In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray dives into the next wave of AI-powered browsers, how creators are making real money on Substack, the easiest way to launch a merch line without inventory, and what Travis Kelce’s Six Flags investment teaches entrepreneurs about personal branding. Ramon also reminds every small business owner: your business isn’t truly strong until it’s secure.

Key Takeaways

• AI browsers like Comet and Atlas are transforming how we work online — they don’t just browse, they do.
• Substack is helping creators and experts monetize newsletters while owning their audience relationships.
• Bonfire makes it simple to sell branded merch with no inventory or logistics.
• Seth Godin’s “new/old, big/small” framework is a mirror for your business focus — you can’t be everything.
• Travis Kelce’s Six Flags move is a case study in how personal brand can drive business transformation.
• Entrepreneurs must protect their business assets as seriously as they protect their homes or cars.

AI Browsers Are Here — And They’re Actually Useful

AI browsers are redefining how we use the internet. Tools like Atlas (from OpenAI), Comet (from Perplexity), Gemini-infused Chrome, and Dia are moving past passive browsing — they’re becoming digital assistants. These browsers summarize articles, research competitors, and even act on your behalf. Instead of typing and clicking endlessly, you simply tell the browser what you want done.

For entrepreneurs, that means saving hours every week. Need to compare competitors, draft outreach emails, or summarize customer reviews? Your browser can now do that. Comet’s smart tab management keeps projects organized, and Atlas’s privacy features keep your data secure. The takeaway: stop working like it’s 2015. Try an AI browser and let technology handle the heavy lifting.

How Substack Creators Are Getting Thousands of Subscribers (and Paid)

Substack isn’t just an email newsletter tool — it’s an ownership platform. Creators on Substack now have over five million paid subscriptions combined. Unlike social media algorithms, Substack lets you build and own your audience directly. It’s the antidote to rented attention.

Here’s what’s working for successful creators:

1. Niche consistency – Find your lane and stay in it. Be the go-to voice for a specific audience or challenge.
2. Platform experimentation – Post where your audience already hangs out — LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube Shorts — then drive them to your newsletter.
3. Mental rest – Sustainable creators build boundaries and recovery into their routines. Burnout kills creativity.

If you’re a business owner, Substack isn’t just for writers. It’s a modern CRM for trust. You can use it to build a list, nurture your audience, and sell with authenticity.

Substack’s Evolution: From Newsletter Platform to Growth Engine(Opens in a new browser tab)

Selling Merch Without Inventory: The Bonfire Model

Ramon tested Bonfire and discovered how easy it is to launch a merch line without boxes of T-shirts in your garage. Bonfire handles printing, shipping, and customer service — you just bring the design and message. This lets creators and entrepreneurs test ideas fast, build brand affinity, and create extra income streams.

It’s not about becoming a “T-shirt company.” It’s about turning your audience into advocates. Your merch becomes a statement of belonging — a badge for your tribe. Platforms like Teespring offer similar models, so you can test and see what works best. The lesson: start with your story, not just your slogan.

Are You New and Nimble, or Old and Insulated? (Seth Godin’s Framework)

Seth Godin reminds us every business lives somewhere between new vs. old and big vs. small.

• New + Small: Nimble, curious, experimental.
• New + Large: Bold, loud, fast-moving.
• Old + Small: Cautious, careful, sometimes stuck.
• Old + Large: Established, insulated, resistant to change.

None of these are inherently good or bad — but you have to choose your lane. You can’t be everything at once. Clarity creates progress. Ask yourself: are you trying to fit in, or trying to make a difference?

Travis Kelce and Six Flags: The Power of Brand Leverage

Travis Kelce recently joined a $200 million investment group to revive Six Flags, and this move isn’t just about roller coasters. It’s a masterclass in using personal brand as business leverage. Kelce’s fame, influence, and cultural reach bring new life to an aging brand. It’s proof that attention and trust are now business assets.

Entrepreneurs can learn from this. You don’t need millions — you just need visibility and credibility. Be the face of your business. Build relationships. Share your story. A strong personal brand opens doors money can’t.

Final Word: Protect What You’re Building

Cybersecurity isn’t optional. Ramon reminds business owners that if you lock your home and your car, you should also lock your business. Phishing, ransomware, and social engineering attacks target small businesses because they’re easier targets. Partnering with trusted security providers like Bitdefender helps you protect your digital assets and your reputation.

You can’t scale what you can’t secure. Protect it — then grow it.