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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How to make time to work on your freelance business
05/10/2026
How to make time to work on your freelance business
This week Rachel and Lynne are responding to a question from listener Stephanie about how to make time to work on your freelance business. It's a bit of a choose-your-own adventure because we have such different work styles and systems. Rachel uses a mix of a bespoke paper diary (Creator’s Friend), Outlook, Google Keep, batching, and Friday “work on the business” time, plus automations in Moxie (forms, pipelines, calendar booking windows, templated replies, and auto-created Google Drive folders). Lynne has a paper-free setup using Trello, an electronic calendar, “salami tactics” (small daily actions), Marketing Monday, Mail scheduling/follow-ups/reminders, and industry events for networking. We also discuss invoicing habits, accounting software, setting aside GST/tax/super, and recommend choosing regular business time, one in-person event monthly, and automating two tasks per month. Want to suggest a topic for a future episode? Email us at 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 customer-centred content with Mat Patterson
05/03/2026
Creating customer-centred content with Mat Patterson
This week, Rachel and Lynne are chatting with freelance writer Mat Patterson (morehumancontent.com), who argues small and medium businesses and freelancers should lean into being personal, flexible and customer-close rather than copying big-company systems and jargon. Mat shares his path from web design to customer support to writing, explaining how support work builds communication skills through fast feedback. His work includes newsletters, podcasts and articles for customer-centric SaaS and customer experience companies, focused on clearer, more engaging messaging. We also chat about: Customer marketing via happy customers Why good service requires leadership giving staff authority How generative AI will increase the value of unique human perspective amid generic content Connect with Mat via: and 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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The systems freelancers need to succeed - with Leticia Mooney
04/26/2026
The systems freelancers need to succeed - with Leticia Mooney
This week, Rachel and Lynne are chatting with freelance business coach Leticia Mooney about building an “engine room” of systems across customer experience, sales and finance so clients feel safe, payments are smoother, and work is easier to deliver. Leticia says freelancers often skip systems because they assume their work is unique, but writing includes research, analysis, delivery and communication, all of which benefit from good processes. It's a great discussion about how to make your business run better and free yourself up for creative work. So many tips, including the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle with frequent review, how to do client updates to reduce anxiety, and walking through agreements on sales calls to prevent questions and ghosting. Connect with Leticia via her website: 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 create your own career luck with Mel Barfield
04/19/2026
How to create your own career luck with Mel Barfield
This week Rachel and Lynne discuss luck, visibility, and career resilience with guest copywriter Mel Barfield, managing partner at Copy or Die, host of the Indie Business Club podcast, and a Freelancer magazine columnist. Mel shares her career shift into freelancing after moving while pregnant, how expectations and mindset can block opportunities, and why “luck” is largely created through action, relationships, and optimism. She talks about creating and noticing chances, acting on hunches, reframing setbacks, and expecting good outcomes. Practical tips include breaking big goals into chunks, building personal authority, asking for opportunities, avoiding overly negative public posting, networking with curiosity, and using LinkedIn strategically to connect with ideal client job titles without cold pitching. Connect with Mel via: LinkedIn: Instagram: Substack: and the agency she runs with Dave is 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 make money through TikTok and Instagram with Keenya Kelly
04/12/2026
How to make money through TikTok and Instagram with Keenya Kelly
This week Rachel and Lynne discuss how freelancers can use Instagram and TikTok to make money and win clients with guest Keenya Kelly, a social media strategist known as the “TikTok Queen,”. Keenya has over 500,000 TikTok followers and has generated more than $4 million through short-form video. She explains how TikTok shifted marketing toward entertaining, educational, scroll-stopping videos (often under a minute), speeding up the like-know-trust factor and purchasing decisions. She recommends prioritising consistency (at least weekly), creating stronger content rather than posting anything, and using tracking links and automation such as comment-triggered chatbots to convert views into leads and sales. It's such a valuable episode as Keenya talks about how she batches her workflows using B-roll, scripts, and organised storage, as well as using AI for competitive analysis and video ideation, and highlights authenticity, newsjacking, and how to better repurpose content. Connect with Keenya via her website: Or on TikTok: 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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Theresa Miller on speaking up and the opportunities it brings
04/05/2026
Theresa Miller on speaking up and the opportunities it brings
This week on the podcast, Rachel and Lynne discuss how public speaking can help freelancers become more visible and attract clients, despite battling nerves. We are joined by media trainer and journalist Theresa Miller to talk about her book Speak Up on becoming a successful presenter and media spokesperson. Theresa shares why knowledgeable people often stay quiet, why it matters to “speak up” in an era of misinformation and AI fakery, and how to manage those all-too-common nerves. She outlines practical strategies including researching your audience, tailoring your message to their needs and pain points, using structure and story (including the hero’s journey), and ending with a clear, ideally dated, call to action. We also chat about pathways into speaking, the role of in-person events, as well as Theresa’s career lessons and favourite tools of the trade. To buy her book Her online course: Ten tips to nail your media interview Eight-attention grabbing openers for presentations Or connect with her on Linkedin 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 nail client meetings
03/29/2026
How to nail client meetings
