Podcasts about freelancers

After years of working alongside solopreneurs, 2025 finally gave us something new: real data, real patterns, and real lessons we couldn't ignore. In this episode, Carly and Joe step back from the nonstop AI conversation to unpack what actually moved the needle for solopreneurs this year, and what didn't. From why “human-first” marketing is outperforming polished automation, to the growing importance of personal brand, systems, community, diversified income, and mental health, this is a practical, honest look at what it truly takes to build a sustainable solo business.If you're heading into the next year wanting less stress, more clarity, and a business that works with your life instead of against it, this episode breaks down the biggest solopreneur lessons of 2025, and how to apply them moving forwardEpisode FAQsWhat were the biggest solopreneur lessons learned in 2025?The biggest solopreneur lessons from 2025 were that human-first marketing outperforms automation, strong personal brands build more trust than “company-style” positioning, and long-term success depends on systems, community, diversified income streams, and mental health. Solopreneurs who focused on authentic connection, clear processes, and sustainable work-life balance were more resilient and experienced less stress than those chasing trends or over-relying on a single client or revenue source. Why does a human-first approach matter more than ever for solopreneurs?A human-first approach matters because audiences are increasingly skeptical of overly automated, impersonal content. In 2025, solopreneurs saw stronger engagement and trust when they showed up as real people, sharing their perspective, personality, and lived experience instead of hiding behind polished brand language. Being authentic, transparent, and emotionally relatable helps solopreneurs stand out and build meaningful relationships, especially in an AI-saturated market. How can solopreneurs reduce stress while growing their business?Solopreneurs can reduce stress by building systems and processes, diversifying income streams, avoiding over-dependence on one or two clients, and intentionally protecting mental health and work-life balance. Investing time in documentation, automation, and community support creates long-term efficiency, while multiple revenue streams and customers reduce financial risk. Treating mental health as part of the business plan helps ensure the solopreneur, and the business, remain sustainable. 

Freelancers are giving away their most valuable AI insights, and not getting paid for it. In today's episode, we're taking a hard look at one of the biggest blind spots for freelance writers and content pros right now: the failure to package your AI knowledge into a paid offer. Your clients want to use AI. They're trying. But they're confused, overwhelmed, and scared of doing it wrong. And guess what? You already have the skills and experience to guide them. But unless you turn that informal help into a structured service, it's just free advice that goes nowhere. In this episode, we're going to fix that. What You'll Learn Why most freelance writers are leaving serious money on the table when it comes to AI The three types of AI helpers, and why only one gets paid what they're worth How to package your AI knowledge into a sellable offer (with real examples) The "three blockers" that keep most freelancers from monetizing their AI skills What happens after you package your AI services, and how to push through impostor syndrome Key Ideas & Takeaways The real constraint is implementation confidence within your clients' teams. Everyone has the tools. What they don't have is the confidence to use them well. They're worried about brand voice, risk, reputation, and wasting time. That's where you come in. But clients won't pay you for casual tips. They'll pay for structured guidance. The 3 Types of AI Help The Informal Helper (Invisible Labor) · You're answering AI questions and offering tips for free · No structure, no price, no perceived value The AI-Enabled Doer (Efficient But Undervalued) You use AI to deliver better work faster, but you're still billing for output, not insight Clients don't see the "how," just the deliverable The AI Implementation Partner (Where the Money Is) You guide teams, build workflows, train staff, and solve real problems This is a packaged consulting offer, and it can command $5K–$10K+ fees The 3 Packaging Blockers (And How to Overcome Them) Blocker 1: "I don't know enough" Reality: You don't need to be an expert, just more knowledgeable than your clients Action: Write down 10 AI lessons you've learned the hard way. Your first offer is likely somewhere in there Blocker 2: "I don't know what to sell" Reality: Your offer is hiding in your inbox and client conversations. Extract it from the questions clients already ask Action: Track every AI-related client question over the next 30 days. Your next offer is in there Blocker 3: "I don't know how to price it" Reality: You're not selling outputs, you're selling transformation Action: Anchor your pricing to the outcomes and risk reduction you create The Anatomy of a Packaged AI Service Every successful offer has four parts: The Constraint You're Managing Examples: "I help marketing teams adopt AI without destroying their brand voice." "I implement AI systems legal will approve." "I guide consultants through using AI to mine insights from their internal data." The Deliverables & Process Week 1: Audit Weeks 2–3: Build custom GPTs, create systems Week 4: Train team, hand off playbook The Timeline 3–4 weeks is ideal. Clear start, clear end. The Outcome/Transformation Examples: "You'll get an AI-powered content workflow that triples output without sacrificing quality." "You'll eliminate brand voice inconsistencies in AI-generated content." "You'll get your team onboard with AI confidently and safely." What Happens After You Package It You'll doubt yourself. That's normal You'll stumble through the first pitch You'll realize you know more than you thought Clients will love your structure more than your brilliance You don't need to be the best AI expert. You just need to be the one your client trusts. And you need to take those first few steps in faith, trusting that the path will appear as you move forward. Listener Challenge Take action this week: List 10 things you've learned from using AI in your freelance work Track any AI-related questions your clients ask Package what you already know into a 3–4 week offer Pitch it to one person Start small. Start now. That's how real momentum builds. Want Help Packaging Your Own AI Service? If this episode sparked ideas, I'm running a half-day, 1-on-1 workshop plus a 3-week coaching sprint to help you package their AI knowledge into premium consulting services. No spots open at the moment, but I may open some spots in January or February. If you'd like to work with me privately on this, shoot me an email (ed at b2blauncher dot com) with "AI Consultant Accelerator" in the subject line, and I'll reply with the details. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review to help more freelancers discover the show Share it with a friend who's sitting on unmonetized AI skills

The W9 form is an important form, and more than likely, you've either had a request for this form or, you yourself may be requesting them from your vendors.  This form is used to collect information about others, but knowing in advance that you need to request this information will not only save you valuable time, but it will also give you the information you need to file necessary and accurate documents for your business as well.  In today's podcast episode, I am covering what the W9 form is, who you need to request it from, and what you need to do with the information once you receive it.  Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper or accountant, a virtual assistant or VA, or other professional; you will need this information for your business, and having an understanding about why you need this form will make an impact on you and your business.  The W9 form is one of the first steps in the process for filing your 1099s, and making sure you have this information can save you from getting penalties for delinquent filing requirements… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

Coining a new term, Jen introduces Pete to the idea of, while working on a project, considering the relative effort of both the creator and the receiver.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:What is relative effort? What is relative risk?How might we ship things without the pressure of absolute perfection?Why might we think about the worst case scenario or fear, in order to move a project along?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).

Feel like you're doing everything right as a service provider, but your freelancer business still hasn't caught up? You know what to do, believe you deserve better clients and higher rates, but still default to playing small. It's time for an identity reset, especially as you wrap up the year and think about what needs to change in 2026. In this episode, Mindi Huebner and I dive into identity resets and mindset shifts for freelancers and the pre-strategy strategy behind attracting better clients and charging like the expert you already are.Mindi Huebner is the go-to Subconscious Success Alchemist for high-achieving women when success feels heavy. She's a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Certified NLP Practitioner, and creator of the 24 Karat Identity™ framework, a rapid identity alignment process that helps women shed conditioning, release the pressure to prove, and lead with self-trust. With hundreds of podcast and summit appearances, Mindi is known for blending neuroscience and intuition to unlock exponential growth and authentic leadership.Listen to learn more about:Why mindset isn't enough without identity alignmentThe pre-strategy strategy freelancers skip and why it mattersThe four success-blocking identities keeping freelancers stuckHow subconscious patterns sabotage SMART goalsWhat it really means to step into your 24-karat selfNotice what this conversation brings up for you. Don't ask WHY you keep doing it. Ask WHAT is making this hard. Mindi says, "Micro shifts make massive change"—this is how you close the identity gap between who you are and who you want to become.Sponsored by The Digital Marketer's Workgroup Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join our tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Links Mentioned in the Show:Book a free 15-minute Identity Call with Mindi to uncover what your subconscious is really wired for and where misalignment may be holding you back. You'll identify the patterns shaping how you lead and get clarity on what alignment could look like next.Take Mindi's free Subconscious CEO Identity Quiz to reveal the hidden pattern running your business. In just a few minutes, you'll see what's driving your decisions, spot the gap between where you are and where you want to be, and receive a guided audio reset to help you step into your next-level identity right away.Connect with Mindi:Instagram: @mindihuebner Facebook: Mindi Huebner-Subconscious Success AlchemistWebsite: http://mindihuebner.com/ Connect with Emily:Instagram:

