What’s changing in 2026 (and how I’m planning for it)

Diane Whiddon shopping on Black Friday

The whole online business world feels different this year. Buyer behavior, client expectations, the speed of change in tech, pricing, the economy, and everything else, all of it is shifting.

I’ve been watching these changes (freaking out only slightly) and making some changes behind the scenes. But before I lock in the next phase of AI education, marketing help, and design content, I want to hear directly from you.

Would you take 3 min to fill out a quick survey?

Your answers will help shape what I create next: the content, tools, and strategies that will help you stay up to date, visible, and profitable in 2026.

👉 Take the short survey here

As a thank-you, everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a drawing for a free 60-minute strategy session with me — to talk AI, marketing, client growth, or even your website. Whatever will move your business forward fastest.

Thank you for being part of this community. We’re not just reacting to change anymore. We’re leading it.

Thank you in advance,

P.S. The survey closes Friday. It’s quick, anonymous, and your insights will directly shape what I create next — plus you’ll be entered to win the free 60-minute strategy session.


YouTube LIVE TODAY! What We’re Ditching (and Doubling Down On) for 2026

Christy Price and I are going live to talk about what’s actually working heading into 2026. We’re sharing what we’ve cut, what we’re keeping, and how AI is reshaping how we run our businesses. Think of it as a behind-the-scenes chat about staying profitable and sane while everything keeps getting more expensive. Bring your coffee and your own “do I really need this?” list.

When: TUESDAY 10/28 at 2:30pm CST

Watch live below or catch the replay!

video preview

One last goodie: FREE Black Friday Promo Images (and prompts!)

I hope these inspire you to run an amazing deal and make some extra revenue next month! (All prompts are included so you can tweak them to match your brand, and feel free to edit the images however you'd like.)


Want to create images and videos that demand engagement? Join us in the AI Content Creator Lab!
If you haven't taken it yet, please take three minutes to give me your thoughts! You can take the short survey here.
Your insights will directly shape what I create next and you’ll be entered to win a free 60-minute strategy session.

100 E Walton St Ste 37H-49, Chicago, Illinois 60611
Unsubscribe · Preferences

The AI Designer's Academy

Web Designer and AI Educator