High-income Business Writing: Freelance Writing | Copywriting | Content Writing | How To Freelance

Hourly billing is the default pricing model for many writers. But it’s also a hidden trap that can sabotage your growth, undervalue your expertise, and limit your income. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by the ceiling on your earnings or struggled to position yourself as a trusted partner rather than a hired hand, this episode will change the way you view pricing forever. In today’s episode, I break down 15 compelling reasons why hourly billing is actively working against you — and what you can do instead to unlock your earning potential and build trust-based, outcome-focused client relationships. What You’ll Learn Why hourly billing punishes efficiency and caps your income potential. How it undermines your positioning as an expert and devalues your unique expertise. The hidden costs of hourly billing: admin burden, client micromanagement, and trust erosion. The psychological traps that make it hard to raise your rates under hourly models. Why shifting to value-based pricing or project fees can transfor

If you're feeling like your freelance business is shifting beneath your feet—but you can’t quite name what’s changed—you’re not alone. Most writers sense something is different… but they don’t know how to respond strategically. In this solo episode, I dive into what I believe is the real driver behind the changes we’re seeing in the freelance writing space. Yes, the economy has cooled, and that’s still a big factor, since marketing is one of the first areas to get cut when business is slow. But AI is now playing a much bigger role than most writers realize. And the pace of disruption is happening much faster than we’re used to. I break down the data, the two dominant schools of thought about where AI is taking us, and the five predictions I’m making about the next 18 months. More importantly, I share what I believe you can do right now to adapt and thrive, no matter where you stand on the AI debate. Whether you’ve been avoiding AI, tinkering with tools randomly, or wondering how to respond to market shi

What do you do when a dream referral turns into a nightmare-in-the-making? One of my coaching clients recently found herself in a tricky spot. Her best referral partner had sent her what initially seemed like a solid lead. But after a few back-and-forths, things started to feel… off. The red flags were waving, and she could sense this prospect would likely become a difficult client. She wanted out. But she didn’t want to burn bridges with either the potential client or the trusted source who referred them. In this week’s short episode, I share the guidance I gave her — a simple, thoughtful way to bow out gracefully while preserving both relationships. It’s a nuanced dance, but once you know the framework, you’ll be ready to handle these moments with professionalism and clarity. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: A simple strategy to walk away from a referral without damaging key relationships Why these situations are more common than most freelancers think The importance of protecting your boundari

AI isn’t just a tool for writing faster. It’s the key to systematically expanding your professional capabilities and breaking free from the “experience prison” that’s been capping your income. In this week’s episode, we dive into a powerful shift in mindset for freelancers: moving from viewing AI as a speed or productivity tool to leveraging it as a capability multiplier. I share how I used AI to confidently take on new, high-value projects I would have previously turned down. And how you can do the same to expand your business without months of study or expensive training. If you’ve ever declined a project because it felt outside your expertise—or you’re worried about getting left behind in a rapidly changing market—this episode will change the way you think about your business, your income ceiling, and the true role of AI in your freelance journey. What You’ll Learn: Why your “experience” might actually be limiting your income and opportunities The five capability gaps silently constraining most free

What if a story that’s haunted you for years… was never true? In this short but powerful episode, we dive into a jaw-dropping true story that will make you question the narratives you’ve been carrying — especially the ones that have shaped your identity and decisions for years. It’s the story of Derek Sivers, entrepreneur and author, who spent 16 years believing he had ruined a woman’s life in a devastating car accident. The guilt became part of who he was — until a shocking encounter revealed the truth: the story he’d built his life around was never real. And that revelation opens up a much bigger conversation for all of us as freelancers and solo professionals. What beliefs are you holding onto that no longer serve you? What if the story that’s limiting your potential is a lie you’ve been telling yourself for years? Key Takeaway: We all carry stories about ourselves, our worth, our abilities, our mistakes. But sometimes, those stories aren’t rooted in fact. They’re rooted in fear, shame, or inco

AI may be fast, smart, and shockingly efficient. But is it truly intelligent? In this thought-provoking solo episode, I explore a powerful and timely idea: the future belongs to those who change the game entirely, not those who keep trying to outrun AI at what it does best. Freelancers and creative professionals are feeling the pressure. AI can now write emails, analyze data, and churn out decent content in seconds. But there’s something artificial intelligence can’t do: think, discern, feel, and create the way you can. I introduce the concept of “meta-talents” — the higher-order human skills that AI can't replicate — and explain how freelancers can leverage them as a unique competitive edge. What You’ll Learn Why AI is making mediocrity obsolete... and what that means for your freelance business The difference between pattern-matching intelligence and true human discernment A breakdown of the 7 meta-talents that set you apart (and why they matter more than ever) How to integrate AI tools str

