Here's the thing: building your course first and selling it later isn't just inefficient. It might be the reason you never launch it at all.

In this episode of Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, Paulina shares the behind-the-scenes story of a course that completely flopped—and what she learned that made her BAE program a success.

She breaks down why academics are especially prone to the "build first, sell later" trap, and gives you a concrete, step-by-step plan for testing your idea, pre-selling your course, and knowing when to move forward (and when to go back to the drawing board).

In this episode, you'll learn:

🏊‍♀️ Why the expertise trap and the perfectionism trap are killing your course before it launches

🏊‍♀️ The story of Paulina's book proposal course that sold just two copies—and what went wrong

🏊‍♀️ How to test your course idea on LinkedIn before you build a single module

🏊‍♀️ The exact CTAs to use at different stages of pre-selling

🏊‍♀️ What a "good" conversion rate actually looks like (it's lower than you think, and that's okay)

🏊‍♀️ How to use voice of customer research to sharpen your messaging

If you've been thinking about building a course, coaching program, or workshop but feel stuck in planning mode, this episode will help you move forward.

🔔 Subscribe here or on YouTube so you don't miss weekly episodes on building a freelance life after academia.

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

1:35 - Why Academics Tend to Build First, Sell Later

3:10 - Avoid the Expertise and Perfectionism Traps

5:45 - Why My First Course Flopped

9:30 - The Real Cost of Selling Online Courses

12:15 - Test Your Course Idea: Messaging and Market

15:50 - How to Pre-Sell Your Online Course

19:20 - What Success Really Looks Like: Conversion Rates

23:00 - Pivot or Persevere: Null Results Are Okay

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on a real LinkedIn post I shared about hitting my first $10,000 month as an academic editor—and walking you through the analytics in detail.

With only 746 impressions and 535 people reached, the vanity metrics looked terrible. But the data that actually matter? They told a completely different story.

In this episode, I explain:

👍 Why likes, comments, and impressions are mostly useless for building a freelance editing or coaching business

👍 Which metrics you should actually be paying attention to

👍 How I structured a LinkedIn post that brought real leads into my business

👍 Why your email list is the single most important piece of marketing infrastructure you can build

👍 How to use a lead magnet and welcome sequence to turn casual scrollers into warm, ready-to-hire clients

If you've ever felt like social media is a waste of time, or you're exhausted chasing likes and comments that never seem to lead anywhere, this episode is for you.

Get the Homepage Blueprint that helped me earn my first $10k month: AcadiaEditing.com/blueprint

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

2:15 - Defining "What Works" in Social Media

4:30 - The Post That Flopped (Or Did It?)

7:00 - Digging Into LinkedIn Analytics

9:30 - Why Saves and Follows Matter Most

12:00 - The Real Impact of Your Call to Action

15:00 - The Power of the Email List

18:00 - Why Direct DMs Often Fail

21:00 - The Lurkers Who Convert

24:00 - Crafting a Compelling Social Media Hook

27:00 - Storytelling for Client Connection

30:00 - Revealing Your Solution

33:00 - Key Takeaways for Business Growth

36:00 - Building Your Client Nurturing System

39:00 - Experimenting for Maximum Impact

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If the word "marketing" makes you cringe—if it conjures images of pushy salespeople, empty promises, and Instagram influencers claiming you can make $250K from a $47 mini course—I get it. Completely.

But here's what I want you to consider: the resistance most academics feel toward marketing isn't really about values. It's about fear. And once you see marketing for what it actually is (hint: it's just letting people know you exist), it might stop feeling so gross—and start feeling like something you actually enjoy doing (and you're really good at).

In this episode, I'm breaking down:

💡 Why academics are conditioned to distrust marketing—and why that's not entirely wrong

💡 The sneaky second layer of resistance that's really just self-doubt in disguise

💡 What marketing is when you strip away all the noise

💡 How you've already been doing it your whole academic career

💡 How to make marketing feel like connection instead of a transaction

💡 Your first concrete homework assignment to land your first private clients

Whether you're terrified to put yourself out there or just convinced that marketing requires you to become someone you're not, this episode is for you.

📌 Resources Mentioned:

Episode 72: Niching Down https://youtu.be/EWbD4y9j378

Episode 77: How to Land Your First Coaching Client https://youtu.be/yK_mRRAFmTo

🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode, and if this resonated with you, share it with a colleague who's thinking about leaving academia.