What if the reason your business feels stressful isn't more work, it's how you're handling your money?In this episode, Megan Schwan pulls back the curtain on the financial mistakes almost every solopreneur makes (especially early on) and how to fix them without becoming a numbers nerd.We're talking pricing mistakes, scope creep, avoiding your books, fearing taxes, and why most solopreneurs are unknowingly treating themselves like underpaid employees. Megan breaks down bookkeeping systems, tax strategies, and the Profit First method in a way that actually makes sense, and helps you step fully into the CEO role.If you've ever said, “I'll look at my numbers next month,” this episode is for you.Episode FAQsWhat bookkeeping systems do solopreneurs really need to stay organized?You don't need complicated spreadsheets or expensive tools, but you do need structure. Megan recommends:A real accounting software (like Wave, QuickBooks Online, Zoho Books, or Xero)A mileage and receipt tracking system to capture deductionsA cash flow management system like Profit First to prioritize paying yourself, saving for taxes, and stabilizing cash flowThese systems help you treat your business like a business, not a side project.What's the first step if finances feel overwhelming or intimidating?Start doing your bookkeeping consistently. Megan emphasizes scheduling regular time to work on your business, not just in it. Reviewing your reports and understanding where your money is going builds confidence, clarity, and better decision-making. Avoiding the numbers only makes problems bigger later.How can solopreneurs become more recession-proof?Two big moves:Create a budget so you have a plan for your money and can ask smarter questions when numbers don't match expectations.Save for taxes proactively (about 8–15% of sales) so tax bills don't derail your cash flow or peace of mind.Megan also explains how Profit First helps solopreneurs build “real profit” and spot issues before they become emergencies.

Have you ever had that one memory that sits in the back of your mind?  That thing you wish you'd done differently? Something you didn't say, something you did say, the opportunity you passed up, the relationship you didn't repair, or the career move you waited too long to make?  Most people don't just have one regret; they carry an entire portfolio of regrets with them.  And if you're an accountant, a tax preparer, or you're a high-stress professional, you likely have a detail-driven brain, and regret often impacts you a little differently. Because you're used to precision. You're used to accuracy. You're used to double-checking before you file anything. So when your brain looks back at your life, it tends to audit every moment with the same level of scrutiny.  And suddenly? Something from ten years ago starts feeling like a mistake you should have prevented.  Today, I want to help you rethink the entire emotional experience of regret.  What it is, what it does, why it feels so heavy, and how you can use it in a way that actually moves you forward in life instead of holding you back.  More importantly, I want to show you how The RE*INVENTION™ Process helps you transform regret.  This is one of the top emotions we work on inside the program.  And my clients tell me when they do this work, they stop using their past as evidence of what they think has gone wrong, and start using it as fuel for their future.  Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

Russia is hiring African freelancers for disinformation campaigns, the US is preparing to let contractors run offensive cyber operations, Germany blames Russia for the hack of its air traffic control agency, and Apple patches two WebKit zero-days. Show notes Risky Bulletin: African freelancers behind anti-US and anti-French disinfo campaigns

In this special bonus episode of The Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Rebecca Newnham — straight from her car! We discuss entrepreneurship, flexible working, and how to begin 2026 with a scalable business plan.Rebecca shares her insights on the franchise model, building regional service-based businesses, and how women can create multiple streams of income without sacrificing flexibility or freedom.What We Cover:Why more women should consider entrepreneurship and flexible business models.How to scale a business beyond yourself without losing control.The benefits of the franchise model for flexibility, support, and rapid growth.Freelancers and the future of work: why flexibility matters now more than ever.Tips for networking, client acquisition, and building impact locally.How to set intentions for 2026 and plan for a thriving business year ahead.Key Takeaways:Flexibility isn't just a perk; it's essential for productivity and well-being.Scaling a business takes planning and investment, but it allows your business to grow beyond just you.A franchise model can provide support, structure, and freedom while giving others the tools to succeed.Networking can occur anywhere, from supermarkets and playgrounds to online platforms, and can lead to genuine opportunities.Combining corporate experience, freelancing, and entrepreneurship can create a fulfilling and varied career path.Why Listen: Whether you're a mum thinking about starting your own business, a freelancer curious about franchising opportunities, or simply interested in flexible ways to grow your career, this episode is packed with actionable insights, encouragement, and real-life examples of building a business that works for your life.Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Rebecca on LinkedIn hereVisit the Get Ahead website here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

MONEY MONEY 2026 LIVESTREAM CHINESE NEW YEAR LUNAR YEAR CELEBRATION SONG

Finding your niche onlineCredit: Her World SingaporeFormer pageant queen Genecia Alluora on empowering women and building a trusted beauty brand through Shopee livestreamingGenecia Alluora Luo, former Miss Singapore Universe runner-up, has worn many hats – from therapist to mentor and cafe owner. Now, she taps Shopee livestreaming to grow new income streams and empower women, shaped by lessons from her first skincare venture, ALLUORAAs a former Miss Singapore Universe second runner up and Miss Singapore International, entrepreneur Genecia Alluora Luo (@geneciaalluora) is no stranger to the spotlight.She has built up multiple business streams, having been an online business mentor, occupational therapist, and cafe chain owner. Now, through her platform and voice, she's carving out another stream of income for herself, while empowering other women to do the same.She does so by leveraging the power of livestreaming on Shopee. However, her journey hasn't always been smooth sailing. Back in 2013, when she started her own skincare business ALLUORA, her biggest struggle was a common one for many entrepreneurs: getting the word out about her brand and finding customers.Things changed in 2020 when Shopee invited her to set up shop on its platform. “Shopee provides a ready base of customers, and takes care of attracting and converting them into sales for us,” she says.How Shopee supports online entrepreneursShopee simplified the process for Genecia as it oversaw marketing, logistics and campaign cycles, so she could focus on scaling her business.Livestreaming proved to be a further game changer for her business. It enabled her to not just sell her products, but also connect with her customers in real-time, getting instant feedback on their concerns about skin pigmentation and dark spots.All this didn't happen overnight. The competitive nature of livestreaming saw her clocking 12 to 16 hours of livestreaming daily when she first started. She was also able to tap on Shopee's promotional campaign periods, such as 11.11, and push promotional vouchers to customers.During last year's 11.11 campaign, she raked in sales of five figures in just a 90-minute livestream.Behind the scenes, Genecia works with Shopee relationship managers who guide her through campaigns, share updates on voucher drops, and support her in creating product bundles.The business has grown so much that she now has more than 10 affiliates working with ALLUORA, on video content as well as livestreaming. The brand, which is self-funded and profitable, has steadily grown while clinching multiple awards. Her eyes are set on growing it further across the region.More than just building a business, she also hopes to empower women and provide them with an alternative source of income.“It's a way for women to find their financial independence or gain re-entry into independence,” she says, adding that training with ALLUORA and a studio space is also provided for her affiliates.Her goal is to help other women succeed.“Shopee has made it so simple to push products. All you need is a phone, Wi-Fi, a tripod, and a little courage. We coach women to share products they believe in, and earn commission without holding stock. Start small. Learn fast. We do this together,” she says.“I know what zero feels like. I've failed, learnt, and kept going. My work now? To shorten your path from stuck to unstoppable – so you don't have to do it alone. Together we are unstoppable.”With Shopee's user-friendly tools, women entrepreneurs are not only growing their businesses, but also uplifting other women along the way.Read more: https://www.herworld.com/independence/former-pageant-queen-genecia-alluora-luo-empowering-women-and-building-trusted-beauty-brand-throughWatch more: https://youtu.be/KMLUmqDhDtY?si=H9ReMJR-GDZG6VK-

Send us a textAs the year wraps up, it's the perfect time to reflect on how far you've come—and start thinking about what's next. In this solo episode, Janine shares how practicing gratitude can support a stronger, more aligned business plan as you move into a new season.You'll hear her personal reflections, lessons learned, and a mindset reset strategy that will help you rise with purpose in the year ahead.What You'll Learn in This Episode About Your Business PlanYou'll walk away with practical ways to use gratitude and reflection as tools to assess, refocus, and build a more intentional business plan.Key TakeawaysHow to reflect on your year with gratitude—even if parts of it were hardThe surprising way community can fast-track your progress and confidenceA mindset shift to help you let go of what's holding your business backHow to emotionally “declutter” before planning for a new yearA three-step framework—Reflect, Reset, and Rise—to guide your next business planWhy starting small, even when it's scary, is better than staying stuckWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a

LIEBE SPORTSFREUNDE! Wir öffnen heute am 13. Dezember Nummer 13 des Adventskalenders und begrüssen Daniel Haug, einen freiberuflichen Sportjournalisten und Kommentator, der beweist, wie man sich im Mediengeschäft breit aufstellt. In dieser sehr unterhaltsamen und facettenreichen Folge lernen Sie einen Mann kennen, der beruflich unglaublich vielseitig ist, dabei aber nie seine Heimat vergessen hat. Wir sprechen unter anderem über: Freiberufler im Sport: Was macht Daniel Haug in seinem Berufsalltag alles von der Recherche bis zur Live-Kommentierung? Der vielseitige Weg: Wie kam er dazu, sich so breit aufzustellen? Mehr als nur Fussball: Welche Rolle spielen Handball und die Randsportart Faustball in seinem ...Dieser Podcast wird vermarktet von der Podcastbude.www.podcastbu.de - Full-Service-Podcast-Agentur - Konzeption, Produktion, Vermarktung, Distribution und Hosting.Du möchtest deinen Podcast auch kostenlos hosten und damit Geld verdienen?Dann schaue auf www.kostenlos-hosten.de und informiere dich.Dort erhältst du alle Informationen zu unseren kostenlosen Podcast-Hosting-Angeboten. kostenlos-hosten.de ist ein Produkt der Podcastbude.

Sign-up to our newsletter for a FREE budget calculator! - https://linktr.ee/lateinvoices?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareThis one's special — Episode 100!As the year comes to a close, we sit down to reflect honestly on 2025: the wins, the losses, the lessons, and the moments that forced us to pause and rethink everything. We answer a series of questions that unpack how the year really felt, what surprised us most, and how our mindset, work habits, and creative direction evolved along the way.We talk openly about hitting our highest revenue month as freelancers, but also the inefficiencies that held us back at times, convincing ourselves we were busy while avoiding the work that actually moved the needle. We reflect on projects we're proud of, decisions we'd change, and the importance of not outsourcing the parts of the work you genuinely love.This episode is about perspective: championing your own work, putting yourself out there even when it feels uncomfortable, and understanding that results only come from effort you actually put in. We close things out with a quick-fire Christmas Q&A and a look ahead to 2026, including a few goals that feel slightly scary to say out loud.If you're a creative reflecting on your own year... or thinking about what you want next, this episode is for you.CHAPTERS00:00 - Intro02:54 - If you had to sum up 2025 in one word, what would it be?03:41 - Out of 10, how would you rate this year work-wise – and why?05:17 - What's one thing you did this year that Past You would be shocked by?14:02 - What was the biggest “win” for the business this year19:58 - Which project are you most proud of and why?22:24 - What's one goal you actually hit this year – and one you absolutely didn't?24:12 - What was your favourite episode of the podcast you recorded this year – and why?26:59 - What was your biggest “L” of the year, and what did it teach you?33:28 - Was there a moment this year where you thought, “What on earth am I doing?”38:21 - If you could redo one decision from this year, what would you change?40:29 - What's one big, slightly scary goal for 2026 that you almost don't want to say out loud?43:51 - Quick-fire Christmas Q&ASTAY CONNECTED WITH US!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lateinvoices/⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠: https://linktr.ee/lateinvoices?utm_source=linktree_profile_shareSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LHl6iPM84u6L0oBsPWrYb?si=9TzClF-5RZm7GmodEFgElQ

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1898: Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock break down why saying yes to unpaid work can undermine your business, time, and income, especially for women already carrying the weight of unpaid labor. They share clear, thoughtful criteria to help freelancers decide when working for free might serve their goals, and when it's better to walk away. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/work-for-free-exposure-experience/ Quotes to ponder: "Working for exposure is not the 'free advertising' that people claim it to be." "You aren't making money from paying customers when you choose to spend time producing free content, goods, or other services." "Freelancers striving to build their dream career don't work for free simply to help out others." Episode references: Estate Planning 101: https://www.amazon.com/Estate-Planning-101-Establishing-Understanding/dp/1507216394 UN Women on Unpaid Work: https://www.unwomen.org/en/node/36060

If the holidays feel like a chaotic mash-up of family gatherings, last-minute tasks, and pressure to magically “figure out next year,” this episode is your breath of fresh air. Carly and Joe break down why December is actually the perfect time to prep your business, without overhauling your life, and how reconnecting with your why can completely change the way you enter 2026. They'll walk you through mini-detox habits that clear mental clutter, lifestyle-first planning that puts joy back on the calendar, and small routines you can start now to build real momentum before January even arrives.FAQs From The EpisodeHow early should I start planning for the new year?Earlier than you think, but not in an overwhelming way. December is a great month to ease into planning by reconnecting with your personal and professional “why,” cleaning up digital clutter, and building tiny habits you want to bring into 2026. You don't need a full-year plan, focus on your first 90 days, because it's specific enough to take action but flexible enough to pivot as things change.What should I prioritize during a December “business detox”?Stick to high-impact clean-ups that reduce mental load: unsubscribe from emails you never read, unfollow accounts that drain your energy, organize your workspace, clear your desktop, and gather scattered to-dos into one place. These small resets set the stage for clearer thinking and a calmer January, without requiring hours of work.How do I build new habits for 2026 without burning out before the year even starts?Start practicing them now in micro-form. If you want to wake up earlier, try doing it one or two days a week in December. If you want to spend 10 minutes engaging on LinkedIn every morning, start this week. If you want to guard your deep-work hours, experiment with checking email later in the day. You're not aiming for perfection, just building familiarity so January doesn't feel like a hard reset.

Episode 59: From Side Hustle to Steady Work: Proven Strategies to Attract and Keep Freelance ClientsIf you've ever wondered “Where do clients actually come from?” – we're breaking it down for you. Whether you're freelancing, consulting, building a service-based business, or exploring a portfolio career, this guide helps you understand how people really find and hire you.You'll learn what actually works to attract clients (and what doesn't), how to build relationships that lead to paid work, and the simple systems that make it easier to generate consistent opportunities. Jenn walks through approachable, real-world steps like sending an introductory email, hosting or joining workshops, tapping into referrals, showing up in aligned communities, and creating a supportive professional ecosystem.This episode is about clarity, confidence, and finding a sustainable way to grow your client base without relying on complicated funnels, constant posting, or high-pressure sales tactics.Episode HighlightsHow freelancers actually find clients — the real sources that work in 2025Why referrals outperform websites, social media, and traditional marketingThe simple email script that can kickstart your freelance or consulting pipelineHow to use workshops, communities, and “other people's audiences” to get discoveredTurning past employers, colleagues, and friends into paying clientsWhat to say when talking about your services so people actually understand and hire youWhy building a portfolio career requires consistent relationship-building, not sales tacticsThe essential systems every freelancer needs: a simple CRM and data-driven habitsEpisode Timestamps00:00 — Freelance Market Trends: Why More People Are Exploring Independent Work(search terms: freelance market trends, independent workers, job market shifts)03:12 — Career Support Opportunities: Retreats, Coaching Bundles & Community Resources(search terms: career coaching, professional development retreats, job search community, career resources)08:07 — Finding Your First Clients: How Service Providers Get Hired(search terms: find your first clients, client acquisition, service providers)11:06 — Referral Strategies That Actually Work for Freelancers and Consultants(search terms: referral strategies, freelance referrals, consulting clients)12:18 — Audience-Building 101: Using Networks, Workshops & Community Visibility(search terms: audience building, professional network growth, workshops, visibility)16:33 — Industry Peers as Partners: Tapping Into Collaborative Networks(search terms: collaborative networks, partnership marketing, freelance networking)20:04 — Turning Past Employers Into Clients (and Pitching Project-Based Work)(search terms: turn employer into client, project-based work, fractional roles)26:48 — Systems That Support Growth: Simple CRMs & Tracking What Matters(search terms: freelance CRM, business systems, client tracking tools)Resources and LinksRevive Your Career Session or BundleWork Wonders Careers Job Search CommunityConnect with Jenn on LinkedInSacred Structures: A Retreat Day for the Capricorn New MoonEpisode 56: How to Create Income Without a Corporate Job: Portfolio Careers, Self Employment and Other Ways to Make $$Episode 57: What to Do When Your Industry Is in Crisis: Resume Strategies and Job Search Tips to Help You Pivot Careers in a Tough MarketCreditsPodcast editing by Vienna DeGiacomo, Good Story Branding

