The Modern Editor Podcast: Recent Episodes
Tara Whitaker
The Modern Editor Podcast, hosted by Tara Whitaker, goes behind the scenes of what it takes to run an editorial business in today’s world.
As an editor, I see commonly confused words all the time. There are the super common ones we all know (to/too/two, etc.), but lately I've been spotting a handful of less commonly confused words over and over again while copyediting manuscripts.
Whether it's the result of speech-to-text software, typing too quickly, or our brains simply filling in what we expect to see, these mistakes seem to be popping up for me lately. I figured I should highlight them in an episode of The Modern Editor so that you can watch out for them too!
Important Sections:* (1:32) Stock and Stalk * (2:17) Break and Brake * (2:45) Phase and Faze * (3:21) Peak, Peek, and Pique * (4:06) Casualty and Causality * (4:42) Keep a List of the Commonly Confused Words You Encounter While Copyediting
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
If you know me at all, you know I’m all about efficiency and becoming a more effective editor. There are so many repetitive tasks in editing that can steal your time and attention, which is why I’m sharing my favorite time-saving tool with you in today’s episode of The Modern Editor.
Allow me to introduce you to TextExpander, one of my favorite editing tools that doesn’t use generative AI.
Important Sections:* (1:07) What is TextExpander? * (3:51) How TextExpander Works
Resources Mentioned:* TextExpander * Espanso * aText * Writing With Color blog
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Curious about what my copyediting process looks like? I’m giving you a sneak peek in this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast. Listen in as I share the 10 quick searches I run every single time I start a new copyediting project.
Something I love about editing is that everyone has a different process, and I appreciate learning from others. This is a glimpse into the process that works for me, so take what you like and see if it works with your own process. There’s no one right way to edit.
Important Sections:* (1:35) Why I Like to Run Prechecks * (3:35) Extra Spaces * (4:25) -ly Adverbs with Hyphens * (5:00) Further and Farther * (5:33) Halves * (6:19) Compounds * (6:51) Words That End in “Like” * (7:46) Commonly Confused Words * (8:45) Comma With Internal or Terminal To, Either, or Though * (9:47) Double Punctuation * (10:28) Straight Apostrophes and Straight Quotes
Work with Me* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
What does it really take to become an editor? In this short-and-sweet episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m sharing how I got into the editing biz fourteen years ago. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t for the best reason 😅
This episode is for new and hopeful editors who want to learn from my experience and build a successful editing business. However, I think there are some good reminders for veterans, too. Listen in as I share the good, the bad, and the vulnerable!
Important Sections:* (1:05) I Could Find Typos Everywhere * (2:09) Did You Know There Are Different Types of Editors? I Didn’t! * (4:34) The Freelance Editors Club Membership Price is Going Down * (5:21) Four Steps to Getting Started as a Professional Editor * (10:54) Fourteen Years in and I’m Still Learning
Resources Mentioned: The Chicago Guide for Freelance Editors by Erin Brenner * Editorial Freelancers Association * ACES: The Society for Editing * Editors Canada * Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading * Northwest Editors Guild * San Diego Professional Editors Network * Freelance Editors Club * The Chicago Manual of Style * AP Stylebook * Developmental Editing by Scott Norton * Editing Fiction at Sentence Level by Louise Harnby (line editing) * The Copyeditor’s Handbook and Workbook by Amy Einsohn and Marilyn Schwartz * The Chicago Guide to Copyediting Fiction* by Amy J. Schneider
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Are you the right editor for the job? In this episode of The Modern Editor, I’m flipping the script and taking on the author’s POV. Listen in as I list what I think are the most important things authors should look for when hiring an editor.
This episode is directed toward authors, but editors will benefit from it too. You’ll learn whether or not you’re marketing yourself correctly so that the right authors hire you to work with them.
Important Sections:* (2:27) Number One: An Editor's Education * (4:51) Number Two: Does the Editor Work with Your Type of Content? * (7:46) Number Three: Look for Testimonials, Referrals, and Word-of-Mouth Recommendations * (9:28) Number Four: Ask for a Sample Edit * (13:16) Number Five: Values Alignment * (14:56) Number Six: Do They Use a Contract? * (15:57) Number Seven: Rates * (21:22) Number Eight: Deadlines and Availability
Resources Mentioned:* Writing With Color Descriptions Guide: Skin Color
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
I don’t know about you, but I could use a pep talk right about now. Things are feeling bleak in the editing and publishing industries, not to mention everything else going on in the world.
If you’re currently feeling defeated, bitter, exasperated, or annoyed about the state of our industry right now, you’re not alone.
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge what we’re going through in this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast. Listen in for a pep talk from yours truly, along with how I’m staying hopeful and focused through the muck.
Important Sections:* (0:56) The Current (Meh) Landscape of the Editing Industry * (4:03) How to Cope With These Challenges * (10:25) Keeping Hope Alive
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
If you thought I was done talking about generative AI, I’ve got news for you: I’m not 😅
Things are changing and advancing extremely fast, and I think it’s important for editors to be vocal about their stance on generative AI. Recently, I came across something that piqued my interest: a database of creatives who do not use generative AI in their work.
The concept got my wheels turning, and I debated starting my own database for editors. In this episode of The Modern Editor, I’m going through my thought process and sharing where I eventually landed with these databases. Listen in to learn why I ultimately decided against the idea and some crucial questions you should ask if you’re considering joining a database.
Inside the Freelance Editors Club, we do have a directory of members who now have the option to include a tag that labels them as an editor who does not use generative AI with editing.
Important Sections:* (0:40) What Are “No Generative AI” Databases? * (5:32) Why I Got The Ick * (10:18) Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Join a Database * (12:42) What I’m Planning to Do Instead
Mentioned in this Episode:
- Freelance Editors Club Member Directory
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
It’s been three years since I first talked about ChatGPT on the podcast, which is a lifetime in the tech world. How has generative AI progressed in those three years, and what do freelance editors need to do to protect themselves? That’s what we’re diving into on this episode of The Modern Editor.
Before we get started, it’s important to note that I hate generative AI with a fiery passion. If you’re looking for a balanced approach to the topic, you won’t find that here. However, I’m also not going to spend the whole podcast ranting about it. I’m here to provide practical tips you can implement in your editing business in the age of generative AI.
Important Sections:* (2:00) You Need to Have a Stance on Generative AI * (3:02) A Recap of the Last Three Years of Generative AI * (6:25) What We’ve Learned About AI Since 2023 * (12:13) My Predictions For the Future of Generative AI * (16:18) How to Protect Yourself Against Generative AI as an Editor * (21:34) Communicating Your AI Stance With Clients * (30:04) What Do You Do When Your AI Policy is Violated? * (33:13) What to Do if You’re Accused of Using Generative AI * (35:16) You’re Not Behind if You Don’t Use AI
Resources Mentioned:* Episode 21: Will ChatGPT Replace Editors and Authors? * Mystery Humming Noise Heard Across US States * Bartz v. Anthropic Settlement: What Authors Need to Know * AI's Effects On The Brain * Is AI dulling our minds? * BBC Finds That 45% of AI Queries Produce Erroneous Answers
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Do you understand the difference between working ON your business and working IN your business? As a freelancer filling multiple roles, it can take time to figure this out. First things first, you’re an editor, and editing is your bread and butter. However, you’re also the head of marketing, CEO, sales rep…the list goes on.
