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!) without burning out A 30-day action plan to start reinventing your business with AI Key Takeaways The Writing Market Is Splitting. Which Side Are You On? AI is rapidly commoditizing low-value content creation. But high-value strategic thinking, creative leadership, and judgment are more valuable than ever. The opportunity lies in evolving from order-taker to advisor and conductor. From someone who orchestrates both human and AI resources to deliver better business outcomes. Using AI as Your Intellectual Sparring Partner Don’t just ask AI to write; use it to challenge, debate, and refine your thinking. Set up “Socratic dialogues” with AI to pressure-test your ideas and sharpen your message. This collaborative thinking accelerates originality and gives you a massive edge in producing world-class content and strategy. Become a 10X Writer Without Working 10X Harder AI can help you eliminate bottlenecks in idea generation, drafting, editing, and repurposing. Build workflows that multiply your content from one core idea into email series, blog posts, videos, and tools. Done right, this creates a virtuous cycle of authority, visibility, and client opportunities—all at scale. Build a Competitive Moat AI Can’t Cross Three elements make you irreplaceable in the age of AI: Domain Expertise – Lived experience and niche insights AI can't replicate. Relationship Capital – The trust, empathy, and collaboration clients crave. Strategic Judgment – The ability to see the big picture, make smart calls, and tie everything together. Leverage these with AI to create proprietary workflows and systems that clients can’t easily replace. Your 30-Day Action Plan Audit Your Role – Are you mostly executing, or adding unique value that AI can’t? Run These Experiments: Idea Validation – Use AI to stress-test a concept you're working on. Content Multiplication – Take a single piece of content and repurpose it 5 ways. Custom AI System – Create a lightweight AI prompt system tailored to one client or use case. Communicate the Evolution – Help your clients understand that you’re not just using AI—you’re delivering stronger outcomes, faster and more strategically. Listener Challenge Pick one of the three AI experiments above and commit to testing it this week. Then reflect: What did you learn? What new opportunities did this unlock? How could this change how you deliver value to your clients? Want to Go Deeper? If this episode sparked something in you and you’re ready to turn AI into your strategic advantage, join me for my upcoming AI Advantage Bootcamp for Writers and Solo Marketers. This is a hands-on, 4-week program designed to help you harness AI in your creative and business workflows. Whether you’re just getting started or already using AI but want to sharpen your edge, you’ll walk away with systems and results, not just theory. . Spots are limited, and this program sells out fast. If it feels like the right next step for you, don’t wait. Final Thought The future doesn’t belong to those who fear change. It belongs to those who harness it with purpose. AI can be the start of your next-level impact. What are you going to do with that opportunity?

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 Takeaways 1. Your Brain is Overloaded with Mental Sugar Every notification, news alert, and email gives you a dopamine hit... but at a cost. Too much input leads to stress, anxiety, and mental exhaustion. Like junk food, overconsumption of information makes you sluggish and unfocused. 2. Mental Fasting Creates Clarity and Creativity The best ideas don’t come when you’re constantly consuming Quiet time helps reduce stress, sharpen decision-making, and improve focus. Even a few minutes of mental fasting can make a noticeable difference. 3. Start Small: 15 Minutes of Daily Silence Commit to just 15 minutes of quiet each morning. No phone, no music, no distractions. Over time, expand this to longer breaks, like half a day without your phone on weekends. Experiment with deeper mental fasts, such as a full day without screens. Actionable Exercises ·       15-Minute Morning Mental Fast: Start your day with 15 minutes of complete silence. No inputs. Just sit and let your thoughts settle. ·       Weekend Phone Detox: Put your phone in a drawer for a half-day on Saturday or Sunday. ·       Full Digital Sabbath: Try going screen-free from sunrise to sunset once a week and notice how it affects your focus and creativity (yikes!). Listener Challenge This week, commit to one small mental fast—even just 15 minutes of silence in the morning. See how it impacts your clarity, stress levels, and creativity.