In this episode, Will Simpson gets honest about the moment he realized he didn't want a boss. He breaks down the identity crisis that hit after leaving decades of COO/CTO life, the surprising advantage founders over 40 actually have, why solopreneurs must unlearn corporate thinking, and how embracing “good enough” is the key to launching anything. If you've ever wondered whether you're too late, too structured, too corporate, or too unsure to build something of your own…this conversation is the permission slip you've been waiting for.FAQs From The EpisodeWhat makes this episode valuable for solopreneurs who come from the corporate world?Will explains exactly why corporate experience does translate, just not in the ways you think. He talks through the mindset traps, the “ambient stress” you leave behind, and how to rewire yourself for small-ball thinking, fast execution, and building something that actually energizes you.Does Will think it's harder to become a founder after 40?Not at all, he argues the opposite. According to Will, founders over 40 bring unmatched domain expertise, resilience, and clarity. The data supports it, and he shares why experience gives mid-career professionals an overlooked edge that younger founders simply can't replicate.What's Will's top advice for solopreneurs who want to use AI or no-code tools?He stresses that AI can help you build prototypes fast, but not without structure, constraints, and actual expertise guiding it. He breaks down why you can't “speak” a fully functional app into existence, how to think like a builder instead of a coder, and why you should ship an MVP that's slightly embarrassing.

There's often a misconception when it comes to figuring out what you'll be taxed on in your business.  This is normally referred to as your net income.  Many business owners will take a look at their business bank account and think this is the number they will use for their net income or what they will be paying taxes on, but it isn't an accurate way to look at it, and it causes a lot of problems, especially if that bank account balance is lower than the actual net income.  I've heard many times that business owners don't think they will owe much for taxes because they only have a small dollar amount in their bank account.  In today's podcast episode, I cover some of the main reasons why there may be a gap between your bank balance and your net income.  It may seem like your bank balance would be an accurate way to tell what you'll be paying taxes on, but you'll find out today what can cause this number to not match what your true profit and loss or net income amount.  Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper or accountant, a virtual assistant or VA, or other professional, when you are trying to figure out what you're tax liability will be based on, I want you to make sure you are as prepared as possible for filing your taxes, and you don't have any surprises pop up… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

If you're a freelance copywriter struggling to book clients consistently—or feeling like the clients who do inquire aren't the right fit—your copywriting rates might be the hidden issue.   In this episode, we're diving into a belief-shifting conversation about how your pricing is impacting your sales, your inquiries, and your ability to grow. Because here's what most copywriters don't realize: pricing is either positioning you well or making clients skip over you for the next person in line. Your rates communicate your positioning, your perceived value, and your identity as a service provider.   Whether you're a copywriter undercharging out of fear or overpricing without anchoring the value, this episode will help you recalibrate your pricing strategy with clarity.   Tune in To Learn: Why most freelance copywriters have pricing that's either too low or too high—and how to know which one you are The hidden costs of undercharging (burnout, resentment, client churn) The psychology of price and how it shapes your perceived value in the market How to align your copywriting rates with your season of business, experience, and goals   ********** ✨ Mentioned in this episode: → Get clarity with your personal 1:1 Offer Suite & Pricing Alignment Session with Krystle Church. DM her on Instagram or LinkedIn for info!   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystle.church  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystle-church/  Like this show? Write a 5-star review — even just one sentence helps us bring you more content each week.    Resources & Follow: → The KC Website: https://krystlechurch.com/  → Freedom Found Collective Mastermind: https://krystlechurch.com/freedom-found-collective  → Get *Probably* The Best Copywriting Newsletter You'll Ever Read: https://krystlechurch.com/copy-classroom  → Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/krystle.church   

I met Katharina online last year and we decided to have a conversation on the podcast about something that's important to both of us … networking!Ok, it's something you hear me talking about a lot, but I thought it would be really interesting to get another perspective, especially from someone who hasn't always been the biggest fan of the activity and who has learned that its definition goes far beyond some of the common stereotypes.We talked about Some of the different forms that networking can take Why networking is important for us as independent professionals What we enjoy about networking Some of the challenges around attending events in our source or additional languages and some strategies to make life easier for ourselves Click through to the show notes page to get the links that we mentioned including Katharina's newsletter and my events schedule: https://englishwithkirsty.com/podcast/episode294/

¿Sabías que la Modalidad 10 permite que los trabajadores independientes coticen en el IMSS y puedan acceder a una pensión? En este episodio, te decimos qué es VERDAD y qué es un MITO sobre: Las personas que no cotizan al Instituto Mexicano de Seguridad Social pueden acceder al Sistema de Ahorro para el Retiro y obtener una pensión. Esta opción es solamente para los freelancers.  Este esquema solo permite que la persona trabajadora pueda acceder al ahorro para su pensión. La Modalidad 10 te permite tener asistencia médica, quirúrgica y farmacéutica, servicio de hospitalización por enfermedades no profesionales y el pago de incapacidades. Además, cubre accidentes de trabajo y enfermedades profesionales, otorgando al trabajador asistencia médica, quirúrgica y farmacéutica, servicio de hospitalización, aparatos de prótesis y ortopedia y rehabilitación. El seguro de invalidez otorga las prestaciones cuando el trabajador sufre un accidente o enfermedad no profesional que le impide trabajar para obtener más del 50% del salario durante su último año laboral. También está el seguro de retiro, cesantía en edad avanzada y vejez que brinda un seguro de pensión según la edad de retiro y los requisitos que exige la Ley del Seguro Social, como las semanas de cotización. En esta modalidad, no se puede cotizar al Infonavit. Para inscribirte a la Modalidad 10, necesitas tu CURP, RFC, número de seguridad social y correo electrónico. El pago mensual por esta modalidad es de 2 mil pesos.   Lee más sobre este tema en Expansión.

PodCast PIBF#2025_16 / A obra de Deus não é para freelancer

In Pete's version of an episode about running, he noodles with Jen about the idea of cadence, and how to break our routines projects into smaller steps.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:What does "cadence" mean, and how might we apply the idea to our everyday lives?Why is it better to not rush to the finish line, either while running or working? How might we return to the basics in our work and creative processes?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).

Les recordamos que lanzamos nuestro Newsletter semanal, Minuta Fintech, que es un resumen de lo mas relevante de la industria fintech. Suscribite gratis acá:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://sucursal.substack.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠.En este episodio de Sin Sucursal, conversamos con Joaquín Paños, fundador y CEO de Lannis, la startup que está transformando cómo los freelancers, contratistas y monotributistas gestionan sus impuestos en Argentina.Hablamos de todo:Cómo nació Lannis después de aprender —a fuerza de aciertos y errores— lo que realmente necesitan los independientes.Por qué el modelo tipo TurboTax no funciona igual en Latinoamérica.El papel de la inteligencia artificial en la automatización contable y cómo diseñan agentes capaces de asistir, explicar y ejecutar tareas tributarias 24/7.Qué implica emprender en una industria tan tradicional y regulada como la contabilidad, incluida la polémica con el Consejo Profesional.El futuro de los servicios impositivos, el rol de los contadores y la visión regional de Lannis.Los desafíos emocionales y estratégicos de cerrar una startup previa y comenzar desde cero.Temas clave del episodio:✓ Freelancers, impuestos y monotributo✓ Cómo simplificar la burocracia impositiva✓ IA aplicada a contabilidad✓ Construcción realista de productos y MVPs✓ Escalar servicios con agentes inteligentes✓ Regulaciones, resistencia al cambio y colaboración con contadores✓ Expansión internacional en fintech✓ Aprendizajes profundos de emprender en LatinoaméricaSi sos freelancer, monotributista o te interesa cómo la tecnología puede transformar la relación con el Estado, este episodio te va a volar la cabeza.

