From 9-to-5 to Solopreneur: Risk-Aware Growth, Process-First Automation & Practical AI for Founders ft. Damien Schreurs

On this BizBlend Podcast episode, host Sana talks with Luxembourg-based tech strategist and trainer Damien Schreurs about leaving corporate life the smart way. We unpack a step-by-step transition plan (including a 70% part-time bridge and an 18-month cash runway), how to think process-first before tools, and where automation and AI genuinely save time for solo businesses. We also dig into lifestyle business vs. startup economics, revenue vs. profit, and how to scale without burning out. If you’re a founder or solopreneur who wants clarity, systems, and freedom—without “burn the boats” drama—this conversation is for you.

About the guest:

Damien Schreurs is a solopreneur, Apple/Mac productivity expert, and corporate IT trainer who helps founders design sane systems, automate repeatable work, and use AI pragmatically. He also hosts the Macpreneur podcast for business owners who run on the Mac.

Key takeaways:

• Treat entrepreneurship as calculated risk, not bravado: build a bridge (e.g., reduce to 70% employment) while you validate services.

• Set a runway target (Damien used ~18 months of living expenses) so you can think clearly and avoid pressure-based decisions.

• Separate startup (investor-driven, scale-or-die) from solopreneur/lifestyle business (profit, flexibility, fit).

• Document your work before you automate: write procedures, then spot improvements and decide what to Zapier/Make (or delegate).

• For AI, conversations > complexity: if you can explain a task to a human, you can prompt an AI to draft, summarize, or structure it.

• Profit > revenue for solos: know your household costs, define minimum viable income, and a “great” target that doesn’t wreck your life.

• Scale with intention: use contractors for defined projects; hire a VA only when the tasks truly move the needle.

• Define success beyond money: work when/where/with whom you want—without money anxiety.

Connect with the guest:

• LinkedIn: Connect with Damien Schreurs (mentioned in-episode).

• Podcast: Macpreneur — search on your podcast app or YouTube for “Macpreneur.”

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Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

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