Shows
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 82 - Expanding your offeringYou’re in business, you’ve got customers and things are going great. But there may come a point where you either want to do something else and expand your skills, or maybe your customers love you so much they want more goods and services - and they want them from you specifically. How do you add more services into your offering? In this episode, we talk about how to expand what you offer in a way that's manageable and sustainable! 2023-05-2240 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 81 - The 'Do One Thing' mythIn the olden days of our parents or grandparents, you had one job and you did that job for life - or at least for a long time. Now the ways of work have changed and people are used to switching jobs, but although having a “side hustle” is more common, there’s still some stigma around having more than one project, business or role as a freelancer. In this episode we look at whether you can have your cake and eat it by doing more than just one thing!2023-05-0237 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 80 - Your freelance carbon footprintBig business is rubbish at looking after our planet, so it looks like it’s up to us micro-businesses to lead the way. But can we make a difference? What can little old us do for the planet and why should we make this a priority as freelancers? In this episode we look at why considering your carbon footprint is important and share some practical tips for reducing it.2023-04-1151 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 79 - Authenticity
When we first start out we will often turn our hand to anything in our skill set and work with pretty anyone who will do business with us. But we often find out that where we start out is not where we want to be. It’s not the ‘real us’. How do you work out ‘your thing’ and avoid doing what you think you should do? In this episode we talk about what it means to be authentic beyond an Instagram hashtag.2023-03-2846 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 78 - Freelancing as a womanIn this episode, we're talking about the challenges of being a female freelancer. Do women face more challenges in freelancing than men? What’s the difference? And what can we do about it? 2023-01-3056 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 77 - Business BreakupsIt’s not you, it’s me. That’s right, in this episode we’re going to cover the topic of business breakups. You may have started by skipping through fields together but what happens if it stops being all rosy and you need to consciously uncouple?2023-01-1639 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 76 - RejectionRejection is something that will impact every freelancer at some point. It doesn’t feel good but being able to deal with it well (and even use it for good) will set you up for freelancing success. In this episode we talk about tips for coping with rejection and discuss whether it's better to try to avoid it or embrace it!2022-06-1538 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 75 - IntegrityWhen you’re freelance it’s up to you to decide what your values are, and then do business accordingly. In this episode we’re talking how to run a business with integrity, why it matters, and how to avoid the temptation to go down an unethical path.2022-01-2446 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 74 - Achieving more without adding moreAs we enter yet another year of uncertainty, you may be reluctant to plan when you’re not sure what lies ahead and you’re exhausted from the past year. We look at how to make planning into a positive activity that focuses on what you already have and your strengths, and resisting the temptation to add in more that you need to.2022-01-031h 06
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 73 - Money mindsetFreelancing requires a whole different approach to money. When you’re employed your employer basically sets your worth, but when you’re freelance you have to decide your own value, which can be scary! In this episode, we look at common money mindsets that might hold you back as a freelancer, and wha2021-12-2456 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 72 - Getting startedWe realised this probably should have been our first challenge to tackle, but better late than never! So in this episode we look at the concrete steps you can take to set yourself up as a freelancer. We talk about how we get started, what you actually need to do, and common barriers to starting. Some of the content is specific to the UK but most of our advice would apply to freelancing anywhere in the world. 2021-12-1548 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 71 - Working with family and friendsThey say never to work with children or animals, but what about collaborating with family or friends? In this episode we're going to look at the perks and pitfalls of mixing your work and personal life.2021-10-2948 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 70 - Stress and anxietyA recent survey showed that 75% of people have experienced stress to the point where they felt they couldn’t cope, and we know that this is a problem for freelancers too; we’ve seen this in our own networks with people being burned out and overwhelmed. So without a company policy to protect us, and no paid sick days, how do we manage our stress and anxiety?2021-08-2458 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 69 - What am I doing with my life?After over a year of upheavals it’s natural to question if you’re doing what you want (both in life and work). Some people have had this reflection forced on them because their previous work has ceased to exist, but even if your work has stayed mostly the same, the way you engage with it might have changed (for better or worse) and got you thinking… 2021-07-0250 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 68 - Limiting BeliefsOne of the most frustrating bits of feedback given to freelancers is “You have to get over those limiting beliefs” but without any solutions suggested. In this episode we explore some of the top limiting beliefs freelancers experience, we’ll help identify where they came from and more importantly how you can overcome them.2021-06-1152 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 67 - When work doesn't feel like workWe like having tangible outcomes as it makes us feel like we’ve done something. You can look back over emails you’ve sent, invoices generated, workshops delivered, website pages created and it’s easy to see the result of that time spent. But what about the activities that don’t feel like work or have less concrete outcomes? We talk about how to justify this time when it's for clients or your own business.2021-04-0232 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 66 - Switching offAs a freelancer the lines between work and life are often blurred to start with, add in a global pandemic with increased working from home and home schooling and is it any wonder we’re finding it hard to find time away from work. In this episode we look at why switching off is important and how you can make it happen.2021-03-1953 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 65 - Getting stuck in a rutEver feel like you’re stuck in a rut? Perhaps everyday feels the same or you can’t muster the motivation to get things done. In this episode, we look at what can get us stuck in a rut, and what we can do to get out.2021-01-2948 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 64 - Annus HorribilisThis episode is all about how to process an annus horribilis. It’s been inspired by the events of 2020 but you can have one for any reason. We share why you should reflect on this year (even if you don't feel like it) plus how to extract some good from it and use it for an equally uncertain future.2020-12-2856 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 63 - Always wanting moreWe all want our businesses to do well and most of us have an idea of how we want them to develop. In pursuing our goals it’s really tempting to simply throw more at it, but often, we already have what we need right under our noses! We chat about how to resist the temptation of MORE.2020-12-1953 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 62 - Being pigeonholedHave you become associated with a skill or service but your heart just isn’t in it? Is there a difference between what pays and what you’d really like to offer? You’re not alone. It’s great to become known for being good at something (and it certainly flatters the ego) but how do we become associated with the stuff we really love to do? 2020-12-1140 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 61 - Freelance mythsThe freelance world has its fair share of conventional wisdom but these pearls of ‘wisdom’ don’t always hold true. Some are out of date and others weren’t ever true in the first place. In this episode, we explore some of our favourite myths and help our listeners to be released from their spell.2020-11-0949 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 60 - Communicating onlineHave you relied on your shining personality to make an impact with your clients? Do you feel that it’s harder to make connections with people over distance? Physical distancing doesn’t have to mean social distancing. We’ll show you how to keep those personal relationships personal over distance.2020-10-3042 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 59 - Having to figure everything out yourselfJust because you’ve set up business on your own doesn’t mean you have to set up business on your own doesn’t mean you have to figure out everything yourself. No matter how intelligent or experienced you are sometimes we all need some outside help, and in this episode we talk about how to find the right support whether it's coaching, mentoring or a little help from your friends. 2020-09-1149 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 58 - Safe problemsDuring the pandemic many of us will have realised that ‘I haven’t got time’ was not the real reason we didn’t launch that new project or product! In this episode we talk more about these self-imposed barriers or "safe problems". We look at some examples of safe problems, and discuss how to spot and overcome them. 2020-08-2136 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 57 - How to make friends and influence peopleWe’re not actually talking about Instagram influencers here (although they probably use a lot of the techniques we’ll be covering) but we are focusing on how to win people over. We discuss the different stages of influence and some top tips for persuasion. 2020-08-1443 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 56 - Slowing downLockdown has forced us to work differently, but one positive consequence for some freelancers has been working at a slower pace and having time to spend on other projects. So how do we keep this up as we gradually emerge into a post-pandemic world? We chat about the benefits and barriers around slowing down.2020-07-1740 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 55 - CourageOne of the first things people say when you freelance is “oh you’re so brave” and often they mean “you’re so crazy”. But actually it does take courage to go - and stay - freelance. So let’s jump in with both feet. 2020-06-1055 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 54 - Staying positiveSometimes it’s hard to keep a sunny disposition and we’ve all had our ups and downs as freelancers. In this episode we discuss why there is actually a place for negative thinking, consider whether Katy is a witch, and look at how to turn your negatives into "megatives"... along with some actual practical tips for staying positive.2020-05-2957 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 53 - DecisionsYou’ve probably heard that Steve Jobs always wore the same kind of clothes to give him one less decision to make. Should we humble freelancers be following the lead of the late tech entrepreneur? In this episode we look at how we can make the "right" decisions and share tips on simplifying the decision-making process. 2020-05-2553 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 52 - Predicting the futureWouldn’t it be good if you predict what the future holds for your business? How can you predict what the future holds and make decisions now, that will benefit you in the months and years to come? Dust off your crystal ball as wl share some futurecasting tips and techniques.2020-05-0146 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 51 - Keeping the show on the roadThe world can be an unpredictable place. There are some things that even the best business planning can’t forsee as many people are probably finding out (at the time of recording, Coronavirus has been declared a pandemic). Our flexibility makes us desirable but when panic sets in it can also make us disposable in the eyes of some clients. How do we make sure we keep the show on the road when the unexpected hits?