Have you ever noticed that some problems just move into your life, and it never feels like they'll ever be solved?  They take over your life, and you tell yourself things like, “Ugh. I don't have the energy to deal with this right now.”  So you let them stay in your life.  Before you know it, the days you are dealing with these problems turn into months, and months turn into “I guess this is just how my life is now.”  Today I want to talk to you about those kinds of problems.  The ones you've just decided to accept, even though deep down, you know you could solve them. The ones you think are “too big,” “too complicated,” or “too exhausting” to figure out.  And if you're an accountant or a high-stress professional, I already know you have at least one of these floating around in your life.  How do I know this?  Because I've been there myself.  Maybe you're dealing with a problem at work.  It could be something that takes up a big chunk of your time every single day, but you haven't changed because “that's how we've always done it.”  Maybe it's a habit, procrastinating on big projects, snacking on junk food late at night because you're too tired to cook something healthy, scrolling at night when you know you need sleep.  Maybe it's a relationship you're not happy with.  It could be with a client, a coworker, or a family member, and you continue to tiptoe around it because solving it feels like it is going to be hard or messy.  Whatever you're dealing with, I want to help you understand one thing today.  You can solve your problems.  You're supposed to solve your problems.  And solving them opens the door to opportunities you don't even see yet.  This is the work we do inside The RE*INVENTION™ Process, not because solving problems is the point, but because solving problems is what creates the life you actually want.  Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

Today, we are tackling the biggest hurdle for solopreneurs - this is the moment you move from "Freelancer" to "CEO." BJ and Rich will unpack how to do this without losing your shirt - or your mind.

Our latest guest is Maya Ackerman — AI‑creativity researcher, professor, and author of Creative Machines: AI, Art & Us (Wiley), as well as founder of WaveAI and LyricStudio (View recent colab with NVidia).Maya's perspective is not just insightful — it's a necessary reality check for anyone building AI today. She challenges the comforting narrative that AI is a neutral tool or a natural evolution of creativity. Instead, she exposes a truth many in tech avoid: AI is being deployed in ways that actively diminish human creativity, and businesses are incentivized to accelerate that trend.Her research shows how overly aligned, correctness-first models flatten imagination and suppress the divergent thinking that defines human originality. But she also shows what's possible when AI is designed differently — improvisational systems that spark new directions, expand a creator's mental palette, and reinforce human authorship rather than absorbing it.This episode matters because Maya names what the industry refuses to admit. The problem is not “AI getting too powerful,” it's AI being used to replace instead of elevate. Businesses are applying it as a cost-cutting mechanism, not a creative amplifier. And unless product leaders intervene, the damage to creativity — and to the people who rely on it for their livelihoods — will become irreversible.Listen to the Episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YoutubeWe're engineering a global creative regression and pretending we aren't.Generative AI could radically expand human imagination, but the systems we deploy today overwhelmingly suppress it. The literature is unequivocal:* AI boosts creative output only when tools are intentionally designed for exploration, not correctness.* When aligned toward predictability, AI drives conformity and sameness.* The rise of “AI slop” is not an insult — it's the logical outcome of misaligned incentives.* New evidence shows that AI-assisted outputs become more similar as more people use the same tools, reducing collective creativity even when individual outputs look “better.”* Homogenization is measurable at scale: marketing, design, and written content generated with AI converge toward the same tone and syntax, lowering engagement and cultural diversity.* Repeated reliance on AI weakens human originality over time — users begin outsourcing ideation, losing confidence and capacity for divergent thought.Resources:* The Impact of AI on Creativity: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/395275000_The_Impact_of_AI_on_Creativity_Enhancing_Human_Potential_or_Challenging_Creative_Expression* Generative AI and Creativity (Meta-Analysis): https://arxiv.org/pdf/2505.17241* AI Slop Overview: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AI_slop* Generative AI Enhances Individual Creativity but Reduces Collective Novelty:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11244532/* Generative AI Homogenizes Marketing Content:https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/Delivery.cfm/5367123.pdf?abstractid=5367123* Human Creativity in the Age of LLMs (decline in divergent thinking):https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.03703 BOTTOM LINE: If your product optimizes for correctness, brand safety, and throughput before originality, you are actively contributing to the global collapse of creative quality. AI must be designed to spark—not sanitize—human imagination.Thanks for reading Design of AI: Strategies for Product Teams & Agencies! This post is public so feel free to share it.Award-winning creative talent is disappearing at scale, and the trend is accelerating.The global creative workforce is shrinking faster than at any time in modern history. Companies claim AI is “enhancing creativity,” yet most restructuring reveals the opposite: AI is being deployed primarily to cut labor costs. In general, layoff announcements top 1.1 million this year, the most since 2020 pandemic.What's happening now:* Omnicom announced 4,000 job cuts and shut multiple agencies — Reuters reporting: https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/omnicom-cut-4000-jobs-shut-several-agencies-after-ipg-takeover-ft-reports-2025-12-01/* WPP, Publicis, and IPG executed multi-round layoffs across design, writing, strategy, and production.* Digiday interviews confirm AI is used mainly to eliminate junior and mid-level creative roles: https://digiday.com/marketing/confessions-of-an-agency-founder-and-chief-creative-officer-on-ais-threat-to-junior-creatives/The most important read on the future & destruction of agencies comes from Zoe Scaman. She always brings a powerful and necessary mirror to the shitshow that is modern corporate world. Read it here:Freelancers and independent creatives are being hit even harder:* UK survey: 21% of creative freelancers already lost work because of AI; many report sharply lower pay — https://www.museumsassociation.org/museums-journal/news/2025/03/report-finds-creative-freelancers-hit-by-loss-of-work-late-pay-and-rise-of-ai/* Illustrators, motion designers, and concept artists report declining commissions as clients adopt Midjourney-style pipelines.* Voice actors face shrinking bookings due to synthetic voice models.* Stock photography, stock audio, and digital concepting have been heavily cannibalized by tools like Midjourney, Runway, and Suno.The research into AI shows even deeper risks:* The Rise of Generative AI in Creative Agencies — confirms agencies deploy AI for margin protection rather than creative innovation: https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2%3A1976153/FULLTEXT03.pdf* IFOW/Sussex study shows AI exposure correlates with lower job quality and salary stagnation for creatives: https://www.ifow.org/news-articles/marley-bartlett-research-poster---ai-job-quality-and-the-creative-industriesBOTTOM LINE: Creative roles are vanishing because AI is being optimized for efficiency rather than imagination. If we want creative industries to survive, AI must expand human originality — not replace the people who produce it.:** Creative roles are vanishing because AI is being deployed for efficiency rather than imagination. If we want a future with vibrant creative industries, AI must be designed to amplify human originality — not replace it.Please participate in our year-end surveyWe are studying how AI is restructuring careers, skills, and expectations across product, design, engineering, research, and strategy.Your responses influence:* the direction of Design of AI in 2025,* what questions we investigate through research,* what frameworks we build to help leaders adapt—and protect—their teams.Take the survey: https://tally.so/r/Y5D2Q5Understand your cognitive style so you know how to best leverage AI to boost youThe Creative AI Academy has developed as an assessment tool to help you understand your creative style. We all tackle problems differently and come up with novel solutions using different methods. Take the ThinkPrint assessment to get a blueprint of how you ideate, judge, refine, and decide. Knowing this will help you know in which ways AI can boost —rather than undermine— your originality. For me it was powerful to see my thinking style mirrored back at me. It gave structure to what enhances and undermines my creativity, meaning I better understand what role (if any) AI should play in expanding my creative capabilities. Thank you to Angella Tapé for demonstrating this tool and presenting the perfect next evolution of Dr. Ackerman's lessons about needing AI to be a creative partner, not cannibalizer. BOTTOM LINE: Without cognitive self-awareness, you're not “partnering” with AI—you're surrendering your creative identity to it. Take the ThinkPrint assessment and redesign your workflow around human-led, AI-supported thinking.We are trading away human intellect for productivity—and the safety evidence is damning.The research is now impossible to ignore: AI makes us faster, but it makes us worse thinkers.A major multi-university study (Harvard, MIT, Wharton) found that users with AI assistance worked more quickly but were “more likely to be confidently wrong.”Source: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4573321This pattern shows up across cognitive science:* Stanford and DeepMind researchers found that relying on AI “reduced participants' memory for the material and their ability to reconstruct reasoning steps.”Source: https://arxiv.org/abs/2402.01832* EPFL showed that routine LLM use “led to measurable declines in writing ability and originality over time.”Source: https://arxiv.org/abs/2401.00612* University of Toronto researchers warn that repeated LLM use “narrows human originality, shifting users from creators to evaluators of machine output.”Source: https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.03703In other words: we are outsourcing the exact cognitive muscles that make human thinking valuable — creativity, reasoning, comprehension — and replacing them with pattern-matching convenience.And while we weaken ourselves, the companies building the systems shaping our cognition are failing at even the most basic safety expectations.The AI Safety Index (Winter 2025) reported:“No major AI developer demonstrated adequate preparedness for catastrophic risks. Most scored poorly on transparency, accountability, and external evaluability.”Source: https://futureoflife.org/ai-safety-index-winter-2025/A companion academic review by Oxford, Cambridge, and Georgetown concluded:“Safety commitments across leading LLM developers are inconsistent, largely self-regulated, and often unverifiable.”Source: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2508.16982We are weakening human cognition while trusting companies that cannot prove they are safe. There is no version of this trajectory that ends well without deliberate intervention.Resources:* The Hidden Wisdom of Knowing in the AI Era: * A Critical Survey of LLM Development Initiatives: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2508.16982* Future of Life AI Safety Index (Winter 2025): https://futureoflife.org/ai-safety-index-winter-2025/* Supporting Safety Documentation (PDF): https://cdn.sanity.io/files/wc2kmxvk/revamp/79776912203edccc44f84d26abed846b9b23cb06.pdfBOTTOM LINE: Tools that reduce effort but not capability are not accelerators—they are cognitive liabilities. Product leaders must design for mental strength, not dependency.Schools are producing prompt operators, not original thinkers.Education systems are bolting AI onto decades-old learning models without rethinking what learning is. Instead of cultivating reasoning, imagination, and embodied intelligence, schools are teaching children to rely on AI systems they cannot critique.Resources:* UNESCO: AI & the Future of Education: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/ai-and-future-education-disruptions-dilemmas-and-directions* Beyond Fairness in Computer Vision: https://cdn.sanity.io/files/wc2kmxvk/revamp/79776912203edccc44f84d26abed846b9b23cb06.pdf* AI Skills for Students: https://trswarriors.com/ai-education-preparing-students-future/BOTTOM LINE: If we do not redesign education, we will create a generation of humans who can operate AI but cannot outthink, challenge, or transcend it.Featured AI Thinker: Luiza JarovskyLuiza Jarovsky is one of the most essential voices in AI governance today. At a time when global AI companies are actively pushing to loosen regulation—or bypass it entirely—Luiza's work provides a critical counterbalance rooted in human rights, safety, law, and long-term societal impact.Why her work matters now:* She exposes the structural risks of deregulated AI adoption across governments and corporations.* She documents how weak or performative governance puts vulnerable communities at disproportionate risk.* She offers practical frameworks for ethical, enforceable AI oversight.Follow her work:BOTTOM LINE: If you build or deploy AI and you are not following Luiza's work, you are missing the governance lens that will define which companies survive the coming regulatory wave.Recommended Reality ChecksTwo critical signals from the field this week:* Ethan Mollick on the accelerating automation of creative workflowshttps://x.com/emollick/status/1996418841426227516AI is quietly outperforming human creative processes in categories many believed were “safe.” The speed of improvement is outpacing organizational awareness.* Jeffrey Lee Funk on markets losing patience with empty AI narrativeshttps://x.com/jeffreyleefunk/status/1996612615850676703Investors are separating real AI value from hype. Companies promising transformation without measurable impact are being punished.BOTTOM LINE: The creative and product landscape is shifting beneath our feet. Those who don't adapt—intellectually, strategically, and operationally—will lose relevance.Final Reflection — Legacy Is a Product DecisionEverything in this newsletter points to a single, unavoidable truth:AI does not define our future. The product decisions we make do.We can build tools that:* expand human originality,* strengthen cognitive resilience,* elevate creative careers,* and produce a generation capable of thinking beyond the machine.Or we can build tools that:* replace the creative class,* hollow out human judgment,* weaken educational outcomes,* and leave society dependent on systems controlled by a handful of companies.As product leaders—designers, strategists, researchers, technologists—we decide which future gets built.Legacy isn't abstract. It's the cumulative effect of every interface we design, every shortcut we greenlight, every metric we reward, and every model we deploy.If you want to build AI that strengthens humanity instead of diminishing it, reach out. Let's design for human outcomes, not machine efficiency.arpy@ph1.ca This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit designofai.substack.com