🖥️ Save Your Seat for my 3-Day Live Training, April 8-10, 2026. Go to AcadiaEditing.com/live

1:35 - Facing Your Marketing Fears

3:10 - Values vs. Self-Doubt Resistance

5:05 - The Truth About Marketing

7:40 - How Academics Already Market

10:15 - Your Marketing Control Center

12:00 - Overcoming Rejection Fears

14:30 - Warm Outreach: Your First Step

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most academics who dream of leaving their job focus on the exciting stuff—landing clients, working from home, finally having freedom. But there's a whole other conversation that almost nobody is having: the financial one.

What happens to your retirement accounts? Can you actually afford health insurance? When do you really need an LLC?

In this episode, I sit down with Inga Timmerman, a finance professor and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who works exclusively with academics.

She's seen it all—the people who quit too soon, the people who drain their savings in six months, and the people who get the transition right because they planned ahead.

Here's what we cover:

🪙 The savings benchmark you should hit before you quit

🪙 Why mixing personal and business finances is a bigger mistake than you think

🪙 What to do with your TIAA account (and whether to roll it into an IRA)

🪙 Honest talk about health insurance in 2026—including options most people overlook

🪙 Why you probably don't need an LLC yet (and when you do)

🪙 What to do—and not do—with your investments when the market is in chaos

Whether you're building a side hustle in academic editing or coaching, or you're deep in your exit planning, this episode will help you think through the money side of your transition clearly and without the panic.

🔔 Subscribe so you don't miss new episodes every week.

🐦‍🔥 When you want to take the leap, find out more about launching an academic editing or coaching business: https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Resources Mentioned:

Inga's podcast: Academics and Their Money, https://attainablewealthfp.com/welcome-to-academics-and-their-money/

Work with Inga: https://attainablewealthfp.com

2:05 - Academia to Entrepreneurship, Inga's Journey

4:31 - Why Top-Tier Research Felt Hollow

6:58 - Impact Over Ivory Tower

9:12 - Launching a Business as a Hobby

11:35 - Mastering Academic Niches For Clients

13:58 - Academic Financial Fears Addressed

16:21 - Planning Your Exit

18:44 - Budgeting For Business Independence

21:07 - Smart Spending, Avoid Shiny Objects

23:30 - Navigating Taxes As A Business Owner

25:53 - When To Leave Academia Full-Time

28:16 - Health Insurance Hurdles & Solutions

30:40 - Retirement Accounts After Academia

33:03 - Protecting Yourself, Insurance Needs

35:26 - Business Structure, When To Start

37:49 - Market Volatility

39:55 - Get Expert Help, Find Your Advisor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm walking you through one BAE student's journey—from "I have no idea what I'm doing" to landing a real, paying coaching client faster than he ever thought possible.

I'm calling him Michael to protect his privacy, but his story is real, and it's one that I know you'll find instructive.

Here's what you'll hear in this episode:

🎧 How Michael went from joining BAE to having a website, a LinkedIn profile, and a niche—all within the first month of his cohort

🎧 Why a referral from a former colleague turned into his first real client inquiry (and how he almost let fear talk him out of it)

🎧 What a discovery call looks like, and how it's different from a sales call

🎧 Why I pushed Michael to raise his prices—and why he was glad I did

🎧 How to handle the nerve-wracking gap between your client saying "I need to think about it" and "I'm in"

🎧 The mindset shift that separates academics who stay stuck from those who actually launch

I also share what's been happening in the current cohort with other BAE students—including someone who landed TWO dissertation editing clients in a single day, and two MORE just a few weeks later. 🤯

The big lesson running through all of this: you are never going to feel ready. The fear doesn't go away. But you CAN (and should!) do it scared—and that's exactly what growth looks like.

🎙️ Subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss future episodes on life beyond academia, freelance editing and academic coaching, and building a business that brings you joy.

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

2:30 - Define Your Niche & Build Your Website

5:15 - How To Land Your First Coaching Client

8:00 - Master Discovery Calls For Clients

11:45 - Price Your Packages With Confidence

15:00 - How To Nail Your Sales Call

19:30 - Key Takeaways For Business Growth

23:00 - Join BAE Core Or Accelerator

30:00 - Why You Have To Do It Scared

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Merritt—education PhD, former K–12 teacher in Switzerland, and founder of Define Your Lines—to talk about what it really looks like to build a freelance business from the ground up—while navigating toxic workplaces, health crises, expat life, and the slow, complicated grief of letting go of an academic identity.

