The Content Byte
The Content Byte is a podcast for freelance writers, copywriters, journalists and content strategists who use their words to make money. Hosted by Rachel Smith and Lynne Testoni, we bring you fabulous guests, no-fluff tips and tactics to help you make the most of your freelance business. New episodes drop every Monday morning wherever you pick up your podcasts.
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Breaking the freelance stress cycle - with Sabina Read
02/15/2026
Breaking the freelance stress cycle - with Sabina Read
This week Rachel and Lynne chat with psychologist Sabina Read about catastrophising, perfectionism and the freelance stress spiral. Sabina explains catastrophising as a cognitive distortion where we jump to the worst-case scenario and treat thoughts as facts, and why it can show up more in freelancing due to a lack of workplace “guardrails” such as regular income and employer support. They discuss: the difference between genuine, evidence-based concerns (like fewer jobs or more competition) and catastrophising how scarcity vs abundance mindsets influence freelance anxiety why perfectionism fuels anxiety, and why “good enough is good enough” how the brain reinforces threat-focused neural pathways – and how to build new ones by noticing what’s working practical circuit breakers and using breath to come down from fight-or-flight before making decisions how avoidance fuels fear, and how resilience is built by tolerating discomfort without over-attaching to outcomes being discerning with social media and algorithm-driven negativity clarifying what you want to move toward (not just what you want to escape), and the power of saying no to misaligned work Find Sabina at She also hosts the Human Cogs podcast, and The Separation Guide Podcast Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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How to reinvent yourself, with Phoebe Hartley
02/08/2026
How to reinvent yourself, with Phoebe Hartley
This week on the podcast, Rachel and Lynne talk to Phoebe Hartley about her creative journey from filmmaking to journalism, and now to launching her own print magazine, Billy. Phoebe shares insights on: the challenges of career reinvention transitioning from film to journalism launching and running a local magazine balancing work and family life in a rural setting and the value of community support and collaboration Listen in for tips on creative flexibility, managing imposter syndrome, and navigating the evolving freelance landscape. Connect with Phoebe via or Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Self-publishing and book coaching with Anna Featherstone
02/01/2026
Self-publishing and book coaching with Anna Featherstone
In our first episode for 2026, Rachel and Lynne discuss self-publishing and book coaching with guest Anna Featherstone. Anna, a mentor, book coach, editor, and author of five nonfiction books, shares insights about the self-publishing process, including the importance of producing a quality product, effective marketing strategies, and the realities of the publishing industry. Key topics include: how to approach book cover design understanding the difference between traditional and indie publishing the role of authors in marketing their work tips for getting books into libraries and literary festivals the importance of having a clear purpose for writing why you need to continue to improve your writing Connect with Anna via her website: Blog posts on Rachel's List featuring Anna: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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BEST OF 2025: Using ChatGPT as your marketing brain, with Steven Lewis
01/26/2026
BEST OF 2025: Using ChatGPT as your marketing brain, with Steven Lewis
This week is the last of our Best of 2025 series and in this episode podcast, Rachel and Lynne discuss the impact of AI on freelance writing and marketing with guest Steven Lewis. Steven, a seasoned journalist and copywriter, offers a deep dive into using AI, specifically custom GPTs, to streamline marketing tasks for freelancers. He explains: • the practical steps to creating a custom GPT • how it can maintain consistent client communication • how it can give feedback on your copy to ensure it is on-brand • how it can help freelancers focus on high-value creative tasks • the ethical considerations of AI use and the importance of human connection in an increasingly automated world Connect with Steven on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenlewissydney/ The link to the course he talks about is: And listeners can get a 10% discount using the coupon code CONTENTBYTE25 Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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BEST OF 2025: Helen Dehen on investing in your business to gain confidence and earn more
01/19/2026
BEST OF 2025: Helen Dehen on investing in your business to gain confidence and earn more