Come see me talk about long-form content and comfort creators at Metricool's UNFILTERED: https://unfiltered.metricool.com/Subscribe to my YouTube channel: http://youtube.com/@thelatashajames/Cute raccoon mental health advice: https://www.reddit.com/r/wholesomememes/comments/yigmp7/this_is_the_most_important_mental_health_advice/

If you're ready to create a business that supports your life instead of running it, this is the episode you need.Carly and Joe dive into Step Zero of the Solopreneur Success Cycle: Defining Your Goals, and spoiler alert: it's way deeper than “make money” or “gain freedom.”You'll learn how to uncover your true why, build goals that actually guide your decisions, and avoid creating a business you secretly resent. From toddler-style questioning to "change charts" and accountability hacks, this episode is your blueprint for building a business you actually like.Whether you're dreaming, pivoting, or feeling stuck, press play before you plan another move.

Navigating the year-end chaos is often top of mind for many business owners, professionals, and accountants during this challenging time when there is so much to do, not only in our professional lives but in our personal lives as well.  During this year-end rush, it's easy to worry about how you'll manage the stress and ensure you not only get everything done but also find time to enjoy your holidays as well.  In today's podcast episode, I walk you through some of the steps I work on with my one-on-one clients.  These simple steps will help you navigate this busy time and help you savor the joy of the holidays.  Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper or accountant, a virtual assistant or VA, or have a professional career, going into the holiday season with a plan, knowing the right balance between your professional life and your personal life, and making sure you take the time for your own well-being will definitely have an impact on every moment you get to enjoy during the upcoming holiday season… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

Jen shares a framework with Pete for thinking about many different perspectives at once, as opposed to sticking with the first perspective you might think up.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:How might you choose to believe in a perspective that is most beneficial to yourself?Why is considering many different perspectives a version of sonder?How might we broaden our idea of multiple perspectives in order to increase our level of empathy for others?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).

As businesses face faster timelines and shifting skill needs, flexible talent has become a core part of the modern workforce — not a backup plan. Sunita Solao, CPO of Upwork, the freelance marketplace to hire top talent, joins host Monique Akanbi, SHRM-SCP, to unpack what that shift means for HR pros, how organizations can use flexible talent strategically, and why freelancers and contractors are rewriting the rules of talent planning.  This podcast is approved for .5 PDCs toward SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP recertification. Listen to the complete episode to get your activity ID at the end. ID expires January 1, 2027.  Subscribe to Honest HR to get the latest episodes, expert insights, and additional resources delivered straight to your inbox: https://shrm.co/voegyz   ---  Explore SHRM's all-new flagships. Content curated by experts. Created for you weekly. Each content journey features engaging podcasts, video, articles, and groundbreaking newsletters tailored to meet your unique needs in your organization and career. Learn More: https://shrm.co/coy63r 

Okay friends, buckle up, because today's episode is one of those “wait… why has no one explained success like THIS before?” moments. We're talking with Kyle Austin Young who breaks down success not as a magical personality trait, but as something you can literally math your way into.Kyle takes us into the world of probability hacking, a shockingly simple way to figure out your real chances of success in anything (launching a business, writing a book, running a marathon) and then shows you how to change those odds in your favor.If you've ever wondered why some goals finally click, and others fall apart even when you want them just as much…this conversation is going to change how you think forever.FAQs from the EpisodeWhat exactly is probability hacking, and do I need to be good at math to use it?Nope! Probability hacking is simply listing out everything that has to go right for your goal to succeed…then calculating your actual chances instead of relying on vibes and wishful thinking. Kyle walks through it using basic numbers you can do on your phone, no spreadsheets, and no formulas that look like they escaped from NASA.How does this help me as a solopreneur?Because solopreneurs love goals…but often underestimate how many things have to align to actually hit them. Kyle's framework helps you see where your plan is fragile, what's likely to derail it, and, most importantly, how to systematically remove risk so your odds of success jump dramatically. How do I know whether to keep pushing or quit a goal?Kyle doesn't believe in quitting, he believes in pausing strategically. If your odds still look terrible even after removing risk, he suggests exploring alternate paths that may get you to your real underlying goal more efficiently. It's not giving up; it's probability-based pivoting.