This week on the pod it's just Rachel and Lynne as we answer a listener question about how to nail client calls. We compare warm leads (often via referrals and niche networks) with cold leads (often from Google), and share tactics and tips on how we handle professional calls, including researching the client (website, socials, ABN and reviews); being punctual and prepared; using interviewing and soft sales skills along with reflective listening. We also discuss how to handle the question of budgets by stating indicative pricing, adjusting scope, offering tiered options, and focusing on value, plus being prompt with quotes, setting validity windows, and clarifying terms such as deposits, SEO non-negotiables, and limits on revisions. We also cover longer discovery calls for web copy projects, using transcripts/AI notes, and the value of meeting clients in person to build trust. Here are links to some of the article we discuss: Why to offer tiered pricing (blog) Client brief template (shop) Quoting freelance projects with Lynne Testoni (shop) Gold members of Rachel's List can listen to the lunch club with Treasa Edmond on nailing discovery calls, which includes her downloadable checklist. 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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Writing in the mind/body/spirit field, with Maggie Hamilton
03/22/2026
Writing in the mind/body/spirit field, with Maggie Hamilton
This week, Rachel & Lynne welcome mind, body, spirit expert Maggie Hamilton – writer, social researcher, former publisher and founder of Allen & Unwin’s Inspired Living imprint – to discuss opportunities and challenges in the genre. Maggie explains why the genre appeals to her, share the most influential titles and authors in the space, and outlines common mistakes writers make when exploring this space. She recommends adding case studies, interviews, research, and broader references to spiritual traditions and thinkers, plus using universal language for international audiences. It's a broad and inspiring conversation, covering ghostwriting, speaking opportunities, traditional vs self-publishing, and the importance of early structural guidance. Maggie also previews her Writing NSW online course, covering submissions, readership, permissions, genre “languaging,” and creating punchy chapters and introductions. The Elif Shafak book on Rumi is The Forty Rules of Love. Maggie's course for Writing NSW is here: Her website is: 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 pitch to editors - with Lindy Alexander
03/15/2026
How to pitch to editors - with Lindy Alexander
This week on the podcast, Rachel and Lynne welcome back Lindy Alexander, to discuss how pitching is changing for freelancers and what it takes to get editors’ attention. Lindy is an award-winning travel writer and founder of The Freelancer's Year and she explains why she created courses after readers asked about her pitching strategy, and describes the tighter commissioning landscape as budgets stagnate and editors become more time-poor. She outlines common pitching mistakes, including pitching broad topics instead of specific stories, writing lyrical but unclear subject lines, and not knowing a publication’s voice, tone, readership, or sections. Lindy shares what gets commissioned now: concise, clearly angled pitches tailored to a particular vertical, with relevant sources where needed, and how strong pitches can build relationships with editors, even without prior contact. She also covers following up, learning from rejections, and balancing travel writing with running her Travel Writer Accelerator course. Connect with Lindy via: Here are also the links to the call outs she mentions: 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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Establishing a freelance podcasting career, with Caroline Winter
03/08/2026
Establishing a freelance podcasting career, with Caroline Winter
This week, Rachel and Lynne discuss podcasting as part of a freelance content strategy with guest Caroline Winter, a former radio journalist and co-founder of POD Talk. Caroline shares lessons from creating her eight-part narrative series Sick as a Dog about the veterinary industry’s mental health crisis and explains how her agency finds clients and produces podcasts for organisations. She outlines what new podcasters need, including clarity of focus, defined audience, strong preparation, hosting skills, consistency, and good audio quality — plus practical ways to test an idea’s longevity. Caroline also covers agency realities such as pricing, client psychology, measures of success beyond monetisation, emerging podcast trends, and tools and habits that help her work efficiently. Connect with Caroline here: Listen to her work here: Sick As A Dog The Widow Diaries Our People (CALHN) AgVic Talk 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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Things that hold you back as a freelancer
03/01/2026
Things that hold you back as a freelancer
This week, Rachel and Lynne are without a guest, as they share six small, actionable things they wish they’d done sooner in their respective freelance businesses, to become more visible, win better work, and run their businesses better. They discuss: How investing in professional headshots boosted Rachel's confidence and credibility How Lynne benefited from switching from a free Gmail address to a custom domain email Why Rachel put practical systems in place using tools like templates, trackers, Moxie, and Trello How Lynne found value in attending paid conferences and networking events to build relationships and create indirect opportunities Why packaging her services (including creating a services guide) helped Rachel clarify offerings and pricing And how regularly increasing rates – even in small increments – can keep up with rising costs while reinforcing value The professional photographer we mention is Simona Janek: 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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Moving from publishing to a comms role - with Jo Butler
02/22/2026
Moving from publishing to a comms role - with Jo Butler
This week, Rachel and Lynne chat with Jo Butler about switching careers from book publishing to marketing and communications at the University of Sydney. Jo shares her journey of nearly 30 years as a book editor, publisher and literary agent, and explains why she wanted a new challenge, as well as the appeal of more stable income and working with colleagues again. She discusses: • how publishing has changed over the decades • what she misses about editing • what she wishes authors understood about publishing • why comms still feels like storytelling, and how her skills feel more appreciated in a university environment • how she mapped her transferable skills for the move • key skills for comms roles • what her week looks like in internal communications • the learning curve in university comms • her ongoing connection to publishing through teaching in the Masters of Publishing program, and what she covers • the ‘hard truths’ she shares with students • AI in publishing Connect with Jo via LinkedIn: Read her blog on Rachel's List about book editing here: 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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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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