I built a complete side hustle using Claude Code. Here is the deep dive: The 3 faces of Claude, how to set up your own "AI Workshop," and why the "Trash Phase" is part of the process.
Jan 18, 2026
Let’s start with the result right away: I built a small side business, including the entire landing page structure and product setup, without typing a single line of code myself. 👉 See the live result here: prompts-papaia.netlify.app
Does that sound like one of those "Get rich overnight with AI" fairy tales? Spoiler: NOPE.
Yes, Claude Code built the structure. The first draft was pretty ok-ish. Don't get me wrong. The landingpage it created was really good! But the prompts itself were too generic and not state-of-the-art.
Part 1: The 3 Faces of Claude (The Airbnb vs. The Construction Site)
To understand why this tool is special, we have to look at the ecosystem. Most people only know the browser version, but that’s like living in a hotel. Here is the breakdown:
1. Claude Web = The Fancy Airbnb
This is claude.ai in your browser.
The Vibe: It’s nice, furnished, and comfortable.
The Problem: You are just a guest. You can’t paint the walls, you can’t move the furniture, and you definitely can’t knock down a wall to build a new room. It’s great for a quick chat, but you can’t build a business foundation here.
2. Claude Desktop = The Home Office
The Vibe: The App on your computer. It's like your own flat. You have access to your files and shortcuts. You can plan, doing research and working on your projects (with context)
3. Claude Code = The Construction Site
This lives in your Terminal (that scary black window).
The Vibe: It's your construction site.
The Power: Here, Claude isn't a guest. She (yes, in my opinion, Claude is a "she") is your General Contractor. You tell her "Build a wall here," and she actually mixes the cement and lays the bricks (creates files on your hard drive).
Part 2: How to Install It (Don't Panic!)
I know, the word "Terminal" gives most solopreneurs hives. But trust me, if you can do this.
Step 1: Open the Door
Mac Users: Press
Cmd + Spaceand search for "Terminal".Windows Users: Press the Windows key and search for "PowerShell".
Step 2: The Magic Spell
Copy this line of code, paste it into that black window, and hit Enter.
For Mac/Linux:
For Windows (PowerShell):
(Note: You might need to install something called Node.js first - just ask Claude Web "How do I install Node.js on my computer?" if you get an error).
Part 3: Real-Life Use Cases (Copy Paste These!)
Okay, you are in. Now what? Do not start with a complex app. NOT recommended. Been there - done that :D
Start with these workflows to save your sanity.
Use Case 1: The "Digital Detox"
We all have that one "Downloads" folder that looks like a digital explosion. Let Claude fix it.
The Prompt:
"Analyze my 'Downloads' folder. Group files by type and context (e.g., Invoices, Images, Installers). Propose a new folder structure to clean this up. Show me the plan first. If I approve, create the folders and move the files."
The Result: Claude acts as a professional organizer. She doesn't just suggest it; she does the cleaning.
Use Case 2: The "Obsidian Content Pipeline" (Your Second Brain)
If you use Obsidian (or any Markdown-based note app), this is the holy grail. Instead of letting your notes gather dust, Claude turns your Vault into an active content machine.
The Workflow:
Capture: I use a browser extension (obsidian web clipper) to save interesting articles directly into my Obsidian "Inbox" folder.
Process: I open the terminal in my Obsidian Vault and let Claude do the magic.
The Prompt:
"Check my Obsidian 'Inbox' folder. For every new Markdown file:
Summarize it with 3 bullet points at the top.
Tag it with valid Obsidian tags (e.g., #content-creation, #ai-news).
Link it: Scan my 'Permanent Notes' folder. If this new note relates to an existing idea, create a
[[Wikilink]]between them and explain the connection briefly.Move it to the 'Processed' folder."
Why it rocks: Claude creates the "neural network" for you. You don't just have a list of files; you have a connected web of thoughts. When you open Obsidian next time, your research is already summarized and linked to your previous ideas.
Use Case 3: The "Business Builder"
This is the (very generic) prompt I used to build Prompts Papaia. I wanted to test if AI could really build a business from scratch. As easy as possible, as handsoff as possible.
The Prompt:
"Develop a web or software startup idea that allows me to earn €1,000 per month on autopilot, and handle the entire execution. Do not just generate the idea, but actually implement it. I want to do practically nothing other than running a program you provide once. It must require absolutely no coding skills on my part - so ensure that everything works reliably."
The Reality Check: Claude built the structure and the landing page instantly. But here is the catch: The product quality inside wasn't ready to sell. The code works, but the "Soul" of the business - the actual value you sell - requires your domain knowledge. AI builds the house, but you have to make it a home. —> aaaaaw and this sentence was written by AI. Cute right???
Part 4: Safety & The "Secret Weapon"
Is this safe? Yes. Claude Code is "Permission-First." Before she deletes or changes anything, she asks: > I want to move 50 files. Allow? (y/n)
The Undo Button: Made a mistake? Just type /rewind. It’s a time machine that undoes the last action.
The Secret Weapon: CLAUDE.md Create a file in your folder called CLAUDE.md. Write your rules in there:
"Tone: Direct and Witty."
"Always use British English."
"Never delete files without asking."
Claude reads this every single time. It’s like an Employee Handbook that he actually memorizes instantly.
AND: DON'T PUT SENSITIVE PRIVATE (CLIENTS) DATA IN IT. The situation is a bit different, if you use claude Teams.
Part 5: "I don't have a Claude Subscription"
No worries. You can do this with other tools, too. The concepts are exactly the same.
OpenAI Codex: If you have ChatGPT Plus, look for the "Codex CLI". It works similarly.
Google Gemini: Currently offers a very generous free tier.
Conclusion: You are the Orchestrator
This experiment proved one thing to me: AI doesn't replace the expert; it amplifies the expert.
Claude Code took away the painful part: typing syntax, setting up folders, debugging. But she could not provide the THING.
Your Takeaway: Don't be afraid of the terminal. The barrier to entry is lower than you think. But bring your expertise, your taste, and your patience. That’s how you turn the "AI Stuff" into a real business.