It’s a delicate balancing act, but one thing that can help is understanding the difference between working on your business versus in your business. Today, we’re revisiting one of the very first podcast episodes I ever released where I explain this difference and offer tips to make it all work. This episode is just as relevant today as it was when it was first released, so let’s dive in.
Important Sections:* (1:09) Why is it Important to Know the Difference? * (2:32) What Does it Mean to Work in Your Business? * (3:34) What Does it Mean to Work on Your Business? * (4:08) Working on Your Business Helps You Avoid Burnout * (8:03) The Perfect Balance Doesn’t Exist * (10:08) Time-Blocking Tips * (17:00) The Importance of Accountability Partners
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
I’ve been thinking a ton about different seasons of life lately, and it’s made me realize there are also different seasons we go through in our businesses.
The ugly truth is that not all seasons in our businesses are positive. Just like in life, it’s completely normal to go through hard times. Unfortunately, it’s easy to feel like a failure for experiencing a less-than-incredible season, which is a narrative that needs to be rewritten.
In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m walking you through the variety of seasons you may experience in your editing business so that you can normalize it instead of wondering if you’re doing something wrong.
Important Sections:* (1:44) Not All Business Owners Experience the Same Seasons * (3:07) The Learning Season * (3:50) The Planning Season * (4:23) The Networking Season * (7:25) The CEO Season * (9:02) The Pivot or Expansion Season * (9:58) The Maintenance Season * (11:23) The Dry Season * (14:29) The Back-End Season * (15:52) The Front-End Season * (16:50) The Burnout Season
Resources Mentioned:* Women in Publishing Summit * Episode 5: Working ON Your Business vs. Working IN Your Business
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Springtime comes with a sense of renewal and new opportunities that always make me feel reinvigorated. To celebrate, this episode is a re-air of a previous episode where I offered six tips to refresh your editing business.
Of course, you don’t have to wait for a certain season to follow these tips, but it’s natural to feel the itch to do a little spring cleaning at this time of year. Taking advantage of that fresh spring energy is the perfect way to set yourself up for success in quarter two. Consider this your spring cleaning checklist for your editing business.
Important Sections:* (2:23) Clean Up Your Workspace * (3:56) Declutter Your Desktop * (5:23) Refresh Your Bookmarks and Extensions * (6:10) Clean Up Your Email Subscriptions * (8:13) Organize Your Subscriptions and Memberships * (9:29) Declutter Your Social Media Following * (10:52) Spring Cleaning Your Business = Quick-and-Easy Wins
Resources Mentioned:* You Need a Budget app
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Welcome to our fourth and final episode in our editor wellness series! In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, we’re talking all about social and intellectual wellness for freelance editors.
There’s a lot to mull over in this episode, including the difficulty of making friends as an adult, cultivating critical thinking skills, and why you shouldn’t outsource your brain.
As always, this episode could bring up some emotions. Please take what works for you and leave the rest. Give these concepts time to sink in so you can apply them to your life in phases rather than all at once.
Important Sections:* (2:08) The Social Downside of Working Solo * (8:50) The Challenge of Making New Friends as an Adult * (11:33) What Is Intellectual Wellness? * (14:56) Don’t Outsource Your Brain * (19:11) Our Brains Are Our Superpower * (20:14) Your Wellness Is the Core of Your Editing Business
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Welcome back to our series on self-care! Our last few episodes covered physical/environmental wellness and financial health. In this episode, we’re diving into mental and emotional well-being tips for freelance editors.
Specifically, I’m talking about how our thoughts and emotions show up in our businesses and how I process my emotions. I’m also going to share some self-care ideas that can benefit your mental and emotional health.
It goes without saying that this can be a loaded topic, so please remember that I’m not a medical or mental health professional in any way. I’m simply sharing what I’ve learned from fourteen years of running my own editing business so that you can take the insights you like and make them work for you.
Resources Mentioned: Jessica Stong * Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab * Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey * Your Attention is Sacred Except on Social Media by Amelia Hruby * Hood Wellness by Tamela J. Gordon * The Cure for Burnout by Emily Ballesteros * Quiet* by Susan Cain * National Institute of Mental Health * Calm app: How to regulate your nervous system and restore calm: 12 proven techniques * Episode 3: Why Mindset is More than Just a Buzzword * Episode 7: Why You Need Boundaries in Your Business * Episode 26: How to Avoid (or Recover from) Burnout * Episode 47: Editor Self-Care: How to Use Affirmations in Your Business
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
If you want to confront your relationship with money, start a business. Have you heard this saying before? I couldn’t agree with it more. Nothing makes you get up close and personal with your finances than running your own editing business.
In this episode of The Modern Editor, we’re continuing our editor wellness series on self-care, but this time we’re talking all things money for freelance editors.
I think it’s safe to assume that most of us didn’t learn about money the way we should’ve and likely have complicated relationships with our finances. We’re diving into how our upbringing affects our relationship with money, how to improve our money mindset, and I’m giving you practical tips on how to run your freelance business as financially effective as possible.
Important Sections:* (2:45) The Systemic and Political Issues Involved in Owning a Business * (4:23) How to Improve Your Money Mindset * (8:09) Money Tips For Freelancers * (16:15) Take Your Business Finances Seriously * (18:00) How Often Should You Change Your Rates? * (19:52) It’s Okay to Seek Financial Aid * (20:48) Buy Back Your Time * (21:52) Three Money Mantras
Resources Mentioned: Keeping Finances Personal by Ellyce Fulmore * Moving Beyond Broke by Dasha Kennedy * Get Good With Money by Tiffany Aliche * I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi * We Should All Be Millionaires* by Rachel Rodgers * Editorial Freelancers Association * YNAB * Quickbooks * IRS website
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Welcome to a brand-new editor wellness series on The Modern Editor Podcast all about health, wellness, and self-care. (I kind of hate those words, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t important 😂) As freelancer editors, it’s easy to let our health fall by the wayside, especially in busy seasons.
In this episode, we’re exploring physical and environmental health and how we can take care of ourselves in a holistic way. Content warning: We’ll be talking about food and exercise.
Important Sections:* (0:56) Why You Need to Take Care of Yourself as a Freelancer * (3:51) The Importance of Sleep * (9:56) Drink Your Water * (10:56) Eat to Feel Good * (16:00) Move Your Body * (18:00) Fix Your Posture * (20:31) Take Care of Your Eyesight * (22:22) Take Deep Breaths * (23:22) Creating a Healthy Work Environment * (27:00) How to Incorporate Positive Health Changes With Tiny Habits®
Resources Mentioned: Tiny Habits* by BJ Fogg
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Instead of a typical goal-setting exercise to kick off the new year, I’m walking you through some writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing. Think of it more as a new year vibe check to help you ease into the year.
