Creating Custom GPTs from World-Class Authors to Build an AI Negotiation Expert

How to turn any book (PDF) into the ultimate personal AI coach

Have you ever read a book full of great strategies, only to forget most of them? Even the ones you remember can be challenging to apply personally and professionally.

Because of my ADHD, retaining information can be a challenge for me. To tackle this, I've developed a strategy that helps me absorb and remember what I learn.

I start by listening to the audiobook to see if it clicks with me. If I really like it, I buy the print version to reread it. While reading, I highlight and take notes on the essential parts. Then, I pull together the key insights into a digital document so I can revisit them later and reinforce my understanding. This is work...

Recently, I've replaced this approach with a new AI-driven workflow. After listening to the audiobook, I find the PDF version and upload it to a custom AI GPT. Then, I chat with the AI to get advice based on the book's content.

Note: Make sure you legally own the book or PDF you're uploading

What Are Custom AI Agents?

The "MyGPTs" feature in ChatGPT (also known as "Personal Projects" in Claude) lets you create custom chat environments using content you provide, like documents, PDFs, images, and more. This means you can tailor the AI's knowledge and responses to closely match the material you've given it — making your interactions more personalized and relevant.

A Claude Project

For example, I uploaded the PDF of Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High, a fantastic book recommended in my AMA that offers powerful skills for ensuring every conversation, especially the tough ones, leads to the results you want.

Uploading the book to Claude

Now that you have a fully trained GPT on this content. You can use this custom GPT when starting a difficult conversation that feels overwhelming.

For example, imagine needing to propose a significant strategic change to your company's executive team—a high-stakes discussion that could significantly impact your career and the organization's future. By consulting your custom book-powered GPT, you can draft a proposal that sets the right tone and incorporates strategies from Crucial Conversations to keep the discussion constructive.

Here's a real example prompt I gave the GPT:

Prompt:

Tell me how to address this problem in one paragraph using the Crucial Conversations framework: "I feel like I'm being overlooked for a promotion at work; my boss won't let me take on more responsibilities even though I know I'm capable. I'm being held back. How might I convince her to give me a shot?"

The custom AI GPT response:

Your Response:

“I’ve been reflecting on my role and the goals I have for growth, and I’d really appreciate your perspective. I’ve noticed that I haven’t been given opportunities to take on more responsibilities, which is something I’m eager to do. I want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to contribute to the team’s success. Could we discuss what I might need to demonstrate to take on those responsibilities, or if there are concerns holding me back that I could address?”

The AI even told me why it crafted the message this way…

Why I Wrote It This Way:

Using the Crucial Conversations framework, the focus is on dialogue and mutual understanding. The paragraph starts with a non-threatening, reflective tone to maintain safety ("I’ve been reflecting..."), avoiding blame or defensiveness. It then gently states the concern ("I haven’t been given opportunities...") while expressing a willingness to contribute positively. The use of open-ended questions ("Could we discuss...") helps create a shared pool of meaning and encourages your boss to share his perspective. This approach aligns with the Crucial Conversations principles of starting with heart (focusing on what you really want) and making it safe to talk about almost anything, which paves the way for constructive dialogue.

Hot damn, brilliant response. This AI-driven method strengthens my understanding of the book and provides personalized advice on effectively navigating complex situations.

This approach obviously isn’t limited to Crucial Conversations; the versatility of custom GPTs means you can use them with virtually any text.

For instance, if you’re seeking investment advice, you could upload Warren Buffett's favorite books, like The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham. Your custom GPT could then help frame your investment questions in the way Buffett might approach them, grounded in value investing principles.

Or, if you're navigating leadership challenges, you might use Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek to guide your interactions with your team (my podcast with Simon here). The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor your conversations or queries with insights drawn from the most respected thought leaders in any field.

Want to have your mind blown further? 🤯🤯

Here is a podcast I made with AI (Notebook ML) using the contents of this article. This podcast was created without human intervention or edits, based solely on the text of this article:

Enjoy!