The Freelance Founders Podcast: Recent Episodes
Freelance Founders
Welcome to the Freelance Founders Podcast, hosted by Kate Cervini. Each season, we’ll connect with the most creative minds in the industry to learn about their path to freelance, and what they’re working on (and charging) today.
From independent creatives to business experts and owners, this podcast is the resource for modern-day freelancers, consultants, and studio founders. Join us each week as we chat about everything from charging your worth to designing your own career path.
Happy holidays from all of us at Freelance Founders! We will return to your feed with all new episodes in 2024.
Let’s Connect:
- Website
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Breakups—they’re never easy. But what about when it’s not with a friend or lover, but with a business partner or even a cofounder? The complicated mess of emotions, resentment, and legal concerns can make the split all the more painful.
Welcome to season three, episode six of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Tori Lazar, advice columnist and creative leadership coach at How to Fck Up Well.
Today, Tori is telling us all about growing up in the hospitality industry, the benefits of working with a cofounder, and what really happens when that business relationship stops working out.
Some Questions Asked:
- What were your financial fears around going freelance? (05:01)
- What’s your big tip for somebody that is looking to go freelance? (10:43)
- What was the benefit of having a cofounder and what was the hardest part of having a cofounder? (18:44)
- Can you share some of the values of How to Fck Up Well? (31:35)
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- About Tori’s career journey (00:23)
- Tori’s pricing structure when she first started freelancing (15:09)
- Some of the pain points around being a business founder (26:49)
- What the idea of ‘failure’ means for Tori (37:55)
Connect with Tori:
- How to Fck Up Well
- Advice column
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
One of the most intense parts of a freelance journey is when you find yourself becoming the person in charge. For many of us, this can be an uncomfortable and disconcerting experience. It’s only when we remind ourselves the reason we’re here to begin with that we can put aside those feelings and step confidently into that leadership role.
Welcome to season three, episode five of the Freelance Founders podcast.We’re talking to Jimi Drosinos, a London-based photographer, director, and cinematographer.
Today, Jimi is telling us about his complicated origin story, the surprising reason it’s so important to invest in equipment, and he’s getting real and honest about his rates.
Some Questions Asked:
- Can you take us through your career up to date? (00:19)
- How did you approach opening your own studio? (05:37)
- What’s your creative approach with clients? (15:02)
- What inspires you to keep you motivated? (21:36)
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How Jimi went from computer science major to international photographer (00:34)
- Jimi’s strategy for pricing his services (10:34)
- About Jimi’s experience directing his first film (17:20)
- The advice Jimi would give his 20-year-old self (26:09)
Connect with Jimi:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Career highs and career lows… whether we’re still stuck in the corporate grind or we’ve made the leap to full time freelance, we’ve all experienced them. The key? Never let those lows stand in the way of getting back to it and reaching your next peak.
Welcome to season three, episode four of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Andrea Pascual, a Toronto-based fashion designer and founder of her own eponymous clothing brand. She is also the founder of Cool Eye Creative, a brand strategy and graphic design studio that builds trustworthy brands for diverse founders.
Today, Andrea is telling us about her inspiration behind starting her own fashion line, how she prioritizes her mental health, and the advice she’d give her 20 year old self.
Some Questions Asked:
- Can you take us through the journey of your career? (00:14)
- What was your inspiration behind starting your own fashion line? (03:26)
- Could you tell us a little bit more about the fundamental values that you built Cool Eye Creative on? (09:44)
- What has been your career high and your career low? (11:40)
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How the COVID-19 pandemic affected Andrea’s career trajectory (01:40)
- What Andrea found most challenging about starting her own label (04:34)
- How Andrea sets boundaries for herself in order to maintain a work life balance (15:48)
- How Andrea started her two businesses without investors (17:48)
Connect with Andrea:
- Website
- Sushi Fridays podcast
- Cool Eye Creative
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Freelancing can often feel like nonstop networking—like your life depends on it. But the fact is, it’s all about building your proverbial rolodex. Once you’ve established those relationships, opportunities can come from the most unexpected places.
Welcome to season three, episode three of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Sean Sutherland, founder and creative director at Studio No. 9, a New Jersey based design consultancy firm. Sean also recently founded Sonny Seltzer, a beverage company offering pre-packaged tequila sodas.
Today, Sean is talking about building up a freelance network, the power of choosing a name, and the intricacies of working with a team.
