Whether you're just getting started freelancing or you're already a few years in, this Ask Me Anything (AMA) is packed with real talk, actionable tips, and honest answers to your biggest questions.
We talked about:
✅ How to get freelance clients without relying on Upwork
✅ The exact follow-up system Rachel uses on LinkedIn
✅ What to include in your contract to protect your time and income
✅ How to price your services using the baseline/goal/reach model
✅ The pros and cons of cold pitching on LinkedIn vs Instagram
…and so much more.
I'm Rachel Meltzer — business coach for freelancers and founder of Pop Club, a supportive, strategy-filled membership for freelancers at all stages. These office hours are normally exclusive to my paid clients, but I'm offering them free during the Get Started Freelancing Bootcamp. Come hang out, take notes, and get unstuck.
👀 Want more support?
→ Join Pop Club: https://meltzerseltzer.com/pop-club
→ Sign up for the Get Started Freelancing Bootcamp: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/get-started-freelancing
→ Book a 1:1 Coaching Intensive: https://meltzerseltzer.com/1-1-coaching
→ Explore Done-For-You Notion Websites: https://meltzerseltzer.com/shop/website-done-for-you
→ Check out my Free Resource Library: https://meltzerseltzer.com/shop/the-freelance-resource-library-frl
🛠️ Resources mentioned in this video:
→ Rates Calculator: https://meltzerseltzer.com/shop/shop-all/rates-calculator
→ Client Tracker (Notion): https://meltzerseltzer.com/free-notion-templates/ideal-clients-tracker
→ Packages Workbook: https://pop-club.circle.so/c/freelance-resource-library-365155/sections/331772/lessons/1230651
→ Freelance Resource Library: https://meltzerseltzer.com/shop/the-freelance-resource-library-frl
→ Pop Club Membership: https://meltzerseltzer.com/pop-club
→ LinkedIn Profile Critique: https://meltzerseltzer.com/shop/linkedin-profile-critiques
🎥 Replays of past workshops: https://meltzerseltzer.com/get-started-freelancing/get-started-freelancing-lessons
Afton Brazzoni, founder of Scribe National, moved from a scarcity mindset to building a business that feels sustainable, intentional, and fully her own. From launching a content agency to experimenting with coaching, Afton opens up about the fears that almost held her back – and the mindset shifts that helped her move forward.In this episode of The Guidebook Podcast, we cover:- Scaling from freelancer to agency owner- Letting go of perfectionism and control- The emotional side of launching and pivoting- How mindset coaching created clarity and confidence- Finding balance between ambition and enoughnessIf you’ve ever thought one wrong move could ruin everything – this episode is for you.Find Afton Online:→ Website: https://www.scribenational.ca/→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aftonbrazzoni/→ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aftonaikens/Find Rachel Online:→ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/→ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzer→ Newsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
Whether you're just getting started freelancing or you're already a few years in, this Ask Me Anything (AMA) is packed with real talk, actionable tips, and honest answers to your biggest questions.
We talked about:✅ Pricing your services with confidence✅ Staying motivated (even when clients ghost you)✅ What's really changing for freelancers in 2025✅ How to use AI without underpricing yourself✅ Building your freelance website and portfolio…and so much more.
Resources from this workshop:
Connect with Rachel Online:
In my conversation with Claire Hill, I’m exploring how busyness gets mistaken for productivity and how reclaiming your time starts with mindset.
We’re diving into her Kickstart Formula (https://www.clairehill.uk/kickstart) for prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and overcoming procrastination, reinforcing that self-trust and rest are just as important as action.
Take Back Your Time:
→ Prioritize with Purpose – Claire’s Kickstart Formula helps you structure tasks and eliminate distractions.
→ Set Boundaries with Confidence – Break free from people-pleasing and redefine success on your terms.
→ Work with Your Brain, Not Against It – Leverage dopamine and mindset shifts to stay motivated without burnout.
By shifting from busyness to intentionality, we’re creating space for what truly matters. Taking back your time isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what actually moves you forward.