If you want to set some goals for 2026, I encourage you to join us inside the Freelance Editors Club, where we’re running those exercises!
Important Sections:* (0:14) Why Writing Prompts? * (2:45) Prompt One * (3:17) Prompt Two * (3:42) Prompt Three * (3:58) Prompt Four * (4:23) Prompt Five * (5:29) Prompt Six * (5:55) Prompt Seven * (6:18) 2026 is Not a Race
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
I can’t believe I’m typing this, but we’ve made it to the final episode of The Modern Editor of 2025. Naturally, I decided to use this episode to reflect on what I’ve learned this year, both personally and in my business.
I could easily talk about all the things that went wrong and the goals I didn’t hit this year, but I want to focus on the good instead. Two things can be true at once: The world can feel like it’s on fire, and I can be excited about my business. I can feel proud of what I’ve built and also wish it were growing faster.
I think it’s important to hold space for the good and the bad, but celebrating the good doesn’t mean you're ignoring the bad. So without further ado, let’s celebrate the best of 2025.
Important Sections:* (4:07) Lesson One: The Importance of Systems * (7:00) Lesson Two: It’s Okay for Priorities to Shift * (9:53) Lesson Three: My Business Comes After My Family and Loved Ones—Always * (11:25) Lesson Four: Things Are Going to Take Longer than You Expect or Want * (13:48) Lesson Five: Find Something Outside of Your Business That Lights You Up * (16:05) Lesson Six: Action is Always Going to Win
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Do you have clear professional boundaries for your business? In this episode, we discuss what boundaries you should have as an editor, why they’re important, and how you can enforce them using contracts.
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. I’m not a lawyer, but I am related to one, and we created an editing contract template that you can use with your editing clients. Find it here.
This episode originally aired on 9/25/24 as episode 37.
Important Sections:* (1:48) Do Boundaries Destroy Creativity? * (3:28) The Basic Definition of a Contract * (4:58) Adding Boundaries to Your Contracts Through Scope of Work * (6:52) Setting Boundaries With Payment Arrangements * (8:36) Creating Boundaries Around Deadlines * (10:42) Boundaries Around Communication * (13:15) Setting Boundaries Around Generative AI * (15:31) Defining Boundaries Around Acknowledgments * (18:31) How to Handle Contract Termination * (19:52) Introducing My Editing Contract Template
Resources Mentioned* Episode 7: Why You Need Boundaries in Your Business * Editorial Freelancers Association * Editors Canada * The Paper It’s Written On book * My new Editing Contract Template
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
As today’s fast-paced world races toward AI and hyperproductivity, I find myself wanting to slow down and take a different route. However, every once in a while, I start to second-guess myself. Am I making things harder by not maximizing every minute of my life? Should I be doing things faster?
This is a topic that’s been on my mind for a while, so I wanted to open up an honest discussion about it in this episode of The Modern Editor. Specifically, let’s talk about when friction can be good for our lives and editing businesses.
Important Sections:* (1:42) Does Convenience Drain Meaning Out of Life? * (4:30) How Friction Adds Humanity to Our Editing Businesses * (6:27) Experience Can’t Be Rushed * (7:22) You Don’t Need to Take Friction Out of Your Business * (8:10) When Friction is Unhelpful * (10:10) There Are No Shortcuts to Experience * (12:20) Find Your Community in the Freelance Editors Club
Resourced Mentioned Four Thousand Weeks* by Oliver Burkeman * Tiny Habits™ Method
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Are you utilizing email marketing for your editing business? Unlike social media, your newsletter subscriber list is something you own that no one can take away from you.
In this episode of The Modern Editor, we’re getting back to the basics of what a newsletter is, what it entails, and whether or not you need one for your business. Listen in as we explore a powerful communication tool that can help free you from the social media circus.
Important Sections:* (1:10) What is an Email Newsletter? * (3:35) Do You Need a Newsletter? * (5:36) Newsletter Ideas For Freelance Editors * (7:00) The Importance of Consistency * (8:12) How to Pitch Your Services in Your Newsletter * (11:57) Keep Your Newsletter Simple in the Beginning * (13:36) Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Start a Newsletter * (17:53) You’re In Control of How You Market Your Business
Resources Mentioned:* Kit email platform * Silver Scribe Editorial Services
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Is social media marketing the right marketing engine for your editing business? In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, we’re wrapping up our series on social media, so make sure you catch up on the first two episodes where we dive into the pros and cons of social media and how to market your business without it.
I’m sharing my favorite lessons and giving you a behind-the-scenes look into what’s happened with my business since I’ve been off social media for the past month.
Important Sections:* (1:16) My Social Media Break Timeline * (4:24) My Social Media and Marketing Stats Over the Last Month * (7:26) How I Feel After Being Off Social Media For a Month * (14:38) The Importance of Diversifying Your Marketing Strategy
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Are you considering adjusting your use of social media in your editing business? My guest on this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, Amelia Hruby, logged off social media for good in 2021 and hasn’t looked back. Now she teaches other business owners how they can still succeed without social media marketing.
Listen in as she shares her journey from Instagram content creator to podcaster and self-published author. Amelia shares her aha moment when she realized that her relationship with social media wasn’t healthy anymore, and how she avoids FOMO when it comes to keeping up with her friends.
Disclaimer: We’re not saying you need to get off social media or avoid social media marketing. Instead, we’re encouraging you to take a look at your relationship with social media and make a conscious choice about how you want to use it.
Important Section:* (2:55) From Becoming an Instagram Author to Leaving Social Media for Good * (7:41) Amelia’s Aha Moment * (12:19) Can You Build a Business Without Social Media? * (18:16) How to Connect with People off Social Media Apps * (30:40) Finding Social Media Alternatives * (37:34) How Leaving Social Media Inspired Amelia’s Latest Book * (54:58) Social Media Advice for Editors and Authors
Resources Mentioned:* Hotshot by River Selby * Jacqueline Fisch’s Substack article
Connect With the Guest Off the Grid podcast * Amelia’s Book: Your Attention is Sacred Except on Social Media*
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
If you’re anything like me, your relationship with social media is a bit on the rocks right now. So let’s talk about it: the good, the bad, and the ugly of social media marketing for your editing business.
Listen in as I share about my hot-and-cold relationship with social media, my plan for moving forward, and some reflection questions to help you navigate your own relationship with social media.