Have you ever woken up, looked at your calendar, and felt that familiar heaviness or weight in your chest?  The weight of a problem or challenge that you've been carrying for weeks, months, or maybe even years? Maybe it's a client situation that keeps spiraling, a workload issue you swear you're going to streamline “when things slow down,” or a personal struggle you've gotten so used to that it feels like part of your identity.  If you're like most accountants, CPAs, business owners, and high-stress professionals, you're incredible at solving other people's problems, but when it comes to your own, something strange happens. You start to think things like, “It's too hard.”  “It's not worth the effort.”  Or, “This is just how things are for me.”  And so you keep living with a problem you could absolutely solve.  What I want to offer you today is something that has changed not only my life but also many of my clients' lives, and it's at the heart of The RE*INVENTION™ Process.  There is no problem in your life that you cannot solve.  Not one.  And the moment you begin to believe that, even just a little, your entire life opens up.  Today, I'm going to help you see your problems differently. I'm going to help you think the way high-performing, calm, emotionally regulated problem-solvers think. I'm going to show you how problems and challenges in your life can become doorways to opportunity, but only if you're willing to walk through them.  Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

You know that electric rush when you finally build the business you've been dreaming about? And then, right as you're about to tell people… you freeze?In this episode, Carly and Joe dive into one of the least discussed but most universal solopreneur struggles: the fear of actually putting yourself out there. Why do so many solopreneurs, yes, even the wildly successful ones, get stuck right at the moment visibility matters most?From perfectionism to vulnerability to the dread of “seeming salesy,” we break down why this happens, the hidden costs of staying quiet, and the powerful mindset shifts that help you move forward with confidence (including why “I'm not selling-I'm helping” changes everything).If you've ever hesitated to hit publish, announce your business, or send that first promo email, this conversation is going to feel like a giant exhale. You're not alone, and after this episode, you won't stay stuck.FAQs From The EpisodeHow do I promote my business without feeling salesy or annoying?Absolutely, this comes up constantly. The key is reframing. Promotion isn't about pushing; it's about helping. Share stories, tips, and solutions that genuinely support your audience. If your intent is to serve, people won't experience your message as “salesy," they'll experience it as valuable. And the people who aren't your ideal clients? They'll self-select out. That's a good thing.What if my work isn't perfect yet? Should I wait until it's ready?Short answer: No. Long answer: still no. Perfectionism is fear wearing a fancy outfit. Your audience can't benefit from what they can't see. Put the version out that is good enough to help someone right now. Then improve it based on real feedback instead of imagined critique. Visibility creates clarity.How do I get comfortable being visible if it feels so vulnerable?Start in your comfort zone and expand outward. If video feels like jumping off a cliff, start with written posts. If posting publicly feels overwhelming, start by sharing with a small circle. Momentum comes from micro-bravery. And remember: every solopreneur you admire felt this same discomfort. It's not a sign you're doing it wrong; it's a sign you're doing it.

Thinking about ditching the 9-to-5? Already navigating the ups and downs of freelance work? This episode is your financial playbook for thriving as your own boss. Jean Chatzky sits down with money coach and longtime freelancer Emily Guy Birken to unpack everything from budgeting on irregular income to choosing the right retirement accounts. Emily shares her personal percentage-based money system, explains why separate bank accounts are non-negotiable, and reveals the must-have clauses for every freelance contract. Whether you're freelancing full-time or hustling on the side, these tips will help you get paid, save smart, and sleep better. In This Episode: How to build a baseline budget as a freelancer A smart, percentage-based system for managing income The pros and cons of solo 401(k)s vs. SEP IRAs How to structure your business Why contracts are your best friend in freelance work How to stay emotionally grounded in unpredictable times Resources & Links:

When you think about the end of the year, do you have goals that you've set that you still need to achieve?  When you take the time to be intentional about elevating your year-end success, you'll be sure to end the year with a sense of satisfaction, knowing you've done everything you could to wrap up this year not only with achievement but also momentum as you begin the new year.  In today's podcast episode, I cover what you can do to elevate your year-end success.  By unlocking your fullest potential before the new year, you'll cross the finish line this year knowing you've done your best.  Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper, or a virtual assistant or VA, taking the time to really focus on what you want to achieve by the end of the year, creating actionable steps to ensure you get there, and being held accountable will ensure your journey towards a more successful you…   Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

After a small existential crisis, Pete asks Jen how he might tell the difference between being competent or complacent.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:What is the relationship between boredom, competency, and complacency?How might the repetition of a workshop, keynote, or show create an illusion of complacency?Why is having a coach, mentor, or trusted friend important in the viewing of your own work?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).

In this episode of the REAL Personal Branding Podcast, Lauren sits down with Kat Boogaard, a full-time freelance writer with over 10 years of experience. Kat specializes in long-form content for software clients in the "world of work" space and offers advice and resources for fellow freelancers through her newsletter, social media, and freelance shop. She shares her strategies for using data to book clients and secure speaking engagements, including leveraging content analytics, crafting pitches that get noticed, and attracting ideal clients via social media. Kat offers tips on personal branding, client acquisition, project-based pricing, recurring income, and scaling a freelance business without burnout. If you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or a professional navigating a career transition who wants to grow your brand and land more opportunities, don't miss this episode with Kat Boogaard. Connect with Lauren V. Davis here: https://linktr.ee/ldaviscreative Connect with Kat Boogaard here: https://katboogaard.com/subscribe  

If you've been getting hammered with “AI income hacks” on Instagram and TikTok, you are not alone. Carly has been targeted so aggressively that she's starting to suspect her phone can hear her thoughts, so today, she and Joe sit down with Becky Beach, a solopreneur who actually does this stuff successfully. From AI-powered funnels to Instagram chatbots to wildly profitable printable products, Becky breaks down exactly how she built a decade-long business that lets her make real money while still having time for her family. She shares the mistakes she made early, the systems she relies on now, and what solopreneurs need to know before diving into digital products or automations. If you've ever wondered, “Can this AI-funnel thing actually work?”...this episode is your answer.FAQs From The EpisodeCan I actually start with zero list and zero social media following?Yes, but not overnight. Becky makes it clear this is not a get-rich-quick play. She recommends picking a niche you genuinely care about, creating small pieces of free value, and using those to build your list through lead magnets. Social media helps, but email is what converts.Do I need design skills to sell printables or digital products?Nope. Becky happens to be a trained designer, but plenty of sellers rely on Canva, templates, or affiliate programs to get started. You can promote other creators' printables while you learn, then create your own later.Are AI funnels and chatbots too saturated now to work?Not if you bring something unique. Becky explains that even though AI is everywhere, most people execute poorly. Your edge is: – niching down – making user-friendly products – offering consistent free content – using your story and personality as your differentiator AI tools help automate and scale, but they only work if your foundation is solid.

Imagine being so booked out as a freelancer that you can't take on a single new client—so you start building a team. That's where Louise Ryan found herself. In this episode, she shares how she went from solo footwear designer to scaling toward a full-blown agency. We talk about the mindset shifts, growing pains, and strategic moves that helped her evolve beyond a one-woman show. If you're feeling maxed out and wondering what's next, Louise's story is the blueprint you've been looking for.Resources:209: From £4k to £12k A Month: How this Freelance Footwear Trend Consultant Did it!About Louise:Louise is an exceptional creative thinker, designer, and trend forecaster who is passionate about the footwear industry. Her drive to stay up-to-date with the latest innovations and fully comprehend the entire process of footwear design and development is truly inspiring. By collaborating with global trend agencies, brands, and factories, she can provide valuable insights that will shape the future of this dynamic industry. future of this dynamic industry.Connect with Caroline:Email her at louise@larcreative.comFollow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Download my Freelance Price List just for fashion (it's free!): sewheidi.com/price

GFA 477. Mike Michelini shares 21 years of e-commerce wisdom: from Wall Street to Amazon seller, discussing AI's impact on business, the freelancer-to-owner transition. The post Mindset, Journey, and Achievement – From Freelancer to Business Owner with John Ho appeared first on Global From Asia.

Have you ever noticed how much time you spend thinking about things you can't control?  Accountants and high-stress professionals tell me things like this all the time.  I feel like everything is happening to me.  I have no control over my time, or my clients, my team, or my deadlines; all dictate everything I do in my life.  And on top of that, they blame themselves for not being able to handle it better.  But I want you to know that you have far more control than you think you do in your life, maybe not over the circumstances you're experiencing, but over your experience of those circumstances.  And when you learn to take responsibility for what is within your control, the way you think, feel, and respond, you unlock a level of control most people never realize is available.  Today, I'm going to show you how to start feeling in control again.  Not theoretically, not conceptually, but practically in a way that you can use today.  This is one of the core transformations my clients experience inside The RE*INVENTION™ Process because, when you learn to take responsibility for what you can control, you stop feeling like life is happening to you and start living like you're in control of what happens in your life.  Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals.  You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle:  https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business?  I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money.  Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching?  Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today.  You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for.  Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide:  5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration!  You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business?  You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes:  https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.