2020-03-181h 03
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 50 - Dealing with tough conversationsWe're officially over half of the way to 99 and in this episode we're talking about how to manage tricky conversations, in particular with clients. We share tips to help you plan for these calls or meetings (or emails, if you must) and what to do if you find your emotions taking over. 2020-03-0957 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 49 - Making time for side projectsIt's quite common for freelancers to have a bit on the side, but with our "day job" and life rudely getting in the way, how do we make time for other projects? In this episode we talk about the benefits of having a side hustle and how to overcome the barriers that can prevent it from moving forward. 2020-03-0353 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 48 - Not enough hours in the dayWe each get 86400 seconds a day, so how do we actually do what matters in this time? In this episode we look at why freelancers sometimes struggle more to manage their time, and why the phrase "time management" might not actually be the right way of looking at the problem. We also share some practical tips on how to prioritise your days and get things done!2020-02-1759 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 47 - Should I stay or should I grow?The classic freelance conundrum: if your business is doing well, should you grow it? And if so, how? In this episode, we question the idea that success is measured by growth and talk about the benefits of staying small (and yes this is the Paul Jarvis appreciation episode) as well as looking at how to grow sustainably if you do go down that route. Have a listen to find out why Michelle thinks "friends with benefits" could be the key to your freelance success 😉2020-02-0540 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 46 - Managing your mental healthIn this episode we look at whether freelancers are more susceptible to mental health challenges, and chat about ways to manage time and clients if you're struggling. We share insights from our own experiences and discuss how much to share with clients.2020-01-261h 08
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 45 - Setting effective goalsEveryone wants to start the year with a bang, so how do you plan effectively? In this episode we talk about how to set goals in a way that works, and even question whether goals are always the right option to get you to where you want to be. We also share tips for planning and look at creative ways to get the work done!2020-01-1759 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 44 - How am I doing?As freelancers we don't tend to get appraisals, so it can be hard to know how we're doing. In our final episode of 2019, we open up about how our year has gone and look back at the highs and lows, as well as discussing the importance of making this time to reflect. 2019-12-111h 07
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 43 - Finding the right place to work as a freelancerThe beauty of freelancing is that you can work from anywhere, but the challenge with freelancing is… you can work from anywhere! From the kitchen table to a dedicated office, how do you decide where is best?2019-12-0456 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 42 - When disaster strikesAfter Michelle had what can only be described as "a bit of a day", we look at how to cope when everything goes wrong, and discuss ways to turn a negative mindset into a positive one. We also chat about how to cope with other people's negativity!2019-10-3059 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 41 - Hitting RefreshSometimes you will find yourself needing to change direction or make some changes. In this episode we’re going to talk about why we might want to hit refresh, and what to bear in mind when we do it. 2019-10-1642 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 40 - GuiltThe opportunities for freelance guilt are neverending, so how do you cope? You feel guilty for not working enough, you feel guilty for working too much. With so much to feel bad about, we chat about why we feel guilty and what we can do about it. 2019-10-0944 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 39 - Could you just...?You’re working on a client project and then you get the dreaded question. “Could you just…?” And inevitably what sounds like a five minute task ends up taking hours. So how do you protect your time whilst also keeping a good client relationship? We discuss options.2019-10-0245 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 38 - CompetitionAs more people go freelance, how do you stand out against your competition? In this episode we look at what you can do to set yourself apart from the crowds, and why it can help to make friends with your "competitors". 2019-09-1348 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 37 - Dealing with changeAs freelancers we’re in a unique position to be able to “pivot” and make changes to our business. But how do we deal with the impacts of change or uncertainty, and what happens when the change isn’t our choice?