Important Sections:* (2:50) My Hot-and-Cold Relationship With Social Media * (5:39) Why I Decided to Take a Social Media Break * (15:38) You Get to Decide Your Own Social Media Boundaries * (16:13) Social Media Marketing Reflection Questions * (21:10) What if Your Business Relies on Social Media Marketing? * (23:37) Join My Social Media Challenge for Your Editing Business * (27:21) Join the Freelance Editors Club in Going Off the Grid
Resources Mentioned: Opal app * Your Attention is Sacred Except on Social Media* by Amelia Hruby * Off the Grid podcast * Off the Grid Toolkit * Off the Grid episode with Cody Cook-Parrott
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
We’ve all been there: You start working with a new client and it immediately feels like a bad fit. You might have missed or ignored some red flags that predicted this situation. Don’t beat yourself up; you’re not alone and can learn from these experiences.
In this episode, we’re discussing the top client red flags that have me running for the hills. We’ll also go over some common beige flags and tips for avoiding these situations as much as possible.
Important Sections:* (1:09) Top 11 Red Flags to Avoid * (18:06) New Client Beige Flags * (21:09) How to Prevent Red Flags * (26:58) Don’t Be Afraid to Say No
Resources Mentioned* Editorial Freelancers Association directory * ACES directory
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Does your editing business need a reset? In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m sharing six quick-and-dirty ways to freshen up your business for the back-to-school season. But don’t worry, this episode can still apply to you even if back to school doesn’t impact your schedule, or if you’re listening to it at a different time of year.
These six easy tips will make you feel reinvigorated, more organized, and get you starting off a new season on the right foot.
Important Sections:* (1:38) Tip One: Clear Your Workspace * (3:11) Tip Two: Organize Your Computer Desktop * (4:39) Tip Three: Clear Out Your Bookmarks and Extensions * (5:26) Tip Four: Unsubscribe From Email Lists * (7:32) Tip Five: Review Your Subscriptions and Memberships * (8:45) Tip Six: Clean Out Your Social Media Following * (10:07) There’s No Perfect Time For an Editing Business Reset * (10:55) Free Course: Keep Your Digital Life Organized
Resources Mentioned:* You Need a Budget app
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
In 2021, I took a major leap of faith and launched the Freelance Editors Club, an online community where editors can learn and grow their businesses. I’m amazed at how far our community has come since then, so in this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, we’re looking back at the history of FEC.
Listen in as we talk through how it all started, where the membership is at today, and the exciting things in store for the future.
Important Sections:* (1:27) How the Freelance Editors Club Came to Be * (9:00) From Then to Now: What the Freelance Editors Club Offers Today * (12:27) What’s Next For FEC? * (16:16) FEC Member Wins * (22:00) Try FEC For Free For 14 Days
Members Mentioned:* Neva Talladen: Otherwordy Editorial * Audrey Hodge: Hodgepodge Solutions * Philippa Hammond: Philippa Hammond Editorial * Deborah Taylor: The Blue Pencil * Rosalinda Alcalá: Word Bouquet
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Ever wish you could hit pause on the day and just breathe for a minute? This special episode of The Modern Editor Podcast is your invitation to do exactly that—with a whispered twist.
I’m exploring ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) for the very first time, combining soothing sounds with editing insights for a brief but blissful moment of calm. And yes, I’m whispering this entire episode thanks to a timely cold that made my voice unexpectedly ASMR-ready.
I’m personally a big fan of ASMR and have always wanted to try my hand at it, so I thought it would be fun to do an entire ASMR episode. I am by no means an ASMR artist, but I love watching and listening to ASMR to help me relax.
Important Sections:
- (1:15) What is ASMR?
- (3:43) ASMR Triggers
ASMR Artists I Recommend:
- Moonlight Cottage ASMR
- Shili ASMR
- Gibi ASMR
- ASMR Münür Önkan
- The ASMR Darling
- Angelo Shoe Shine
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Ready to get into the nitty-gritty of copyediting? In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m following up on my most popular episode to date: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Copyediting Process.
I’m sharing ten tips and practices for copyediting manuscripts, like how to spell “blonde” and whether or not you should capitalize the word “god.” I hope you can apply these tips to your copyediting process, and stay tuned for future episodes in this series for more!
Edit With Me WorkshopIf you want to learn more about my process and pick up some editing tips, I have an Edit With Me workshop inside the Freelance Editors Club. You can essentially sit over my shoulder and watch me edit! Join with a 14-day free trial to access the workshop.
Important Sections:* (2:33) Create Your Own Copyediting Process * (4:11) Tip One: Blonde or Blond? * (7:23) Tip Two: Okay or OK? * (8:07) Tip Three: Is God Capitalized? * (9:13) Tip Four: Damnit, Dammit, or Damn it? * (10:31) Tip Five: Mouthed Words * (11:14) Tip Six: Gestures and Facial Expressions * (12:55) Tip Seven: Searched Terms * (13:36) Tip Eight: Google as a Noun and Verb * (14:05) Tip Nine: Off Of * (14:54) Tip Ten: 911, 9-1-1, or Nine-One-One? * (16:21) Edit With Me Workshop
Resources Mentioned:* Episode 22: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Copyediting Process
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Are you using PerfectIt? If not, I can’t recommend it to freelance editors enough. For years, I let fear and intimidation stop me from taking advantage of this software, and now I wish I could get that time back.
On this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I sat down with Daniel Heuman, CEO of Intelligent Editing and creator of PerfectIt, to talk about how this program can help editors. Listen in as he shares about PerfectIt’s origin story, its many features, and an exclusive announcement about what’s next for the program.
Important Sections:* (1:03) What is PerfectIt? * (5:45) PerfectIt Frees Up Editors to Focus on What They Love * (10:28) What Does PerfectIt Actually Look Like? * (16:02) What Type of Document is PerfectIt Best Suited For? * (24:37) How to Start Using PerfectIt (Especially if You’re Feeling Intimidated)
Resources Mentioned* PerfectIt * PerfectIt Video Guides * Join the Style Works beta testing list
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Ready for a quick-and dirty-business chat? I recently returned from the Craft + Commerce Conference by Kit, and in this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m sharing my top two takeaways you can implement in your editing business.
Kit (formerly known as ConvertKit) is a platform for business owners that started as an email service provider. I’ve used it for several years, but this was my first year attending this conference. While it wasn’t exclusively for editors, the takeaways can absolutely help us grow our editing businesses.
Important Sections:* (1:03) All About the Kit Craft + Commerce Conference * (3:04) Why Consistency Is So Critical for Business Owners * (6:23) Storytelling Will Beat AI Every Time
Resources Mentioned:* Craft + Commerce Conference by Kit * Episode 45: How Editors Can Create Habits That Stick
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
You can do all the right things to plan for a break in your business, but coming back to work will still be hard. In this episode, we’re continuing our discussion on taking breaks as a business owner. Listen in as I share three major lessons I learned about my life and business after coming home from a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
This is the third installment in my series on taking breaks. You can check out the previous conversations in episode 33, where we covered taking time off as a freelancer, and in episode 42, where we talked about why it can be difficult to step away from your business for a well-deserved break.