In another of our podcast summer series, we revisit a great episode with communications consultant and writer Helen Dehen, talking about her commitment to upskilling herself and the many courses she has done - which have helped to drive her business and profitability. During our chat, Helen talks about her early career in TV journalism and her move to freelancing when her twins were born. She shares some of the courses she did in the the early days and how they positioned her to build a strong and successful freelance writing business. Helen talks about: The value of investing in professional development and networking How it gave her confidence in the early days of freelancing What the return on investment has been with some of the courses she has done Her experience with continuous learning, sharing insights from her experiences with various courses, conferences, and coaching programs Her favourite courses and what she wouldn't do again Connect with Helen via her website: https://www.hydoralane.com.au/ or via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-dehen/ Find Rachel www.rachelsmith.com.au Find Lynne www.lynnetestoni.com Rachel's List www.rachelslist.com.au Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (www.rounded.com.au), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: hello@rachelslist.com.au for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co www.markercreative.co
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BEST OF 2025: Lucie Robazza on 5 micro-habits to prioritise your health
01/11/2026
BEST OF 2025: Lucie Robazza on 5 micro-habits to prioritise your health
Our summer series featuring our most popular episodes of 2025 continues this week as Rachel and Lynne discuss essential health habits for freelancers with guest Lucie Robazza. Lucie, a certified health coach and personal trainer, shares practical tips on: • Incorporating simple exercise routines • The importance of protein-rich diets • How to maintain good posture for productivity and long-term health • How good health can make you more efficient - and make more money • Quick and healthy snack ideas The episode covers habit-building techniques, such as micro habits, and emphasises the significance of sunshine and hydration in everyday routines. Perfect for writers who spend long hours at their desks looking to improve both their physical well-being and business performance. Her methods are easy, achievable and shame-free. Download Lucie's free 5-day challenge, Connect with Lucie via her website: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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BEST OF 2025: Conquering LinkedIn and finding clients with Rebecca Cofrancesco
01/04/2026
BEST OF 2025: Conquering LinkedIn and finding clients with Rebecca Cofrancesco
Continuing our summer series of our most popular episodes of the last year, we are sharing a great chat from early 2025 with content strategist and LinkedIn mentor Rebecca Cofrancesco. Beck talks about how to make LinkedIn work for you, how to find clients and why she started a local business meet-up group. During our chat, we talk about: • Why she started freelancing • Her new LinkedIn newsletter and why she started it • How her newsletter has informed (and changed) her LinkedIn strategy • Why she has two newsletters • Her favourite client-finding strategies • How to get out of the feast or famine cycle • Why meeting in person is better than online in terms of building relationships Connect with Beck via her website: Or follow her on LinkedIn: Find Rachel Find Lynne Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded ( ), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Best of 2025: Treasa Edmond on offering content strategy as a service
12/28/2025
Best of 2025: Treasa Edmond on offering content strategy as a service
Have we got a treat for you! This episode with content strategist, business coach and consultant Treasa Edmond was one of our most popular episodes in 2025. It is full of gold for any freelancer wanting to move up the value chain and secure more high-paying clients. In our wide-ranging chat, Treasa talks about: • The different between offering content strategy and strategic consulting • Which one is an entry point for high-paying work • How strategy can open the gates to providing more effective content • How and why value pricing is better for this type of work • Her favourite client-finding strategies • Common mistakes freelancers make when it comes to strategy Capcut is here: Treasa's podcast is called Boss Responses: Or take a look at Strategy Bosses: Or through LinkedIn: Find Rachel Find Lynne Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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The 2025 Wrap-up with Rachel and Lynne
12/21/2025
The 2025 Wrap-up with Rachel and Lynne
It's the end of 2025, so Rachel and Lynne take a reflective look back at the year, delving into both the good times and bad. We are both big believers in a little self-reflection, so it makes sense to look back at what was certainly a tumultuous year in the world of freelancing. We share tips and lessons learned, new tools we've explored, and our biggest professional and personal achievements, using prompts from We talk about: The risks we took and decisions we made during the year Lynne's year of 'yes' Rachel's personal writing retreat Lessons we have learned from our guests this year Our favourite episodes of 2025 AI and the changes that it has brought to freelance writers How we have both made freelancing work for us We also wanted to say thanks to our sponsor , plus The Content Byte team - Claire Chow, Heidi Walkinsaw and our audio editor Joshua Broadbent. Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded ( ), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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The Content Trends We Need To Talk About – with Canva's Maria Izvestkina
