My Tech Stack

The Tech Stack I Actually Use

Right then, let’s break down my actual tech stack properly. After years of implementing various solutions for clients (and making plenty of mistakes along the way), here’s what I actually use day-to-day to run Doug Digital.

Quick note: Some of these are affiliate links. I’ll earn a commission if you purchase through them, but I genuinely use and recommend everything here. When tools stop working for me, they come off this list.

Let’s Start with the Foundation

WordPress + Hostinger

For me, WordPress just makes sense. I’ve implemented everything from custom-built CMS solutions to fancy headless setups, but WordPress with Hostinger gives me exactly what I need without overcomplicating things.

Here’s the reality: while there are flashier options out there, this combination just works. I learnt this the hard way – sometimes simpler is better. Hostinger gives me solid performance without breaking the bank, and WordPress lets me build exactly what I need.

Now, Here’s Where It Gets Interesting: Email & Marketing

ActiveCampaign

I’ve spent years implementing various email platforms (anyone remember the old Salesforce Marketing Cloud interface? Yikes.), and ActiveCampaign hits the sweet spot for me. Just last month, I set up a nurture sequence that brought in three new consulting clients without any manual follow-up needed.

The visual automation builder is brilliant for mapping out customer journeys, and I love that I can set up complex sequences without needing a PhD in email marketing. While working with a London fintech startup, I saw firsthand how the right email automation can transform lead nurturing.

ConvertBox

This one’s staying in my stack for the long haul. I’ve tested countless lead generation tools (and wasted plenty of money in the process), but ConvertBox consistently delivers. I use it for everything from lead magnets to segmentation quizzes, and it integrates beautifully with my other tools.

The Money Side

ThriveCart

For sales pages and payment processing, ThriveCart has been my go-to. I learnt this one through trial and error – after testing various solutions, I found that simple, reliable checkout experiences always win. The checkout flow is smooth, and it plays nicely with my other tools.

And a one-time payment trumps so many SaaS tools out there.

Stripe

Dead simple: Stripe handles my payments because it just works. No fuss, no fancy bells and whistles, just reliable payment processing. The fees are standard, and I’ve never had issues with payouts or security.

Managing Client Relationships

HubSpot

Now this is where my experience really comes in handy. I managed to achieve a 2.5x increase in Q4 revenue through proper CRM setup and lead routing. The free version is surprisingly powerful, but I’ve found the paid features worth every penny for serious client management.

Hello Bonsai

Here’s something I wish I’d had years ago: a proper system for managing freelance admin. Hello Bonsai handles all my invoicing, contracts, and time tracking. The automated payment reminders alone have saved me from countless awkward “just checking in about that invoice” emails.

Work in Progress

I’m currently testing a few things out (because let’s be honest, the tech stack is never really “finished”, is it?):

• Still deciding between ThriveLearn and GoHighLevel for my course platform
• Testing various CRM options for non-client relationships (GoHighLevel, ActiveCampaign, and ConvertKit are all in the running)
• Playing with Convertri and GoHighLevel for landing pages

Need a Hand with Your Tech Stack?

Look, I’ve spent years implementing these tools for both clients and myself. If you’re trying to figure out your own tech stack, I’m happy to help you avoid the mistakes I’ve made along the way. Drop me an email and we can chat about what would work best for your specific situation.

Last Updated: December 2024

I update this page whenever my stack changes, so you can be confident these recommendations are current. Everything listed here is something I’m actively using and would stake my reputation on.