Important Sections of the Conversation* (0:38) Why Is It So Hard to Come Back From a Break? * (2:25) Navigating the Vacation Hangover * (5:39) Seeing Work Tasks in a New Light * (6:57) Recognizing My Mental Load is Too Heavy
Resources Mentioned Episode 33: How to Take Time Off as a Freelancer * Episode 42: Why Is It So Tough to Take Breaks? * Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management For Mortals* by Oliver Burkeman
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
What does the publishing world look like from a first-time author’s perspective? As editors, it’s important for us to understand the process they go through as they publish their first book.
In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m joined by first-time author Sam Vander Wielan. Her new book, When I Start My Business, I’ll Be Happy, is a practical and transparent guide for online entrepreneurs.
We dive into choosing the right book title, working with a book coach, the editor-author relationship, how your online platform plays a role in landing a book deal, and so much more. You’re going to love this jam-packed episode!
Important Sections:* (2:00) From Corporate Lawyer to Entrepreneur: Meet Sam Vander Wielan * (6:38) Build Your Business Around a Great Idea, Not What You Love Doing * (8:27) Behind the Scenes of Choosing a Book Title * (12:27) How a Birth-Chart Reading Led to a Book Deal * (17:09) All Roads Lead to the Email List * (20:42) The Writing Process as a First-Time Author * (27:17) Writing From a Place of Transparency * (31:46) The Editor-Author Relationship * (37:37) The Perks of Being a Second-Time Author * (44:37) Lead With Curiosity
Connect With Sam: Book: When I Start My Business, I’ll Be Happy * Podcast: On Your Terms* * Website: samvanderwielen.com
Resources Mentioned:* Kit Studios * Richelle Fredson * Wendy Sherman * ManyChat * Kit (formerly ConvertKit)
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
We’ve officially hit fifty episodes of The Modern Editor Podcast! I’ve never been great at slowing down enough to celebrate achievements, so I want to take a moment to reflect on this milestone instead of rushing toward the next goal. Listen in as we celebrate The Modern Editor Podcast by the numbers. Don’t worry, there’s no math involved!
Important Sections:* (2:20) The Modern Editor by the Numbers * (4:03) Top Five Downloaded Episodes * (6:40) How Many Times I Took a Break * (8:34) My Apple Podcasts Rating * (10:55) Top Two Lessons I’ve Learned From Podcasting * (13:38) What Do You Want to Hear in Future Episodes?
Resources Mentioned Writing an Identity Not Your Own* with Alex Temblador * Elevate Your Business Processes with Akua Konadu * Borrow the Mic with Haylee Gaffin * Five Things I Wish I’d Known When I Started My Editing Business * Running a Business During Tough Times * How Many Hours a Day Can You Edit? * How to Find Time to Get Things Done * A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Copyediting Process * Gaffin Creative
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
Could appearing on a podcast help grow your editing business? Not only can it grow your brand, but it can set you up as an expert in your field. In today’s episode, Haylee Gaffin of Gaffin Creative joins us to explain why editors should consider leveraging podcasts as a marketing tool in their business.
Listen in as we talk all about why freelance editors should pitch themselves as podcast guests, the power of borrowing someone else’s audience, and what makes a great podcast pitch.
Ready For More Podcast Training?If you want to dive deeper into podcasts, whether that’s as a host or a guest, join us inside the Freelance Editors Club. Haylee is leading a podcast training in May 2025, where we’ll talk more about pitching yourself as a guest and how to use podcasts to grow your business.
(Seeing this after May 2025? You can still access the video recording when you join the club!)
Important Sections:* (1:08) Are Podcasts Still Relevant in 2025? * (10:51) The Power of Borrowing Someone Else’s Mic * (13:10) How to Pitch Yourself as a Podcast Guest * (18:52) The Key to Finding the Right Podcasts to Pitch Yourself to as a Guest * (27:48) Pitch Yourself With Clear Goals in Mind * (35:57) Where to Find New Podcasts * (39:57) What to Do After You Appear on a Podcast * (47:47) Ready For More Podcast Training?
Resources Mentioned* Listen Notes * Rephonic
Connect With the Guest* Gaffin Creative * @hayleegaffin * Clocking In podcast
Work with Me:* Grab the Editing Contract Template * Join the Freelance Editors Club
(Note: As expected, this episode became out of date within 24 hours of recording…but the same overall ideas still apply. If nothing else, I want this episode to get you thinking about what you have control over and help you prepare for what is going to be a roller coaster of economic BS in the future. If you want up-to-date financial and small business info, here are my favorites: The Broke Black Girl, Ramit Sethi, The Budgetnista, Her First 100K, and Ellyce Fulmore.)
How will tariffs impact your editing business? In this episode, I’m going to share what my family is doing to alleviate stress when it comes to tariffs, as well as what I predict is going to happen. However, I hope I’m wrong…
I’m not a financial expert or economist, so please don’t take anything I say as advice. I’m simply sharing my experience and how it relates to us editors who rely on a steady income stream and encounter expenses required to run their businesses.
Important Sections:* (1:48) Replace Your Electronics * (3:55) Get Intentional With Your Money * (6:15) My Tariff Predictions * (7:44) Lean Into Your Community
Resources Mentioned* You Need a Budget
Work with Me:* Join the Freelance Editors Club * Grab the Editing Contract Template
Affirmations are short statements that help anchor you to the present moment. I actually prefer to call them anchor thoughts for this very reason. I’ve found myself relying on anchor thoughts more than usual lately in my life and editing business, so I thought I would share my favorites with you so you can take advantage of them as a freelance editor.
I’m also going to share the purpose behind anchor thoughts. The world has been a stressful place recently, and these anchor thoughts are great tools that help me maintain perspective.
Important Sections* (1:52) What’s the Point of an Anchor Thought? * (2:55) The TEARA Process * (5:52) My Five Favorite Anchor Thoughts * (8:06) We Have to Take Care of Ourselves
Resources Mentioned* Why Mindset is More Than Just a Buzzword episode * Nadia Geagea Pupa’s Affirmation Cards for Editors
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Did you read this episode title and immediately check out? Trust me, I get it, but I’m here to change your mind about macros.
I came late to the game on macros because of several limiting beliefs that held me back. I didn’t think I was tech-savvy enough to use them, so I wrote them off for a long time. Now that I’ve started using them, I can confidently say that macros have saved me tons of time as an editor.
I’m still a baby user, but macros have positively impacted my editing in such a short time that I feel like I have to shout it from the rooftops. If you’ve never used macros before and think they aren’t your thing, this episode is for you.
Important Sections* (1:45) What are Macros? Resources to Get You Started * (3:30) Why Use Macros? * (6:30) My Top Three Favorite Macros * (10:39) Join the Macros Workshop Inside the Freelance Editors Club
Resources Mentioned* Word Macro Tools * Paul Beverley’s YouTube Channel * Paul Beverley’s blog * Editorial Freelancers Association * Macro of the Month by Jennifer Yankopolus
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Are you looking to make small changes with big impact in your editing business? In this episode, we’re talking about how editors can create habits that make their businesses better with the Tiny Habits® Method. This isn’t about creating tons of to-do lists and optimizing every second of your life—it’s about forming achievable habits you look forward to completing because they help your business run smoother and make you feel good.