Some Questions Asked:
- Can you take us through your career up to date? (00:16)
- What’s been the most rewarding part of starting your own agency? (08:52)
- How do you market yourself to find new work? (11:57)
- What made you decide to get into the beverage industry? (22:52)
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How Sean went back and forth between the freelance and corporate worlds (02:03)
- About Studio No. 9, Sean’s newest freelance venture (06:56)
- Sean’s process for approaching new projects (17:32)
- The importance of keeping long-term connections (21:24)
Connect with Sean:
- Studio No. 9
- Sonny Seltzer website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Many times on the freelance journey we can feel like we’re hitting a wall… Growth feels stagnant and opportunities seem scarce. But it’s in moments like these that the community we surround ourselves with is so important. Often, just leaning on others in the same boat can give us enough inspiration to break through.
Welcome to season three, episode two of the Freelance Founders podcast.We’re talking to Libby Connolly, a Chicago-based creative director and founder of Studio Libby Connolly.
Today, Libby is telling us about being a small business owner without a business background, crystallizing her goals, and why client communication is so important.
Some Questions asked:
- When you went freelance, what was your strategy to build a network? (01:23)
- What has been your biggest challenge going freelance? (04:02)
- How does understanding the psychology of a brand influence your work? (11:05)
- How would you measure success for yourself? (13:06)
- What are some of your goals for your own design studio? (15:11)
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How Libby got into design as a career (00:33)
- Libby’s process when it comes to getting started with a new client (06:52)
- Why Libby once canceled a client contract (11:49)
- The advice Libby would give her 20-year-old self (19:10)
Connect with Libby:
- Studio
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Even when we know from day one that a job isn’t for us, it can feel impossible to quit. Whether it’s the coworkers, the culture, or the benefits, letting go of that security and community takes an enormous leap of faith.
Welcome to the season three premiere of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Sarita Walsh, an entrepreneur and transformational coach working to empower leaders to fulfill their highest professional, personal, and social potential through mindset and behavior change.
Today, Sarita is telling us about how her creative background influences her coaching role, how it took her seven years to quit her design job, and how she learned how to say “no” to protect her boundaries.
Some Questions Asked:
- How did you begin to pivot into coaching? (05:11)
- What are some tips for those who get overwhelmed with burnout? (11:25)
- How did you know how to price yourself as a creative and now as a coach? (16:53)
- Where should someone start if they're interested in getting a coach or exploring coaching? (20:23)
- Have you ever had a moment where you wanted to quit? (21:56)
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How Sarita made the leap from graphic design to coaching (00:58)
- For Sarita, clarity is created through action (06:05)
- Self first is not selfish (13:44)
- How Sarita worked for free when she was just starting out in the coaching world (19:18)
Connect with Sarita:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to season 3 of the Freelance Founders Podcast, hosted by Kate Cervini. This season, we’re connecting with the brightest minds in freelancing to bring you their path to independence, their favorite part of being a founder, and how they learned to value their work.
You’ll hear from leading voices like Sarita Walsh, Tori Lazar, Sean Sutherland, and Jimi Drosinos on everything freelance. Join us weekly this fall, wherever you get your podcasts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Leaving the sense of security behind when entering the freelance realm can be the toughest thing about making the leap. But sometimes we get so caught up in the idea of becoming our own boss, we forget that we can make a slow transition instead of diving head first.
Welcome to season two, episode eight of the Freelance Founders podcast.We’re talking to Bradley Carbone, partner and managing editor at Sneeze Magazine.
Today, Bradley is telling us about using a “real” job as a safety net before going freelance, cultivating a solid reputation, and putting in longer hours on the work that he loves.
Some Questions asked:
- Can you take us through your career? (00:17)
- What advice would you give someone new to the freelance world on how to dive in? (04:57)
- What do you think is the biggest mistake that creative freelancers make? (11:38)
- What has been your career high to date? (18:13)
- What are some boundaries you've set for yourself to maintain a healthy work life balance? (26:38)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What Bradley found hardest about building his own network (02:28)
- About Bradley’s transition going from Adidas to working full time on Sneeze (08:40)
- Where Bradley’s values came from (15:24)
- The advice Bradley would give his 20-year-old self (25:20)
Connect with Bradley:
- Sneeze Magazine
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When we start off as freelancers, it can feel impossible not to say yes to everything.When you’re not sure when and where your next paycheck is going to come from, taking everything you’re offered feels like the safest possible option. But living that lifestyle can create a vicious cycle of burnout, resentment, and subpar work… the trick is to learn from those who have been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale.
Welcome to season two, episode seven of the Freelance Founders podcast.We’re talking to Jeremy Raskin, an LA-based art director & graphic designer.
Today, Jeremy is talking about the experience of having a freelance trial period before deciding to go full time, the feast-or-famine nature of freelancing, and the creative process behind his work with some of his biggest clients like Ariana Grande and Halsey.