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 networking tactics. Melissa shares her refreshingly authentic approach to connecting with editors and brands. Her approach focuses on empathy, generosity, and strategic follow-ups instead of the same, old, boring approaches to follow-up. And you’ll walk away with simple, practical ideas you can implement right away. We talk about: Redefining networking on your own terms (yes, even if you’re shy!) How Melissa stays top-of-mind with clients without being pushy Low-stress ways to add value and build trust before landing a gig Simple follow-up tactics that don’t feel annoying or salesy If you’ve ever wondered how to build real relationships with clients in a way that feels good, you’re going to love Melissa’s insights.

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 pointless. Key Takeaways 1. Micro-Moments Are the Foundation of Freelance Success The biggest client you land won’t come from a massive campaign; it’ll likely stem from a quick follow-up email you almost didn’t send. The rate increase that changes your business starts with one tiny moment of courage. Your best opportunities often come from the things you’re most tempted to dismiss as “too small to matter.” 2. Success Happens in the Small Choices You Make Daily Skipping that quick outreach might mean missing a life-changing opportunity. That extra five minutes tweaking your website copy could be the difference between a lead converting or bouncing. Small habits and micro-decisions compound over time, creating momentum that drives business growth. 3. Stop Waiting for Perfect Conditions — Take Action Now Life will always throw obstacles in your way, but progress doesn’t require ideal conditions. Success is built in the moments when you could have said "not now" but chose to act instead. Train yourself to recognize these moments and embrace them as opportunities. Actionable Exercises ·       Micro-Moment Awareness: At the end of each day, reflect on one small action you took that could lead to something bigger. ·       The "What the Heck" Rule: Next time you're debating whether to send that follow-up or post that update, just do it. Assume it could be the moment that changes everything. ·       Tiny Courage Challenge: Quote slightly higher than you normally would. Send the pitch you’re nervous about. Take one small but bold action this week. Listener Challenge This week, commit to embracing just one micro-moment you would normally ignore. Take action, then observe what happens. You might just be surprised at the results.

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 service ·       How to handle client hesitations and objections professionally Key Takeaways: Your Insights Are Valuable—Speak Up! As you work on content for clients, you naturally notice gaps, inconsistencies, and missed opportunities in their messaging. But if you don’t bring these to their attention, you’re leaving money (and impact) on the table. Clients Often Lack Clarity—Help Them Get It Many clients struggle with direction. They change their minds, tweak the scope, or pivot mid-project. Instead of going along for the ride, take charge by offering a structured strategy session to help them clarify their content goals before execution. How to Introduce Strategy as a Paid Engagement Next time you notice a strategic disconnect, try this approach: "Based on what I’m seeing, I think we could create significantly better results with a proper content roadmap. Would you be open to a separate strategy session where I audit your existing content, interview stakeholders, and develop a plan?" Don’t Give Away Strategy for Free—Package It Your ability to think strategically isn’t an add-on—it’s a separate, valuable service. Consider packaging it as a content audit, messaging workshop, or roadmapping engagement. Positioning it this way not only elevates your perceived value but also creates a new revenue stream. The Long-Term Benefits of Strategic Thinking Clients who recognize your strategic input will see better results, rely on you more, and view you as a partner rather than a commodity. This leads to longer engagements, higher fees, and a stronger reputation in your industry. My Challenge to You This Week: Pay close attention to the strategic patterns in your work this week. Where do you see gaps, inconsistencies, or untapped opportunities in your client’s content? Practice articulating these insights in a way that leads to a paid strategy conversation.

