Freelancers: Next Gen with Matt Dowling

In this episode, the roles are reversed. The interviewer becomes the interviewee. Liz Barclay, co-founder of Business 111 takes Freelancer Club's CEO, Matt Dowling, through his paces. They get into some meaty topics that include how the freelance revolution is reshaping Britain's workforce, why companies are rebuilding around freelance talent and AI Agents, the boom in young freelancers and the great scramble amoung universities to catch up with, and get ahead of, the side hustle generation.    Enjoy. 

Reacting to the news that there are to be changes in the way we measure graduate outcomes in the entrepreneurial space, we dusted off the podcast kit and reached out to Marcus Simmons who runs MSc Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management at Falmouth University, to record an emergency bonus pod. Marcus is someone who lives at the cutting edge of enterprise education and entrepreneurial development; an experienced enterprise lecturer, a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, and a master of creating outstanding, innovative business learning experiences that truly resonate with students. In this episode, we break down some major shifts in how startups and freelancers are being reported — changes that could have a serious ripple effect on universities and how they track and support entrepreneurial success. We also get into the knowledge gap exposed by the Graduate Outcomes Survey and why it's actually an exciting opportunity for institutions to rethink how they support their next-gen entrepreneurial cohorts. This one's packed with real-world insight and forward-thinking ideas that could shape the future of enterprise support in higher education — and ultimately lead to more meaningful success for freelancers, founders, and students alike. Let's get into it.   Freelancer Club Falmouth Entrepreneurship 

In today's episode, we spend time with a true disruptor in the education space. Ed Fidoe is the Chief Executive of the London Interdisciplinary School, a new kind of university that breaks down traditional academic barriers, focusing on real-world, problem-based learning. Before founding LIS, Ed co-founded School 21, a pioneering school in East London that's transforming how young people learn by emphasising skills like oracy and critical thinking. Ed has also advised top educational institutions like Cambridge University, LSE, and Eton College, and has been at the forefront of reimagining how we prepare the next generation for an increasingly complex world. School 21 The London Interdisciplinary School Freelancer Club

Here at Freelancer Club, we frequently have conversations with universities, and a common theme has emerged—the growing challenge of student engagement. Whether it's low attendance at extracurricular activities, a feeling of disconnect from the academic environment, or a general lack of enthusiasm for the university experience, this issue is becoming more prevalent. While some attribute it to COVID, the cost of living, mental health or a generational shift in priorities, others believe there's something deeper going on. Today, we're diving into the student engagement crisis with our guests, Mhairi Threlfall, Enterprise Consultant at UWE Bristol and Libby Anson, Student Employment and Enterprise Manager at the Glasgow School of Art. We'll explore the dramatic shift in the student experience over the past decade, why universities need to adapt, and the role of innovative communication strategies, hybrid delivery, and fresh solutions to these modern challenges.   Freelancer Club The University of the West of England Bristol The Glasgow School of Art

In today's episode, we share the journeys of two emerging freelancers, Manaz Javaid and Elijah McDonnell, whom we had the pleasure of working with during separate programmes at Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Westminster respectively.  We explore what motivated them to join a freelance programme, their initial expectations, and the key insights they've gained from the experience. We also delve into the value of building connections with fellow participants and how universities can foster these relationships. Listen as these ambitious solopreneurs discuss how freelance programmes have shaped their careers and what universities can do to better support aspiring freelancers. We'll also touch on the role educational institutions play in nurturing entrepreneurial talent. Whether you're a student thinking about freelancing, an educator, or just curious about the freelance world, this episode offers firsthand perspectives on the challenges and rewards of launching a freelance career straight out of university.

In this episode of Freelancers: Next Gen, we sit down with the formidable Director of Careers and Enterprise for the School of Arts and Creative Industries at the University of East London, a renowned educator, and an influential force in the world of creative business, Alison Lowe MBE. We explore the challenges faced by creative freelancers, the role of educators in the creative field, the value of unconventional thinkers, and how educators can better prepare future freelancers. Additionally, we delve into the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation. FreelancerClub.net University of East London   References mentioned in this episode: Rise, Freelancer programme Alchemy by Rory Sutherland  

Recorded live at the IEEC (International Enterprise Educators Conference) in Belfast as part of our Education mini-series, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Francesca Morelli. Francesca is an Enterprise Support Officer at Queens University Belfast and the co-founder of VAVA, an influencer marketing agency making waves in the industry. In this episode, we delve into the value of attending events like the IEEC, the challenges enterprise teams and students face in today's entrepreneurial landscape, and how we can better support students eager to launch their side hustle or business. Plus, we talk about the incredible work Francesca does at Queens and how her experience with VAVA adds value to her role. It's an inspiring conversation packed with insights, so let's get started!   https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/inqubate/AboutInQUBate https://vavainfluence.com/ freelancerclub.net 

