explains precisely how he did it and how one can get began, too. This may be an fascinating technique to make extra income!

Three years in the past, I used to be a burnt-out creator debating whether or not to return to a “actual job.”

Since then, I’ve…

• “Coded” 8 apps
• Offered 2 software program firms
• Earned over $350k+ (simply from these).

Whereas working lower than 20 hours every week…

With no developer expertise(!)…

And no huge viewers…

The key?

You guessed it: A.I.

This submit is the “how I did it” story–the errors, technique, and “vibe coding” blueprint.

No fluff. Simply worth.

Let’s roll 👇

What this submit offers you…

This submit explores “vibe-coding.”

• What it’s
• Why it issues
• How one can begin

And if you shut this browser tab, I would like you to have 3 issues:

1. Inspiration 👉 PROOF that these wild alternatives exist
2. Data 👉 There’s numerous TEACHING right here.
3. Confidence 👉 My objective is to make this as NON-TECHY as potential, and I hope you will have just a few “a-ha!” moments.

Really helpful studying: 12 Surprising Work From Home Jobs You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

“Woah Pete. Code? AI? Saas? Sounds techy and overwhelming…”

• Excellent news = You do NOT have to be tremendous techy to “use” this weblog submit
• Unhealthy information = There’ll at all times be new phrases & tech to be taught

I imply, heck…

I’m NOT a skilled developer. I’m a full-time content material creator.

For those who’ve realized WordPress or video enhancing software program, you are able to do this, too.

I’m going to indicate you methods to let AI do all of the arduous stuff for you.

Your job?

1. Give you concepts
2. Chat with AI
3. Information the method

This submit will preserve issues lifeless easy.

Really helpful studying: 10 Best Ways To Use ChatGPT To Make Money

How I realized how to do that stuff…

Right here’s my timeline:

October 2016

I stop my accounting job (after 2 years of worry). I take a part-time gig at a small startup so I can spend extra time SIDE-HUSTLING. Get laid off after one paycheck (ruh roh).

June 2017

I launch Do You Even Weblog by accident by recording interviews with money-making bloggers (Thanks, Michelle 🙏). I LOVE THIS WORK SO MUCH!

2017 – 2021

I ran the podcast, YouTube channel, weblog, programs, and a membership! Made sufficient $$$ to outlive. Nonetheless cherished it.

Summer season 2021

Burnout. Boredom. Began OTHER companies (12+ web sites, 3 YouTube channels, 2 podcasts). Selection is good. Cash is good.

December 2022

My media empire is rockin! I made an in depth plan for 2023. Then ChatGPT releases.

January 2023

Panic. I really feel like AI is the following ‘factor,’ however I’m afraid to drop my whole plan. After a month, I pivot all the pieces to AI.

March 2023

I see a YouTube video the place ChatGPT codes. Thoughts blown. I begin “coding” my first app.

June 2023

I spend LITERALLY 3 MONTHS on this app, and it was probably the most tough & irritating issues I’ve ever finished, and I solely obtained about 10 paying customers. However I shipped it and I’m proud.

August 2023

I strive once more. This app solely takes 3 WEEKS (what?!) and it instantly grows to $1,000/month in recurring income.

October 2023

FABB AI (stands for Absolutely Autonomous Weblog Bot) is making about $3k/month, however I’ve a well being emergency and pause ALL my work.

March 2024

I construct Topical Map AI in about 3 DAYS(!) to resolve my very own ache level. Made just a few grand, then went passive.

April – November 2024

Constructed extra small apps with AI. Took companions for Topical Map AI who promoted it. Income grew to $7-8k/month and it’s principally passive for me.

December 2024

Listed FABB AI for $45,000 “simply to see what occurs” and it sells inside 10 days. Um. What. Didn’t know I may do this.

January 2025 – Right now

Following the “blueprint” full-time (it’s under!) Created Code Playbook to show others how to do that stuff. Offered Topical Map AI after 10 months of ignoring it (whoops, however yay!). Now I ship apps part-time-ish, generate income, and I’m having the time of my life.

Let’s transfer into “educating mode” for a second 👇

My actual “blueprint” for earning profits:

Listed below are my vibe-coding philosophies (constructed from the previous 2 yr of craziness):

1 – Construct in Public

At all times develop your private model exterior of particular companies! Methods go stale and tasks go away, nevertheless it’s important to have an viewers that follows you within the long-term.

“Construct in public” = share behind-the-scenes. What you’re engaged on, classes realized, suggestions & tips, and so on. This builds your authority and not directly builds curiosity to your subsequent product.

2 – The “Viewers-First” Rule

I don’t construct something until I can clearly see the place my first 10-100 clients will come from.

