After a long break, Stephen Gates is back with a powerful episode unpacking what it really takes to go out on your own—whether that means freelancing, consulting, or launching your own studio. Recorded from a new home, a new city, and a new chapter, this episode pulls back the curtain on the real decisions behind building CRZY and why fulfillment—not fear—should drive your next move.

This isn’t another “12 steps to freelance freedom” checklist. It’s an honest, strategic deep dive into the foundational questions you need to ask before betting on yourself. From risk tolerance to pricing models, Stephen breaks down the mindset shifts, business realities, and personal clarity required to thrive outside the traditional 9–5.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The moment of truth that signaled it was time to leave the corporate world
• Eight key questions to ask before going independent
• Why starting with structure (not branding) builds a stronger foundation
• How to calculate your rate—and why retainer models can create stability
• The soft-launch strategy that builds trust before buzz
• What Sylvia Baffour’s quote taught him about trading fear for fulfillment

Discomfort is the cost of fulfillment. If you’ve been waiting for permission to bet on yourself—this is it.

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