Dan Ariely is a three-time New York Times Bestselling Author and a leading figure in the fields of Psychology and Behavioral Economics. One of his great strengths is how he unravels the complexities of human behaviour, explaining why we make the decisions we do and how we can make better ones. With a rich background that includes collaborations with global giants like Google and Apple, TED and the World Economic Forum, as well as advising governments worldwide, we were keen to get Dan's thoughts on freelancing. We discuss the role of playfulness, the freelance psyche, making time to think, behavioural patterns and cold-water swimming!  Dan's Website Freelancer Club  

I stumbled across the Freelancer Magazine in highly unusual circumstances but when I did, I was absolutely thrilled to see that someone had decided to celebrate the works of solopreneurs and spotlight self-employed stories.  Sophie Cross launched Freelancer Magazine three years ago and the publication continues to thrive. They boast growing community of readers, online and offline (yes, there's a print version!) and contribute to the way we all view freelancing.   In this episode, we talk about our relationship with the term 'freelancer', virtual co-working, how to engage a community in 2024, Ru Paul's mantra and how we can best support the next generation of freelancers.   Freelancer Magazine Freelancer Club  

I first met Louise when she reached out for a meeting and laid bare her story.  At just 20 years old, she co-founded BreatheUni with her brother, an initiative that creates non-judgemental spaces for students looking to learn about mental health, equality, diversity and inclusion. Sessions were held with peers who are Mental Health First Aiders who can signpost relevant information and resources. In this episode, we discuss: Louise's battle with imposter syndrome, racial trauma, and gender inequality The student experience today The importance of language and support systems The power of storytelling.  Note: Our conversation contains references to topics that may be jarring or emotionally challenging for some listeners. LyonsAppiah Beyond Freelancer Club  

Rafael Espinal is the Executive Director of the Freelancers Union, a non-profit organisation serving as a support system for independents, based in New York. Rafael oversees the organisation's umbrella and brings his wealth of experience and dedication to advocacy to support and champion the rights of freelancers and independent workers. Before joining Freelancers Union, Rafael played a pivotal role in actioning the Freelance Isn't Free bill.  In this episode of Freelancers: Next Gen, we discuss the blurred lines between post-pandemic working options and the allure of freelancing, how self-employment is perceived in the US and the impact of their Freelance Isn't Free bill as it enters its 8th year.  Freelancers Union Freelance Isn't Free Bill Freelancer Club

It's rare to sit down with a person who is equally as obsessed with freelancing and delve deep into topics that have consumed you for years. This is one of those moments. Our conversation traversed from the teachability of business to the significance of language, the pros and cons of AI, and the future landscape of freelancing. Although we aim to keep each episode consice, there were too many juicy morcels that we had to keep them in and release a longer episode than normal.  Robert Vlach is a leading expert on freelance entrepreneurship and a senior business consultant specialising in supporting independent professionals and business owners. His book The Freelance Way, has become an international business bestseller translated into five other languages. Robert is the founder of Freelancing.eu and Navolnenoze.cz — two of the largest freelance communities in Europe.   

On this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Helen Hill, a remarkable individual whose journey is a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and a touch of unexpected brilliance.  Battling two chronic health conditions, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks, my guest's mornings often started with tears at the foot of her bed and physical and emotional exhaustion so acute that it led to her to fall asleep behind the wheel, more than once.  Navigating a landscape where mental health struggles were met with scepticism from her own team, she found herself ensnared in a toxic environment where understanding and compassion were scarce commodities.  This pattern culminated in a meltdown whilst in the office and served as a catalyst for change. She decided to seize control of her life, leave the rigidity of traditional employment and forge her own path as a freelancer.  Through freelancing, she discovered the power of autonomy, shaping her schedule to fit her needs rather than the other way around. In less than two years, my guest has transformed her narrative, taken ownership of her journey and documented it in a book. 'Falling Off The Ladder" is a mindset manual for those who don't fit the one-size-fits-all workplace culture, who have been pushed out or treated like they are broken, and now want to succeed in self-employment. Throughout the book, we not only gain an insight into my guest's journey but also hear from other inspirational individuals who have made strong choices to take control of their professional lives.  

Students Are Unprepared For Today's World Of Work was the provacation we put to Victoria Fabbri, an Enterprise Manager at the University of the Arts London for this episode of Freelancers: Next Gen. UAL is known for its work nurturing freelancers and small businesses in the creative industries and Vicky's 15+ years of experience came to the fore in this fascinating conversation.  We explore the current working landscape from the perspective of solopreneurship, the expectations of students, innovative solutions to real-world freelance experience and lots more.  UAL Not Just A Shop Designing Your Life (book) Freelancer Club

As the Associate Director of Careers and Employability at Goldsmiths University in London, my guest is faced with a rapidly changing world of work and adapting to the way students are engaging with their university experience. We discuss the challenges faced by universities when it comes to engagement, whether or not the current system of measuring success is fit for purpose and how Goldsmiths integrate principles of diversity and inclusion into their services. We are delighted to welcome, Yasmina Mallam-Hassam.

Welcome to Freelancers: Next Gen podcast. In this episoide I had the pleasure of speaking with an actor turned academic who, after many years imparting his entrepreneurial wisdom, is planning a return to the world of freelancing. We delve into the intricacies of teaching entrepreneurship, explore the impact of politics on budding freelancers, and propose innovative ways for universities to align with the evolving demands of the modern work landscape.  It's my great pleasure to introduce Steven Sparling. 

Join me as I host a true trailblazer in the world of freelancing and entrepreneurship.  My guest today not only champions diversity and inclusion, she lives and breathes it in every aspect of her remarkable journey. As a business owner, freelancer, consultant, devoted mother, mentor, and presently a lecturer in Enterprise Education at Cardiff Met University, she's exemplified what it means to walk the walk. We discuss the highs and lows of launching a fashion brand tailored to Muslim women, to her unwavering belief in the transformative power of role models. We outline the need to champion more role models emerging from diverse backgrounds to authentically inspire the generations to come. Allow me to introduce you to the incredible Rifhat Quershi. FreelancerClub.net Twitter Instagram TikTok

Welcome to our latest episode where we embark on a journey into the realm of higher education strategy and the challenges faced by the next generation of freelancers. Our guest of honour is the accomplished Pro Vice Chancellor Student Enterprise & Entrepreneurship at Anglia Ruskin University, Gary Packham. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of his pivotal role, exploring his key responsibilities and focal points within the institution. With a personal chair in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, Gary shares the experiences that have fueled his unwavering commitment to these areas in higher education. Drawing from a background steeped in strategic planning and organisational development, we delve into how Gary ensures Anglia Ruskin University remains at the forefront of a rapidly evolving Higher Education landscape. We broaden the scope to understand how supporting entrepreneurship benefits the university as a whole. Plus, Gary generously offers insights into both short-term plans and long-term aspirations for Anglia Ruskin University in the context of enterprise and entrepreneurship. For all the enterprise leaders seeking to bolster their cohorts and students aspiring to blend entrepreneurial ventures with traditional education, Gary imparts invaluable advice that you won't want to miss. Tune in for an episode brimming with wisdom and forward-thinking strategies.

In a candid conversation, our Founder, Matt Dowling, sat down with the erudite Cerys Jayne Murray, a scholarly Master's student at the University of Nottingham, who simultaneously assumes the roles of a part-time barista and a freelance content creator. Together, they delved into the intricate realms of university support, or rather the lack thereof, that confronts ambitious freelancers like Cerys. They also discussed the delicate balance between work, life, and education that she valiantly strives to maintain, the challenge faced by students when asking to be paid for their services, and the profound psychological hurdles plaguing students, including imposter syndrome, inhibiting them from confidently valuing the worth of their skills.   Links Freelancer Club

In our latest 'Next Gen' series, the insightful Zsofia Kunvari, a professional in the realm of Enterprise Education, Well-Being, and Organisational Behaviour, delves into the current mental health challenges faced by students who aspire to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey while juggling academics. From the pressure of launching a freelance business, side hustle or startup, to finding that perfect balance between work, life and study. Zsofia also sheds light on the ways universities are stepping up to support their enterprising students. From tailored resources and mentorship programs to fostering a culture of openness, compassion and understanding, universities are playing a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of business leaders, and yet, there are still gaping holes in support and plenty of room for improvement. Freelancer Club University of Westminster

The sixth annual IAN conference, run by the Centre for Entrepreneurs and hosted, took place this June at Sheffield Hallam University. This flagship annual event convened incubator managers from across the UK for best-practice sharing, networking and collaboration. The Founder of Freelancer Club, Matt Dowling, was invited to provide insights into the freelance journey and share some data on the challenges faced by students and universities.  Among the distinguished presenters was James Ker-Reid, co-founder of Revenue Academy. Following the presentations, Matt and James struck up a conversation over a cup of coffee, wherein they discovered a shared vision for nurturing the upcoming generation of entrepreneurs as well as a sense of frustration regarding the challenges faced by founders and freelancers in their pursuit of success. Recognising the potential significance of their chat, they made a decision to convene, unpack these issues, and record their conversation in order to offer their insights to universities, students, and stakeholders alike. Topics  The critical differences between starting a business and freelancing Can entrepreneurialism really be taught?  The S Word - the role of sales in the startup/freelance sector Why are more students keen to be their own boss?  What's the new reality of starting a business or becoming a freelancer?    Links Freelancer Club Revenue Academy