The Freelancer's Teabreak

In this episode of the Freelancer's Teabreak, Emma Cossey chats with Katherine Pearse (nee Hall), fractional CFO, systemic coach, and movement facilitator, about what it actually means to go fractional. Katherine breaks down how a fractional CFO differs from a consultant, interim, or part-time hire, and why that distinction matters. She shares the journey that led her from full-time finance leadership through a major merger to building a multi-dimensional business that blends numbers, intuition, and embodied practice. They also explore the growing trend of fractional working, the rise of the "multipotentialite" professional, and why showing up as your full self is not just good for your wellbeing, it's good for business. Whether you're thinking about going fractional, already working that way, or just trying to understand what the term actually means, this episode is packed with insight, warmth, and a few Cinderella references. Timestamps: 0:00 Welcome & Introduction 3:33 Meet Katherine Pearse: Business,

Feeling overwhelmed by rising subscription costs? In this rewind episode of the Freelancers Tea Break, host Emma Cossey shares practical, actionable tips to help freelancers and small business owners cut down on their software expenses without sacrificing the tools that keep their businesses running. In this episode, you'll learn: How to audit your subscriptions and assess their return on investment Why some of your existing tools may already do the job of others How to haggle with software providers for better deals Where to find voucher codes and cashback opportunities How affiliate programmes can offset your subscription costs Alicia, Emma's Podcast VA's, simple system for tracking and budgeting annual subscriptions so you're never caught off guard Timestamps: 0:00 - Welcome & Introduction 2:22 - Why We're Revisiting This Topic 6:30 - The Subscription Cost Problem 3:30 - Tip 1: Review What You Actually Need 4:33 - Tip 2: Consolidate Overlapping Tools 5:18 - Tip 3: Haggle for Better Deals 6:26 - Vouch

In this episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, host Emma Cossey shares her essential quarter two to-do list for freelancers. In this episode, you'll learn: What Making Tax Digital means for freelancers and how to prepare for it How to set up your bookkeeping systems and stay on top of your finances for the new tax year Why now is the perfect time to reflect on your quarter one goals How to set meaningful quarter two goals that go beyond just the numbers Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 1:35 Making Tax Digital — What You Need to Know 3:14 Organising Your Receipts & Folders 4:12 Building Good Financial Habits 5:11 Reflecting on Your Q1 Goals 6:17 Setting Your Q2 Goals 8:12 Recap & Final Thoughts Episode Links: Harriet's Making Tax Digital advice Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Commun

In this episode, I share my essential desk items that actually matter for freelancers, no aesthetic fluff, just practical tools that boost productivity: Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your workday Second screen: Reduce overwhelm and boost productivity with dual monitors Desk snacks: Keep trail mix, protein bars, or grapes handy to avoid blood sugar crashes Stream Deck: Game-changing productivity tool for creating shortcuts (even has a free mobile app to try first!)

Can AI really replace human coaches and freelancers? In this episode, I break down why coaching, and many freelance services, require the irreplaceable human touch. Key Points Covered: Why coaches facilitate rather than prescribe solutions The importance of body language, tone, and non-verbal cues How lived experience trumps algorithmic responses The ethics and values alignment you can't get from AI Why accountability works better with humans How this applies to other freelance services (graphic design, social media management, photography) AI is a tool for information, not transformation. Real coaching, and most freelance work, requires empathy, adaptability, and genuine human connection that algorithms simply can't replicate. Work With Me: Explore coaching packages Voxer accountability packages Traditional 1-on-1 coaching (Zoom or in-person in Berkshire) The Freelance Business Lounge membership - £30/month with 2 group calls per week Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:26 - Why do we need coaches when w

How easy is it for potential clients to find you online? In this episode, I'm challenging you to audit your discoverability across multiple platforms and search tools. What we cover: SEO basics and why showing up in search results matters How AI tools are becoming a new discovery channel for freelancers Leveraging YouTube (both long-form and Shorts) to build connections The power of podcast SEO for attracting ideal clients Social media SEO strategies for TikTok, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn Action steps: Test your search terms on multiple search engines Check your website analytics for incoming search terms Ask AI tools how to improve your visibility in their recommendations Optimise your YouTube content with tools like VidIQ Consider guesting on podcasts or starting your own Use strategic keywords in your social media content Resources mentioned: Vid IQ Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:21 - How easy is it for potential clients to find you? 0:52 - Google & search engine SEO 1:37 - AI SEO & d