Sure, I’ve my Do You Even Weblog viewers (an enormous asset), however I additionally search for methods to achieve new individuals. I prefer to know this BEFORE I begin work on a product.

3 – The “Thought Abundance” System

Cease ready for “large concepts” and begin capturing “tiny concepts” DAILY. I preserve an “concept inbox” for straightforward brain-dumping.

(On the finish of this submit, I’ll share my 3 tips for rapidly producing app concepts in case you’re caught).

4 – Construct it to Promote

I get bored simply and I don’t take pleasure in advertising and marketing. 2 issues that make “scaling” actually tough.

So I begin each challenge asking, “Can I promote this in 12 months?” or “Can I make this 90% passive?” If the reply isn’t any, I don’t even begin!

I realized this the arduous manner. I’d’ve made extra money if I hadn’t PAUSED each firms I offered.

5 – The massive image for every new challenge

My present course of:

1. Month 1 👉 Sloppy MVP and alpha testers
2. Month 2 👉 Clear it up and launch the beta at a reduced value
3. Month 3 👉 “Kill or preserve” the challenge. It will get apparent quick.
4. Month 4 👉 Create documentation and onboarding.

All the things after that must be advertising and marketing.

6 – Leverage companions

I hate advertising and marketing, so I discover companions who’ve the viewers I want!

Associates are good, however fairness companions are SO significantly better. They supply extra vitality, viewers, and even concepts. It’s a surprisingly simple pitch!

7 – Construct to promote, half 2

I’ve realized lots about what consumers search for:

• STABLE income
• A simple transition
• An fascinating model

I construct with these issues in thoughts, at first!

P.S. For those who’d reasonably watch my blueprint for these steps, I put it on YouTube.

What’s “vibe-coding?”

Vibe-coding = utilizing AI to code.

It’s not about programming languages, frameworks, syntax, and extremely technical stuff…

It’s about…

• Having an concept
• Chatting with an AI about it (therefore the ‘vibe’)
• Letting the AI do all of the HARD work (i.e. the precise coding)
• Going forwards and backwards till it really works 💪

You’ve got concepts and handle. AI writes code.

You vibe code forwards and backwards till it WORKS.

No engineering levels. No bootcamps. Simply chatting, testing, tweaking, and SHIPPING.

The instruments I exploit & suggest

First, an essential level: the instruments matter lower than MOMENTUM.

There are new AI coding instruments launched on daily basis, and it’s best to ignore 99% of that.

You’ll actually solely want 3 issues:

1. A laptop computer
2. An AI code editor
3. A bunch

I’ll skip the pc suggestions and get to the enjoyable stuff (additionally, under is a YouTube video the place I dive deeper into my instruments).

An AI code editor

You would possibly see these known as “IDEs,” by the way in which.

All the massive choices have AI baked proper in!

I’ve tried all of them, and I like to recommend utilizing Cursor. 

For those who’re going to pay for ANY software to vibe-code, it’s Cursor, however you can too begin on the free plan!

What about Bolt & Lovable and all these “does all the pieces for you” instruments? 

I do NOT suggest them.

It would possibly be simpler to get began, however you get much less management, extra bugs, and extra headache within the long-term. Skip them!

A bunch

Identical to you want a number to your WordPress web site, you want a number to your app web site.

Use Vercel.

The very best free tier, simple GitHub join, quick deploys, and so on. Executed.

VIBE-CODING PRO TIP:

The “finest software” is the one you’ll truly open and USE. Scale back friction. Use Cursor or Windsurf. Construct stuff every day.

“Pete, what about programming languages? Frameworks? Databases?!”

Who cares? 

Let the extra techy builders argue about Python vs Javascript vs Deno vs Bun vs PostgreSQL.

Your clients don’t care, so long as your app works.

Ask ChatGPT to suggest a “easy, beginner-friendly stack,” after you describe what you need (see under).

Or–you can use my pre-made “package.”

It’s like shopping for a cake combine as an alternative of baking from scratch 🎂

That is the “tech stack” I exploit for each single challenge:

• SvelteKit – Internet-app framework. Makes use of Svelte + JavaScript (AI is aware of it nicely).
• Firebase – Your “backend as a service” aka your database
• Tailwind CSS – The way you fashion your app. AI is aware of this nicely!
• Stripe – For getting that cash 💸

AI can set 95% of this up FOR you!

And for the 5% it will probably’t, it will probably stroll you thru it.

Find out how to vibe-code your first app, step-by-step

Right here’s the 30,000-foot overview of the method I exploit for each app I construct.

1 – Arrange your laptop

There’s one guide factor to do earlier than you vibe code–establishing your laptop!

