My Freelance Life

029 “It's time to wrap up my story…”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 19 Dec 2018 15:54:00 +0000

Just over an year ago, Andy decided to quit his day job to go full-time into freelancing, travelling the world, and living life on his own terms. Today, we wrap up his freelance life journey...

Our goal for this show was to document Andy's freelance journey and we hope we've been able to share some useful insights.

You can listen to all the episodes at http://freelancelifepodcast.com

We hope you enjoyed Andy's 1 year long journey of his freelance life. We'd love to hear from you @MilloTeam

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)
My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

028 “How do I take some time off of work?”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 14 Dec 2018 05:24:00 +0000

Everyone needs a vacation - a time to recharge batteries and give their brain a well deserved rest. This holds true even more so for freelancers like Andy.

“It’s great to be able to take some time off when needed... I love the flexibility!” - Andy

In today’s episode, Andy shares his tried and tested tips to taking some time off of work without really affecting his freelance income.

Tools / Resources discussed in this episode

- Company of One: Why Staying Small Is the Next Big Thing for Business

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)
My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

027 “This new project is like solving a complex puzzle”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 17:25:00 +0000

Sometimes there comes along a freelance project that is stimulating, even frustrating to some extent - but at the end of the day is just the right mix. In today’s episode, Andy gives us insights into such a new project, keeping his motivation level up, and how using a coworking space is increasing his productivity.

Tools / Resources mentioned in this episode

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

Podcast mixed and edited by Danny Gilman from https://echopodmedia.com
Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)
My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

026 “Are fixed-priced freelance projects worth pursuing?”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 9 Nov 2018 16:46:00 +0000

When you’re getting paid for project completion and not for being “on the clock”, it’s quite a different experience for you and the client.

In today’s episode, Andy shares his thoughts on the hourly vs fixed debate and gives us insights on which pricing structure works best for him.

Andy's recently took on-board two fixed priced projects; a change from his usual hourly based pricing. But are fixed-priced project worth pursuing? Are they better than hourly pricing in the long run? We find out in My Freelance Life episode 26.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

025 “I’m recording this from inside a coworking space!”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 2 Nov 2018 17:57:00 +0000

Andy’s temporary relocation was the perfect opportunity to try out something new in his freelance life… like joining a coworking space.

Working at a home office can be tough sometimes. You might find yourself not leaving the house for days and trying to talk to your cat just to feel sane.

In this week’s episode of My Freelance Life, Andy reveals his decision to give coworking spaces a chance.

So was it worth it? We discuss the takeaways so you can decide for yourself.

Tools / Resources mentioned in this episode
- WeWork Coworking Space

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

024 “This is shaping up to be my best month as a freelancer”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 17:48:00 +0000

Andy has relocated to California for a few months, to spend time with family, all while continuing his work in full gear - thanks to his freelance lifestyle.

In today's episode, Andy also talks about the transition being easier than he expected and how this month is shaping up to his best yet.

This and much more in episode 24 of My Freelance Life

Tools / Resources mentioned in this episode:
- MacBook Alarm (Secure your laptop with an alarm)

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

023 “Yesterday, I recorded my highest earnings ever as a freelancer!”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 16:07:00 +0000

It’s been a whole year since Andy decided to leave his full-time job for a full-time freelance career - and there's no stopping him. This week, he's recorded his highest earnings ever!

In episode 23 of My Freelance Life, Andy shares his tips to getting testimonials, the possibility of acquiring a ‘non-Upwork’ client and the ability to relocate to a different city all thanks to his freelance work structure.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

022 “I’ve just passed the 1 year anniversary of leaving my full time job!”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 18:16:00 +0000

Just over an year ago, Andy sent a memo to everyone at his full-time job, announcing that he was leaving his desk-job to pursue freelancing full-time.

He is now a full year into his freelance career - and loving every bit of it.

"Now, after freelancing for about a year, I can safely say it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.", says Andy.

A few weeks have passed by since the last time we talked to Andy, who’s been away on a trip to Trinidad. In today’s episode, he talks about the impact that vacations can have on your freelance work and how to deal with it.

Also, will Andy ever consider going back to full-time job? This and much more in this episode of My Freelance Life.

Tools mentioned in this episode

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

021 “How do I justify my ‘above market’ rate to clients?”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 21 Sep 2018 18:47:00 +0000

Figuring out your freelance rate is one of the most challenging things a freelancer faces. Andy is no exception.

The fear of selling himself short and the anxiety caused by setting the bar too high is a fine balancing act that Andy keeps in mind while quoting his clients.

“My clients don't pay me for what I do, they pay me for the solution I have for their problem”

In today’s episode, Andy discusses how he justifies his ‘above market’ rates to clients - so that the subject of money is never awkward or embarrassing.

