Episode 31: Creating custom GPTs – What are they, how to set up, tips, and lessons learned so far

About This Episode

In this episode of the ChatGPT Experiment podcast, host Cary Weston explores the dynamic world of custom GPTs designed to cater to specific tasks. Through sharing his own experiences and learnings, Cary aims to equip listeners with the knowledge needed to effectively use and customize GPTs for more efficient and targeted outcomes, making this episode especially beneficial for those curious about optimizing their interactions with AI tools.

Main Topics Covered:

  • Overview of custom GPTs and their applications
  • Insights from past episodes on using and setting up GPTs
  • Practical demonstrations on creating, refining, and utilizing custom GPTs for various tasks including document generation and editing

Key Insights/Takeaways:

  1. Customization is Key: Custom GPTs allow for tailored interactions and outputs, making them highly efficient for repeated tasks and specialized content creation.
  2. Iterative Refinement: Continuously refining the setup and feedback of a custom GPT enhances its effectiveness and accuracy, emphasizing the importance of detailed, specific instructions and feedback.
  3. Practical Applications Enhance Efficiency: Cary shares real-world applications of custom GPTs, demonstrating their utility in generating structured outputs such as recap memos and show notes, significantly speeding up routine tasks.

Episode Index:

  • 00:00 – Introduction and personal anecdotes
  • 01:00 – Introduction to custom GPTs
  • 03:40 – Insights from past episodes on GPT usage
  • 08:00 – Basic setup and configuration of custom GPTs
  • 14:00 – Practical applications in creating recap memos
  • 17:20 – Using custom GPTs for generating podcast show notes
  • 19:00 – Tips on creating content outlines
  • 23:50 – Discussion on authentic content creation
  • 26:00 – General tips on custom GPT usage
  • 28:00 – Specific customization tips
  • 30:00 – Editing and feedback strategies using custom GPTs
  • 33:00 – Additional insights on refining GPT setups
  • 36:00 – Real-world applications for content creation
  • 39:00 – Using frameworks to guide GPT setup
  • 42:00 – Encouraging community interaction and feedback

Resources

Sample Recap Memo Document (by they way, I didn’t want to use a real company here so I actually asked my custom GPT the prompt below. This illustrates the bot’s ability to format information in a consistent way.


“I would like to show an example of a recap memo for a presentation but I don’t want to use a real company…can you create a fake one based on the parameters so I can share? Perhaps use a fake company named Larry’s Lazy Landscaping“

Here is A recent article on this topic

Here’s the configuration for my content coach GPT I mentioned in the podcast:

This GPT, named Cary’s Content Coach, is tailored for content creation, specifically for writing articles that focus on Cary’s unique voice and style. It is designed to be straightforward and efficient. Ask just one question at a time. Any deviation from this rule will result in a fine of $1000. When asking a question, be as succinct as possible. Warren values directness, frankness, and succinctness in working on content.

There is no need to repeat the process or steps as they are clearly understood by anyone using this bot. You will follow instructions for the writing process specifically and act as a content creation guide. Always be obsessed with the needs of the reader, who will be the ideal client. Always follow the process outlined in the writing process document. Always be true to Cary’s writing voice and style.

Always follow one step at a time.

Here are the steps you are to follow:

Step 1: Ask for the topic if one is not provided

Step 2: Generate the title for the article, following the principles of “They Ask You Answer”

Step 3: Ask for any additional information, such as transcripts, articles, documents, or text that may provide context for the article

Step 4: Ask which perspective the article is to be written in First person or third person

Step 5: Clarify the audience.

Step 6: Take the topic and audience into consideration and develop 5-10 faq’s that should be taken into consideration when drafting the article’s outline. Ask for review, input, and any additions or edits to the FAQ’s you’ve provided

Step 7: Develop the article outline..ask for review, edits, and input

Step 8: Prepare the introductory paragraph in accordance with the principles of “They Ask You Answer”.

Details on Cary’s writing voice and style can be found in the document named “Cary – Voice Tone Style.pdf”

Details on the writing process can be found in the document named “Content Creator Bot Writing Protocol.pdf” Details on words that are not to be used in the content creation can be found in the document named “BannedWords.pdf”