Genuine question for operators who have been through this. Running a $7k MRR tool solo and drowning in support tickets. Spending 3 hours a day on customer emails instead of building.

Considering three options:

1. Part-time VA from the Philippines ($800/mo) for support only

2. Automate with AI chatbot first, hire later

3. Raise prices to reduce volume and fund a hire

What worked for you? At what revenue point did the hire pay for itself?