Find Claire Online:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairehill/?originalSubdomain=uk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamclairehill/
Website: https://www.clairehill.uk/
Find Rachel Online:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzer
Newsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
Read the show notes: https://meltzerseltzer.com/the-guidebook-podcast/take-back-your-time-with-claire-hill
Lizzie Davey has been a freelance writer for 11 years. She transitioned from a low-paying marketing job to freelancing. Like every new freelancer, she started out navigating chaos but eventually found her niche in e-commerce tech. In this episode, we’re talking about: - the power of networking- LinkedIn engagement- authenticity- building a personal brand- getting clientsThrough adaptability, financial transparency, and prioritizing well-being, we highlight the evolving nature of freelancing and the importance of redefining success over time.Find Lizzie Online:Website: https://freelancemagic.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzie-davey-4a85b575/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freelancemagic.coTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freelancemagicFind Rachel Online:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzerNewsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
In case you missed it, I'm kicking off a free live bootcamp: Get Started Freelancing.
If you’re thinking about freelancing but don’t know where to start... 😵💫 You’re not alone! I’ve coached over 200 freelancers, and the biggest hurdle is just getting started.That’s why I’m running a free live bootcamp to help you launch your digital marketing freelance biz — step by step. And yep, it's actually free.
The first live workshop kicks off next week, so here’s what you need to know:
⚡️ It's Flexible & Free: Join Anytime!
✅ You can join anytime – don’t stress if you can’t make it live! Every session will have a free replay so you can catch up whenever you’re ready.
- Join for Free Here → https://lnkd.in/e4wwS5q9
- Bookmark the Replays → https://lnkd.in/eCdZYx4M 📓 Grab
Your Free Workbooks – these will help you take notes, brainstorm, and build your freelance business as we go.
- Get the Workbooks → https://lnkd.in/eryA9Jde
📚 What We’ll Cover in the Bootcamp
Each workshop is designed to take you from "Where do I start?" to "I’m running a real freelance business!"
Here’s the roadmap:
1️⃣ Find Your Niche – Define your niche in a way that works for you
2️⃣ Pick Your Services – A simple framework (and a fun pop quiz!) to choose what you offer
3️⃣ Create Your Portfolio – No experience? No problem. You’ll learn how to showcase your skills
4️⃣ Business Setup – Everything you need to know to set up your business (U.S.-focused)
5️⃣ Set Your Rates – We’ll create a pricing strategy that works for you and your clients
6️⃣ Get Clients – Three different strategies for landing your first (or next!) freelance clients
🗓️ The first session is coming up! RSVP so you don't miss it: https://lnkd.in/eyPGKzud
👋 I'd love to see you in there! But no pressure – it's not for everyone!
🚀 Learn more about the Free Bootcamp → https://meltzerseltzer.com/get-starte...
📩 Join the Email Notifications → https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/...
📗 Grab the Free Workbooks → https://meltzerseltzer.com/get-starte...
🎧 Listen to the Podcast → https://meltzerseltzer.com/the-guideb...
📰 Subscribe to the Newsletter → https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/...
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn → / rmeltzer
Marketing yourself feels weird? Let’s fix that.In this solo episode, I’m breaking down the mindset shifts that make getting clients *way* easier. Spoiler: it’s not about “selling yourself.” Instead, we’re talking about: 📗 the numbers game📗 how to build real relationships📗 why persistence pays off (yes, even when people ignore you).I’ll also share my shoe store analogy (a.k.a. how to approach potential clients with patience, empathy, and a strategy that actually works). If marketing has felt frustrating or overwhelming, this episode is for you.RESOURCES: 🆓 The Get Clients Guidebook: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/getclientsguidebook🗓️ How to Get Freelance Clients Workshop (free): https://lu.ma/7o2dqu6o🤝 Get Clients on LinkedIn (done for you): https://meltzerseltzer.com/shop/get-clients-on-linkedin-done-for-youFind Rachel Online:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzerNewsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
Jessie Andrew of Inkpot Creative is our guest this week!