Some Questions asked:
- What’s the draw for you for a full time position versus being freelance? (03:14)
- What did you find was the hardest part of freelancing? (07:08)
- What is the biggest mistake people make when it comes to pricing their services? (10:30)
- Where do you see your career going in the future? (20:03)
- How did you approach your financial strategy when you decided to go freelance? (21:58)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- About Jeremy’s career and how he got where he is today (00:21)
- Freelance ≠ commitment issues (05:14)
- How Jeremy realized he was underpricing his services (09:11)
- What it was like for Jeremy to take his creative process on set (18:09)
- The advice Jeremy would give his 20-year-old self (20:50)
Connect with Jeremy:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to season two of the Freelance Founders podcast. Today, you’ll hear a masterclass from Sean Sutherland, founder and creative director at Studio No. 9, a New Jersey based design consultancy firm. Sean also recently founded Sonny Seltzer, a beverage company offering pre-packaged tequila sodas.
In this episode, Sean is telling us how he started his company mid-pandemic and what it’s like launching a brand new product into an incredibly competitive market.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Some of the biggest challenges Sean faces on a daily basis (00:42)
- Sean’s hope for Sonny Seltzer (01:24)
- How Sean wears every hat at Sonny (01:40)
Connect with Sean:
- Studio No. 9
- Sonny Seltzer website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Becoming a founder is always going to be terrifying. Whether you have all the money in the world or a double digit bank balance, you’re never going to be as ready as you feel like you should be. But that’s the beauty of it all, right? There’s nothing scarier than leaping from the nest, and yet there are few things more beautiful than realizing you’re ready to fly.
Welcome to season two, episode six of the Freelance Founders podcast.We’re talking to Madison Utendahl, a two time Webby Award winning content director and founder of Utendahl Creative, a multi-disciplinary creative studio powered by female storytellers.
Today, Madison is telling us the biggest mistake that brands make with their social media, the importance of prioritizing yourself, and the power and difficulty in doing nothing.
Some Questions asked:
- Can you tell us about your career path and how you got where you are today? (00:27)
- How did it feel to win two Webby Awards and be featured on the Forbes 30 under 30 list? (09:50)
- Do you have any tips for the younger generation when they begin their careers in this industry? (14:31)
- What tips do you have for attracting dream clients? (20:21)
- How were you able to feel comfortable bringing on a full time team? (24:13)
- What advice would you give your 20 year old self? (35:16)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Madison got into social media and content production through her work at Refinery 29 (03:52)
- A little more about Madison’s all-female design company, Utendahl Creative (18:53)
- About Madison’s new side project, Her Name Is (29:13)
- How Madison got interested in investing in young companies (31:28)
- The boundaries Madison has had to set to achieve work/life balance (36:33)
Connect with Jenn:
- Utendahl Creative
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it take to have a successful partnership? Mutual respect, a vision of the big picture, delegation, defined roles… to name just a few elements. But what about when your closest collaborator is also your twin?
Welcome to season two, episode five of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Jen and Amy Hood, sisters and founders of Hoodzpah, a collaborative branding and type studio based out of Southern California.
Today, Amy and Jen are talking about the importance of mutual respect, succeeding without a four-year degree, and always keeping the big picture in mind.
Some Questions Asked:
- Can you take us through your careers? Where did you start and where are you now? (00:13)
- Do you have any tips on how to price out services for people just starting out in freelance? (14:12)
- What was the biggest challenge when you started Hoodzpah? (17:57)
- What’s the biggest challenge people face when they go full time freelance? (26:42)
- What are some boundaries you have set for yourself to maintain a healthy work/life balance? (36:42)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What it’s like to be sisters and business partners (01:55)
- How Amy and Jen built such a major client roster (07:20)
- A bit about Amy and Jen’s course for freelancers (23:47)
- What advice Amy and Jen would offer their 20 year old selves (33:02)
- How Amy and Jen approached their financial strategy when they first started Hoodzpah (39:26)
Connect with Amy and Jen:
- Hoodzpah
- Hoodzpah on IG
- Freelance, and Business, and Stuff—the Course
- Freelance, and Business, and Stuff by Amy Hood & Jennifer Hood
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A morning cup of coffee, journaling a few pages before work, taking time to practice some asanas before bed… are these a routine, or something more? When we approach what might seem like mundane daily tasks with a sense of purpose and intention, we can take them beyond routine and begin to benefit by seeing them as ritual.
Welcome to season two, episode two of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Jenn Tardif, a yoga and meditation teacher, aromatherapist, and founder of the mindful collective 3rd Ritual.
Today, Jenn is telling us about her company and the tools they offer, the difference between a ritual and routine, and how being a mom has affected her daily rituals.
