Joanna Stern details AI workflow for book production in The Verge’s Installer newsletter

The Verge has published edition 128 of its Installer newsletter, marking a significant milestone as Emmy-winning journalist Joanna Stern appears as the first repeat guest in the publication’s history. The edition, hosted by David Pierce, shifts focus from general software recommendations to a deep dive into professional artificial intelligence workflows, alongside a curated selection of Mac utility software for system maintenance.

Stern, who recently released her book I Am Not a Robot, detailed a year-long experiment in integrating AI into her daily operations. She described a dual-platform approach, utilising Claude Code and Claude Cowork for multi-step tasks and Google tool integration, while reserving ChatGPT for editing and voice-based interactions. She noted that the voice and live video modes on ChatGPT offered superior capabilities for her specific editing needs.

A central component of her workflow involved the creation of custom "BookBots" within ChatGPT and Claude Projects. These automated assistants managed her research notes, academic papers, transcripts, and editorial deadlines. Stern explained that these tools allowed her to query specific data points regarding deadlines and potential interview subjects, streamlining the organisational aspects of book production without compromising her authorship.

The newsletter also highlighted Stern’s application of "vibe-coding" to develop a custom website for her book promotion. She demonstrated how she automated a pre-order workflow where the system processed uploaded receipts and addresses, automatically updating spreadsheets and sending confirmation emails to both the publisher and the author. This automation handled the logistical requirements of a pin promotion campaign, reducing manual administrative overhead.

Beyond the interview, the edition provided practical advice for Mac users seeking to clean up their systems. The community segment featured recommendations for various media and hardware, including the strategy game Mars First Logistics and the Netflix series Widow’s Bay. Host David Pierce also shared personal updates on home office organisation, citing the utility of Anker power strips and long USB-C cables in managing desk infrastructure.

The Verge continues to position its Installer newsletter as a primary source for technology and media recommendations, with this edition underscoring the growing integration of AI tools into professional creative processes. Stern’s insights offer a case study for other creators looking to balance human authorship with automated efficiency.