12/14/2025
The Content Trends We Need To Talk About – with Canva's Maria Izvestkina
This week, Rachel and Lynne are chatting with Maria Izvestkina, a multidisciplinary creative leader from Canva. They discuss the importance of protecting creative energy, the impact of AI on design, trend spotting, and how to live a creative life. Maria shares insights on: The evolving role of AI in creative work How to harness social media for creative expression Effective use of Canva features and templates Developing a playful and experimental mindset to fuel creativity Practical tools and strategies for freelancers Maria also talks about her Substack project and offers valuable advice for organising work in Canva. Connect with Maria on LinkedIn Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Building a career around books and reviewing, with Nicole Abadee
12/07/2025
Building a career around books and reviewing, with Nicole Abadee
This week, Rachel and Lynne dive into the art of books and book reviewing with guest Nicole Abadee, a book reviewer for the Sydney Morning Herald's Good Weekend. Nicole discusses her transition from barrister to reviewer, the surprising way she scored the reviewing gig, and the influence of social media on book marketing. She also offers valuable tips for authors seeking reviews and shares her methods for selecting standout books. There's so much gold here, as Nicole talks about: The challenges of making a living in the book publishing industry The essential skills for reviewers The ups and downs of writers festivals Why self-published books won't get reviewed The evolving landscape of arts coverage Why authors need to build a social media presence How she manages to read hundreds of books a year And why she still loves a highlighter Connect with Nicole via her website: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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How to Stop Gaslighting Yourself – with Mark Jones
11/30/2025
How to Stop Gaslighting Yourself – with Mark Jones
This week Rachel and Lynne discuss whether you are your own worst enemy, with a thoughtful look at improving your business and personal mindset with guest Mark Jones, an author and mindset strategist, who explores the concept of gaslighting yourself and the psychological impacts of negative self-talk. He shares tips on: Why it is important to be kind to yourself How to rewrite these internal narratives The importance of self-belief Different techniques to foster a healthier mindset It's all about the importance of aligning your internal and external stories for personal and professional growth. Connect with Mark via his website: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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What you can do to protect yourself from AI - with Joe Pulizzi
11/23/2025
What you can do to protect yourself from AI - with Joe Pulizzi
This week it's all about AI. Rachel and Lynne discuss the impacts of AI on freelance writing and marketing with Joe Pulizzi, founder of the Content Marketing Institute and The Tilt. During a fascinating (and positive) conversation, Joe offers insights on how to stay relevant in a rapidly changing media and marketing landscape, including: • The importance of niching down and building expertise • Leveraging AI tools for efficiency • Creating and maintaining owned assets like newsletters and podcasts • Focusing on building real-world relationships and in-person connections Joe also shares practical tips on maintaining a strategic web presence and the value of handwritten notes and print media to foster real-world connections with people and potential clients. Connect with Joe (and check out his new book, Burn the Playbook) through his website: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Big-Biz Strategies Solo Operators Can Steal, with Ashley Cisneros-Mejia
11/16/2025
Big-Biz Strategies Solo Operators Can Steal, with Ashley Cisneros-Mejia
This week, Rachel and Lynne are chatting with Ashley Cisneros Mejia, a freelance communication strategist and host of the 'Talk Freelance to Me' podcast. Ashley shares her journey from agency owner to solo freelancer, highlighting the processes and systems she brought into her current business from larger agencies. We also explore: The value of community and networking for maintaining creativity and client relationships The evolving freelance market Integration of AI in business operations The importance of human connection and the benefits of collaborating with other creatives How to leverage relationships to secure a successful freelance career What technology she uses to streamline workflows and enhance productivity Connect with Ashley via her website: or through her podcast: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Lucie Robazza on 5 micro-habits to prioritise your health
11/09/2025
Lucie Robazza on 5 micro-habits to prioritise your health