Some Questions asked:
- Was there ever a moment when you wanted to quit in your career? (00:43)
- What are some of the rituals you practice every day? What does a day in life look like for you? (08:19)
- What would be your top three tips for someone who is looking to create a morning or evening ritual? (13:16)
- What advice would you give to your 20 year old self? (16:45)
- How did you approach your financial strategy when you decided to start your own company? (20:15)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Jenn’s biggest inspiration in starting 3rd Ritual (02:24)
- How Jenn balances mom life with self-employment (11:26)
- Where Jenn sees her business going in the future (14:32)
- The boundaries that Jenn sets in order to maintain her work/life balance (18:03)
- Jenn’s advice for anyone looking to start their own company (24:43)
Connect with Jenn:
- 3rd Ritual
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Giving yourself permission to fail and telling yourself you have nothing to lose makes all the difference when you leave the security of the industry you spent so much time in. But if worse comes to worst, you can always bounce back.
Welcome to season two, episode three of the Freelance Founders podcast. We're talking with Harry Cheslaw and Adil Bouhdadi, founders of Autone.io, a SaaS platform that optimizes inventory management for brands. Harry worked in men's fashion in London and Adil got his start working in fashion in Paris, before they decided to get into tech.
Today, Harry and Adil walk us through what their journey has been like so far, what is next for Autone.io, and they even share the solid advice they would give to someone who wants to start a company.
Some questions asked:
- How did your career start? And where are you now? (00:55)
- How did you both know you wanted to start a business together? (07:41)
- What has your journey been like thus far? (15:26)
- What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? (23:37)
- How did you approach your financial strategy when you decided to start Autone.io? (26:45)
- What is one piece of advice you have for someone starting their own company? (30:22)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Harry and Adil's biggest shock in leaving the corporate world (04:43)
- What type of business Autone.io is (11:08)
- The biggest challenge while growing Autone.io (20:40)
- What Harry and Adil think is next for Autone.io (22:45)
- The importance of asking 'So what?' (31:30)
Connect with Adil and Harry:
- Autone
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to season two of the Freelance Founders podcast. Today, you’ll hear Adil Bouhdadi’s tips for fundraising. Adil is the co-founder of Autone, a company that’s reinventing inventory management.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn Adil’s tips:
-
1 Have a compelling narrative
-
2 Get your valuation right
-
3 Be patient
Connect with Adil:
- Autone
Let’s Connect:
- Website
As founders, we often spend so much blood, sweat, and tears on creating our business that it can be difficult to accept when our time on that particular journey has come to an end. It can feel like the end of an era or even a difficult breakup, but how, exactly, do we know when the time has come?
Welcome to season two, episode two of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Amy Fraser, founder of OKREAL, a business dedicated to supporting women in building an indestructible sense of self worth through panels, workshops, online content, and mentorship. Amy is a community builder and storyteller working to give women courage and connection to take charge of their lives.
Today, Amy tells us about her aim of providing a resource of wisdom for women, how she came to realize it was time for OKREAL to wind down, and she shares her advice for freelancers who want to set healthy boundaries and portray confidence in their creative expertise.
Some Questions asked:
- What has your career looked like? And where are you today? (00:22)
- Why did you decide to go out on your own and start OKREAL? (04:00)
- How do you think communities play into our world today? And where do you see communities evolving over the next few years? (09:27)
- What are some ways you help the OKREAL community build self worth and resilience as we work towards finding fulfillment in our own careers? (16:42)
- What advice would you give to your 20 year old self? (27:46)
- How did you approach your financial strategy with OKREAL? (31:38)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- That Amy’s time at her business, OKREAL, is coming to a close (02:35)
- The values that Amy shares with the OKREAL community (07:31)
- Some of Amy’s biggest challenges when launching OKREAL (14:36)
- Where Amy’s career is headed now (24:32)
- Some of the boundaries Amy has set for herself around work/life balance—and how she still has a long way to go (28:35)
Connect with Amy:
- OKREAL
- OKREAL on IG
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As founders, we’re all familiar with the feeling of burnout. Overwhelmed, stressed, exhausted, emotionally drained… Unfortunately, it’s become the norm for so many of us to work in this state on a nearly constant basis. It might seem like there’s no way out of the perpetual stress cycle, but there are a few key steps that we can all take to start to mitigate burnout and be our most grounded selves.
Welcome to season two of the Freelance Founders podcast. Today, you’ll hear a masterclass on avoiding burnout from Sarita Walsh. Sarita is an entrepreneur and transformational coach working to empower leaders to fulfill their highest professional, personal, and social potential through mindset and behavior change.