2019-09-0253 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 36 - Getting snowed underWhen we first started out we dreamed of being busy. Then, we finally get there and it’s harder than we thought. In this episode, we look at how to manage when work starts to pile up!2019-08-2846 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 35 - Finding your purposeDo you ever feel like you haven't found your purpose? You aren't alone. Most of us haven't had that lightning bolt moment, so we take a closer look into the idea of searching for a purpose and ask whether it's something that's found or created. 2019-07-2841 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 34 - ResilienceA couple of episodes ago we talked about what characteristics are helpful as a freelancer, and resilience came up. So we wanted to take a bit of a deeper dive into what resilience means for freelancers, and share our tips on how to cope with the harder parts of self employment (spoiler alert: Katy's involves a video of milk bottles).2019-07-221h 00
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 33 - I'm freelance, now what?We’re a third of the way through our 99 problems, so we thought this might be a good time to get all reflective. So we’re going to fire up the Delorian and take ourselves back to our first days of freelancing. Knowing what we know now, what would we do with that time?
2019-07-1738 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 32 - Am I cut out to be a freelancer?Are freelancers born or made? In this episode we chat about whether freelancing is suitable for everyone, and the common characteristics that you often find amongst people who are self-employed or small business owners. 2019-07-0246 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 31 - Getting friends and family on boardComing out as a freelancer and explaining your new job to friends and family can be a challenge. In this episode, we share some tips for helping to get people on board with your freelance life. Plus we chat about some of the common reactions when you tell people you're self-employed (and how to deal with them). 2019-06-1654 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 30 - Big life eventsWe're back after a short break whilst Katy moved to Anglesey, and so we thought it would be fitting to talk about how to juggle freelance life during big life events like moving house or getting married. We also talk about how to handle unexpected interruptions to your freelance work and managing client expectations during these periods. 2019-06-0731 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 29 - Getting in the zoneYou know that feeling when you're on fire and everything just seems to be working right? Chances are you're playing to your strengths. In this episode we look at why focusing on your strengths is better than thinking about your weaknesses, how to spot what your strengths are, and how you can use them more. 2019-05-0641 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 28 - Too many hatsAs a freelancer you're often juggling lots of different roles, which can be a challenge. In this episode, we talk about the three main areas of focus in a business and the different hats you have to wear to keep all those plates spinning. 2019-04-2939 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 27 - Mixing business with pleasureIf it's good enough for James Bond, it's good enough for us. Or is it? In this episode we chat about the pros and cons of mixing business with pleasure. Should you be friends with clients? Should you work with your friends? 2019-04-2334 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 26 - The Comparison TrapWith everyone living their best #authentic Instaperfect lives, it's easier than ever to fall into the comparison trap. In this episode, we look at why we tend to compare ourselves and how to deal with it. 2019-04-1549 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 25 - Digital DistractionsAs freelancers, are we especially susceptible to digital distractions during our working days? In this episode we discuss how notifications and multi-tasking can affect productivity, and look at techniques for managing our devices whilst still staying connected. Don't worry we aren't going to tell you to renounce your smartphone!2019-04-0853 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 24 - Finding ways to give backIf you're a freelancer you probably don't have a CSR budget, so how do you give back? In this episode, we talk about the benefits of volunteering if you run your own business, some tips for finding the right way to give back, and what to do if your voluntary role stops working for you. 2019-04-0147 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 23 - Daily routines of "top" freelancers 😉Forget your Fortune 500 top CEOs, as we talk about our daily schedules as freelancers. Do you have a daily routine? Do you need one? And what have wolves and bears got to do with it?2019-03-2542 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 22 - It's oh so quietSshh. Ssshh. Now we've successfully got Bjork in your heads, let's talk about what to do during those times when you don't have as much work coming in. We'll look at how to make the most of it and what you can do to get that cash flowing in again. 2019-03-1947 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 21 - Celebrating SuccessCelebrate good times, come on! No seriously, come on. When we're freelance we don't always get the pat on the back or the employee of the week award, so how can we celebrate our achievements when we're flying solo?2019-03-1033 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 20 - Investing in YourselfBecause you're worth it. How much of your time do you spend on your personal development? Does it feel like an indulgence or luxury? We talk about why you should grow yourself as well as your business.2019-03-0347 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 19 - No Sick DaysWho do you call in sick to if you're a freelancer? In this episode we look at how to keep the freelance show on the road if you're feeling under the weather. Should you keep going or give yourself a day off?2019-02-2438 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 18 - Beware the Pity PartyThe struggle is real. Or is it? Misery loves company but you don't have to attend every pity party you're invited to. In this episode we look at how best to balance the good times with the bad when sharing with others. 