The Free Spirits of L+D

In this episode of the Free Spirits of L&D podcast, we chat with Jules Wyman, coach, speaker, and founder of Positive Belief — who, it turns out, may well be the longest-serving L&D freelancer we’ve ever had on the show, with 21 years under her belt.Jules shares a remarkably honest origin story that begins not in a boardroom or a training room, but in theatre and television — and takes an unexpectedly raw and courageous turn before landing her in the world of coaching almost by accident. She opens up about how her business truly started her, rather than the other way around, and why she’s never had a business plan.We talk about the confidence coach label she never sought but that served her well — and why she changed her LinkedIn profile just the day before we recorded this episode. Jules shares her thinking on niching, why getting too precious about it can tie you in knots, and how her work has evolved into something she’s still learning to articulate: transformational coaching that goes to the problem behind the problem.Jules answers Gary's question about what she wishes she’d known at the start of her freelance journey — introducing us to her brilliant FROGS framework — and poses a cracking question for our next guest. And of course, Jules tells us how she charges, with a characteristically sharp reminder that your net and self worth a two very different things. Whether you’re thinking about making the leap, just starting out, or well into your freelance journey, this episode is warm, funny, honest, and packed with the kind of wisdom that only comes from 21 years of doing the work.Find Jules and all her resources — including her free weekly reflection email, podcast, books, membership, retreats, and one-to-one coaching — at https://www.juleswyman.onlineMeanwhile - if you or someone you know is struggling with feelings of despair, contact Samaritans on 116 123

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast for a very special episode — we're bringing you the full Free Spirits Live conference in a box. Mark chats with speakers, attendees and the Free Spirit behind it all as the day unfolds, then catches up with a couple of guests a few days later once the dust has settled.In this episode you'll hear from Emma Klosson, who shares reflections on her session about impact and recognition, the value of showing your work like a maths exam, and why building a case study is always worth it whether or not you win the award. Kara Stanford, marketing strategist and first-time speed session speaker, talks about taking real-time action during sessions — including updating her LinkedIn profile mid-talk and leaving with a full post-Judy to-do list. Jill Sainsbury returns from last year's live podcast to share highlights from her video tips session, a fascinating new approach to AI accuracy, and the fascinating concept of the COI (cost of inaction) — as a way of helping clients understand the value of doing something. Amy Gottler from the eLearning Academy gives her verdict as a first-time attendee, explaining why the online format gave her the confidence to take part more fully than she ever could in person, and why validation can be just as powerful as learning something new. Dave Plunkett shares his experience as a speaker at the event, giving his take on the audience, the organisation and what made it such a smooth experience to be part of. Tejas Kotecha joins Mark a couple of days later to reflect on his first Free Spirits Live, the newfound confidence to say no to the wrong kind of work, and why he reckons the admission fee paid for itself within the first ten minutes. And finally, Kim Ellis, the original Free Spirit and host of the whole event, joins Mark to talk about what went right, what went wrong, what she took away from Dave's referrals session, and what's already in motion for the next Free Spirits Live event.Reserve your ticket for the next Free Spirits Live event on 1st October 2026 at https://ldfreespirits.com/product/find-your-voice/

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

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we explore what happens when freelancing grows up.In this episode, we sit down with Emma Coller, a retired police officer turned executive coach, consultant, and co-founder of Growth Pod, a leadership development business based in Yorkshire. Emma shares her journey from policing into learning and development, what it was like entering the commercial world for the first time, and why confidence took longer to build than competence.We talk openly about the loneliness of early freelancing, the moment Emma realised she did not want to do it alone, and how a chance collaboration evolved into a long-term business partnership. Emma also breaks down the realities of bid writing, why most people avoid it, and how investing in learning that skill led to winning a major national contract.Emma answers Sara’s question from the previous episode on what she has learned to say no to, including why giving work away for free stops being sustainable, and how knowing your direction makes decisions easier. She also sets a thoughtful question for our next guest about choosing a personal North Star word to guide decision-making for the year ahead. Plus, Emma shares how she thinks about pricing, fairness, and paying associates well.Whether you are new to freelancing or already a few years in, this episode offers honest insight into growth, boundaries, and building something that lasts.You can find Emma on LinkedIn, visit GrowthPod at https://www.growth-pod.co.uk, or email her at [email protected]

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we explore the emotional and practical reality of going freelance.In this episode, we sit down with Sara Duxbury, a business psychologist, executive coach, and founder of Blooming Potential. Just three months into freelancing, Sara shares an honest account of burnout, stepping away from in-house roles, and building a career that aligns with her values and energy.We talk about the slow decision to go freelance, why rest feels uncomfortable, how the inner critic changes shape, and what it really means to earn enough. Sara also breaks down her day rates, her sliding scale coaching model, and how she reframes pricing conversations without discounting her value.This episode covers boundaries, money, community, energy management, and why freelancing is as much a psychological shift as it is a practical one.If you are considering the leap, already freelance, or feeling definitely quietly exhausted in an in-house role, this conversation will resonate.Find Sara on LinkedIn, follow Blooming Potential on LinkedIn & Instagram, or visit https://www.bloomingpotential.co.uk/https://www.bloomingpotential.co.uk/

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we explore what it really takes to build a meaningful freelance career in learning and development.In this episode we sit down with Jennifer Potter, coach, consultant and founder of Frankly. Jennifer shares her wonderfully squiggly path into L&D, from early burnout at Vodafone to retraining in Chinese medicine, then building a coaching and leadership development business grounded in purpose and values. She talks openly about loneliness, belonging, midlife pivots, the reality of running a freelance business and why freedom sits at the heart of her choices.We also explore how to stay resourced, navigating tough years, and how she thinks about pricing across coaching, team coaching and leadership development work.Jennifer answers Kelly’s question from the previous episode on staying centred in your ‘why’, and sets a new question for our next guest on how they resource themselves. And yes, Jennifer also shares exactly what she charges for her work.Whether you’re early in your freelance journey or looking to evolve your practice, this conversation is full of honest, generous insights.Find Jennifer on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/potterjennifer/

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we explore the world of freelancing in learning and development.In this episode, we chat with Kelly Rodrigues: a learning designer, people leader, and part-time dancefloor queen. Currently heading up the global L&D function at web pros. Kelly shares her unique journey from professional dancer to L&D leader, and how the spark for using movement to support people with dementia eventually led her into the world of design, coaching, and leadership.We discuss:why values matter more than job titlehow to push back when L&D isn’t the answerstaying future-ready in a world of AIand Kelly’s powerful approach to setting (and keeping) boundaries as a multi-hat freelancer.Kelly answers Jo Cook’s “Clark Kent vs Superman” question from the last episode, and sets a beautiful reflective challenge for our next guest.Plus – as always – Kelly shares her rates, and why she’s not afraid to say “no” to the wrong kind of work.Whether you’re new to freelancing or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and a lot of heart.Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn.☕️ Bonus: Yes, she really does have an open-door policy for virtual cuppas!

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into the world of freelancing in learning and development.In this special live episode, recorded during the very first Free Spirits Live virtual conference, we’re joined by a brilliant line-up of attendees and contributors who share their experiences, takeaways, and a few unexpected moments from the day.You’ll hear from:Kelly Rodrigues, Head of Learning at WebPros and freelance consultant, reflecting on imposter syndrome, performance consulting, and being brave enough to say “this one’s not for me”.Lorraine Taylor, founder of Lorraine Taylor Learning, who shares how Canva and marketing strategies lit up her brain—and why she’s now committed to keeping a “win journal”.Jayne Davids, video specialist and founder of Raiveon, who celebrates the power of community and prepares to reveal her “mystery” session.Kelly Joanne, marketing consultant and podcaster, who speaks about value proposition design and what makes a self-care development day in your pyjamas so magical.Jill Sainsbury, filmmaker turned learning designer, who loved hearing from peers about pricing, LinkedIn profiles, and why not every client is the right client.And finally, we catch up with Free Spirits founder Kim Ellis, the mastermind behind the event, who shares the behind-the-scenes highs (and toilet-break mishaps), and why chat—yes, chat—is the soul of any good virtual conference.Whether you joined Free Spirits Live or missed it this time around, this episode is full of energy, insight, and some cracking advice for freelancers old and new.💻 Learn more or become a Free Spirits member: ldfreespirits.com

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into the world of freelancing in learning and development.In this episode, we chat with Jo Cook — virtual classroom specialist, editor of Training Journal, and founder of Lightbulb Moment. Jo shares her freelance origin story (yes, it involves a newspaper and some 90s tech), opens up about the realities of managing a chronic condition as a business owner, and explores the double life of freelancers through the lens of Superman.We dig into her kryptonite (spoiler: it’s not public speaking), her freelance superpowers, and how she handles the business side of L&D with honesty, humour, and a healthy dose of self-awareness. Jo also answers Tom McDowell’s question from the previous episode and poses a brilliant new challenge for our next guest.And of course, Jo shares what she charges — and how those rates shift depending on the project, the client, and the hidden value beyond just the invoice.Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the freelance trenches, this episode is packed with practical insights, reassurance, and a few superhero analogies you won’t forget.Find Jo on LinkedIn or visit her website at https://lightbulbmoment.info/Check out Training Journal at https://www.trainingjournal.com

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into the world of freelancing in learning and development.In this episode, we chat with Tom McDowall — founder of Evolve L&D, learning strategist, and long-time contributor to the L&D community. Tom shares his unconventional path from theatre tech to freelance consultant. He opens up about the reality of outsourcing, pricing for value instead of time, and why our industry may need a serious wake-up call.Tom answers Paul’s 'golden rule' question from the previous episode, and poses a bold challenge for our next guest.Whether you’re just starting out or rethinking your freelance strategy, this episode is packed with honest reflections, practical tips, and a fresh take on where L&D is headed.Find Tom on LinkedIn or visit his webpage for more.

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into the world of freelancing in learning and development.In this episode, we chat with Paul Matthews, a CEO, author, speaker, and L&D strategist with over 25 years of experience. Originally from New Zealand and now based in the UK, Paul shares his fascinating journey from IT sales director to a leading voice in informal learning, performance consultancy, and learning transfer. We explore how he transitioned from selling his time to building platforms and writing books, and how he views work as part of a life well-lived.Paul shares invaluable advice on building credibility, finding your value proposition, and spinning the right plates as a freelancer. He also tackles Jude Slater’s question from the last episode about balancing work and life—and leaves us with a golden question for our next guest.And yes, Paul reveals what he charges for his work—and how to think beyond day rates to value-based pricing.Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your L&D business, this episode is packed with insight, practical tips, and inspiration.Find Paul on LinkedIn, visit his company at http://peoplealchemy.com, or check out his personal site at http://paul-matthews.com

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into the world of freelancing in learning and development.In this episode, Mark chats with Jude Sclater, a coach, writer, and trainer. Jude shares her journey from internal L&D at Deloitte to building her own freelance business. She opens up about saying “yes” to her first client, the challenges of pricing her services, and the power of saying “no” to work that doesn’t align with her expertise.Jude also discusses how she transitioned to online delivery during COVID, the impact of writing her book Think Like a Coach, and her strategy for generating new business without feeling overly "salesy". Plus, she answers Dr. Alaina Szlachta's question from our last episode about converting leads and poses a thought-provoking question for our next guest.And of course, Jude reveals how much she charges for her freelance work!Whether you’re new to freelancing or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.Find Jude on LinkedIn or visit her website at thinkwithjude.comWant to level up your freelancing business? Visit ldfreespirits.com for more insights and resources.

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast, where we delve into the dynamic world of freelancing in learning and development.In this episode, we welcome Dr. Alaina Szchlacta, an author, founder, and measurement architect. Alaina shares her unexpected journey from a corporate job to becoming a freelance entrepreneur, inspired by a transformative trip to Bali. She discusses the challenges and rewards of freelancing, the importance of passive income, and how she balances her dual roles as a business owner and real estate investor.Alaina also explores the concept of entrepreneurial spirit, the art of saying no, and the significance of measurement in freelancing. She candidly shares her experiences with conversion strategies and the importance of finding your niche.Whether you're new to freelancing or a seasoned pro, this episode is filled with valuable insights and inspiration.Find Alaina on LinkedIn or visit her website at https://dralainaszlachta.comKey Topics Covered: Elena’s transition from corporate to freelancing The impact of a Balinese healer on her career path Balancing business ownership with real estate investment The role of passive income in freelancing Conversion strategies for freelancers The importance of measurement and niching in freelancing💡 Resources mentioned in this episode: The Fountainhead by Ayn RandEnjoyed this episode? Leave a review on your favourite podcast app or visit ldfreespirits.com to learn more about elevating your freelancing business!

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast, where we explore the ins and outs of freelancing in the world of learning and development. In this episode, we sit down with Hari Patience-Davies, a storytelling coach, trainer, and co-founder of 13 Times. Hari shares her unique journey from corporate consultancy to freelancing and founding a business that helps clients create presentations 13 times more impactful through storytelling. She reflects on her leap into freelancing (including launching a business right after having a baby!) and offers invaluable insights into niching, pricing, and the importance of networking. Hari also dives into her tried-and-tested approach to storytelling, her challenges with balancing generalist skills and freelancing niches, and her thoughts on pricing strategy as a freelancer. Plus, she answers our question from Kirsty Lewis on advice for new freelancers and leaves an intriguing question for our next guest. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of freelancing under your belt, this episode is packed with actionable tips, candid advice, and inspiration. Find Hari on LinkedIn under Harriet Patience-Davies or visit her website at 13-times.com. Key Topics Covered: • Hari’s career transition: From Accenture to storytelling coaching • The origins and growth of 13 Times • Balancing generalist and niche skills in freelancing • Hari’s advice on pricing: From day rates to participant-based pricing • Tips for managing your network and staying visible on LinkedIn • How storytelling can transform presentations—and businesses 💡 Resources mentioned in this episode: • Start With Why by Simon Sinek • Tools for freelancers: Dripify and AuthoredUp • L&D Free Spirits Network: Resources on niching and more! Next episode’s question: If you could have one instant superpower or skill, what would it be? Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review on your favourite podcast app or visit ldfreespirits.com to learn more about lifting your freelancing business to new heights!

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we explore the realities of freelancing in learning and development. In this episode, we chat with Kirsty Lewis, founder of the School of Facilitation, who has been freelancing since 2008. Kirsty opens up about her journey from the corporate world to building a global community of facilitators and trainers. She shares insights on pricing strategies, why day rates might be holding you back, and the importance of valuing outcomes over time. Kirsty also reflects on the mental and emotional shifts needed when transitioning to freelancing, her four roles for success (cheerleaders, ears, elders, and experts), and how to manage the ups and downs of self-employment. She answers Viv Cole's question from the previous episode about her favourite book and leaves a thought-provoking question for our next guest. Plus, Kirsty explains why she doesn't have a day rate—and how she charges instead! Whether you’re considering freelancing, just starting out, or looking to refine your practice, this episode is full of actionable advice and thought-provoking discussion. Find Kirsty on LinkedIn or visit her website at schooloffacilitation.com Follow Kirsty on Instagram: @schooloffacilitation Her Podcast: A Facilitator's Journey Referenced Books: Bounce by Matthew Syed The Rise of Superman by Steven Kotler

Join us on the Free Spirits of L&D podcast as we delve into the world of freelancing in learning and development. In this episode, we chat with Viv Cole, an experienced instructional designer and trainer who has been freelancing since 2002. Viv shares his journey, insights on building a successful freelance business, and his 3x3 rule of networking at conferences. He answers Maria’s question from the previous episode, and poses a new question for our next guest. Plus of course, Viv shares how much he charges for his freelance work! Whether you're new to freelancing or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration. Find Viv on LinkedIn or visit his website at http://www.vivcole.co.uk Article: The lifecycle of a freelance business https://ldfreespirits.com/to-freelance-or-not-to-freelance-now-theres-a-question/

In our second episode of the series, podcast host Mark sits down with Maria Salkeld, a strengths-based coach who is now on her third era of freelance work in the L&D industry! Maria shares her journey from redundancy to entrepreneurship, discussing the various phases of her freelance career and the motivations behind each transition. We delve into the challenges and triumphs of freelancing, the importance of community, and the nuances of setting your worth in the market. Maria also touches on the significance of networking, the role of values in choosing freelance work, and the balance between flexibility and financial stability. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a leap into self-employment or looking to enhance their freelance career. Find out more about Maria Salkeld and her strengths-based approach: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariasalkeld/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quirkybirdstrengths • Website: https://www.quirkybirdstrengths.com Discover the benefits of joining the L&D Free Spirits community at https://ldfreespirits.com

In this inaugural episode, podcast host Mark sits down with Kim Ellis, a seasoned professional in learning and development who transitioned from traditional roles to founding her own business. Kim shares her journey from redundancy to entrepreneurship, culminating in the creation of L&D Free Spirits, a unique network aimed at supporting freelancers in the industry. We delve into the challenges and triumphs of freelancing, the importance of community, and the nuances of setting your worth in the market. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a leap into self-employment or looking to enhance their freelance career. Find out more about joining the L&D Free Spirits community at https://ldfreespirits.com Connect with Kim on LinkedIn

Coming soon to your podcast feed - the Free Spirits of L&D is your insider guide to freelancing in the learning and development industry. We'll be asking all the questions you always wanted to know... but were afraid to ask. How to win business, how much to charge, and how balance life with work - it's all on the table!