My NEW AI Faves

Last year (what is time at this point??), I made a video sharing the AI tools that kept me productive and creative: Otter, Google Dictate, Grammarly, and ChatGPT. At the time, those apps felt revolutionary—streamlining how I captured ideas, drafted content, and polished my words.

But here’s the thing: the AI space moves fast. In just a year, new platforms have stepped up, old favorites have evolved, and I’ve updated my own toolkit.

So, here are my new AI faves for 2025—the tools I’m actually using, week after week, to create, work, and stay inspired.

1. Descript – Audio & Video Made Simple

Descript has become a must-have for content creators. It lets you edit audio and video the way you’d edit a Google Doc—cutting filler words, moving sections around, even generating transcripts automatically. Voice cloning and screen recording make it a true all-in-one tool. For me, it’s replaced the need to juggle three or four separate apps.

2. Gemini – Google’s Next Big Move

Google’s Gemini feels like the natural evolution of Bard, but with more integration and power. It pulls in live data, handles research with ease, and connects seamlessly with Google’s ecosystem. If you already live inside Docs, Gmail, and Drive, Gemini feels like the assistant who knows your workflow better than anyone.

3. Jasper – The Marketing Powerhouse

Jasper is still a leader for anyone who does branding, campaigns, or content marketing. Its strength lies in structure: tone-of-voice settings, workflows, and team collaboration. While general-purpose AI can draft copy, Jasper makes sure it’s consistent and aligned with strategy—saving hours for small businesses and marketing teams.

4. Claude – The Thoughtful Assistant

Anthropic’s Claude might not be as flashy as other models, but it’s thoughtful, ethical, and excellent with context. It shines in long-form writing, brainstorming, and nuanced conversations. I reach for Claude when I want outputs that feel careful, balanced, and grounded.

5. ChatGPT – Still the Anchor

Even with so many new players, ChatGPT remains my anchor. It’s versatile, creative, and still the best all-around tool in my kit. Whether I’m scripting a video, drafting an article, or mapping out strategy, ChatGPT is the bridge that connects all these other platforms.

Looking Ahead

From Otter and Google Dictate to Descript and Gemini, my toolkit has changed. But one thing remains the same: AI is only as powerful as how we choose to use it. These tools don’t replace creativity—they amplify it.

✨ So if you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or professional looking to level up, these five—Descript, Gemini, Jasper, Claude, and ChatGPT—are where I’d go…

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