In this episode, Sarita is sharing her top three tips for avoiding burnout, reducing stress, and ridding ourselves of habits that aren’t benefiting us—specifically for those of us who are high achieving, type A personalities who are prone to perfectionist tendencies and a reluctance to delegate tasks.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How burnout is defined (00:44)
- Many of us have habits that are so ingrained that we keep doing them even after they’re no longer benefiting us (02:21)
- The time-blocking method can be used to create a better work-life balance and space for ourselves (03:17)
- Sarita’s tip #1: Slowing down to speed up (05:35)
- Tip #2: Focus on your most important work (06:50)
- Tip #3: Make better, more informed decisions for your future self (08:57)
Connect with Sarita:
- Website
Resources mentioned:
- Time blocking visual template
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The scariest part of leaving a 9 to 5 and going freelance is the loss of that corporate safety net that so many of us cling to. While taking the leap might not be comfortable, the freedom we feel once we’ve stuck landing is worth every bit of anxiety.
Welcome to season two of the Freelance Founders podcast. On our first episode back, we’re talking to Justin Bridges, a NYC based entrepreneur and fashion photographer originally hailing from Atlanta. He is the founder and CMO of travel start-up El Camino and the owner of Peach Studio, a photo and video rental studio in Queens.
Today, Justin tells us the advice he’d give himself at 20 years old, how he works to set boundaries for himself, and even gives us some financial wisdom through the lens of a former Wall Street trader and current freelancer.
Some Questions asked:
- What was your biggest adjustment going from a corporate atmosphere to freelancing? (03:58)
- What are three tips for freelancers who are looking to start preparing for their retirement? (09:19)
- Do you think the trend of remote workers going globally nomadic will continue to grow? (19:39)
- How did you approach your financial strategy when you decided to join your co-founder in El Camino? (33:57)
- What is one piece of advice you have for anyone who is starting their own company or looking to be a co-founder? (35:53)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The biggest mistake people make when they start freelancing (04:58)
- Why you should start building freelance clients before quitting your 9 to 5 (06:33)
- The inspiration behind El Camino, the travel start-up that Justin co-founded (16:00)
- What Justin sees as the future of El Camino and why they aim to continue catering to women (24:08)
- Why locking in on that thing that gets you up in the morning is a major key to career success (26:37)
Connect with Justin:
- El Camino
- Peach Studio
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
To hear more upcoming, real conversations with industry-leading guests, tune in to season 2 of Freelance Founders Podcast, available wherever you listen.
Missed out on the first season? Don't worry! It's not too late to go back and listen to our candid conversations with guests like Jess Tran, Ana Andjelic, Mark Clennon, and Aundre Larrow.
One of the advantages of being an employee in bigger corporations before taking the freelance route is accumulating a baggage of do’s and don’ts that can be applied when starting your own company. That experience combined with a clear set of values makes up the perfect duo for a successful and happy business.
Welcome to episode eleven of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Sam Jackson and Lydia Pang, the co-founders of Morning – a digital strategy studio that empowers the creator economy to reclaim their narratives through conscious commissioning.
Today, Sam and Lydia talk about the future of social media and how brands should be looking at it, what their values are and how they make sure they stick to them, as well as the message they’re trying to convey through the Be Less Shit campaign.
Some Questions asked:
- Could you both give me a quick career path and story from where you started to where you are today? (02:05)
- What made you decide to start Morning? (06:09)
- Where do you think the importance of social media is headed? (21:42)
- What would be your biggest tip for a company that is launching and wanting to grow its social media? (27:21)
- Your team recently launched a newsletter called “Burn After Reading”. Could you tell us a little bit more about that? (38:14)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The management style and team environment at Morning. (09:21)
- Why companies should not be compared to a family. (12:37)
- The values Morning is guided by. (14:17)
- What Sam and Lydia’s research – “The Crisis of Creativity” – reveals on where the creative industry is heading. (17:40)
- The goal of the “Be Less Shit” campaign. (34:10)
Resources for Morning:
- Website
- Burn After Reading Newsletter
Connect with Sam:
Connect with Lydia:
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
As freelance founders, one of the things we’re asked most often is the inspiration for our work. For many of us, that drive comes from identifying issues within our industry and feeling an overwhelming urge to create a better environment for ourselves and our peers.
Welcome to episode ten of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Sandrine Charles, PR specialist, co-founder of Black in Fashion Council, and owner of Sandrine Charles Consulting.
Today, Sandrine sits down with us to talk about what sets her apart from other PR agencies, her thoughts on scaling her business, and why she puts so much value on respect and understanding when forming her client relationships.
