Ian McDonald
AI App Entrepreneur & Builder

I teach non-technical people to build AI apps that actually work.

From side hustles to enterprise platforms with 1,500+ users—I build in public and show others how to do the same.

Currently building: LaunchBox

You're Exactly Where I Was 12 Months Ago

→You know you're capable of more

→You have ideas but don't know where to start

→You're tired of tutorials that don't lead anywhere

→You want to build something real, not just learn syntax

I spent years thinking I wasn't "technical enough."
Then I built something 1,500+ people use daily.

You don't need perfect code. You don't need years of experience.

You need to start messy and build something today.

My Story

A year ago I was barely making money, questioning if this entrepreneur thing was realistic.

Then I lost my dad in December 2023.

He was the person who believed in me no matter what. When he left, I had a choice: step into those shoes and believe in myself like he did, or abandon hope.

I chose to bet on myself.

I went from client work (Disruptiv Solutions) to building proof-of-concept tools (ChatterCard) to becoming lead architect for an AI platform serving 1,500+ active users. From knowing nothing about speaking to leading workshops.

I learned that imposter syndrome is expensive. That knowing your worth isn't optional.

Now I'm 31, living in Pensacola, FL, building in public and teaching others to do the same.

I work on my dream every day. I also know that grinding isn't always the answer—rest matters too.

If you're where I was 12 months ago:

→You're more capable than you think

→Work on your craft daily

→Failure is growth

→Build your audience

The universe put you exactly where you need to be.

Start Messy

There's nothing you can imagine that you can't start building. Not everything needs to be perfect or a billion-dollar idea. Ship something today.

Consulting With Ian

Quick 20-minute consult to get unblocked on your build or get clarity on your next steps.

✓Get quick answers to your build questions

✓Unblock yourself on a specific issue

✓Get direction on your next steps

Join the LaunchBox Waitlist

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Things I've Built

From side projects to enterprise platforms—each one taught me something for the next.

Building in Public - Launching Q1 2025

LaunchBox

A platform where non-technical people learn to build AI-powered apps.

•Tools + Training + Community

•Working AI tools from day one (not just tutorials)

•Step-by-step builds you can actually finish

•Community of builders who support each other

Current traction

50+ early members building together

Tech Stack

Multi-model AI • Firebase/Firestore • Custom tooling