Freelancing can be a lonely journey. But it doesn't have to be.   Many freelancers struggle to find consistent work, navigate client relationships, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. They often feel isolated, and unsure where to turn for support or guidance.   Not Rachel Smith, my guest in this week's episode. Rachel is the founder of , a thriving jobs board and community for Australian freelance writers that has been going strong for over a decade.   But here's the kicker: Rachel's List started almost by accident.   Early in her freelance career, Rachel found herself frequently recommending other freelancers when she couldn't take on projects. This informal network of referrals gradually evolved into a highly successful business that has transformed the freelance landscape for countless writers.   These days, Rachel's List isn't just a job board. It's a vibrant community where freelancers share information, find overflow work, and access practical skill-building masterclasses. The success has even spawned a popular podcast (The Content Byte) and an annual conference — .   I was thrilled to bring Rachel on the show to share her insights on how freelance opportunities have grown and changed over the years. We go deep into this idea of building a small community of your own. And we discuss the skills freelancers need to thrive in today's market.   Whether you're a seasoned freelancer looking to expand your network or a newcomer trying to find your footing, you’ll find a number of valuable insights on building a supportive freelance community and turning connections into business opportunities.