Some Questions asked:
- Can you tell us about your career path? (00:55)
- When starting the agency, what do you feel was the most challenging hurdle for you personally, and for the business? (05:47)
- How do you maintain your network? (10:23)
- What are some of the requirements that clients need to meet in order to work with you? (12:24)
- Can you share a little bit more of why you started Black in Fashion Council and what it means to you? (19:56)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What finally pushed Sandrine to go freelance after working with larger companies (01:45)
- That Sandrine was initially hesitant to start her own agency (07:26)
- Sandrine’s thoughts on the changing views of inclusivity in the industry (16:43)
- Sandrine’s hopes for the future of BIFC (22:22)
- The advice that Sandrine has for brands to do better and take accountability (23:26)
Connect with Sandrine:
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
When we start off as freelancers, it can be easy to take on an every-man-for-himself philosophy. We feel like we’re working solo and don’t need the same team-oriented spirit we might have otherwise. But as creatives, this attitude only serves to alienate our collaborators when we should be doing everything in our power to make the process as smooth and stress free as possible—both for ourselves and everyone else involved.
Welcome to episode nine of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Aundre Larrow, a Jamaican born, Florida raised, New York-based photographer known for his work with portraits.
Today, Aundre is telling ushow he takes his inspiration from the people around him, the disservice that carrying around a camera in our pockets does for our photography, and the effort and skill it takes to make sure his subjects are comfortable on set.
Some Questions asked:
- Can you share a little bit more about your career and your story? (01:22)
- Do you feel like the relationship between you and the people you're shooting is a really important element to have when you're taking photos? (07:09)
- How did you find your type of photography style? (08:58)
- How has your upbringing influenced your career? (16:46)
- Could you share your top two to three tips for up and coming photographers? (23:30)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How Aundre got started in the field of shooting portraits (04:53)
- About Aundre’s first major shoot (08:22)
- The way Aundre knows when he’s got “the shot” when working on portraits (12:40)
- Why it’s so important to avoid transferring negative energy down to others (16:00)
- About Aundre’s experience as an Adobe Creative resident (20:13)
Connect with Aundre:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
As freelancers, it can be easy to revel in the freedom and independence of the work style—but what happens when we start to crave that nurturing environment of a community? In order to build ourselves up, oftentimes it takes a bit of a push from others who understand exactly where we’re coming from and exactly where we want to go.
Welcome to episode eight of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Sam Lee, founder & CEO at IndeCollective. IndeCollective is a community that specializes in helping top independent workers develop the know-how and network to translate their skills into financially rewarding, personally fulfilling careers.
Today, we’re discussing with Sam his mantra and how he uses it to keep himself in a spiritually abundant state, the extreme importance of setting intentions, and why the Great Resignation is all about flexibility.
Some Questions asked:
- What was your very first freelance rate? (01:17)
- What, exactly, is IndeCollective? (07:57)
- Will you share with our listeners what the three L's of goal setting are? (17:28)
- What are some of your predictions and trends that you think are coming for the future of work? (22:31)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Sam’s career path and where he started when he decided to go freelance (02:50)
- Some of the common struggles Sam sees freelancers and founders dealing with (11:00)
- Sam’s belief that knowing how and when to say “yes” and “no” are equally as important in the freelance world (16:38)
- Sam’s advice for those just starting out networking (29:37)
Connect with Sam:
- IndeCollective
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Freelancing can give us an amazing sense of freedom, opportunity, and release from the daily grind… but it can also open up a world of uncertainty and questions. When you’re beginning in freelance, everything from pricing your services to licensing your business to making sure you know the worth of your work can feel completely overwhelming.
Welcome to episode seven of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Arabela Espinoza and Ellle Michell, the duo who make up Weekend Creative. Weekend Creative specializes in photography while also bringing in knowledge of advertising, graphic design, art direction, and media, allowing them to tailor their services to each client. They also offer one-on-one coaching sessions for new freelancers looking to make their mark.
Today,we’re talking to Elle and Arabela about their start in freelance, trying to get paid in ice cream, and self-promo at craft fairs. They also tell me about the biggest challenge they’ve faced—and the biggest reward, as well as their number one tip for anyone looking to open their own studio.
Some Questions asked:
- Could you both share a little bit about your own career paths that led up to Weekend Creative? (02:26)
- How did you know that your partnership was the right choice? (11:12)
- What do you look for when taking on new clients? (25:39)
- What’s your favorite freelancing mishap story? And what did you learn from it? (28:50)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The story behind the name Weekend Creative (07:36)
- Some of the common struggles Arabela and Elle see when coaching new freelancers (18:48)
- Why Elle and Arabela recommend that everyone has a minimum rate for every project (20:33)
- Why micromanagement from a client is such a massive red flag (34:51)
Connect with Weekend Creative:
- Website
- Podcast
Connect with Arabela:
Connect with Elle:
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
When we start out as freelancers, it can be incredibly easy to underestimate the value of our work. Most of us would probably admit to intentionally underselling ourselves because we’re lacking confidence or in order to placate clients. Only as we begin to establish ourselves in our chosen field do most of us gain the perspective and conviction to charge what we’re really worth.