This and much more in episode 21 of My Freelance Life.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

This episode of My Freelance Life is brought to you by our own premium client-hunting service, Solidgigs - delivering the best freelance gigs into your inbox every week. Kill the feast/famine cycle of your business & trade your worst clients for some of the best companies in the world. Get on the list.

020 “As a freelancer, my biggest advantage is only needing a handful of clients to succeed”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 19:01:00 +0000

Andy is quite happy not to take on new clients at the moment. He doesn’t need to work 24/7 and only requires a handful of clients to match his target income. In today’s episode, Andy talks about the flexibility of choosing clients and fluctuating his own rates, calling it his ‘biggest advantage’ working as a full-time freelancer.

In the second part of the show, Andy gives his thoughts on whether you should accept a lower paying gig if business is ‘slow’.

“If the opportunity seems right, go for it and take that low-paying job. But when money comes on to the table, make sure you’re getting what you’re worth”, says Andy.

We also talk about looking for ways that can help freelancers build up processes in their business. As your freelance career grows, you may look to virtual assistants or sub-contractors to take tasks off your plate and leave you free for higher-value work.

This and much more in today’s episode of My Freelance Life.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

This episode is brought to you by .TECH Domains, Have an innovative idea? Build it on a .TECH domain! Visit www.get.tech and use code MILLO to get 90% off on 1 and 5 year domains.

Also sponsored in part by:

Bonsai, the #1 freelance productivity suite in the world. Put your freelance business on autopilot with this all-in-one solution for the world’s best creatives. Try Bonsai today.

019 “The easiest way to get paid more is to raise my rates”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 7 Sep 2018 19:18:00 +0000

Andy’s biggest challenge isn’t convincing his clients to pay him more money or chasing after payments. Rather it’s internal - convincing himself that he’s worth the rate he wants to charge. In today’s episode, Andy dives in deep and share with us his strategies to negotiating with clients and how exactly does he go about pricing himself.

Andy also gives his thoughts on something that’s been debated among freelancers ever since the origin of the freelance profession i.e. the great pricing debate - hourly rates vs. fixed pricing.

You’ll find out exactly what are the pros and cons for hourly rates as compared to fixed rates. And which one should you opt for while going for a client.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

This episode is brought to you by Bonsai, the #1 freelance productivity suite in the world. Put your freelance business on autopilot with this all-in-one solution for the world’s best creatives. Try Bonsai today.

018 "Problem-solving every single day feels like a dopamine hit!”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 19:49:00 +0000

Waking up every morning to a fresh set of challenges and satisfying little puzzles, is what keeps keeps Andy determined. It’s a dream come true. No more hours of commuting, feeling stuck in a cubicle, listening to that ever dull hum of fluorescent lighting or stressing about traffic going back home. Some love the structure of an office life, Andy thrives in his freelance life.

In today’s episode of My Freelance Life, Andy talks about how he controls his own schedule, works where and when he wants to and how he juggles between short-term and long-terms projects trying to keep the perfect balance.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

This episode is brought to you by Bonsai, the #1 freelance productivity suite in the world. Put your freelance business on auto-pilot with this all-in-one solution for the world’s best creatives. Try Bonsai today.

017 “My clients treat me like a teammate”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 19:23:00 +0000

The key to long-term freelance success isn’t just your work output - it’s also nurturing great working relationships with your clients. In this episode, Andy talks about his strategy to maintaining a steady income thanks to his ‘alternative’ approach to working with clients.

In today's episode of My Freelance Life, you’ll learn Andy’s way of building a relationship with clients and how it’s an ongoing process that starts with the first interaction and continues on with every project. “I’ve been lucky to have some awesome clients. They see me as a teammate working for a common goal”, says Andy.

Plus we also talk about how Andy’s been brainstorming ideas for his professional domain name and branding.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

016 “How do I avoid working for low-quality clients?”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 19:34:00 +0000

Focusing on your brand identity and the type of clients you work with can make your freelance life much easier - and ultimately very successful. This week, Andy gives us his tips for attracting high-quality clients and becoming a profitable freelancer.

How exactly does Andy avoid working for lower-quality clients? He attracts higher-quality ones - by simply adjusting his approach towards clients. It’s all about not compromising on what you’re worth and who you’re willing to work with.

In this episode, we also discuss:

The steps involved in setting up your personal brand online and how easy it is to get caught up in it all - instead of moving forward with actually building your business.
Is an .io domain name ‘good for business’?
Should you setup a one-man freelance business or do you look for freelance partners to help you out with projects?

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

This episode of My Freelance Life is brought to you by our own premium client-hunting service, Solidgigs - delivering the best freelance gigs into your inbox every week. Kill the feast/famine cycle of your business & trade your worst clients for some of the best companies in the world. Get on the list.