2019-02-1829 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 17 - Saying NoDo you ever find it hard to say no? We do. In this episode we talk about why we struggle with this little word, and look at how to say no without damaging a client or professional relationship. 2019-02-1142 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 16 - Getting Your Tax Return Done On TimeOh blimey. Did you submit yours at the last minute? This week, we discuss how to avoid panicking at the eleventh hour when it comes to your taxes. Does DIY mean Do It Yourself or Don't Involve Yourself? We look at two different approaches to dealing with your freelance finances. 2019-02-0436 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 15 - Advice AvalancheIf you're already freelance - or even if you're just thinking of taking the plunge - chances are you've had well meaning friends, family and strangers offer up their opinion. So how do you deal with this advice avalanche? We chat about some of the 'helpful' tips we've received and how to cut through the noise to find the advice that actually can help. 2019-01-2130 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 14 - Working In Your Business, Not On Your BusinessIn our first episode of 2019 it seems fitting that we're talking about looking ahead to the coming year, as well as celebrating successes. We also chat about the difference between working "in" the business (the day to day work which generally does need doing) and working "on" the business (planning, strategy and checking in to make sure your business is working for you), which often gets waylaid by everything else! 2019-01-1841 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 13 - The Christmas ConundrumChristmas: time to crack(er) on or time to slow ho ho down? (I'm so so sorry for the puns). Being self-employed allows to you shun the 9-5 existence but sometimes it seems like the rest of the world didn't get the memo. How do you handle being a freelancer in an employed person's world at Christmas?2018-12-1740 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 12 - I Hate My BossWhen you're freelance it can be very easy to go in with expectations that are too high or unrealistic, so then you put pressure on yourself and beat yourself up. In this episode, we look at how to be a better boss to yourself when you're self employed.2018-12-1033 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 11 - NetworkingIn this episode we look at ways to network effectively, how to avoid standing in the corner like a lemon, and why networking is like fishing for old boots.2018-12-0347 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 10 - Lacking Creative InspirationIs creativity something that you are born with or can you learn to be creative? In this episode we look at why all freelancers need creativity and share 10+ practical methods for being more creative.2018-11-2641 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 9 - "Bad" ClientsIn this episode we talk about whether there's such a thing as a "bad" client, how some people always seem to end up with nightmare clients, and why hiding in your email inbox isn't the answer.2018-11-1945 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 8 - MotivationWhat is motivation? In this episode we look at why it can be hard to find if you're a freelancer, the counter-intuitive way to get it back, and the proper way to pronounce Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.2018-11-1243 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 7 - Underselling yourselfIn this episode we chat about why you are doing customers a disservice when you undersell yourself, how to protect your value and why it's probably all your parents' fault (just joking, Dad).2018-11-0552 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 6 - FailureIs there such a thing as failure? In this episode we look at why we're so afraid to fail, why we should celebrate "failure" and why nobody cares about your Barry Manilow t-shirt.2018-10-2943 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 5 - IsolationBeing freelance can be lonely, so how do you overcome that isolation? In this episode, we look at why we need a human connection and what actions can help if you're feeling a bit isolated.2018-10-2237 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 4 - ProcrastinationAs freelancers we're obviously all sitting around watching Netflix in our pyjamas most of the time instead of doing work 😉 So what can we do about it? As always, we delve into both practical and mindset tips to help solve this common freelance problem.2018-08-0144 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 3: Deciding What to ChargeIn this episode we look at why it can be so scary to ask for money, and how to work out what to charge for your client services or products. We also include some tips on getting into the right mindset so you're charging the correct value.2018-08-0148 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 2: Getting ClientsFinding clients is obviously quite important for most freelance businesses, but it can be tricky if you're just starting out (or even if you're an experienced freelancer). We look at why it's hard and what you can do about it!2018-08-0144 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Episode 1: Imposter SydromeEver felt like a fraud? We have. In this episode we explore Imposter Syndrome, the impact it has and how to overcome it.2018-05-2439 min
99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)Introduction to 99 Problems (but a boss ain't one)The very first instalment of 99 Problems (but a boss ain't one). We introduce ourselves, explain why we created the podcast and let you know what to expect in upcoming episodes.2018-04-1902 min