The freelance landscape has changed significantly in the last two years, making client acquisition tougher than ever. In this episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, Emma Cossey shares why shifting from reactive to proactive strategies is essential for finding clients in today's market. In this episode, you'll learn: Why referrals alone aren't enough anymore The difference between looking for clients vs. finding clients Where to find quality freelance opportunities (and where to avoid) How to be more visible and tell people what you actually do Practical networking strategies that don't feel salesy Why platforms like Threads and LinkedIn are worth your time (and why Facebook groups might not be) Key takeaway: If you're struggling to find clients, ask yourself: Are you actively telling people how you can help them, or are you waiting for opportunities to appear? Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:34 - Why finding clients is harder now 1:14 - The problem with relying on referrals 2:03 - Being proactive vs react

This week on The Freelancer's Tea Break, I dive into the debate between freelancing and the term 'fractional'. Is it just a fancy rebrand for part-time work, or does it represent a distinct role, especially in the B2B space? I explore the nuances and implications of these terms, their impact on positioning and pricing, and whether this trend is reshaping how we view flexible work roles.  Share your thoughts and join the discussion!  Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to The Freelancers Tea Break 00:17 Freelancing vs Fractional: An Emerging Trend 01:44 Understanding Fractional Work 03:07 Freelancing and Fractional: Overlaps and Distinctions 05:34 The Future of Fractional Work 07:20 Engage with the Community Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz Order my book: 

In this episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, we dive into the controversial topic of whether the term 'freelance' is still appropriate and valuable. We explore the various reasons why the term may have lost some of its value, including the gig economy and terminology shifts in B2B vs. B2C contexts. We also discuss the challenges and perceptions surrounding freelancing, plus the importance of recognizing freelancing as a legitimate career path. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on what term best describes your self-employed journey. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview  00:08 The Controversy of the Term 'Freelance'  00:50 Challenges and Perceptions of Freelancing  03:03 Freelancing in the B2B vs B2C World  05:25 The Evolution and Future of Freelancing 06:30 Conclusion and Listener Engagement Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School

Hello, and welcome back to another episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, this week I'm diving into a vital snippet from my book, The Freelance Lifestyle, focusing on future-proofing your business. From considering unexpected life changes to planning for long-term shifts like parenthood or caring for others, I'll guide you through creating a worst-case scenario document and practical steps to safeguard your freelance career. Plus, don't miss my free 'Break Glass in Case of Emergency' kit, full of helpful templates and checklists. Grab a cup and join me!  Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to The Freelancers Teabreak  00:16 Snippet from 'The Freelance Lifestyle'  00:31 Future Proofing Your Freelance Business  01:11 Preparing for Personal Life Changes  01:57 Creating a Worst Case Scenario Document  02:15 Emergency Planning and Support  03:17 Long-term Planning for Major Life Changes  04:06 Break Glass in Case of Emergency Kit  04:40 Conclusion and Additional Resources  06:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell Order my book: Th

Welcome back to The Freelancers Tea Break! In this episode, I'm thrilled to share a snippet from the introduction of my newly launched book, 'The Freelance Lifestyle.' We'll dive into what freelancing really means, the flexibility it offers, and the responsibilities it entails. Perfect for both new and seasoned freelancers, this episode will give you a comprehensive overview of freelancing. Stay tuned for more snippets from the book and don't forget the book link below! Order my book: The Freelance Lifestyle: Your Friendly Guide to Starting a Freelance Business Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Book Launch  00:43 What is Freelancing?  01:49 Freelancing Responsibilities and Flexibility  02:21 Financial Responsibilities of Freelancers  02:57 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance

Welcome back to The Freelancer's Tea Break! This week, I'm joined by my friend, coach, and book genie, Gail Doggett, founder of Book Doubling, a book coaching business tailored for neurodivergent writers, especially those with ADHD. In this episode, we delve into how Gail aids writers in completing their dream books by using techniques like body doubling and screen sharing. We also discuss Gail's own journey with writing, the importance of developing a writing practice, and the unique challenges and strengths of neurodivergent individuals in the writing process. What You'll Learn in This Episode How Book Doubling supports ADHD and neurodivergent writers Why body doubling boosts focus and reduces overwhelm How to build a writing practice that works with your brain The power of handwriting, single‑tasking, and reflective writing How to write consistently when freelancing or juggling life changes The benefits of co‑writing sessions and community accountability How Substack can help you reconnect with your writi