015 "I’m fortunate enough to hand-pick projects I work on”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 3 Aug 2018 10:47:00 +0000

Part of the attraction of switching to full-time freelance is the ability to hand-pick what to work on and to have multiple project possibilities - comapred to working for just one company.

This week, Andy runs us through his routine after coming back from Europe, talks about the impact of vacations on his freelance projects - and the effect it had on his earnings.

In this episode, we also talk about:

Dealing with a vacation ‘hangover’ and getting back into the groove
The importance of personal accountability for freelancers
What’s more valuable? Having a client who calls you all the time and pays half the rate versus having a client who calls you once a year who pays double the rate. You’ll have to find a balance.
The realities of working remotely as a freelancer

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

014 “I realized the work proposal in my email was from a very prominent client!”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 18:18:00 +0000

“Hey Andy, I’m impressed, can we start on this today?” - and that’s how Andy’s landed an amazing new gig right after returning back home from a 3-week long trip to Europe.

It’s been months since Andy said sayonara to his full-time job to dive off the deep end into full-time freelance work and in this week’s episode, he recalls his mini-vacation adventures and talks about the flexibility he enjoys while trying to build his freelance lifestyle.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

013 "I recorded my highest earned amount last week!"

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 4 Jul 2018 06:30:00 +0000

Andy has been working the same hours lately while gradually raising his hourly rates. The result? He’s setting new records every day in terms of highest revenue earned!

In today’s episode, Andy talks about how frequently should freelancers be taking vacations and also gives advice on one of the most daunting challenges facing freelancers - raising rates without losing quality clients.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

012 "I'm working less hours each day and having more time for relaxing"

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 15:26:00 +0000

Taking a leap of faith into the freelance world can feel more like pushing yourself off a cliff. Andy knows, because he did exactly that a few months ago. In today’s episode, Andy talks about the realities of freelancing and his thought process to going from a ‘flexible’ day job to a full-time freelancing career.

We also talk about the ‘burden’ of freelancing and how to keep a balance by working while on vacations. “Vacations are never quite the same after becoming a freelancer”, says Andy. While the full-time salaried workforce can take holidays and still get paid, freelancers like Andy have to tread carefully - taking time out means not making money.

In this episode, we also talk about:
- How to deal with downtime as a freelancer
- Full-time day jobs VS a freelancing career: Pros & Cons
- Reasons you should go freelance - and if it doesn’t work, you can always go back ;)

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

011 “I use a spreadsheet dashboard to keep track of my billable hours!”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 20:00:00 +0000

Full show notes at https://millo.co/use-spreadsheet-keep-track-billable-hours-freelance-life-011

Time is money - particularly when you freelance. In today’s episode, we explore how Andy keeps track of every single minute of every day, his billable hours and overall business goals - all with the help of a spreadsheet!

In this episode, we also talk about:
- How to better manage your freelance income and expenses
- Why you should keep your personal and business accounts separate
- The Mac VS PC debate - Andy reveals his choice for his machine upgrade!

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

This episode is brought to you by our premium client-hunting service SolidGigs. Kill the feast/famine cycle of your business & trade your worst clients for some of the best companies in the world. Get on the list.

010 "How do I handle my freelancer taxes?"

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 6 Jun 2018 11:00:00 +0000

Full show notes at https://millo.co/handle-freelancer-taxes-freelance-life-010

Earning money through freelancing does cost money and is taxed differently. You don’t have a full-time employer to figure out your taxes and give you a clear-shot paycheck, after all. And then you hear terms like “1099” and W-2”, which honestly can be quite hard to wrap your head around.

In this very special episode (and our longest yet) of My Freelance Life, we take a deep dive with Andy and our special guest – Nathan D Lee, a professional accountant, to give us the insights on finances, bookkeeping and tax implications for freelancers.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

Thanks to Bench.co for sponsoring this episode. Take the stress out of bookkeeping. Try Bench completely FREE for 30 days at trybench.com plus save 20% on your first 6 months!

Podcast mixed and edited by Danny Gilman from https://echopodmedia.com
Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

009 "My life flows in a different cadence"

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 16 May 2018 16:50:00 +0000

It's been months since Andy started freelancing full-time. Which means he now has time to do a lot more things he cares about outside of work. For starters, he freelances full-time, he's moving to France, he's in a local musical, and more.

As Andy explains in this episode, that's what his new freelance lifestyle is all about: choosing when to do the things you care more about. Instead of living between 5pm and 9am, being forced to live your life outside of your work schedule.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

008 “It’s not always as pretty as it seems”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 4 Apr 2018 17:13:00 +0000

Sometimes, work is just work. As Andy said about the Freelance business, “It’s not always as pretty as it seems.” During this episode, we explore the ups and downs of the Freelance world.