Welcome to episode six of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Savannah White, a stylist, creative consultant, and costume designer.
Today, we’re discussing with Savannah how she made the shift from Arkansas to New York, our mutual early experience with PR firms, and how she differentiated herself at the start of her career from others in her industry. We also chat about how she keeps her inspiration flowing and fresh, and the importance of staying flexible when it comes to building your business.
Some Questions asked:
- Do you feel like being part of the free internship era made it harder for you to know your worth when you first started out? (02:48)
- You’re from Arkansas, you came to the Big Apple. How did you get into all of this? And how did you decide, “I want to go do the styling route”? (06:51)
- What have been some of your favorite projects? (13:49)
- How has joining an agency helped your career so far? (26:34)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Why Savannah has low-balled herself for much of her career (01:46)
- Savannah didn’t even know how she could make a living from styling when she first began (11:09)
- How Savannah tries to hone in and connect with her clients (24:07)
- What Savannah is currently working on and how she measures her success (33:00)
Connect with Savannah:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Freelancing, like any career path, comes with its highs and lows. It’s the personal nature of the work that can make those peaks and valleys more extreme than in any other industry. It’s when your first truly incredible opportunity comes and you know that you’ve created it for yourself that all of it—the good and the bad—pays off.
Welcome to episode five of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Mark Clennon, a New York-based photographer who works toward capturing the Black experience.
Today, Mark is telling us all about how he got started as a freelance artist, what it was like to have his first-ever photography piece run in the Huffington Post, and how his personal projects keep him passionate.
Some Questions asked:
- Tell us a little bit about your career path, where did you start? (01:22)
- Has everything you’ve learned been self taught? (04:15)
- Was it intimidating for your first shoot to be with a major retail brand? (06:17)
- How did you navigate all of the huge requests and opportunities you received after your BLM protest photo went viral? (15:44)
- When you're on your own as a photographer, how do you measure success? (22:37)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What Mark’s shooting schedule looked like when he first transitioned to freelance (03:20)
- How Mark got the opportunity to shoot his first big campaign with Footlocker (04:49)
- About the iconic image that Mark took at a Black Lives Matter protest in 2020 and how it came to be (09:05)
- How Mark deals with lack of inspiration and where he’s been finding it lately (19:15)
- Mark’s mantra as a freelance artist (24:34)
Connect with Mark:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
For many, the value of freedom in our careers can be quickly overshadowed by the want or need for stability that corporate jobs often bring. But here’s the thing: the benefits of an established freelance community can instantly outweigh all that and provide the support and guidance of a traditional position.
Welcome to episode four of the Freelance Founders podcast.We’re talking to Carolyn Bothwell, a copywriter, brand strategist, and our founder.
Today, Carolyn is sitting down with us to talk all about her experience starting Freelance Founders, where her inspiration came from, and what made her realize this was the direction she wanted to go in.
Some Questions asked:
- Could you take us through your career, starting with when you were full-time, to present? (02:54)
- How and why did you decide to start Freelance Founders? (07:23)
- What was the biggest hurdle when starting Freelance Founders? (15:00)
- What do you feel is missing in the freelance community itself that you hope to achieve with Freelance Founders? (17:28)
- What does success mean to you? And how would you measure it in your own career? (27:57)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The two biggest moments that made Carolyn decide that freelance copywriting was the path she wanted to take (05:24)
- How having this podcast has created a space for freelancers to share and showcase their tips and stories (13:14)
- Carolyn’s dream goal for Freelance Founders’ future (21:32)
- Freelance Founders is always open to and looking for new members from all locations and all walks of life (25:02)
- Carolyn’s mantra and where it comes from (30:37)
Connect with Carolyn:
- Website
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
One of the things we value most as Freelance Founders is, well, the freedom—not only to choose our own path, but also from the expectations of a corporate title. The most important thing we can do for ourselves as freelancers is to embrace our own vision of success and prosperity, regardless of the ideas that have been set in front of us.
Welcome to episode three of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Ana Andjelic, brand executive, doctor of sociology, and one of Forbes’ most influential Chief Marketing Officers. She is also author of The Business of Aspiration which explores the modern aspiration economy and shifting brand narratives.
Today, Ana is talking to us about how her life in academia informs her career, the shift she’s seeing in power from corporations to individuals, and why excitement and inspiration are the most important factors for her in her work. We also discuss her book, the shifting economy that inspired the idea behind it, and why she believes that, at the end of the day, the only expectations you need to meet are your own.
