What does it really take to build a freelance business that feels steady, fulfilling, and true to who you are?
Every freelancer faces moments of doubt, especially when the industry shifts, competition rises, or motivation fades. But there are practical ways to stay grounded and keep moving forward.
In this conversation, Ashley Cisneros Mejia talks with Dr. Suzanne (Sue) Bowness, writer, editor, teacher, consultant, and author of The Feisty Freelancer. Sue has been freelancing independently since 2002, and she’s built a business around long-form writing, teaching, and helping creative freelancers develop their voice, workflow, and confidence.
They cover the full scope of freelance life: how to start before you feel ready, how to find clients, what to do when fear affects your decisions, and ways to build a healthier rhythm when you work from home. Sue also shares insights from her book and offers realistic, encouraging advice that freelancers at any stage can use.
ABOUT SUE
Dr. Suzanne (Sue) Bowness is a writer/editor/consultant and principal of CodeWord Communications. She has been working independently since 2002 and published her guide to freelancing The Feisty Freelancer with Dundurn Press in 2025 after teaching writing courses for 15+ years. Read more about her and her work at SuzanneBowness.com.
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