Andy’s honesty gives great insight and tips on what can be done to organize, manage and prioritize work. We will discuss the diligence required for freelancing, as well as organizing methods to manage your workload. Tune in to hear what Andy has to say about the behind-the-scenes of a flexible schedule and keeping a steady stream of work so pay is more reliable.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/8

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

007 “Flexibility doesn’t mean working from your pajamas every day”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 18:49:00 +0000

Flexibility isn't about working from your pajamas every day—it's about building the kind of life and career that you want. One that allows you to spend more time with people you care about, travel, exercise, or do whatever you'd rather be doing than working yourself to death climbing a corporate ladder.

That's why in today's episode we get into the finer details of what it means to build a business—particularly a freelance business—around a bigger vision of what your life can look like.

In many circles, this is known as lifestyle design—or building a lifestyle business. And it definitely has its perks. We reveal a few of them in episode 7.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/7

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

006 "How long do you want to give yourself before you have to start looking for a job again?"

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Thu, 15 Mar 2018 16:43:00 +0000

If you're thinking about quitting your job to pursue freelancing full-time, consider Andys wise words: "The amount of savings you have is the amount of time you can afford before you have to look for a job again."

In today's episode of My Freelance Life we answer a few critical questions that have come up as Andy has pursued his unique new career as a freelancer. We discuss how sick days—or vacation days—can impact you as a freelancer, how much money you should have saved before you quit your job, and lots more.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/6

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

005 "We bought one-way tickets to France"

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 7 Mar 2018 17:19:00 +0000

A big part of the reason Andy wanted to start freelancing full-time was to have more flexibility to travel. Now, he and his wife have booked one-way tickets to France! In this episode, we talk about his travel plans plus lots more including:

How to handle the ebb and flow of client requests
Why you should have a vision for where your freelancing will take you
Working for yourself vs. scaling your small business

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/5

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

004 “I charge more than double what I was making before”

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 21:53:00 +0000

To make it as a freelancer, you have to charge more than you were making as an employee. In today's episode we explore how Andy is handling his new freelance life including setting rates, pulling all-nighters, finding the right kinds of clients, setting your own deadlines and lots more.

Show notes for this episode can be found at http://freelancelifepodcast.com/4

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

003 "How am I competing with people offering lower rates?" (The UpWork Episode)

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 21:12:00 +0000

When Andy signed up for UpWork around 8 months ago, he may not have imagined that it would eventually give him the ability to quit his job and freelance full-time.

But that's exactly what happened.

Now, Andy gets enough client inquiries each week via UpWork that he's not even searching anywhere else.

Today, we peel back the curtain on how Andy has elevated his UpWork profile and built a small personal brand that attracts clients and brings him regular work.

Shownotes for this episode are found here: http://freelancelifepodcast.com/3

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

002 “It’s so nice to take your schedule into your own hands."

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Wed, 7 Feb 2018 18:56:00 +0000

Taking your schedule into your own hands can be magical. But it can also present a very unique set of challenges—which Andy is discovering now that he's his own boss.

One of the biggest reasons Andy started freelancing was to manage his own schedule and build a life that doesn't revolve around the standard American 9-5 desk job.

But in today's episode you'll learn why it can be a bit more of a challenge than you might expect managing your own schedule all the time.

Plus, we talk about Andy's last day at the office and his first day working for himself.

Shownotes for this episode are found here: http://freelancelifepodcast.com/2

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Theme music by Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo. Learn more at http://millo.co

001 "I realized: this is it! This is the thing I’ve been waiting for."

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 23:50:00 +0000

When you get a new job, putting your two weeks notice in can be fairly routine. But when your only plan is to start freelancing full-time...well, that changes everything.

Imagine telling your boss: I don't have anywhere to go... I'm just leaving.

That's what Andy had to do recently when he quit his cozy job at a tech startup in order to pursue the freelance lifestyle.

In today's episode, we'll get to know Andy a little bit more (like learning about his time living on an actual sea vessel) and he'll share with us all about what it was like telling his boss he was... done.

Shownotes for this episode are found here: http://freelancelifepodcast.com/1

Thanks to Freshbooks for sponsoring this episode. Try the all-new Freshbooks completely FREE for 30 days at freshbooks.com/ANDY and when they ask "how did you year about us?" just type "Andy".

Music in this episode by

Joakim Karud (http://youtube.com/joakimkarud)
Nicolai Heidlas (https://soundcloud.com/nicolai-heidlas).3

My Freelance Life is a production of Millo.

000 "Dear friends, I have decided to leave the company." (Trailer)

preston@millo.co (Millo) — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 19:00:00 +0000

New from Millo, 'My Freelance Life' is a weekly check-in with Andy, a desk-jobber-turned-full-time-freelancer. Every week, show host Preston will pick Andy’s brain and discover the truth behind what really happens when you decide to quit your job and pursue freelancing full-time.

Show notes and details at http://freelancelifepodcast.com

Listen to more of Millo's podcasts at http://millo.co/podcasts