It’s like connecting your Tremendous Nintendo console to your TV earlier than you’ll be able to play.

You solely have to do that as soon as.

AND…AI can stroll you thru it step-by-step

1. Discover the “terminal” in your laptop (Google can present you the way!)
2. Set up Cursor
3. Set up each Node.js and npm (AI can do that)
4. Join a free GitHub account

2 – Ask AI to arrange your app (with a starter template)

First, I like to recommend chatting with ChatGPT/Claude about your challenge…

• Clarify the thought
• Clarify any options you need
• Clarify–all the pieces

Ask it for suggestions–in addition to what “framework” or “tech stack” it’s best to use.

Then you definitely’ll immediate AI (in Cursor) to set it up!

1. (Optionally available) Find the documentation to your app framework (SvelteKit is here, for instance) Copy/Paste the URL for the documentation to your AI
2. Immediate AI to arrange a brand new challenge (give it your particulars, just like the title, and so on.)
3. Troubleshoot errors with AI
4. Get your challenge operating “domestically” (in your laptop) and check it with the humorous URL that your AI provides you.

This proves your native setup is working!

VIBE-CODING PRO TIP:

Even seasoned builders get errors CONSTANTLY! That’s the job. Construct, fail, repair, repeat. Don’t be discouraged if you get errors. It occurs on a regular basis within the coding world! Plus, AI is nice at fixing errors.

Technically, you constructed an app! Congrats!

Now let’s deploy it to the web.

3 – Deploy it to the web

“Deploy” simply means “connect with a number, who serves your app to web site guests.”

1. Create a free Vercel account
2. “Commit” your code in git (AI can do that for you)
3. Create a “distant repository” in your GitHub dashboard, then copy/paste the code snippet again in your terminal–it will add your code to GitHub

1. In Vercel, create a brand new challenge and “join” it to your new GitHub repo
2. (Optionally available) Add a customized area title within the Vercel challenge settings!

If all goes nicely–your app is now stay on the web!!

If it doesn’t go nicely, chat with AI about it 🤷‍♂️

4 – Construct options with the “AI Coding Loop”

Now you’re able to construct YOUR factor.

Under is my strategy of coding something.

Begin with the boring options first (header, footer, login and logout) OR begin with no matter you’re enthusiastic about constructing (to maintain momentum)!

The “AI Coding Loop,” defined

That is the core vibe coding course of:

1 – Plan

Chat together with your AI (no code but!) about what you need to construct.

Brainstorm. Go nuts. Dream up cool stuff.

• What’s the thought?
• What would you like it to appear like?
• What 2-3 options must you begin with?

Give AI as a lot context & element as potential, then ask it to create a plan for implementation.

Travel with AI till you’re happy with the plan.

2 – Implement

Ask AI to construct it.

Seize espresso when you wait.

3 – Take a look at it 

Principally, use your app. 

TRY to interrupt it. 

You will get errors. Feed them again to AI instantly, then once more, then once more…till it really works.

If AI is actually failing, you’ll be able to Google the error, get assist in any vibe-coding communities, or delete all the pieces the AI simply did and begin over.

4 – Repeat

A characteristic is working with no errors?

You probably did it!

1. Save your work (utilizing Git. You’ll need to watch 15 minutes of YouTube movies. Or AI can do it for you 🤪)
2. Perform a little dance
3. Transfer on to the following factor

Growth!

The advertising and marketing methods I’ve discovered simplest

Actually, this could possibly be its personal article (or three)…

On one hand, you’ll be able to market a Saas like several digital or bodily product.

However, there are a few methods which might be uniquely efficient for apps.

1 – Private viewers (duh)

Okay, this isn’t distinctive, nevertheless it’s SO essential.

Construct a private model that may observe you for the long-term!

• If you have already got an viewers, improbable!
• If not, begin in the present day together with your current social media channels and an e-mail record.

Share behind-the-scenes. Classes realized. Even a small following can kickstart early traction.

2 – Companions (Fairness and all the pieces)

I hate advertising and marketing, so this has been my go-to technique.

Discover someone who has your target market, and persuade them to companion with you.

This “pitch” is difficult for many digital merchandise, however surprisingly simpler for Saas:

1. I construct the app, present help, and run all the pieces (i.e. 97% of the work)
2. YOU put it up for sale at any time when the chance arises
3. We cut up month-to-month income 50/50, and once we finally promote the app!

I’ve finished this twice, and it’s a wonderful association!

Simply do not forget that partnerships really are like marriage. It helps if you understand the individual(s) already, and get all the pieces in writing! (your position, their position, obligations, and so on!)

3 – Associates

Associates are by no means going to be as incentivized as fairness companions–however there’s far much less competitors for selling Saas merchandise.

Get your first few clients, collect some testimonials, then associates could have a neater time saying “sure.”

4 – Chilly Outreach

I’ve NEVER instructed chilly emailing individuals as a technique, till now.

The marketplace for programs, podcast company, and so on, is saturated, however apps simply have a distinct vibe (for now).

“Hey! I made a course…” is a very lame chilly e-mail. 

“Hey! I run an app known as Checklist Gadget…” looks as if an even bigger deal.

Chilly outreach is rarely enjoyable (in case you’re like me, that’s), however there’s a window of alternative for this technique.

QUICK NOTE: 

“Pete, what about launching on Product Hunt? Hacker Midday? Reddit?”

For those who’re already plugged into these communities, go for it. 

However for most individuals? It’s not well worth the effort. I’ve been upset with each “Product Hunt launch” I’ve tried.

Concentrate on discovering your target market straight (and dealing with individuals who have already got them)!

3 Methods to “provide you with app concepts”

For those who’re sitting right down to “consider a enterprise concept,” you’re doing it unsuitable.

As a substitute, develop the behavior of recognizing alternatives in on a regular basis life.

Hold an “concept inbox” in your notes the place you’ll be able to rapidly braindump random concepts. Do that DAILY, in case you can.

That mentioned…

Listed below are three particular strategies to kickstart your mind with concepts:

1 – Scratch your individual itch

The best technique ever–if you domesticate the mindset of noticing if you really feel ache or frustration.

Practice your self to acknowledge these “Oh, that is annoying” moments. You’ll begin seeing app concepts in all places.

2 – “Unbundle” Large Apps

Massive firms like Hubspot, Ahrefs, or Google Office pack in 1,000 options into their apps.

What in case you took simply ONE of these options, and turned it right into a standalone app?

I solely used the “Website Explorer” characteristic in Ahrefs, and I discovered myself wishing it was a standalone app.

Within the instruments you utilize, what options are you paying for however aren’t utilizing?

Which apps are overcomplicated?

3 – Undercut Overpriced Apps

5 years in the past, paying $10/month for Calendly was completely affordable. 

Now? I may construct my very own Calendly in a day or two. Why ought to I pay?

I constructed a (free) note-taking app, Bulletfinity.com, in 10 days, as a result of I didn’t need to spend $10/month for its rivals.

The KEY for this technique is to deal with apps that don’t value lots to run, i.e. they’re very scalable.

8 Assets to degree up and get help

Have I piqued your curiosity (and/or overwhelmed you)? I hope so 😎

There’s clearly extra to this vibe-coding enterprise than what you’ll be able to be taught in a weblog submit, so listed below are a number of free & paid assets to go deeper:

1. Vibe-Coding for Complete Beginners: How It All Fits Together: A free 5-day mini course – that is the next step!
2. Code Playbook (course): That is my vibe-coding course that’ll stroll you thru each step, and supply a non-public Discord group the place you will get assist
3. Code Playbook YouTube: I additionally launch free movies on that YouTube channel. Go subscribe 🎥
4. “Make” book: That is an internet ebook (a very cool format btw) by “ranges.io”, the founding father of NomadList, RemoteOK, and extra–that was launched BEFORE the AI craze, however is improbable for future indie builders.
5. My weekly newsletter: It’s informal, however I share all the pieces I’m doing!
6. Different individuals to observe: Marc Lou, Ian Nuttall, Net Ninja on YouTube for excellent free coding programs (not likely vibe-coding, however nonetheless)
7. The documentation for no matter AI agent you utilize! Instance: the Claude Code documentation is SO HELPFUL. Select your software, then bookmark their docs!
8. My e-mail deal with: I’m not a mega-influencer who will get 10,000 emails a day. E-mail me together with your questions–or simply say hey! Pete (at) doyouevenblog (dot) com 😎

Is your mind reeling with concepts?

(or overwhelmed on the prospects? That’s completely okay, too).

I hope you loved this submit 😉

Ciao!

~Pete

Creator bio: Pete McPherson left the company world in 2017 to grow to be a full-time on-line entrepreneur, constructing 20+ worthwhile manufacturers, two of which he efficiently offered. Over time, his work has reached hundreds of thousands of individuals by YouTube, podcasts, and blogs, amassing over 4,000,000 YouTube views and 3,000,000 podcast downloads. Right now, Pete teaches creators and entrepreneurs by Code Playbook, his program and YouTube channel devoted to serving to individuals construct and launch apps with AI.

Have you ever ever thought of constructing your individual app with AI? What sort of software or downside would you need to create one for?

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