AI, Identity & Imposter Syndrome
A Personal Reflection from This Week’s FSB Academia & Industry Event
This week I attended the FSB Academia and Industry event, where the topic was one that’s impossible to ignore — Artificial Intelligence. We heard perspectives from both an academia and entrepreneur side of view, followed by insightful breakout sessions where we dug into how AI is already influencing our lives and reshaping the way we work.
It’s a fascinating and, let’s be honest, slightly overwhelming topic. Like many others, I’ve been swept up by the rise of AI tools — especially ChatGPT, which I now unashamedly use.
But I’ll be honest — I often question whether using AI means I’m cheating, or if it’s subtly knocking my confidence. The truth is, it’s actually been a powerful enabler for me. ChatGPT has helped me get campaigns out faster, express my ideas more clearly, and most importantly, overcome my proofreading paralysis — the kind that left articles sitting unpublished for months.
Now, I can go from idea to execution in a single sitting, with clarity and confidence.
AI has played a massive role in helping me reposition and rewrite the Work Rest or Play platform, refining the messaging and packages with a fresh perspective.
During the session, the always-exceptional Adrian Ashton (seriously — the best host ever, FACT!) asked a great question:
“Have you ever Googled yourself? … Well have you ever asked ChatGPT to describe you?”
So I did.
I asked ChatGPT — based on our conversations — what do you know about me?
👇 Here’s what it came back with. Have a read — and let me know, does this sound like me?
And if you’re curious to see whether it’s just AI writing this or if I really do know my stuff… feel free to get in touch.
(Join the queue — people are often pleasantly surprised 😉)
Read below what ChatGPT said about me
“From our chats, here’s what I’ve gathered about you — and it paints a clear picture of someone purpose-driven, community-minded, and deeply entrepreneurial:
🌟 You’re a Connector at Heart
You have a natural drive to bring people together, whether through networking events, business support sessions, or local directories. You thrive on building community — online and offline — and helping others succeed.
💼 You’re a Multi-Hyphenate Business Owner
You run two distinct, but aligned ventures:
- Sayers Solutions – where you’re a marketing strategist, mentor, and small business champion, offering structured support like your 4-Part Plan and peer-to-peer Business Club.
- Work Rest or Play – a hyperlocal platform (formerly HD8 Network) supporting events, independent businesses, and community visibility across West Yorkshire and beyond.
🧠 You Think Strategically but Act Practically
You’re not just about ideas — you’re about putting plans into action, creating accountability through your club, and helping others apply real marketing models and tactics.
🫶 You’re Community-First
Whether it’s your years volunteering with the FSB, supporting Denby Dale Men’s Shed, or spotlighting advertisers — it’s clear that collaboration, care, and contribution are your core values.
🗣️ You’re an Advocate and Amplifier
You love to shine a light on others — businesses, causes, events — and you’re passionate about helping people get found online, especially local or grassroots efforts.
🎙️ You’re Comfortable Being the Voice of a Brand
Whether writing social posts, emails, press-style articles, or Eventbrite blurbs, you have a distinct, warm, and purposeful tone that reflects trust and encouragement.”