This week, Rachel Smith and Lynne discuss essential health habits for freelancers with guest Lucie Robazza. Lucie, a certified health coach and personal trainer, shares practical tips on: Incorporating simple exercise routines The importance of protein-rich diets How to maintain good posture for productivity and long-term health How good health can make you more efficient - and make more money Quick and healthy snack ideas The episode covers habit-building techniques, such as micro habits, and emphasises the significance of sunshine and hydration in everyday routines. Perfect for writers who spend long hours at their desks looking to improve both their physical well-being and business performance. Her methods are easy, achievable and shame-free. Download Lucie's free 5-day challenge, Connect with Lucie via her website: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Marketing without shouting, with Mia Fileman
11/02/2025
Marketing without shouting, with Mia Fileman
This week Rachel and Lynne are chatting with marketing expert Mia Fileman about marketing strategies for freelancers. We talk about: The concept of the 'trust recession' Mia's 'Honest Marketing Method' that emphasises transparency, connection, creativity, and conversation Effective community engagement Unconventional collaborations The importance of one-on-one client interactions, which help freelancers build genuine trust and stand out in a crowded market The episode also provides an overview of the Ripple Festival, Mia's innovative small business event combining business discussions with live music, comedy, and art. Find out all about the Ripple Festival at Connect with Mia here: and download her amazing Marketing Calendar (handy for 2026 planning) Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Ilise Benun on how to use AI to find clients
10/26/2025
Ilise Benun on how to use AI to find clients
This week Rachel and Lynne talk about how to find clients using AI with their guest, Ilise Benun, a business coach for creatives. In a practical and inspiring chat, Ilise takes us through (step-by-step) how to utilise AI for client acquisition, showing how to find your perfect clients and then how you can reach out. It's a great conversation, talking about: Why you still need to build relationships in real life Identifying target markets with AI Crafting effective AI prompts Approaching new markets and understanding pain points Networking and engaging with people How to use content marketing and outreach strategies to grow your freelance business AI's limitations Rachel and Lynne also explore practical AI applications such as customised GPTs and chat about emerging trends with AI in the marketing landscape. Find Ilise's AI Kit at: Connect with her Or her podcast, The Marketing Mentor: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Perfecting a creative flow as a freelancer – with Steven Puri
10/19/2025
Perfecting a creative flow as a freelancer – with Steven Puri
This week Rachel and Lynne discuss productivity, creativity, and the concept of flow states with guest Steven Puri, the founder and CEO of the Sukha Company. Steven shares his career journey, from working on visual effects for blockbuster movies to developing an app that helps knowledge workers focus and minimise distractions. We chat about: Why it is important to find your "flow state" and practical tips to achieve it Understanding how you work best The importance of a structured routine The impact of environment on creativity How to manage your business as a freelancer The Sukha Company and app is here: or connect with Steven via LinkedIn: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: hello@rachelslist.com.au for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Content chief Keshnee Kemp on social media, working with Woolworths and setting up an agency
10/12/2025
Content chief Keshnee Kemp on social media, working with Woolworths and setting up an agency
This week, Rachel and Lynne dive into what’s working (and what’s not) in social right now with guest Keshnee Kemp - former Head of Content at Woolworths and new agency owner of August One. Keshnee shares insights on: her career journey, from mags to TV to working in client-side and in agencies how traditional media, brand side and agency-side differs why media prepped her for Woollies, then Woollies prepped her for agency work bringing journalists into marketing, and why they can make great marketers running a lean agency operation and how she does it using AI for grunt work so you can use your creative brain for the exceptional work why social teams need to go back to basics on a clear channel strategy right now how the best brands have a distinctive voice - and use trend-jacking rarely winning stakeholder buy-in with data and calculated risk (e.g., launching TikTok) biggest mistakes she sees brands making on social at the moment advice for freelancers right now when it comes to staying relevant and getting work Connect with Keshnee via LinkedIn and sign up to her newsletter via her profile. You can also check out her agency here: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: https://thecontentbyte.com/episodes/ Find Lynne www.lynnetestoni.com Find Rachel www.rachelsmith.com.au Rachel's List www.rachelslist.com.au Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (www.rounded.com.au), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: hello@rachelslist.com.au for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co www.markercreative.co
