David Sparks and Mike Schmitz are not nearly as productive as they’d like to be. Join these fellow travelers (and a bunch of special guests) as they share the best ways to get focused, and talk through their successes and failures along the way.

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#29: The Spreadsheet

September 5th, 2017 · 40 minutes

So you're thinking about going out on your own. It's time to build The Spreadsheet, a tool to let you gauge your potential income and expenses and give you a realistic view of what it will take to succeed.

#28: David's Origin Story

August 22nd, 2017 · 47 minutes

Jason asks David to explain where he came from, the background of his career, and what the circumstances were that led him to become an independent worker, and then asks him to reflect on his two-plus years no longer being employed by a law firm.

#27: Bird in the Bush

August 8th, 2017 · 43 minutes

Passion projects can be an enjoyable outlet. But how do you balance the work that pays the bills with the work that feeds the soul?

#26: A Batphone to My Heart

July 25th, 2017 · 58 minutes

While Jason leaves the phone off the hook, David describes his trial of Google Voice and ultimate decision to use a live receptionist service.

#25: Breadcrumb of My Life, with Stephen Hackett

July 11th, 2017 · 56 minutes

Relay FM co-founder Stephen Hackett discusses his origin story, including the personal challenges he first encountered when he went independent.

#24: Take Care of Yourself

June 27th, 2017 · 43 minutes

What happens if you're a lone-wolf independent operator, and then you get sick? We discuss staying healthy, getting help, and buying insurance.

#23: It's Hard To Get on a Different Train

June 13th, 2017 · 40 minutes

When should you form a corporation, and if so, what kind? David has some broad advice, though you should be sure to consult with a local attorney and your accountant before making any final decisions.

#22: Staying Agile

May 30th, 2017 · 27 minutes

One of your great advantages as an independent worker is your agility. While larger companies have more resources, they can be much slower to react to change. David and Jason swap war stories about adapting and changing.

#21: The Second Feedback Episode

May 16th, 2017 · 57 minutes

We're once again answering your letters and tweets In a wide-ranging episode covering all sorts of aspects of being an independent worker.

#20: Jason's Origin Story

May 3rd, 2017 · 59 minutes

David asks Jason to explain where he came from, the background of his career, and what the circumstances were that led him to become an independent worker, and then asks him to reflect on his two-plus years no longer being employed by a big corporation.