Episode 16 - Losing it all and starting again as a freelancer

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into life as a freelancer navigating identity, impact and reinvention.In this episode, we chat with Gary Butterfield, founder of Joy Junction and a wellbeing consultant with nearly two decades of self-employment under his belt. Gary shares how a disappointing appraisal experience set the trajectory for his entire career, why he believes social wellbeing is “the glue” that holds organisations together, and how he created the Conversation Canvas tool now used around the world.We explore the rise and closure of his subsidiary business during COVID, the loneliness of running a company through crisis, and the existential questions that followed. Gary opens up about rebuilding from scratch, choosing impact as his North Star, and designing a freelance business around the parts of work he truly enjoys.We also cover:• Why most appraisals miss the point• How to audit your freelance life and remove what drains you• Coping with loneliness as a solo business owner• The Business Model Canvas and why he wishes he’d found it sooner• His day rate and why he discounts for the public and third sectorsGary answers Emma Coller’s question from the previous episode and sets a powerful one for our next guest: What do you wish you knew at the beginning of your freelance experience that you know now?Whether you’re early in your freelance journey or reflecting on your next chapter, this episode offers honesty, perspective and practical insight.Find Gary on LinkedIn or visit his website. Download the Business Model Canvas from https://www.strategyzer.com/library/the-business-model-canvas