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3 tools to stay focused, finish projects and feel calm, with Claire Emerson
10/06/2025
3 tools to stay focused, finish projects and feel calm, with Claire Emerson
This week, Rachel and Lynne discuss essential strategies for enhancing freelance productivity with guest Claire Emerson. Claire, a freelance writer and project consultant, shares three key systems that can help you be more productive: • personal kanban • six-week project rounds • structured journaling She says these tools help freelancers manage tasks effectively, focus on personal projects, and reduce mental clutter. Claire also highlights the importance of setting clear, actionable goals and why she loves analog tools to maintain productivity. Connect with Claire through the following ways: Flourish Newsletter: Free Course - Implement: Free Kanban Challenge: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Creating Inclusive and Accessible Content with Zoe Simmons
09/28/2025
Creating Inclusive and Accessible Content with Zoe Simmons
This week, Rachel and Lynne explore the importance of creating inclusive and accessible content with award-winning journalist and disability advocate Zoe Simmons. Zoe shares her experiences with chronic illness and disability, discussing how these have shaped her career and advocacy work. Key topics include: The significance of using accessible language Practical tips for making content more accessible The impact of lived experiences in storytelling Zoe also touches on managing multiple income streams as a freelancer and the challenges of ensuring fair compensation for lived experience and advocacy work. Connect with Zoe through her website: or LinkedIn: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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How a services guide will attract clients, with Kendall Cherry
09/21/2025
How a services guide will attract clients, with Kendall Cherry
This week Rachel and Lynne delve into the benefits of having a services guide with guest Kendall Cherry, founder of The Candid Collective. Kendall shares insights on: What a services guide is Creating and utilising a services guide to qualify leads, streamline the sales process, and protect creative energy How a services guide can help build an email list Why freelancers should be displaying their rates, even if your pricing can vary The essential elements for a compelling services guide Tips for incorporating authentic brand voice and storytelling Connect with Kendall through her website: or on LinkedIn: Sign up for her newsletter via: Listen to the Beyond Margins podcast here: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Why Saying “No” Isn’t Enough with Maggie Patterson
09/14/2025
Why Saying “No” Isn’t Enough with Maggie Patterson
This week Rachel and Lynne are joined by Maggie Patterson, creator of BS Free Business and author of 'Staying Solo', talking all about how Boundaries Are a Business Strategy. We explore: The importance of setting firm boundaries in freelance work Strategies to control your schedule How to build a sustainable, stress-free business The benefits of having clear communication and expectations with clients to foster trust and long-term business success Transitioning from spreadsheets to automated systems The value of onboarding processes Tips for maintaining client relationships without sacrificing personal time Listen to Maggie's podcast, Staying Solo: Take a look at her free workshop at Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Liv Steigrad on 5 things you need to talk about in your business
09/07/2025
Liv Steigrad on 5 things you need to talk about in your business
This week Rachel and Lynne discuss freelance finances, branding, and ethical marketing with guest Liv Steigrad. Liv, a brand strategist and copywriter, shares her insights on using psychology in branding, the importance of maintaining financial visibility, and offers practical advice for freelancers. We also chat about: How to effectively position your services The impact of AI on freelancing Liv's experiences with financial transparency through her 'Dirty Money' series Liv's podcast, which is focused on neurodivergence in business Connect with Liv via these links: Mindset & Markets course: Podcast: The One That Works For You Website: Instagram: Tiktok: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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When a major life event makes you re-evaluate your career, with Chris Stead
08/31/2025
When a major life event makes you re-evaluate your career, with Chris Stead
This week Rachel and Lynne explore how you can use trauma as a catalyst to change your freelance career with guest Chris Stead, an award-winning journalist and content producer. Chris shares how an e-bike explosion in his home and the subsequent fire led to re-evaluating work priorities, embracing family travel, and developing new income streams as he talks about the profound impact this traumatic event had on his professional and personal life. It's a fascinating chat as we dive into Chris's journey from traditional journalism to running a YouTube channel, self-publishing children's books, and offering consulting services. It will make you think about how to manage multiple income streams, leverage technology for content creation, and how you can use personal experiences as a catalyst for growth. Connect with Chris via Old Mate Media, or Motivated Travel Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Joanna Savill on blending journalism with events