Kelly's story doesn't follow the typical "I burned out and quit" script. She's been layering her exit for years—thoughtfully, strategically, and honestly. And what she shares in this conversation is some of the most nuanced, honest advice you'll hear about what it takes to make this work.

In this episode, we cover:

✏️ Why leaving academia isn't always enough—and what you actually need to heal and build something sustainable

✏️ The difference between strategy and experimentation in business—and why you need both

✏️ How to balance client-facing work with the behind-the-scenes infrastructure work

✏️ How Kelly navigated a full brand refinement six months after launching her first website (and why it was worth it)

✏️ How Kelly serves three different audiences (teachers, students, and writers) with one business—and the thread that connects them

Whether you're deep in the details of business-building, still deciding if you can make the leap, or just needing to hear that someone else has been in the messy middle—this episode is for you.

Resources Mentioned:

Define Your Lines: https://defineyourlines.com

Kelly Merritt on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn: @defineyourlines / https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellymmerritt/

Kelly's free self-assessment for writers: Five Pillars of Sustainability and Joy in a Writing Practice: https://defineyourlines.com/writers/five-pillars/

The Academic Entrepreneurs Studio (Paulina's mastermind for academic business owners): https://acadiaediting.com/studio

🎙️ Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and if this one resonated, share it with a colleague who's been quietly dreaming about a different kind of life.

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

2:14 - Kelly's Academic Background

5:09 - Journey from Academia to Business

10:01 - Navigating Academia's Oddities

15:30 - The Decision to Move Abroad

20:15 - Toxic Academic Environments

25:18 - Building a Sustainable Business

30:16 - The Brand Refinement Process

35:11 - Balancing Strategy & Experimentation

40:24 - Defining Your Lines Explained

45:25 - Serving Diverse Audiences

50:07 - The Value of Community

55:00 - The Long Road to Success

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm sharing data I've been collecting for over a year: raw, unfiltered responses from academics all over the world who answered one simple question—What's going on in your life that brought you here?

What I found wasn't two-word answers. It was grief. It was burnout so deep it had started destroying people's bodies. It was the specific, quiet devastation of realizing that tenure—the thing you sacrificed everything for—isn't the finish line you were promised.

The data are clear: this isn't an individual failure. It's a systemic one.

In this episode, I walk you through the 5 most common themes in the responses I've collected from academics who are leaving or thinking about leaving higher ed.

I also share what I believe is possible on the other side: a career that uses every skill you've developed in academia, in a context where you're respected, fairly paid, and in control.

If you've been wondering whether you're alone in feeling this way—you're not. I've got the receipts.

🎙️ Resources Mentioned:

Episode 61 on academic identity, with Tory Wobber and Jen Polk: https://youtu.be/JqdqPkEFdfs

📌 Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode

If this topic resonated with you, share it with an academic friend who needs to hear it.

🐦‍🔥 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

4:10 - Devastating Realities Unfiltered Stories

7:45 - Burnout Is Not a Phase

10:55 - Feeling Undervalued and Underpaid

16:40 - The Pain of Institutional Betrayal

21:20 - Reclaiming Your Life and Time

24:15 - Finding Hope Beyond Academia

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've built an editing or coaching business. You love working with academics. And somewhere in the back of your mind, you've been wondering: Could I host a writing retreat?

Short answer: probably yes. But the logistics are important.

In this episode, I'm talking with Kimberly Hale, PhD—interpreter educator and ICF-certified faculty success coach—about exactly how she plans and runs her academic writing retreats.

Not the inspirational version. The real version: how to find the right space, feed people well, handle airport logistics, price it so you actually earn money for your time, and navigate the very particular headache of getting paid by universities.

Here's what you'll learn:

🏠 The first question to ask yourself before you book anything (hint: it's about vibe)

🏠 How Kimberly structures her retreat across Thursday evening through Sunday lunch

🏠 Her approach to food, dietary preferences, and why feeding people is harder to plan than you'd think

🏠 Where she finds participants and how she markets without advertising to her own university

🏠 How she handles institutional payments, purchase orders, and slow-paying universities

🏠 What participants actually accomplish—and how that becomes your best marketing

If you're an academic editor or coach thinking about adding retreats to your business, this episode will save you a lot of trial and error.

🎙️ Subscribe to the channel so you don't miss a new episode.

📌 Resources Mentioned:

Kimberly Hale's website: https://facultysuccesscoach.com

🏠 Kimberly's upcoming writing retreat (March 19–22): facultysuccesscoach.com/retreat

💰 Discount code for $300 off the March retreat: INL2026

1:40 - Overwhelmed? Find Your Academic Path

4:05 - How To Balance Faculty and Business

7:10 - Unlock Your Productivity Secrets

11:50 - What is Coaching vs. Mentoring?

18:30 - Master Your Writing Retreats

25:00 - Join Our March Writing Retreat!

33:50 - Main Takeaways for Your Career

🐦‍🔥 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, I sit down with Jen Polk, one of the most well-known and trusted post-academic career coaches, to talk about what it really takes to figure out your next move after academia.

Jen has been doing this work since 2013, and she has helped dozens of PhDs—from postdocs to full professors to tenured department chairs—find career clarity and build lives they enjoy.

Here's what we get into:

🖋️ Why so many tenured professors (not just grad students) are leaving academia right now

🖋️ The #1 mistake academics make when starting a job search—and why "converting your CV to a resume" is a symptom, not a solution

🖋️ The self-reflection question that Jen uses with every single client (it's deceptively simple yet powerful)

🖋️ Whether you need coach training to become a coach—and Jen's honest, no-BS answer

🖋️ What Jen's PhD Career Clarity Program looks like and who it's for

🖋️ Why small-group coaching can be more powerful than one-on-one support (backed by what actually happened in her program last week)

If you've been feeling lost, stuck, or like academia has wrung every last bit of joy out of you, this conversation will remind you that you're not alone—and that there's a way through.

👉 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Resources Mentioned:

Jen Polk's PhD Career Clarity Program: https://fromphdtolife.com/

Jen Polk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-polk-phd/

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

2:40 - Academic Background to Coaching

7:00 - How Coaching Changed Her Life

10:00 - The Rise of Post-Academia

14:00 - Why Tenured Faculty Leave

18:00 - Global Higher Ed Challenges

22:00 - Finding Your Next Career Path

27:00 - What is "Flow" State?

31:00 - Resume vs. Clarity

36:00 - The Power of Community

42:00 - Coaching vs. Mentoring

47:00 - PhD Career Clarity Program

53:00 - Finding Your True Calling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I walk you through the counterintuitive truth about developing a profitable niche—and why your credentials aren't what's going to sell your services.

What You'll Learn:

💡 Why "being for everyone" is actually limiting your income

💡 The common mistake I made when I started my business

💡 How emotions—not analytics—drive hiring decisions

💡 Why your first niche WILL change (and why that's okay)

💡 How to journal your way to discovering the people you're obsessed with helping

💡 The 6-month feedback loop: when to expect clarity on your niche

Key takeaway: Your niche isn't about your credentials. It's about the collection of people who hear what you say and feel hope. It's the people drawn to you because of how passionate you are and the real solutions you've discovered. This is what you should lead with in your marketing to land consistent clients.

Resources Mentioned:

Map Your Academic Business Workbook – Download at AcadiaEditing.com/map

BAE Program – 12-week live cohort for academics becoming freelance editors or coaches

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

2:14 - Stop Being for Everyone

4:32 - Why Broad Messaging Fails

7:02 - Credentials Don't Sell Services

9:26 - Emotional Connection Drives Hires

11:30 - How to Start Niching Down

14:05 - Map Your Academic Business

16:27 - Journal Your Ideal Client

19:19 - The Non-Traditional Scholar

22:17 - Burnout Mom's Struggle

24:20 - Find Relief Through Your Services

27:40 - The Messaging Feedback Loop

31:07 - Listen to Your Customers

33:51 - Refine Your Messaging

36:30 - What People Truly Want

40:24 - Offering Hope and Relief

42:33 - Your Unique Solution

44:20 - Be Real Be Passionate

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest, Daniel DeRock, was a successful assistant professor of international political economy at a "dream" university—yet he walked away. Why?

In this episode, Daniel shares the truth about burnout, the hidden costs of chasing credentials, and how he's now building a thriving freelance business that finally honors all of who he is.