Listen in as I share how I figured out I needed to start small with basically everything in my life, including habits. We’re also going to talk about the concept of habits and the habit-forming method that works best for me. As always, take what works for you from this episode and leave or tweak the rest.
Important Sections:* (1:16) Small Changes Equal Big Results * (4:48) The Tiny Habits® Method * (7:29) Three Tiny Habits® Recipes for Editors * (13:23) Emotions Create Habits * (17:05) Tiny is Powerful
Resources Mentioned* Tiny Habits * Tiny Habits® book * Rest is Resistance book
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
If you’re anything like me, you know the impact that conferences (both in-person and virtual) can make on your business and education, yet as an introvert, it takes a bit of preparation. As I gear up for an online summit, I want to share a few tips to not only prepare for an event and manage your energy during the event, but also get the most out of the event.
Note: This is from the perspective of a neurotypical introvert. Everyone’s experiences are going to be unique, and I’m simply sharing what works for me!
Important Sections:* 00:17 - Prepping for a Conference as an Introvert * 02:09 - Set Aside Time to Recharge * 06:22 - Set Your Priorities * 08:41 - Check Your Tech * 11:00 - Remember Your Manners * 11:28 - Ask Questions * 13:21 - Follow Up After
Resources Mentioned* CMOS * Women in Publishing Summit
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
If you’re anything like me, there are times when you’ve been deep in your editing cave. In those heavy editing times, I always find myself reaching for my trusty Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) to confirm my work. With so many rules, it’s impossible to remember them all, but there are some I check all. the. time. In this episode, I’m sharing the five rules I always double-check while editing.
This episode was recorded in January 2025, after the release of CMOS 18 in September 2024. All references made are based on CMOS 18.
For fun: Are you constantly in your editing cave? Check out my sticker pack that includes my signature editing cave sticker!
Important Sections:* (3:20) CMOS Hyphenation Guide * (5:57) Glossary of Problematic Words and Phrases * (8:01) Titles and Offices * (9:14) Commas * (10:36) Possessives
Resources Mentioned* CMOS * The Editing Sticker Pack
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
There’s an emotional side to taking breaks from work that not enough people talk about. The truth is that we’re so used to working (and feeling guilty when we don’t) that our brains fight us every step of the way. We end up either never taking breaks or taking breaks that aren’t restorative.
How do you prepare your mindset to take the break you deserve as both a small business owner and a human?
Important Sections:* (1:37) My Experience With Taking Breaks * (4:35) Rest is a Right * (7:04) Rest Doesn’t Cancel Out Hard Work * (8:24) Explore Your Mindset Around Taking Breaks
Resources Mentioned* Rest is Resistance book
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Are you on the fence about joining a book club? Over the years, I’ve had both good and bad experiences with book clubs, and I currently host one inside the Freelance Editors Club. In this episode, I’m sharing my top five reasons to join a book club and tips on finding the right one for you.
I’d love for you to join us in the Freelance Editors Club and be part of our book club. We mostly read books that center around editing, writing, business building, and personal development. We also read a fun fiction book every December. You can find out more about it and join us here.
Important Sections* (1:04) 1: Educational Opportunities * (2:00) 2: Community and Connection * (3:31) 3: Accountability * (4:38) 4: Reading Outside Your Usual Choices * (5:42) 5: Hearing New Perspectives * (6:48) How to Find a Book Club * (11:37) Create Your Own Book Club * (12:31) Join the Freelance Editors Club Book Club
Resources Mentioned* Freelance Editors Club Book Club
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Do you see other entrepreneurs seamlessly taking on new clients while you’re piecing together your processes like a puzzle? In today’s episode, Akua Konadu, host of the Independent Business Podcast, joins us to share valuable insights on how you can grow your business. Listen in as she breaks down some of the major findings that came out of the research behind Honeybook’s 2025 Growth Guide, along with key takeaways that’ll help you harness more business growth in 2025.
Important Sections* (1:34) The Quick and Dirty Summary of Honeybook and How it Can Help Grow Your Business * (7:02) Understanding Honeybook’s Growth Guide * (10:03) The Importance of Diversified Revenue Streams * (14:13) Why You Need to Build Client Loyalty * (19:48) How to Use the Revenue Benchmarking Tool * (21:51) How Editors Can Leverage Retainer Clients to Grow Their Revenue * (25:47) The Future of Entrepreneurship
Resources Mentioned* 2025 Growth Guide * The Harris Poll * Honeybook
Connect with Akua* Website: https://akuakonadu.com/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akuakonadu_/
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Are you ready to expand your offerings? Maybe you've elevated your skill set and you want to add a different type of editing, or maybe you want to create a product that'll meet more of your clients’ needs.
In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to think through before you introduce a new product or service to your editing business. Is now the right time? How do you create new products? Then, how do you launch them? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty!
Important Sections* (1:03) Why Not to Launch a New Product or Service * (3:19) Do You Really Want to Create a New Product or Service? * (5:27) Is the Product or Service Needed in the Industry? * (7:57) Does This Product or Service Fit Into Your Existing Business * (10:16) How to Create Your New Product or Service * (13:56) Picking a Launch Date * (15:42) Promoting Your New Product or Service * (19:47) Assessing Your New Product or Service
Resources Mentioned* Editing Contract Template * Canva * Episode 14: 11 Ways to Market Your Editing Business Outside of Social Media
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your business or personal life? I’ve experienced this lately, so I wanted to share some tactics I use to help myself feel unstuck. I’m sharing these tips to illustrate that even coaches need coaches, just like editors need editors. I want to normalize the fact that everyone needs help.
Sometimes I need someone else to tell me something in a different way or from a different perspective. I want to be up front that while I’m using these tactics I’m sharing with you, I’m also talking to my two coaches about my situation. I want this podcast to be supportive and help you move forward, but I also encourage you to ask for help when you need it.
Important Sections* (2:03) Start With Getting Curious * (3:26) Tactic One: Take a Break * (4:53) Tactic Two: Do a PITA Audit * (9:04) Tactic Three: Create a New Habit * (11:25) Tactic Four: Try Something New * (14:58) Get Coached by Me
Resourced Mentioned Notion * Tiny Habits Certification * Tiny Habits* by BJ Fogg * Canva
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Do you have clear boundaries for your editing business? In this episode, we discuss what boundaries you should have as an editor, why they’re important, and how you can enforce them using editing contracts.
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. I’m not a lawyer, but I am related to one, and we created an editing contract template that you can use with your editing clients. Find it here.