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, filtering out opportunities before you consciously consider them. The biggest breakthroughs happen when you identify and challenge these faulty assumptions. The Assumption Audit: A 3-Step Framework Define Your Sticking Point – What’s the biggest challenge in your business right now? What decision have you been avoiding? List Every Assumption – Write down everything you believe about this problem, even if it seems obvious or unchangeable. Challenge and Reframe – Use fact-based analysis to break down each assumption and explore alternative perspectives. Examples of Limiting Assumptions & How to Reframe Them “I can’t find higher-paying clients.” → Fact: Many freelancers charge premium rates. The real issue isn’t a lack of clients—it’s a lack of a system to find and convert them. “AI is replacing writers.” → Fact: AI is a tool, not a replacement. Businesses still need human insight, strategy, and nuance. The opportunity is in using AI to enhance, not replace, your skills. First-Principles Thinking: Breaking Assumptions Down to Their Core Instead of relying on “common knowledge,” analyze problems from the ground up. Example: Investors like Charlie Munger stripped business decisions down to fundamental truths, leading to long-term success. Freelancers can apply the same principle to business challenges—questioning industry norms and carving out unique solutions. Reframing Your Problems for New Solutions Ask yourself powerful questions: “If I had to solve this problem in 30 days, what would I do?” “What if failure wasn’t possible?” “What if I reversed the problem and worked backward?” By shifting perspective, you open up solutions you may never have considered. Testing New Assumptions Don’t try to change everything at once—pick one assumption and design a simple experiment to test it. Example: Old belief: “I need a huge portfolio to charge premium rates.” New belief: “One strong case study is more valuable than multiple weak samples.” Test: Create a deep case study and pitch it to five potential clients. Avoiding Blind Spots & Taking Action Many freelancers struggle not because of a lack of information, but because they’re too close to their own business to see their blind spots. The fastest breakthroughs come from questioning deeply held beliefs and taking small, strategic steps toward change. Listener Challenge: Identify the biggest challenge in your business. List all the assumptions you’ve made about why it’s a problem. Challenge those assumptions with facts. Pick one new, empowering assumption and design a small experiment to test it this week. Want Help with Your Breakthrough? If you’re serious about breaking through your biggest challenge, working with an experienced business coach can provide the objective feedback and accountability needed to accelerate progress. I’ve coached well over 1,000 freelance writers, copywriters and solo marketers over the past 13 years. And I open up coaching spots a few times a year to help freelancers pinpoint blind spots, implement effective strategies, and achieve real breakthroughs. If you’re interested in exploring this, email me [] with “COACHING” in the subject line. I’ll reply with some questions to learn more about what you’re looking for. If it sounds like I can help, I’ll send you all details. Final Thought What assumptions are YOU holding onto that might be keeping you stuck? It’s time to break them down and build something better.

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 Works Better Helps both AI and humans process information more effectively. Supports natural "chain of thought reasoning." Similar to building a house: methodical, step-by-step approach. Allows for unexpected insights and creative solutions. 5. Benefits Keeps your own thinking and problem-solving skills sharp. Leads to more meaningful exchanges. Helps uncover possibilities you hadn't considered. Maintains human agency in the interaction. Notable Quote: "When we treat AI like a conversation partner rather than a command-line interface, we tap into its full potential." Takeaway: Approach AI interactions as you would a thoughtful discussion with a respected colleague — start with essentials and build the conversation naturally.

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 for you, using small, actionable steps.   Key Takeaways Timing Beats Great Copy: Even great emails won’t land if the timing isn’t right. Learn to accept this reality and focus on staying visible for when the timing aligns. The Dip is Your Friend: Seth Godin’s concept of "The Dip" explains why most people quit right before they succeed. Don’t be one of them. Consistency Beats Perfection: Imperfect but steady action is more effective than sporadic perfection. Build habits that make prospecting automatic. The Four Laws of Prospecting Habits: Make it Obvious: Create cues and systems to make prospecting part of your daily routine. Make it Attractive: Pair prospecting with something you enjoy and celebrate small wins. Make it Easy: Break down outreach into manageable steps, like sending two emails a day. Make it Satisfying: Reward yourself for consistent effort, not just responses.   Actionable Exercises Start Small: Commit to sending just 2-3 prospecting emails a day for the next 30 days. Track Consistency: Use a simple tracking sheet to monitor your efforts daily. Celebrate Wins: Keep a journal of small victories, such as completing your outreach for the day. Try the “Garden Perspective:” Imagine each email as a seed—focus on the process, not immediate results.   Memorable Soundbites "A mediocre message at the perfect time beats a perfect message at the wrong time." "Success in prospecting isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up consistently." "Prospecting is like planting a garden. The magic happens beneath the surface before you see results."   Deploy a Powerful Prospecting System in Just 21 Days I’m starting a new prospecting workshop next week. We’re going to work together over 21 days (Mon-Fri only) to help you implement effective prospecting techniques and habits that actually stick. We’ll roll up our sleeves and actually create your prospecting plan and assets together. And I’ll be there every day to give you direct and personal feedback.   You’ll implement the material day by day, one baby step at a time. And you’ll come away with everything in place, all ready to go.   Would you like to join us? Email me at [] and I’ll respond with all the details.