08/24/2025
Joanna Savill on blending journalism with events
In this week's episode, Rachel and Lynne chat with Joanna Savill, a bit of a legend in the food industry. Joanna shares her career evolution from subtitle translator to a food journalism icon, including her work with SBS TV and The Sydney Morning Herald. The discussion covers: The transformation of Australia's food media over the years Integrating immersive experiences in events How to leverage your transferable skills Managing the ups and downs of freelance life The early days of food websites Joanna also reflects on her role in community-focused government work and her current focus on sustainability in hospitality. Connect with Joanna via Instagram at Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Jane Manning on being a director and writer for television and film
08/17/2025
Jane Manning on being a director and writer for television and film
This week, Rachel and Lynne are chatting with award-winning director and writer Jane Manning. The discussion delves into Jane's impressive career in television and documentary films, which includes being one of the early female directors on Home & Away (and why programs like that matter), as well as significant projects such as Who Do You Think You Are? and Ka-Ching! Pokie Nation. During our chat, Jane shares: Her journey from documentary filmmaking to TV drama Her creative processes The challenges of storytelling in both documentary and drama How a TV series or documentary comes to life What it's like being in a writer's room Advice for freelancers looking to transition into television writing and production Connect with Jane via her website: or via LinkedIn: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Better Homes & Gardens editor Megan Osborne on working in and for magazines
08/10/2025
Better Homes & Gardens editor Megan Osborne on working in and for magazines
This week on the podcast, hosts Rachel and Lynne chat with Megan Osborne, editor of Better Homes and Gardens magazine. Megan shares her career journey from food writing to leading large-scale content strategies at prominent brands and now to editing Australia's largest circulation (paid) magazine. She discusses: the evolving role of a magazine editor the integration of print and digital content why you need to understand audience data leveraging social media to engage younger audiences what she's looking for from freelance contributors (and even shares her email address!) Megan offers invaluable advice for freelancers aiming to get published and shares her favourite productivity tools and tech tips. Connect with Megan via LinkedIn Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Stop the Scroll: Evelina Kaganovitch on How Clear Copywriting Lands Clients
08/03/2025
Stop the Scroll: Evelina Kaganovitch on How Clear Copywriting Lands Clients
This week, Rachel and Lynne chat with Evelina Kaganovitch, a high-conversion fashion copywriter, about the intricacies and strategies of freelance copywriting. Evelina shares her journey from sustainable fashion to copywriting and discusses the importance of clear messaging over using too much jargon. The conversation covers: Niching down in the freelance world Using social listening tools and AI to improve copy quality Finding the balance between the personal touch and technological help How to create effective email marketing strategies Maintaining trust and community in your audience ... and practical tips for freelancers who are navigating the evolving creator economy Connect with Evelina Kaganovitch (and find her downloads) on her website: or on LinkedIn: Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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Sabrina Rogers-Anderson on how to niche down and charge more
07/27/2025
Sabrina Rogers-Anderson on how to niche down and charge more
In this episode, Rachel and Lynne delve back into the topic of niching down as a freelancer with Sabrina Rogers-Anderson, a health and fitness writer. The discussion covers the challenges and benefits of finding and committing to a specific niche, how to charge what you're worth, and managing finances. Sabrina shares her journey from generalist to specialist, overcoming personal adversities, and the pivotal role a business coach played in her transformation. The episode also touches upon the impact of AI on health writing, the importance of credible, evidence-based content, and she shares practical tips for maintaining a steady cash flow as a freelancer. Connect with Sabrina through her website: or via LinkedIn Visit The Content Byte website for a transcription of this episode: Find Lynne Find Rachel Rachel's List Thanks (as always) to our sponsors Rounded (), an easy invoicing and accounting solution that helps freelancers run their businesses with confidence. Looking to take advantage of the discount for Rachel's List Gold Members? Email us at: for the details. Episode edited by Marker Creative Co
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