Important Sections:* (1:48) Do Boundaries Destroy Creativity? * (3:28) The Basic Definition of a Contract * (4:58) Adding Boundaries to Your Contracts Through Scope of Work * (6:52) Setting Boundaries With Payment Arrangements * (8:36) Creating Boundaries Around Deadlines * (10:42) Boundaries Around Communication * (13:15) Setting Boundaries Around Generative AI * (15:31) Defining Boundaries Around Acknowledgments * (18:31) How to Handle Contract Termination * (19:52) Introducing My Editing Contract Template
Resources Mentioned* Episode 7: Why You Need Boundaries in Your Business * Editorial Freelancers Association * Editors Canada * The Paper It’s Written On book * My new Editing Contract Template
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Should you review books as an editor? Back in the day, I used to be a book blogger (which is now called a book reviewer), but I stopped when I became an editor. Why? In today’s episode, I’m telling you exactly why.
Disclaimer: I am not saying that editors cannot review books. Some people can do both and it works really well for them. I think you should do what feels right for you and your business. I’m simply sharing my experience and thoughts with you, and this is a judgment-free zone.
This episode was inspired by the discourse I saw on Threads about this subject, so I hope my experience can add to the discussion.
Resources Mentioned* Episode 35 with Alex Temblador
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
When authors write about characters from different backgrounds, it’s important they do the research to understand why they’re writing the way they do—avoiding biases they may not realize they have. It’s our job to review this work, and today’s guest has created the tool and resource to make you a better editor. Alex Temblador joins us to share about her new book called Writing an Identity Not Your Own.
This is Alex’s first nonfiction book, but she’s previously published two fiction books: Secrets of the Casa Rosada and Half Outlaw. She received her MFA in creative writing from the University of Central Oklahoma and is a contributor to Living Beyond Borders: Growing Up Mexican in America, and Speculative Fiction for Dreamers: A Latinx Anthology.
She is an award-winning travel, arts, and culture journalist who specializes in diversity, equity, and inclusion, publishing in the likes of Condé Nast Traveler, Outside, and Travel + Leisure, and speaking about such topics at SXSW, the Society of American Travel Writers, and the World Travel Market.
Alex lives in Dallas, Texas, where she runs a literary panel series called LitTalk and is the executive director of Write Here DFW.
Want a chance to win her book? St. Martin’s has kindly given me a copy to give away to a lucky podcast listener. Click here to enter.
Important Sections* (0:38) Meet Alex Temblador * (2:53) Alex’s Writing Journey * (9:17) How to Feel Confident Writing Other Identities * (15:33) Confronting Your Biases to Grow as a Writer * (20:58) The Editing Process For Writing an Identity Not Your Own * (27:08) The Responsibility of Editors * (31:29) How to Approach Writing Different Identities Based on Genre * (39:16) Confronting Your Biases is a Continual Journey
Connect with Alex* Writing an Identity Not Your Own on Bookshop.org * Alex’s website: https://www.alextemblador.com/ * Book website: https://www.writinganidentitynotyourown.com/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex_temblador/ * X: https://twitter.com/alex_temblador * Threads: https://www.threads.net/@alex_temblador * Enter the giveaway to win the book here!
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
What do kids and editing have in common? In this episode, I’m sharing five nuggets that my kids have taught me that have helped me become a better editor and business owner. I always say that my kids teach me more than I teach them every day, but I didn’t expect there to be an overlap with my business.
Disclaimer: you don’t need to have kids, want kids, or even like kids to get anything out of this episode. Now let’s dive in!
Important Sections* (0:56) Lesson One: Practice Makes Progress * (3:28) Lesson Two: You Don’t Know How to Do Something…Yet * (6:20) Lesson Three: Approaching New Things With a Growth Mindset * (8:19) Lesson Four: Nothing Will Go According to Plan * (10:31) Lesson Five: Things Don’t Take as Long as I Think They Do * (13:44) Episode 35 Teaser
Resources Mentioned* Episode 3: Why Mindset is More Than Just a Buzzword * Episode 33: How to Take Time Off as a Freelancer * Parkinson’s Law
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Do you struggle with taking time off as a freelancer? When you’re your own boss and wear several hats, vacation time often gets put on the back burner. However, it’s up to us to take care of ourselves.
In this episode, we’re talking about how to take both planned and unplanned time off as a freelancer. We’re going to talk about how to arrange your schedule so it's more conducive to taking breaks, how to work with some trusted colleagues, and how to honor your time off.
Important Sections:* (1:08) Taking Time Off is Easier Said Than Done * (1:43) How to Schedule Time Off and Communicate it With Your Clients * (6:05) Prepping For Your Time Off * (8:50) Budgeting For Your Time Away * (10:47) How to Take Unplanned Time Off * (14:39) Give Yourself Grace and Honor Your Boundaries * (17:55) Time Off Doesn’t Have to be a Vacation
Resources Mentioned:* YNAB app
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
Do you struggle with comparison in your freelance editing business? I believe we all compare ourselves to others throughout our lives. However, my hot take is that it’s not always a bad thing.
In this episode, we’re talking about the positives and negatives of comparison. We’ll dig into when comparison hurts your editing business and discuss when and how to compare yourself to others in a beneficial way.
Important Sections:
- (1:00) Why Am I Talking About Comparison?
- (4:44) Is Comparison the Thief of Joy?
- (7:03) How to Avoid Negative Comparison
- (8:43) How to Use Comparison in a Positive Way
Resources Mentioned:* James Clear * Atomic Habits * Episode 3: Why Mindset is More Than Just a Buzzword
Work with Me:* Book a free 15-minute call * Join the Freelance Editors Club * Book a 1:1 coaching session
If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for a great book to read. Over the past few months, there have been a lot of amazing new books published about editing, writing, and the publishing industry, and I wanted to share my recommendations with you today.
The following books are listed in order of publication dates, and they’re linked to my Bookshop.org affiliate account. However, make sure you check out your local library or bookstores too.
I chose books that can be read at any stage of your editing career. Some of them may seem like they’re for a specific type of editor, but I always encourage editors at all stages of their business to read outside of their specific skill set or preferred genre. For example, even though I’m a copyeditor, I still read books about developmental editing because a well-rounded editor makes for a great editor.
Important Sections: (1:08) Why you should read all types of editing books * (1:44) Book One: How to Enjoy Being Edited by Hannah de Kieijzer * (2:25) Book Two: Developmental Editing by Scott Norton * (3:06) Book Three: The Design of Books by Debbie Berne * (3:38) Book Four: The Chicago Guide for Freelance Editors by Erin Brenner * (4:25) Book Five: The Conscious Style Guide by Karen Yin * (4:57) Book Six: Writing an Identity Not Your Own by Alex Temblador * (5:40) Book Seven: The Chicago Manual of Style, 18th Edition*
Resources Mentioned:1. How to Enjoy Being Edited by Hannah de Kaeijzer 2. Developmental Editing by Scott Norton 3. The Design of Books by Debbie Berne 4. The Chicago Guide for Freelance Editors by Erin Brenner 5. The Conscious Style Guide by Karen Yin 6. Writing an Identity Not Your Own by Alex Temblador 7. The Chicago Manual of Style, 18th Edition
Work with Me:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Book a 1:1 coaching session
There is a fine line we walk when we approach burnout. I know this all too well, which is why today’s episode is our first release in seven months. After facing my own spout of burnout and still actively recovering from it, I knew I had to ask for help in my business and it has made all the difference. In today’s episode, I’m sharing a little about that journey and what you should consider if you’re ready to ask for help!
