In today’s digital era, artificial intelligence is not only transforming the tech industry but also emerging as a crucial tool for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to innovate and grow their businesses. One particularly inspiring example is the story of Dr. Lee Kojanis and Dr. Daniele Orellana, a husband-and-wife team based in New York City. 

They began with a simple idea and leveraged ChatGPT’s capabilities to bring it to life. By harnessing AI technology, they were able to streamline their processes, enhance their creativity, and develop a product that resonates with their target audience. Their entrepreneurial journey showcases how even a modest concept can flourish in the digital landscape when combined with the right tools and determination.

Their side hustle is projected to generate $75,000 in its first year, illustrating not only the potential profitability of their venture but also the transformative impact that artificial intelligence can have on small businesses. This success story highlights the possibilities for aspiring entrepreneurs to incorporate AI into their own projects, potentially leading to significant financial outcomes and greater efficiency.

A Pandemic-Inspired Spark

The idea for their innovative product, Mitts, was born during the pandemic. Dr. Kojanis, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, was studying for his Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) exams, leading to a newfound appreciation for fine wine—and the delicate glassware that comes with it. The repeated breakage of expensive stemware during cleaning became more than a nuisance—it sparked an idea.

Recognizing a gap in the market for an ergonomic, user-friendly glassware cleaning solution, the couple decided to design a product themselves. What followed was a masterclass in bootstrapping a business from scratch, with AI playing a pivotal role.

From Concept to Market

Like many professionals outside the traditional startup world, Drs. Kojanis and Orellana faced a steep learning curve. They had limited experience in product development, branding, and go-to-market strategy. That’s where ChatGPT came in.

Here’s how they did it:

• Market Research: They used ChatGPT to explore potential competitors, identify underserved niches, and shape their value proposition.

• Product Development: Partnering with Creative Engineering in New York, they iterated through several prototypes, guided by customer pain points and usability feedback.

• Branding and Packaging: With the help of creative agency Make Super Good, they finalized the brand identity while still using AI to brainstorm taglines, marketing copy, and web content.

• Patent Protection: A utility patent was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, ensuring Mitts’ unique design was legally safeguarded.

AI as a Startup Co-Pilot

The most impressive part? They did much of the heavy lifting with the assistance of ChatGPT. Dr. Kojanis referred to the AI as a “24/7 business consultant,” using it to:

• Write business plans

• Create a go-to-market strategy

• Draft marketing copy

• Develop customer service email templates

• Understand logistics, pricing models, and packaging options

ChatGPT gave them a boost of confidence to tackle unfamiliar territory and saved them time and money they would’ve otherwise spent on consultants.

Overcoming Hurdles Like Pros

Launching Mitts wasn’t without challenges. Their November 2024 launch coincided with the holiday season—prime time for e-commerce—but also a nightmare for logistics. Inventory delays meant some customers experienced longer wait times.

Instead of letting that damage their reputation, the couple proactively contacted each affected customer, offering future discounts and open communication. This kind of transparency helped build trust and loyalty early in their journey.

Fast Traction and Bright Horizons

In just three months since its launch, Mitts has already generated more than $15,000 in revenue. This early success can be attributed to a combination of innovative product offerings and effective marketing strategies. Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to expand its marketing efforts further and establish retail partnerships with niche players, including Pop-Up Grocer. These initiatives place Mitts on a promising trajectory to achieve an impressive $75,000 in sales within its first year of operation.

For a business that started as a part-time side hustle, reaching this level of sales is quite remarkable. It not only highlights the potential for growth in a competitive market but also showcases how the right blend of creative ideas and effective tools can yield significant results. The success of Mitts serves as an inspiring example for aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating that with dedication and strategic planning, remarkable achievements are within reach.

Lessons for the Modern Hustler

Whether you’re a medical professional, a creative, or someone with a full-time job and a side dream, the Mitts story provides actionable inspiration:

1. Let AI Be Your Partner

You don’t have to know everything. ChatGPT can be your round-the-clock resource for learning, brainstorming, and planning.

2. Start with a Problem You Personally Experience

The best products often come from solving your own pain points. If you care about the problem, you’ll care about the solution.

3. Validate Before You Scale

Before diving into mass production, do what they did: build a prototype, test it, get feedback, and iterate.

4. Protect Your IP Early

If you’re creating something unique, don’t skip the legal groundwork. A utility patent helped Mitts carve out its own space.

5. Serve Customers Like They’re Friends

Prompt customer service and sincere communication during hiccups can turn first-time buyers into lifelong advocates.

AI-Powered Success is the New Normal

The success story of The Mitts is not just an inspiring tale; it serves as a powerful illustration of how anyone with a strong idea, determination, and access to artificial intelligence tools can create something truly impactful. In the contemporary world of digital entrepreneurship, the landscape has shifted to the point where your first hire doesn’t need to be a human being. Instead, it can be an AI that enhances your ability to think critically, plan strategically, and foster growth for your venture. 

If you find yourself sitting on a potential side hustle idea, consider following the example set by the Kojanis-Orellana duo. This blueprint encourages you to harness your unique skills and knowledge, collaborate with AI to streamline processes and boost creativity, identify and solve a real problem that people face, and move quickly to bring your vision to life. Embracing these principles can help you turn your idea into a successful reality, proving that in the right hands, innovative technology can be a catalyst for meaningful change.