For full show notes go to https://www.globalfromasia.com/progress/ The post GFATV 477 Mindset, Journey, and Achievement – From Freelancer to Business Owner with John Ho appeared first on Global From Asia.

Wes Ott covers today's top tech stories: Google pushes Gemini 3 to search upon release; AI agents get put to the test against freelancers; and Amazon tests smart glasses for delivery drivers with AI capabilities.

If you've ever wondered how Joe somehow whips up a custom GPT for literally everything, from content creation to arguing with him when ChatGPT gets too agreeable, this is the episode you've been waiting for. Carly finally asks the question the whole community's been thinking: “How is Joe doing that?” And this time, he actually shows us.Step-by-step.On-screen.In real time.Whether you want a GPT that writes in your brand voice, handles your workflows, or just keeps you honest (looking at you, You're Wrong GPT), Joe breaks down exactly how he builds them: what's easy, what you need to prepare, and what most solopreneurs totally overlook.If you've ever said, “I wish a GPT could do this for me…” Good news: after this episode, it can.FAQs From The EpisodeDo I actually need a paid ChatGPT plan to create my own GPTs?Yes. As Joe explains, GPT creation isn't available on the free plan. You'll need the $20/month subscription to access the “Create” option. The good news? If you use even a handful of AI-powered tasks in your business, you'll easily make that cost back in saved time.What kind of “training material” do I need to upload to build a useful GPT?Think brand voice guides, examples of past content, frameworks you use, instructions you follow, or any assets that show how you want your GPT to think and write. More clarity = better output. You don't need a huge pack of documents, just a few strong examples go a long way.How do I know what kind of GPT I should create for my business?Start with the tasks you repeat constantly or the ones that drain the most time: content creation, email drafts, lead gen messages, customer onboarding, proposals, social captions, etc. If you've ever said, “I wish someone could just do this for me,” that's the perfect candidate for a custom GPT.

Freelancers everywhere are feeling it. The ground beneath our feet is shifting, because AI isn't just changing how we write. It's also changing where value lives in our industry. In this episode, I break down what few people are talking about: your writing skills might still be world-class, but they're now solving the wrong problem. Much of what I discuss was inspired by the brilliant new book Reshuffle: Who Wins When AI Restacks the Knowledge Economy by Sangeet Paul Choudary. The constraint that once made your writing indispensable has moved. And if you don't move with it, you risk becoming the business equivalent of a brilliant typewriter repair shop in 1975. I dive deep into the real economic shift happening under AI's rise, revealing how to follow where value is migrating in your market before your competitors do. What You'll Learn Why AI hasn't destroyed demand for writers; it's just moved the constraint How to spot the new "value zones" in your market before others see them Why "average" AI content isn't your protection (and what is) The critical shift from creation to curation, and how to monetize your judgment How to reframe your positioning around risk, coordination, and confidence A simple 3-step method to identify where your next big opportunity lies Why your future role looks less like a writer and more like a producer or orchestrator Key Ideas and Takeaways 1. The Sommelier's Secret Your clients aren't drowning in a lack of content. They're drowning in options. AI made creation cheap, but it didn't make discernment easy. The most valuable freelancers now sell confidence and clarity, not just words. 2. Follow the Constraint The value constraint has shifted: From scarcity to risk (ensuring AI content doesn't harm the brand) From production to coordination (helping teams align their AI use) From creation to curation and orchestration (judgment, taste, and integration) 3. Be the Fugu Chef Like a sushi master trusted with a poisonous fish, your job is now about managing risk and trust. Clients will pay more for your judgment than your keyboard. 4. The Rick Rubin Lesson Think this is all outside your wheelhouse? I urge you to reconsider. You have more skill, wisdom, and capability than you think. Music producer Rick Rubin can't play a single musical instrument or read music. But he produces masterpieces. Your value is no longer in typing faster or crafting prettier sentences. It's in creating the conditions for the right ideas and messages to emerge. 5. Rebundling Your Business The future isn't about resisting AI. Instead, it's about rebundling your value around new constraints: From "I write blog posts" to "I ensure your content strategy doesn't become an AI dumpster fire." From "I write email campaigns" to "I orchestrate customer journeys across your entire AI-powered stack." From "I create copy" to "I protect your reputation while scaling your message." 6. Your 30-Day Constraint Hunt Start finding your next opportunity: List what clients pay you for today. Ask what happens when AI makes each thing 10x faster and cheaper. Find the break points, the new problems that emerge when your old services get automated. That's where your next business model lives. Action Steps Run a "Constraint Audit": Pick one client and map where things break when AI enters the picture. Test a Micro-Offer: Solve one small constraint (e.g., "brand safety audit for AI content"). Rework Your Positioning: Stop describing what you do. Start describing what you protect or enable. Experiment with New Framing: "I manage [CONSTRAINT] so you can [OUTCOME] without [RISK]." Memorable Soundbites "Your writing skills are now solving the wrong problem." "The constraint that used to keep your skills in demand is moving rapidly." "AI has removed that obstacle, that constraint." "This is the dumbest and most incapable these tools will ever be." "The constraint is rapidly moving from 'create content' to 'ensure content doesn't erode or destroy our reputation.'" "We're becoming the fugu chefs of content." "The break points, that's where you might just find your next business model." "You're not selling writing. You're selling judgment, coordination, and confidence in a world where writing is free but trust is expensive." "Stop asking 'What can't AI do yet?' Start asking 'What does AI break?' Because in that break, in that new constraint, that's where your next level lives."

This week, Jen teaches Pete her framework of six points of focus, to help grow your career towards your goals.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about focus in relationship to:Artistry and Inspiration.Industry Knowledge.Marketing.Mindset.Network Building.Skill and Craft.To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).

Which business model should you start? Get Andrew's cheat sheet with his full ranking and real profit margins here: https://clickhubspot.com/dge Episode 762: What's the best business to start in 2026? Agencies, SaaS, Restaurants, Real Estate, Marketplaces. Angel Investing; Andrew Wilkinson has played every game. He built 38 companies, lost $10 million, and still ended up with a $300 million portfolio. This week, @shaanpuri spoke with him about: the best and worst business models to win in 2026 starting Tiny with just $4M (now $250M) the truth behind the Twitter hate on Tiny's stock why buying companies beats building them His is not a redemption story. It is the unapologetic reality of building, failing, and getting back up. — Show Notes: (0:00) Intro (3:06) MLM (4:28) Freelancer (5:07) Agency (9:33) SaaS (14:48) Restaurant  (17:03) Marketplace (19:43) Short Term Rentals (20:52) Content Creator (23:06) Real Estate (26:16) Fund Management  (35:21) Local Services (36:36) Investing (38:12) Sweaty Startup (43:15) Tiny stock performance (52:20) The courage to be disliked (1:10:21) Inputs v outputs — Links: • Tiny - https://tiny.com/  • Never Enough - https://www.neverenough.com/  • Serato - https://serato.com/  • Rekordbox - https://rekordbox.com • Pershing Square Holdings - https://pershingsquareholdings.com/  • Invest Like The Best - https://www.youtube.com/@ILTB_Podcast  • The Courage To Be Disliked - https://tinyurl.com/5fk3sa79  — Check Out Shaan's Stuff: • Shaan's weekly email - https://www.shaanpuri.com  • Visit https://www.somewhere.com/mfm to hire worldwide talent like Shaan and get $500 off for being an MFM listener. Hire developers, assistants, marketing pros, sales teams and more for 80% less than US equivalents. • Mercury - Need a bank for your company? Go check out Mercury (mercury.com). Shaan uses it for all of his companies! Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Column, N.A., and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC — Check Out Sam's Stuff: • Hampton - https://www.joinhampton.com/ • Ideation Bootcamp - https://www.ideationbootcamp.co/ • Copy That - https://copythat.com • Hampton Wealth Survey - https://joinhampton.com/wealth • Sam's List - http://samslist.co/ My First Million is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by HubSpot Media // Production by Arie Desormeaux // Editing by Ezra Bakker Trupiano //