Jessie is one half of Inkpot Creative’s full-time team. They’re a branding and web design studio for photographers who’ve really nailed down their offerings to enable streamlined scheduling, clear packages and pricing, hiring two part time employees, and selling even during slow seasons.
We touched on 4 main topics:
My sister Erin joins me to share her journey from freelancing in the yachting world to becoming a commercial seaplane pilot.
We compare how her experiences freelancing in hospitality were different from mine in digital marketing.
She opens up about managing emotions and mindset during career transitions and offers practical tips for breaking into yachting or aviation: network like a pro, build versatile skills, and always know your worth.
Takeaways:
Find Erin Online:
Find Rachel Online:
This episode, we’re chatting with Steven Schneider, co-founder and CEO of Trio SEO.
He shares his journey from being a college student to running a successful SEO agency.
We talk about:
Find Steven Online:
🌟 Free Bonus for Listeners:
3 free articles when you sign up for a monthly TrioSEO package and mention this podcast, a $1200 value.
Learn more about TrioSEO: https://trioseo.com/social/
Find Rachel Online:
Michelle went from B2B SaaS marketer to freelance copywriter and marketing coach.
She knows the importance of authentic networking, the time it takes to build client relationships, and the need for empathy in marketing.
That’s why we talked about:
- misconceptions of success in the online space
- the challenges of personal health in business
- the significance of rest periods in entrepreneurship
- awareness and problem-solving in personal growth
- redefining success on your own terms
- corporate burnout
- the power of community in supporting solopreneurs
And, of course, we share our tips for simplifying marketing:
- how to systematize content creation while maintaining a sense of personal expression
- authenticity in marketing
- creative expression in content creation
- the significance of personal connections in marketing strategies
- collaboration among creatives
- the power of effective headlines in marketing
- simplifying tools for productivity
We’re really emphasizing experimentation in finding your voice and the need to let go of societal expectations surrounding success.
Find Michelle Online:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekjhsu/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its.elleshe
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@its.elleshe
Substack: https://itselleshe.substack.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@its.elleshe
Find Rachel Online:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rachelhmeltzer
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzer
Newsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
Anna Burgess Yang went from product manager at a tech company to full-time freelance content marketer. She shares: - how she automates parts of her workflow - the tools she uses - how she analyzes data to improve her marketing strategies - the challenges of balancing freelancing with family life - the transition from corporate to freelance work - AI Tune in to hear our favorite strategies for freelancers and solopreneurs, who want to leverage automations and AI for content repurposing, optimizing your workflow, and Anna’s essential tools for managing freelance work. Bonus: we also touch on pricing strategies and finding a niche. Find Anna Online: - Start Here: https://start.annabyang.com/ - LinkedIn: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabyang/&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw13DMHt9QLa5SxUHw0uQ_Xg - Anna's Resources for Freelancers: https://annabyang.gumroad.com/ Find Rachel Online: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/ - Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rachelhmeltzer - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzer - Newsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
Alexa Phillips, founder and chief brand architect of Bright Eyes Creative, shares her journey from a passion for journalism and fashion to establishing her own brand architecture business. She’s on a mission to empower other creatives to monetize their talents. We talked about:
→ the future of creative entrepreneurship → Alexa’s journey as a creative entrepreneur
→ the resurgence of magazines
→ Alexa’s AI hot-take
→growing up with entrepreneurial parents
→ pivoting in business
→ business vs. employee mindset
→ all things branding
Find Rachel Online:
Find Alexa Online:
Full Show Notes + Transcript: https://meltzerseltzer.com/the-guidebook-podcast/alexa-phillips-architects-brands
Kara Perez, founder of Bravely Go, talks about her journey from struggling with debt to becoming a financial educator and author. She also shares her experiences as a digital nomad, the challenges of balancing content creation with personal life, and the journey of writing her book on money and sustainability. We discuss: → the importance of financial literacy & community → the challenges of building a personal brand → the realities of entrepreneurship → practical money management tips for freelancers & digital nomads Learn more in the Show Notes: https://meltzerseltzer.com/the-guidebook-podcast/kara-perez-makes-wealth-building-brave-sustainable Find Kara Online: Book: Green Money: https://bravelygo.co/green-money-book/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bravelygo?fan_landing=true Website: https://bravelygo.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/webravelygo/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC25XC65sCC7A9jdx7wRIGfA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1551753828310567 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@webravelygo?lang=en Find Rachel Online: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmeltzer/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rachelhmeltzer YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelhmeltzer Newsletter: https://rachelhmeltzer.myflodesk.com/the-fizz
In the last episode of season 4, I chat with Maari Casey. Maari is an ad agency art director turned freelancer turned entrepreneur.