Episode Summary Looking back on the past 30 years of my career, I’ve faced challenges, doubts, and moments of pure grit. Through all of it, I’ve realized there are three core rules that have guided me — rules that I didn’t define at the time but, in hindsight, have made all the difference. These aren’t just feel-good ideas. They’re battle-tested principles that have helped me push through fear, uncertainty, and roadblocks. And if you’re looking to build a meaningful, successful freelance career, these rules might just change the way you approach your work. What You’ll Learn in This Episode ·       Why obstacles often contain hidden opportunities... if you’re willing to see them. How belief in your goal can override doubt and fear. Why bold action always beats overthinking. How these three rules can create real, tangible success in your freelance career. Key Takeaways 1. Obstacles Are Opportunities in Disguise Most people see obstacles as stop signs, but they often hold the seeds of g

Episode Summary What if AI isn't a threat but the biggest business opportunity we've seen in decades? In this game-changing episode, we reframe the fear of artificial intelligence into one of the biggest business opportunities freelance writers and solo marketers have ever seen. If you've been worried about how AI will affect your work, this conversation will help you step into a new mindset. The kind of mindset where you become more valuable, more strategic, and more productive than ever before. We’re diving into how to reinvent your business model, amplify your impact, and create a competitive advantage that’s nearly impossible to replicate — all by embracing a Human+AI approach that plays to your greatest strengths. What You’ll Learn How to shift from an execution-focused freelancer to a strategic conductor The mindset required to make AI your most powerful creative and business partner Techniques for using AI as your intellectual sparring partner How to multiply your output (and quality

Episode Summary We’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, social media updates, and a steady stream of mental noise. It feels productive, but in reality, it’s draining our focus, creativity, and mental energy. Just like our bodies benefit from intermittent fasting, our minds need regular breaks from constant input. Yet, many of us struggle with even a few moments of true silence. In this episode, we explore the power of mental fasting—why stepping away from constant stimulation can help you gain clarity, reduce stress, and unlock your best ideas. Plus, I share my own struggle with slipping back into the trap of overstimulation and what I’m doing to reset. What I Discuss in This Episode ·       Why too much mental input creates foggy thinking and anxiety ·       How regular “mental fasting” leads to clearer, more creative thinking ·       Simple ways to build mental fasting into your daily routine ·       Why a quiet mind isn’t an empty mind; it’s a free-thinking mind Key Takea

Hey, there. Welcome to another episode of the High-Income Business Writing podcast—the #1 podcast for freelance writers, copywriters, and solo marketers who want to earn more in less time... doing work they love... for better clients. With over 1.3 million downloads from listeners just like you across 101 countries. You know it’s supposed to help you grow your freelance business. But the idea of reaching out to prospects and clients just to “stay in touch” or to “follow up” starts to feel awkward fast. You don’t want to annoy people. Yet it often feels like all you’re doing is circling back to ask, “Are you ready to hire me yet?” ... which starts to feel a little desperate and kind of pointless. But what if there were a better way to build real connections — one that didn’t feel like a game of endless follow-ups or forced small talk? In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Melissa Mitri, a successful freelance health writer and content strategist who’s built a thriving business without relying on traditional

Episode Summary Success in your freelance business isn’t about grand gestures, massive marketing campaigns, or expensive training. It’s about the tiny, seemingly insignificant moments you’re tempted to skip—the quick LinkedIn post, the follow-up email, the slightly bolder pricing quote. These micro-moments are where real transformation happens. In this episode, we explore how small decisions—often dismissed as trivial—can lead to major breakthroughs in your freelance career. Whether it’s landing a high-paying client, securing a game-changing project, or leveling up your pricing, the path to success is built one micro-moment at a time. What You’ll Learn in This Episode ·       Why the most pivotal changes in your business come from micro-moments, not big moves. ·       Real-life examples of how tiny decisions led to massive breakthroughs. ·       How to recognize and seize these opportunities in your own freelance career. ·       Practical steps to train yourself to take action—even when it feels poi

Most freelance writers focus on crafting compelling copy, but the real value they offer often extends far beyond the words they write. The most successful writers don’t just take assignments—they offer strategic insight that helps their clients achieve bigger business goals. In this episode, we explore how you can elevate your role from order-taker to trusted advisor by recognizing and communicating the strategic patterns and opportunities you spot in client projects. You'll learn how to position your expertise as a separate service, package it effectively, and ensure you're getting paid for the value you bring—not just the content you create. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ·       The hidden strategic value you’re already providing... without realizing it ·       Why most writers stay in their comfort zone and miss out on bigger opportunities ·       A simple way to start shifting from order-taker to strategic consultant ·       A conversation framework to position strategy as a separate, paid

Episode Summary Why do so many talented freelancers stay stuck year after year? It’s not because of market conditions, AI, or lack of experience — it’s because of hidden, faulty assumptions that shape decisions and limit options. In this episode, we uncover how these invisible mental barriers hold freelancers back and how to break through them with a structured, practical approach. What You’ll Learn: How to identify hidden assumptions that keep you stuck The Assumption Audit: A framework to challenge limiting beliefs How first-principles thinking helps you create better solutions Real-world examples of freelancers overcoming their mental roadblocks Actionable steps to test new empowering assumptions and create breakthroughs Key Takeaways: The Invisible Problem: Hidden Assumptions Many freelancers believe they’re stuck because of external factors (competition, AI, bad clients), but the real issue is often internal. Assumptions operate in the background like invisible software, filter

Episode Overview: In this episode, I explain why a conversational approach to AI interactions is more effective than massive, complex prompts — and how this mirrors natural human communication patterns. Key Points: 1. The Common Mistake Many users dump massive amounts of information into single prompts. Some AI experts promote complex, lengthy prompts that users blindly copy. This approach lacks organic interaction and outsources critical thinking. 2. The Human Conversation Model Consider how we naturally handle complex discussions with colleagues. We don't monologue for 20 minutes straight. Information sharing happens through natural back-and-forth dialogue. 3. Better Approach: The Conversational Method Start with essential information using the 3R framework: Role: Tell AI what perspective to adopt. Reference: Provide necessary context. Requirements: Specify what you need. Let AI respond before adding more context. Build the conversation iteratively. 4. Why This

What makes some businesses unforgettable while others fade into the noise? The answer isn’t just in a logo or a tagline — it’s in the story they tell.   In this episode, we dive into the art of brand storytelling with Johnna Lacey, the founder of . Johnna has more than 20 years of professional writing experience and over 40 years of creative storytelling. She specializes in helping business owners, solopreneurs, nonprofits and authors simplify their messaging and build deeper connections through storytelling.   In this conversation, Johnna breaks down the difference between brand story and traditional branding, the biggest mistakes professionals make when telling their story, and how solo professionals can leverage storytelling to build trust, reputation, and community.   Plus, she shares practical steps to uncover your own story and even turn brand storytelling into a valuable service for your clients.

We've all been there.   We make a mistake in our business. And for days or weeks we get caught up in a mental loop of "what if..." and "if only..."   Regret can feel overwhelming, but the real problem is not just the mistake. It's how we respond to it.   In this week’s short episode, I explain 3 mistakes most of us make when trying to deal with regret — and how we can deal with the issue more productivity.

Have you ever felt ready to give up on prospecting because you weren’t seeing results? You’re not alone. Many freelancers quit just before the seeds they’ve planted begin to sprout. In this episode, we explore why consistent prospecting is crucial, even when it feels like nothing’s happening.   In this episode, I explain why timing is everything in prospecting. I share powerful analogies and strategies to shift your mindset. And I offer a practical, habit-building approach to make prospecting a seamless part of your routine. If you’ve ever doubted the effectiveness of your outreach efforts, this episode is for you.   What You’ll Learn Why only 5-10% of prospects are ready to say "yes" at any given time. How to stay consistent even when it feels like you're getting nowhere. The "garden analogy" for understanding the slow but steady process of prospecting. Why a mediocre message at the perfect time can outperform a perfect message at the wrong time. How to build a prospecting system that works fo

Happy New Year!   If you're looking to make 2025 one of your best years yet, I have a different approach for you to consider...   Start with zero. And by zero, I mean absolutely nothing.   Doing so will help you accomplish more... and faster.   That’s the topic of this week’s short episode below.

Freelancing can be an exhilarating journey — building a business from scratch, gaining financial freedom, and securing prestigious clients. But what happens when the work that once lit you up begins to feel hollow?   If you've ever wondered if there's more to your career than just success, this episode is for you.   In today’s show, we explore the concept of “Halftime,” a mid-career pivot that shifts your focus from external achievements to deeper personal fulfillment and significance. Drawing from personal experiences and the transformative lessons of Bob Buford’s book Halftime: Moving from Success to Significance, this episode invites you to rethink your path and take actionable steps toward a more meaningful second act.   What You’ll Learn The concept of Halftime and why it’s a proactive, purposeful pivot—not a reactive crisis. How to identify the signs that you’re ready for a career transition. Strategies to realign your work with your core values and personal goals. Practical ways to leverage

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly dealing with the same frustrating challenges in your business?   Maybe you get stuck managing messy revisions from unexpected sources, or a client keeps hitting you with last-minute rush work.   In this episode, I discuss how we often react to these situations rather than respond thoughtfully—and why that difference matters.   We explore two key steps to improve your responses:   Taking a pause before making decisions. Asking yourself better, more open-ended questions that lead to more productive solutions.   This episode is all about how the quality of your internal questions can shift your perspective and help you navigate difficult situations with clarity.   Listen below or subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform.