Software & automation
How to Set Up AI on Your Computer Properly
A plain-English guide to Claude Code, ChatGPT Codex and the budget OpenCode route. Pick one, set it up in 15 minutes and get AI doing real work.
Updated Read →
The Growth Toolkit newsletter
I write a free Sunday email on getting the most out of AI
It's called The Growth Toolkit. Every week I share one of the AI setups I use, explained simply with easy-to-follow tutorials, even if you've never opened ChatGPT.
I'm Mike McDonnell. I run a marketing agency (Glide Marketing) and a software studio, and I wrote a book about surviving psychosis.
What lands in your inbox each Sunday
One short email you can read over a coffee. If I mention a tool, it's one I use, and I'll tell you if a link earns me anything.
Getting set up properly
The right AI apps on your computer and phone, set up so they can do real jobs for you on your computer.
Simple tutorials
One job at a time, start to finish, with the prompt to copy. Like getting AI to write and post a Facebook Marketplace listing for you.
The setups I use
The AI I run my business and life on, from my AI personal trainer to the agents that handle my admin, and where they still fall short.
AI on a budget
How to get the cheaper open models, like DeepSeek and GLM, working close to Claude and ChatGPT for a fraction of the price.
Get the free Sunday email
I make videos on the same topics on YouTube at @GrowthToolkitHQ.
Learn My Story
In 2019, I experienced a full psychotic episode and was sectioned. I wrote a book about it so you could understand what it actually feels like from the inside.
Get the Book →Mental Health Resources
I share practical advice for entrepreneurs managing bipolar disorder, plus mental health education through my YouTube channel and blog.
Work With Me
Available for corporate mental health speaking, entrepreneur coaching, and media appearances.
- Corporate Mental Health Speaking
- Entrepreneur Peer Support
- Media & Podcast Appearances
Testimonials
What People Are Saying
“Our experience with Mike exceeded our already high expectations! The process has been smooth and Mike has been very proactive. His work is fabulous.”
Piyush Somaiya
Cricket Lovers Global Academy
“Glide are a great asset to our business in terms of supporting on all things SEO. Mike is an all round top guy and easy to do business with.”
Matthew Drage
SAM Leisure
“Mike is extremely personable, proactive and highly professional. He took on a blank canvas brief and delivered my superb website in a matter of days. He has taken my business to another level.”
Chris Cager
Christopher Antiques
From the Blog
Recent Articles
Software & automation
I Built an AI Personal Trainer That Checks In on Me (2026)
I was an online PT for 2 years. Here's the AI personal trainer I built that checks in on Telegram every night and reviews my photos. Get the full setup free.
Resources & Tools
Wise Business Account Review: 3 Years and a Real £1,300 Transfer (October 2026)
My honest Wise Business account review after 3 years and 20 to 30 real transfers. The actual fee on a £1,300 send, what I have never tested, and who should skip it.
Updated Read →
Resources & Tools
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Ready to connect?
The Sunday email is the easiest way to follow along. If you're after my book or want me to speak to your team, that's here too, and I'd love to hear from you.