In this episode with Maari, we chat about:
✨ The benefits on personal life of entrepreneurship ✨ Money Mindset
✨ The abundance of opportunities for freelancers
You can learn more about Maari at:
Learn more about Rachel Meltzer and Pop Club on:
Overcoming Fear: 5 Barriers Holding You Back from Major Life Transitions - with Marie-Pier Tremblay
This week we have a special surprise! Me and Marie from Self Growth Nerds are doing a collab podcast episode!
Marie is a former designer and illustrator turned certified coach, who discovered the transformative power of pursuing her wildest dreams after completing the Pacific Crest Trail.
In this episode, we dive deep into:
→ The 5 telltale symptoms of living out of alignment with your true self
→ The 5 biggest fears holding you back from making a change (and how to reframe them)
→ The life-changing benefits of pursuing your truth
Practical tools to help you overcome self-doubt and lead a more meaningful life
Marie shares her personal journey of transformation, including writing a book, starting a podcast, changing careers, doubling her income, and embracing her authentic self. Learn how you too can make bold changes without freaking out!
Join us for a The Brave New Path retreat! Book your spot at selfgrowthnerds.com/retreat
⚡️ Limited spots available - sign up before September 1st!
Whether you're feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or simply curious about what more life has to offer, this episode will inspire you to take that first step towards the life you truly desire. Tune in and discover how to align your actions with your deepest values for a more vibrant, authentic existence.
On this weeks episode of the Guidebook podcast, I'm talking to Wudan Yan from the Writers Co Op. In this episode with Wudan, we chat about: ✨ The twists and turns that her career took before she got to where she is now.
✨ What kind of journalism work she currently does.
✨ Wudan's new business venture, which is a fact checking agency and so much more.
You can learn more about Wudan at:
Learn more about Rachel Meltzer and Pop Club on:
This week, we are talking to Melanie, a freelance writer and editor, and the host of two podcasts: The Deliberate Freelancer and Association Station.
In my episode with Melanie, we chat about:
✨ Travel and solo travel
✨ Melanie's journey from journalist to freelancer
✨ In's and outs of how to start a podcast
You can learn more about Melanie at:
Learn more about Rachel Meltzer and Pop Club on:
My chat with Daniel has to be one of the most energetic conversations on the Guidebook Podcast. And with the guests I've had so far, that's a big claim. I had a blast chatting with Daniel Brenneman, co-founder of Empathy Marketing Co, an agency helping you find marketing clarity through the power of emotional marketing.
In my episode with Daniel, we chat about:
✨ The power of genuine connection in business
✨ Aligning with your true mission and letting your brand personality shine
✨ Using storytelling and video to connect
✨ The importance of soft skills in marketing, and more.
You can learn more about Daniel at:
Learn more about Rachel Meltzer and Pop Club on:
In this episode, I chat with Ray Slater Berry, founder of DSLX, a tech content agency on a mission to empower diverse and minority group writers to write.
In this episode, we chat about:
✨ Getting started freelance writing
✨ Beach volleyball and fiction writing
✨ Starting an agency and business with a partner
✨ Balancing work and passion
You can learn more about Ray at:
Learn more about Rachel Meltzer and Pop Club on: