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How to Vibe with AI and Stay Human

AI has taken centre stage in every conversation right now. Everywhere you look, people are talking about automation, chatbots, and what artificial intelligence means for the future of work. But while many are trying to fight it or fear it, I believe there’s a better way — we can vibe with AI.


In this episode of The Strategic Bookkeeper Podcast, I sat down with Arthur Zards, founder of Vibe with AI, to explore how we can embrace technology without losing the human spark that makes our work meaningful.


The Vibe Mindset


Arthur and I agree on one key truth: AI isn’t coming for us — it’s coming to help us. The secret lies in how we choose to use it.


He shared that “vibing with AI” means developing a mindset of curiosity, not fear. It’s about co-creating with technology rather than competing against it. That mindset shift is vital for bookkeepers and accountants. Too many see AI as a threat that will replace their jobs. But if you stay curious, learn the tools, and combine them with your professional wisdom, AI becomes your strategic advantage.


As I said to Arthur, “We don’t need to out-work AI — we need to out-think it.”


Where AI Adds Real Value


AI is incredible at repetitive, data-heavy tasks — sorting transactions, analysing trends, or drafting routine communication. That frees you to focus on higher-value work: understanding your clients, interpreting insights, and delivering strategic advice.Arthur put it perfectly: “AI can process data, but it can’t build trust.”


That’s where our human intelligence (HI) takes the lead. You can use AI to pull reports, summarise information, or generate marketing copy, but the tone, empathy, and decision-making still come from you.


In my own practice, we use AI tools to streamline content creation, client communication, and research. They save hours each week, but every output still passes through human review and refinement. The result is more quality time for my team and clients — not less.


Blending AI with HI


Arthur and I talked about the power of combining artificial and human intelligence. When used together, they create something far stronger than either on its own.

AI is fast, consistent, and analytical. HI is emotional, adaptable, and intuitive. Pair them, and you get what I call “smart humanity.”

Here’s how bookkeepers can put that into practice:

  1. Use AI for efficiency — automate reconciliations, reminders, and reports.

  2. Use HI for connection — talk to clients about what those numbers mean.

  3. Let both grow together — refine prompts, test ideas, and review outcomes regularly.


Arthur described AI as an “infinite intern.” It never sleeps, never gets bored, and can process huge amounts of data instantly. But it still needs direction — your direction.


That resonated with me deeply because leadership is one of the Five Big Keys in my Bookkeeping Practice Blueprint. Whether leading a team or an AI assistant, success always comes down to clear communication, boundaries, and guidance.


From Fear to Freedom


The fear many bookkeepers have about AI is really a fear of change. It’s natural. But change has always been part of our profession. Think back to the shift from paper ledgers to the cloud — it was uncomfortable at first, but it made our lives easier. AI is the same. Once you understand it, you realise it’s here to give you freedom.


Freedom from repetitive admin. Freedom from the constant pressure to do more with less. Freedom to focus on creativity, strategy, and purpose.

When Arthur spoke about this, he said something that stuck with me: “Technology isn’t taking jobs — it’s taking tasks.”


That distinction matters. The tasks will evolve, but the demand for human insight, empathy, and judgment will only grow.


Staying Authentic in an AI World


One of my favourite parts of our conversation was discussing how to keep your authenticity when using AI in content creation. AI can help you write blogs, emails, or social posts, but your voice is what connects with your audience. Don’t hand that over.


Arthur suggested thinking of AI as a brainstorming partner. It helps you get ideas out faster, but the story still has to come from you. I couldn’t agree more. In my world, AI is there to support my Jeannie Savage voice — not replace it.


For bookkeepers building a brand, this is powerful. You can use AI to save time while staying true to your personality and purpose. That balance is what creates genuine connection with your tribe.


Practical Ways to Start Vibing with AI


If you’re new to AI and feeling unsure, start small. Arthur’s advice was simple: “Experiment without expectation.”

Here are a few easy entry points:

  • Try ChatGPT to brainstorm content or write emails.

  • Use Canva’s Magic Write to draft marketing captions.

  • Explore QuickBooks AI features for transaction suggestions.

  • Ask AI to summarise meeting notes or client insights.

The more you experiment, the more comfortable you’ll become. The key is to play — test prompts, learn patterns, and see how it fits your workflow.


And remember, it’s not about being the most tech-savvy. It’s about being open-minded.


The Future of Strategic Bookkeeping


AI will continue to evolve, but so will we. Bookkeepers who thrive in the next decade will be those who combine data intelligence with emotional intelligence.

That’s why The Strategic Bookkeeper Blueprint focuses equally on technology and humanity. You need both. AI helps you work faster, but HI is what helps you lead, influence, and grow.


Arthur and I both believe that the best future isn’t human or machine — it’s human with machine. That’s how you scale with integrity, serve clients deeply, and build a business that still feels personal in a digital world.


Final Thoughts


AI won’t replace you — unless you refuse to grow. When you choose to vibe with AI, you step into possibility instead of fear.Use technology as your partner, not your competitor. Let it do the heavy lifting so you can focus on leadership, strategy, and connection.

Because in the end, AI might change the tools we use, but it will never replace the heart, wisdom, and purpose that make you a Strategic Bookkeeper.


With love and strategy,


Jeannie Savage


Listen in to Episode here:

 📍 Spotify

📍 YouTube


👉 Want to go deeper? Join me inside The Strategic Bookkeeper Transformation Program, where we bring these 10 factors to life with coaching, community, and done-for-you assets to help you fast-track your results.


If you’re ready to create the same clarity, profit, and freedom in your own practice, The Blueprint Path Workshop is where to start.


It’s a 5-part live series kicking off on Monday, 3 November 2025, where I’ll guide you through the same framework that helped Michelle rebuild her practice — one that supports her life, not the other way around.



Reading this after 3 November 2025? Don’t worry — you haven’t missed out entirely. You can still connect with me and other bookkeepers inside our free Facebook community, where we share tools, strategies, and stories like Michelle’s every week.




 
 
 

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