Set it up to know your work
We'll set up a Claude or ChatGPT Project with your documents and instructions, so you stop re-explaining yourself every time.
One-on-one AI coaching · Silicon Valley & online
Let AI do your busywork.
I'll show you how.
Claude and ChatGPT can now handle real work on your computer while you get on with your day. I'll sit down with you at your desk and set it up so it actually helps.
I don't sell software or lock you in. Everything we set up stays in your own accounts.
I've been designing for the web since HTML was first invented.
- eBayDesigned the UI for its first redesign, in 1997
- Match.comDesigned its first redesign as it grew from 300,000 to 1.2 million members
- 30+ yearsInterfaces for HP, Best Buy, Snapfish, Netscape and more
These tools do more than answer questions now.
Claude and ChatGPT can read your documents and work inside your email and calendar. Most people never get past typing questions into them. I'll show you the rest.
What we'll work on
Connect your apps
Link your email, calendar and files safely, so it can find things and draft replies for you. You decide what it can touch.
Work on your computer
Let it sort folders, rename files and fill in forms. You approve the steps that matter.
Tasks that run on their own
Think of a Monday report or a daily inbox sort. We build the ones you'd actually use and run them together until you trust them.
Writing that sounds like you
Teach it how you write, then learn to fix its drafts quickly instead of starting from scratch.
Using it safely
What not to share, and how to check its work. It still gets things wrong, and I'll show you where.
How it works
- A free 20-minute call. You tell me what eats your week. I tell you honestly whether AI can help, and which tool fits.
- We work side by side. At your home or office, or over video. We use your own computer and work on real things from your week.
- You leave able to do it yourself. Plain-English notes of everything we set up, plus email support while it settles in.
What it costs
You'll always work with me, not someone from a marketplace, and you'll know the price before we start.
Intro call
Free
- Talk through what's eating your week
- Honest advice on Claude vs. ChatGPT for you
- No pitch, no obligation
Single session
$225
- Solve one real problem start to finish
- Set up a Project or connect an app
- Written recap of what we did
Best place to start
Getting Started
$595
- Account & privacy setup done right
- Your first Projects, connections and routines
- Homework between sessions on your real work
- Email questions answered between visits
Set-Up Day
$795 half day
$1,395 full day
- Install and configure everything in one visit
- Build 2–4 working automations together
- Ideal for solo businesses and home offices
Small-team workshop
$1,500
- Hands-on, everyone on their own laptop
- Shared team Projects and ground rules
- Follow-up 1:1s at the hourly rate
Standing Hour
$395 / month
- Two 60-minute sessions each month
- Priority email help when something breaks
- Keep up as the tools change (they do, often)
Extra time: $175/hour, billed in half-hours.
Travel: included within about 20 miles; beyond that a small fee, quoted up front.
15% off for seniors, educators and nonprofits.
Your tools, your bill: any Claude or ChatGPT subscription is paid by you, directly to the provider. I don't resell anything.
Who I work with
Solo pros & owners
Realtors, consultants, contractors, therapists and makers buried in admin.
Creatives
Designers, photographers and writers who want help with the admin so they can get back to the real work.
Retirees & families
Patient, judgment-free help with the stuff everyone else assumes you know.
About
Hi, I'm Ethan Allen.
I've been designing for the web since HTML was first invented, and I've spent my whole career in Silicon Valley making new technology easy for people to use. I designed the UI for eBay's first redesign in 1997, and Match.com's first redesign, which helped it grow from 300,000 to 1.2 million members.
For three decades my studio, Raspberry Media, has designed brands, websites and apps for companies like Hewlett-Packard, Best Buy, Toys“R”Us, Snapfish, Netscape and Nielsen NetRatings. I'm also a photographer and drone pilot, and I use AI in my drone and photo work every day.
I started Handoff because I've seen this moment before. When the web arrived, the people who had someone sit down and show them how got ahead first. AI is that kind of shift, and it moves even faster. The tools are useful now, but they're new and they still make mistakes. I'll sit down with you and show you what they're good at and where to keep an eye on them.
See my design work at raspberry-media.com
Handoff is an independent coaching service. I'm not affiliated with Anthropic or OpenAI; I teach the tools that work best for you.
Questions
Claude or ChatGPT: which should I use?
It depends on your work and the apps you already use. Both are excellent. On our free call I'll recommend one based on what you actually do, and I'm happy to set up both.
Is it safe to let AI work on my computer?
It can be, when it's set up carefully. We decide together which folders and apps it can reach, keep approvals on for anything important, and I'll show you how to review what it did. I never ask for your passwords. You type them yourself.
I'm not technical. Is this for me?
Yes. You don't need to be technical. If you can write an email, you can learn this. We go at your pace and you get written notes afterward.
Do I need to buy anything?
You'll likely want a paid plan of Claude or ChatGPT (typically around $20/month for individuals), billed directly by the provider. I'll tell you if the free tier is enough.
What if I need to reschedule?
No problem with 24 hours' notice. Just let me know.
Why learn from you?
I've spent 30 years designing the screens millions of people use, including eBay's and Match.com's first redesigns. My whole job has been making new technology understandable. AI is the most powerful tool I've seen in that time, and I teach it the way I design: start with what you need, cut the jargon.
Where do you work?
In person around Silicon Valley, and anywhere by video call.
Tell me what you'd love to hand off.
Send a note and I'll reply within one business day to set up your free 20-minute call.
Your message comes straight to me. I don't share or sell contact details.