Some Questions asked:
- What made you decide to go off on your own and become a brand executive, write your book, and start consulting? (02:39)
- Who were some of the big influential brands or dream clients of yours? (04:59)
- What made you decide to go back and get your Master’s and your Ph.D.? (10:25)
- What does success mean to you? And how do you measure it for yourself? (21:52)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Why Ana believes our economy is now creator-focused (03:43)
- Ana’s philosophy that there’s no point in spending time analyzing the past, especially when you were confident in your initial decisions (07:39)
- Ana’s book, The Business of Aspiration, was conceived to capture the changes in how people spend their time and money and how that relates to an aspirational economy (12:50)
- A bit about Ana’s role as an advisor to Dematerialised and her involvement in the NFT space (17:05)
Connect with Ana:
- The Business of Aspiration by Ana Andjelic
- The Sociology of Business on Substack
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
As Freelancer Founders, one of our greatest privileges is that we have the autonomy to choose the type of work we bring on—to support the communities and mission-driven companies that are aligned with our values. For many of us, this means that we niche down our services or our industries to ensure we’re doing the work we care about. For others, it’s about helping all clients see the bigger picture, and to help them learn and grow from our strategic guidance and expertise.
Welcome to episode two of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Brandon Williams, founder and CEO of 55 Media Group, a brand strategy ad agency that works to make a positive impact on the BIPOC community by giving voice to disenfranchised and under-represented groups.
Today, Brandon is telling us what spurred the realization that he no longer wanted to work for anyone but himself, what his clients have taught him about having patience, and why it’s so important for them to realize the process that goes into building a legacy. We also talk about the toll that self-imposed pressure can take on freelancers, how Brandon is able to further the mission he’s passionate about by being his own boss, and why he directs potential clients to TikTok to learn about inclusivity.
Some Questions asked:
- Can you walk us through your career and tell us how you ended up in freelance and starting your own company?(03:13)
- What did you feel like was the biggest challenge or hurdle to get past when you first started? (08:00)
- Do you feel like your clients were expecting immediate results? How did you overcome that and explain the process to them? (10:02)
- The mission for 55 Media Group is to support the BIPOC community, how do you approach this every day through your work? (20:20)
- Do you have a tagline or a mantra you’d like to share? (32:51)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- About some of the self-doubt Brandon had when he first started freelancing—and how he learned his work was about impact over awards (09:00)
- How Brandon is learning to go from a one-man-show to a running a team production (13:07)
- Brandon’s frustration with the biases and lack of diversity he often sees when potential clients bring him in for token holidays or heritage months (24:32)
- What success means to Brandon and how he quantifies it (31:52)
Connect with Brandon:
- 55 Media Group on LinkedIn
- 55 Media Group
- 55 Media Group on IG
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Many of us in the Freelance Founders community set out to build businesses that reflect our values. And, that’s where the work really begins. From creating boundaries and establishing processes to building a business rooted in integrity and finding clients you love, these are the ever-evolving struggles that make our work worth it.
Welcome to the first episode of the Freelance Founders podcast. We’re talking to Jess Tran, founder of Scallion Pancake, a purpose-driven brand marketing and influencer consultancy.
Today, Jess chats with us about what it’s like to be a small business owner without a traditional entrepreneurial support system or background, how invaluable it is to practice boundary work and explore your personal values, and how treating herself like an employee has been integral in allowing the rest she needs. We also cover what Jess’s definition of success is, why it doesn’t necessarily have a monetary value, and her mantra that revolves around surrender.
Some Questions asked:
- What was your first freelance rate? (00:53)
- What was it like working with companies like Squarespace and ClassPass as start-ups? (04:55)
- What does the name Scallion Pancake mean to you? (06:29)
- Can you tell us more about your plans for scaling Scallion Pancake? (18:40)
- Can you share some of your values and how you carry those over when you’re working with your clients? (21:09)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How losing her job during the pandemic was a major catalyst for Jess to create her own business (03:15)
- The way Jess’s upbringing affects the way she works and how she’s had to learn to set boundaries to stop herself from overcommitting (09:40)
- How prioritizing doing nothing is one of the most valuable things Jess does to avoid burnout (13:17)
- Why it’s so important to break the cycle of management that doesn’t care about employees (20:07)
- The importance Jess places on only collaborating with businesses that serve the same intentions as she does (21:15)
Connect with Jess:
- Website
- TikTok
- Scallion Pancake on IG
Let’s Connect:
- Website
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to the Freelance Founders Podcast, hosted by Kate Cervini. Each season, we’ll connect with the most creative minds in the industry to learn about their path to freelance, and what they’re working on (and charging) today.
Featuring Jess Tran, Brandon Williams, Ana Andjelic and Carolyn Bothwell, this podcast is the resource for modern-day freelancers, consultants, and studio founders. Join us each week as we chat about everything from charging your worth to designing your own career path.
Launching Tuesday, February 15.