In this episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, I share my haphazard journey of writing and publishing my first book, 'The Freelance Lifestyle'. I've delved into the 15-year (!) process, detailing the struggles faced due to undiagnosed ADHD, the importance of a support system with a focus on their collaboration with an ADHD-specific book coach, and the practical steps taken to make freelancing accessible.  The aim was to create a resource tailored for new and aspiring freelancers, with a strong emphasis on flexibility and practicality. This episode also covers the technical aspects of self-publishing, such as the costs involved, tools used, and the importance of a good book cover.  Preorder my book: The Freelance Lifestyle: Your Friendly Guide to Starting a Freelance Business Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Kickoff  00:19 The Journey of Writing a Book  01:05 Challenges and Overcoming ADHD 02:23 Purpose and Audience of the Book  04:25 Practical Advice for Freelancers  08:22 Writing Process and Tools

In this episode, Emma and Talia dive into the real stories behind money mindset, the challenges freelancers face with budgeting, and practical tips for feeling more confident about your cash. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your freelance business, you'll find plenty of relatable moments, laughs, and actionable advice. Grab a cuppa and tune in for a conversation that'll leave you feeling empowered and ready to tackle your money goals!   Talia Loderick is a Money Coach, based in Cardiff, Wales, UK. Talia calls her money coaching practice TLC because when she realised the acronym for Tender Loving Care also stands for Talia Loderick Coaching, she almost swooned with joy. Because who doesn't need a dose of TLC from time to time? Rhetorical question – we all do. Talia offers 121 coaching designed to help people understand and take control of their behaviour with money. Talia delivers financial wellbeing sessions for teams, organisations and community groups because, well, we're never done

In the first episode of 2026, I discuss a reflective approach to setting personal and professional goals for the new year on The Freelancers Tea Break. I share my achievements from the previous year, including completing my ILM 7 diploma and writing a book titled 'The Freelance Lifestyle.' This episode emphasises an experimental and low-pressure strategy for goal setting, focusing on starting or stopping small habits, doing less of certain activities, and introducing more positive ones. I also tease upcoming episodes and January challenges, targeting areas such as finding new clients and improving digital presence.  Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to The Freelancers Tea Break 2026  01:17 Reflecting on Personal Achievements  02:54 Exciting Announcements for January  04:13 Gentle Questions for the New Year  04:26 Experimenting with New Habits  09:47 Community Engagement and Challenges  11:58 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Episodes and Goals Affiliate link for In Good Company who I completed my diploma with and their podcast

Hello and welcome to a special episode of The Freelancers Tea Break! I'm Emma Cossey, and as this is our last podcast episode of the year, I'm doing things a bit differently. Today, I'm conducting my own annual performance review as a freelancer. From attendance and punctuality to goals, organisation, and communication, join me as I reflect on the past year, celebrate achievements, and identify areas for improvement. My affiliate link to Sunsama Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction  01:10 - Attendance and Punctuality  04:30 - Reviewing Goals  07:50 - Organisation and Systems  11:00 - Communication  15:00 - Focus and Productivity  19:20 - Collaboration 21:10 - Financial Performance  24:00 - Strengths and Areas for Improvement 29:00 - Conclusion  Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https:

In this episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, Emma Cossey, a coach and mentor for freelancers, discusses the importance of reflecting on and celebrating freelance wins. She categorises these wins into three main areas: boundary wins, skills and growth wins, and client and money wins. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to The Freelancers Tea Break  00:20 Reflecting on the Year: Wins and Challenges  00:54 Celebrating Small Wins  01:55 Boundary Wins: Setting Limits for Success  04:07 Skills and Growth Wins: Learning and Improving  06:05 Client and Money Wins: Tangible Successes  08:28 Challenge: Recognise Your Wins  09:25 Conclusion and Encouragement   My Sort your Freelance Pension Course   Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz

Welcome back to the Freelancer Tea Break! I'm Emma Cossey, your coach and mentor for freelancers. In this short episode, I share some essential admin tasks to wrap up the year and start January clearheaded. Timestamps:  00:00 Welcome to the Freelancer Tea Break  00:38 Review Your Invoices  01:38 Update Your Out of Office  02:56 Review Your Terms and Conditions  03:53 Analyse Your Client List  04:54 Check and Adjust Your Rates  06:06 End the Year on a Positive Note  06:39 Conclusion and Farewell Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz

Freelancing can get lonely, especially as the days get darker. This week, I'm sharing simple ways to stay connected, even if you're an introvert who loves working from the sofa (hi

This week on The Freelancer's Tea Break, I'm tackling a surprisingly common dilemma: If a client wants you to use specific software, who should foot the bill? Here's the gist: If they require it (and you won't use it elsewhere) — they should pay. If it's a tool you'll use across clients — it's likely worth investing in yourself. Always agree on who owns the content created in that software! A quick listen while you make a cuppa ☕ Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz