20 years freelancing as Ben The Illustrator

PODCAST SPONSORED BY RIVERSIDE: High quality audio/video recorded online www.beingfreelance.com/riverside It’s free to get started - use code BEINGFREELANCE to save 15% on a paid plan    ABOUT THIS EPISODE Ben O’Brien, known to many as Ben The Illustrator, returns to share how his freelance journey has evolved since his first Being Freelance appearance back in 2018. From losing all his travel industry clients overnight in 2020, to discovering new income streams through lockdown listening parties, to launching a creative studio with his wife, and literally building a studio with his friends. Ben’s path of adaptation has been found by following his curiosity, being more open that ever to opportunities.  Now 25 years into his self-employed life and 20 years as ‘Ben The Illustrator’, there’s a lot of experience for Ben to draw from (making no apologies for the pun). - Finding clients through word of mouth (and why you can’t force it) - Running a print shop… and knowing when to shut it - The joy of building your own studio from scratch (literally) - What AI can’t do (and how human illustrators can stay ahead) - Why sharing your work (not just your services) really matters Ben seems to be a really happy place creatively and with work life balance. And he's rediscovered the joy of doing what he always loved. Available as a video podcast too - Watch Ben here on the site, on YouTube, or Spotify. EPISODE SPONSORED BY FREELANCER MAGAZINE Much more than a magazine these days  - but come on, who doesn't love sweet glossy pages dropping through your door helping you explore the world of freelancing? Visit https://freelancermagazine.co.uk JOIN THE COMMUNITY You're not alone being freelance.  Come and hang out with your BFFs (Being Freelance Friends). beingfreelance.com/community   NEW TO FREELANCING? THERE'S A COURSE FOR YOU! The Being Freelance course is made for you! Take the course and you'll also get 6 months FREE community membership.   FREELANCER MERCH Get Being Freelance merchandise at beingfreelance.com/shop Like VIDEO? - Check out the Being Freelance on: Instagram - Instagram.com/beingfreelance YouTube - YouTube.com/SteveFolland