⚡

The 2026 Founder's Stack

27 tools. Grouped by function. One verdict per tool. No fluff, no tools we've replaced, no affiliate padding. Updated June 2026.

Stack updates drop every Monday Drop. Free.

Last audited: June 2026. Sean's rule: if it's not in active use or doesn't pay for itself, it's off the list. This list changes. The Monday Drop tells you when and why.

What's inside the stack

27 tools, grouped into 8 functions, each with Sean's one-line verdict — plus the shortlist he's currently evaluating and why. Here are the 8 functions. The named picks and verdicts land in your inbox, free.

Writing & Docs
The workspace glue that holds the stack together — and where to actually own your notes.
Project Management
The Jira replacement that doesn't feel like a punishment, and the tool that kills the 30-minute meeting.
AI & Automation
6 tools — the primary LLM, the AI code editor, and the automation switch that saves $300+/month at scale.
Communication
The default that's not worth switching from, and the $30/month email that only pays above 100 a day.
Design & Content
Design and brand for non-designers, plus the video editor you run like a transcript.
Dev & Infrastructure
Deploy-from-git-push hosting, the Spotlight replacement, and the table-stakes source-control trio.
Analytics & Research
Mixpanel-plus-Hotjar in one, the research flywheel, and the keyword-gap finder for channel businesses.
Finance & Ops
Payments, startup banking, the fastest idea-to-sale product tool, and the newsletter platform.
Send me the full stack →
All 27 tools, grouped, with Sean's verdict on each — plus the Currently Watching shortlist. Free.

Get the full 27-tool stack

Enter your email and Sean sends the complete stack — all 27 tools grouped by function, a verdict on each, and the Currently Watching shortlist. Then the Monday Drop tells you when it changes. Free.