Important Sections of the Conversation:
1:04 - Discussing Burnout and Recovery
3:58 - The Importance of Asking for Help
6:40 - Tips for Delegating and Hiring Help
16:19 - Personal Life and Final Thoughts
Mentioned in This Episode:
- Episode 25: How to Find Time to Get Things Done
- Episode 26: How to Avoid (or Recover From) Burnout
- The Cure for Burnout
- Freelance Editors Club Book Club
Work with Me:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Book a 1:1 coaching session
With so much turmoil going on in the world, it can be hard to stay focused and find the motivation to continue with business as usual. Recently, I’ve often found myself asking, What’s the point? Who cares where this Oxford comma goes? None of this matters when atrocities are happening every day. We can feel helpless and hopeless. So, how do we keep moving forward?
In this episode, I’m sharing some of the things that I’m doing to help me move forward every day. A few highlights from today’s episode are:
- 04:11 – Remembering the things we can control
- 05:07 – Finding joy and positivity in the small things
- 08:07 – How our work as editors does matter
Connect:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Tara on Instagram
- Tara on Facebook
As a coach for freelance editors, one of the most common questions I get asked is about how many hours a day editors should be editing. And the answer is one of my favorites—it depends!
In this episode, we’ll dive into specific questions you need to ask yourself that’ll help you figure out how many hours you should be editing in a day. Because (surprise, surprise!) it varies greatly for everyone. Here are some highlights below:
- 03:49 – Looking at what a typical workday looks like for you, including downtime, interruptions, and caregiving requirements, and how they’ll play a factor in your editing hours
- 08:05 – One question that may seem funny and irrelevant but is super important!
- 16:01 – How you can use your editing hours to help determine your editing rate
*Disclaimer: The math I attempted in this episode makes zero sense. I’m an editor, not a mathematician 🤣
Connect:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Tara on Instagram
- Tara on Facebook
In this short-and-sweet episode, we’re going to talk about what “booked out” means to you and if it’s something you even want to work toward (it might not be!).
Connect:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Tara on Instagram
- Tara on Facebook
I’m back! After an unintentional four-month hiatus, I’ll be sharing my experience with burnout and tips for how to avoid and/or recover from it. If you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or solopreneur who wears all the hats, this episode is for you.
Connect:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Tara on Instagram
- Tara on Facebook
Have you ever sat down at the end of the day and asked yourself, “What did I even do today?” If so, this is the podcast episode for you. I go over how you can take back your time and get things done that matter to you.
Work with Me:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
- Book a 1:1 coaching session
Connect with Me:
- Website
- TikTok
Time to put on your CEO hat! In this episode, I walk you through the routine I created to review and reset my business every month.
Work with Me:
- Book a free 15-minute call
- Join the Freelance Editors Club
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Tax time doesn’t have to mean stress. In this episode, I go over some of the most common business expenses freelance editors can deduct on their yearly taxes.
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In this episode, I give you a behind-the-scenes look into my copyediting process and share ten of my favorite searches I run before I dive into a copyediting project.
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AI-generated content and ChatGPT have created a lot of buzz, especially in content-focused industries. In this episode, I cover the basics of ChatGPT, the ethics around using the tool, and my opinion on whether editors and authors should be concerned about being replaced.
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In this episode, I'm taking you through my process on how to create intentional goals but with a slight twist (hint: it's not actually about the goals). I've found this process to be incredibly effective, and it's completely changed how I approach goal-setting in my editing business.
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Based on current trends I’m seeing in the editing industry, I’ve created a short list of my predictions and hopes for freelance editors for 2023. Tune in to learn more about these trends and get ideas for your editing business.
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In this episode, I share some tips on how to pick a word of the year and how your word (or words) can help guide your business when implemented in alignment with your goals.
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Reflection, no matter when its done, is an important tool when it comes to prioritizing and setting goals. In this episode, I share some thought-provoking questions to help you pause, reflect, and analyze before you start setting new goals.
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In this episode, I talk about how defining your purpose and values can help guide you in the decision-making process.
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In this episode, we’re going to channel our inner three-year-old selves to help us make intentional decisions about our businesses.
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Social media can be a great marketing tool, but it shouldn’t be the only way we promote our businesses. In today’s episode, I’m sharing 11 other ways we can market our editing businesses that don’t involve hashtags or dancing videos.
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To wrap up my business anniversary celebration, I’m sharing 10 lessons I’ve learned over the past 10 years. Some of them might surprise you!
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Looking back over ten years of business, I’ve come up with five things I wish I had known back in year #1. This episode is a must-listen for editors just starting out in the freelance world.
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In this episode, we're going to talk about the best (and worst) things about freelancing editing. This isn't an "everything is amazing and sunshine and butterflies" episode; this is an honest look into the highs and lows of being in business for yourself. It's real talk with a healthy (not toxic) dose of positivity.
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After attending the ACES Accelerate conference, I’m sharing my take on the importance of editing industry events and how to find the right ones for you.
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When it comes to building our freelance editing businesses, we “pay” for things in two ways: time and/or money. In today’s episode, I talk about when you should invest with each in your business.
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Our journeys into freelance editing and within our businesses are incredibly unique and interesting. In this episode, I talk about our journeys and share a simple mindset shift to help you honor your own path.
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Boundaries are so important (and we all know that), and yet they can be really difficult to implement. Tune in to hear more about how boundaries can help our editing businesses.
Did you know that we tell ourselves stories every day? Most of the time we don’t even realize it, but those stories can impact our editing businesses in a not-so-great way. In this episode, I explain how to recognize our internal stories and the steps we can take to manage our thoughts.
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Did you know that we tell ourselves stories every day? Most of the time we don’t even realize it, but those stories can impact our editing businesses in a not-so-great way. In this episode, I explain how to recognize our internal stories and the steps we can take to manage our thoughts.
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- Book a free 15-minute call
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Freelancers wear many hats, and it’s important we know how to work both on and in our businesses. I talk about the differences between each and why they’re important, plus I share my tips on how to maintain “balance” at any stage of your business.
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Words have power, and the words we use affect others. In this episode, we talk about words that I suggest taking a second look at before using in your business.
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There’s a lot of talk about mindset out there, but there’s nothing about how to actually improve your mindset in a productive way (other than “just think positive!”). In today’s episode, I take you through a five-step process that shows you how to manage your mindset so that you can run your business from a place of confidence.
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In this episode, I share my top three tips for finding quality education, training, and coaching for your editing business.
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Welcome to the very first episode of The Modern Editor Podcast! After a brief self-introduction, I take you through how this podcast came about and what to expect in future episodes.
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