In this conversation, you'll hear:

☑️ Why Daniel left academia despite appearing to "have it all" on paper

☑️ The moment he decided to quit (spoiler: it was sudden and definitive)

☑️ How health problems and work-life balance pushed him to the breaking point

☑️ Why he's now doing a fiction book coaching certification alongside academic editing

☑️ How to build a business around what you actually want, not what you "should" want

☑️ The power of claiming your full identity when you leave academia

Daniel's journey is a reminder that success in academia doesn't equal happiness. He was doing everything "right"—defended his dissertation, got the postdoc, landed the faculty job at the university where he'd studied abroad. Yet the constant task-switching, budget cuts, isolation, and unsustainable workload made him reach his limit.

What's beautiful about Daniel's story is that he didn't just escape academia—he's actively building a business that brings together both his academic expertise AND his passion for fiction writing and the literary world. He's not abandoning his credentials; he's leveraging them in a completely new way.

This episode is for anyone who's been told they should be grateful for their academic position, or who's struggling to admit that their "dream job" isn't actually working for them.

If you're considering leaving academia or starting an editing/coaching business, watch this episode. And if you're ready to take the leap, check out my program, Becoming an Academic Editor or Coach—a 12-week group coaching program paired with lifetime access to the course materials.

Resources Mentioned:

Daniel's website: flowstateediting.com

Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-derock-988883302/

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

[2:30] Daniel's Academic Background

Double major in political science and English, studying in the Netherlands

[5:45] Graduate School Journey

Master's degree and PhD in Amsterdam, field work and teaching experience

[9:20] Burnout During PhD

Teaching full-time while finishing dissertation and applying for jobs

[12:15] Landing the Dream Job

Assistant professor position at his study abroad university

[15:40] Health Deterioration

Stress-related health problems and work-life balance issues

[18:30] Budget Cuts and Increased Workload

Doing the work of multiple people without support

[21:00] The Decision to Leave

Abrupt departure from academia after reaching breaking point

[24:45] Early Interest in Editing

Proofreading for colleagues, freelance editing during PhD

[28:20] Discovering the Path Forward

Finding Paulina's course and realizing editing could be viable

[32:10] Starting the Business

Registering Flow State Editing, first clients from colleagues

[35:50] LinkedIn as Marketing Platform

Returning to LinkedIn and building presence

[38:40] Types of Editing Work

Copy editing, developmental editing, coaching for academics

[42:15] Expanding into Fiction Editing

Interest in creative writing and book coaching

[45:30] The Challenge of Niching Down

Balancing academic editing with fiction editing interests

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you're in academia, you're trained to sacrifice---your time, your health, your family, your peace.

You're made to do more with less.

You're "voluntold" to serve on committees and take on projects, all without extra compensation or appreciation.

But here's the problem: when you leave academia to start your own business, those harmful patterns don't magically disappear. You bring them with you.

In this episode, I walk you through:

✓ Why academics struggle so much with setting boundaries

✓ The specific boundaries every freelance editor & coach needs

✓ How to charge for extra work without guilt (yes, that second revision round counts)

✓ What to do when clients push back or ask for "just one more thing"

✓ Real talk on sustainability: why boundaries aren't selfish, they're essential

✓ How to communicate boundaries without over-explaining or apologizing

✓ The difference between boundaries rooted in fear vs. boundaries rooted in clarity

If you've ever:

🎯 Worked way beyond what you promised (and not charged for it)

🎯 Felt paralyzed by guilt when setting a boundary

🎯 Over-explained yourself to a client

🎯 Taken on rush jobs you didn't have time for out of fear they'd leave

Felt obligated to respond to emails immediately

🎯 Stayed on a call longer than you planned because you didn't know how to end it

...then this episode is for you.

Your worth doesn't come from the amount of time you work. It comes from your expertise, your skills, and your labor. You deserve to be paid well for the value you provide. And you deserve a business that serves your life, not the other way around.

To use your skills to build a rewarding and profitable academic business, join the next cohort of Becoming an Academic Editor or Coach (BAE): AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

To grow your existing academic business, join The Academic Entrepreneurs Studio: AcadiaEditing.com/Studio

2:45 - The "voluntold" problem in academia

5:30 - When obligations become exploitation

8:15 - Sacrifice myth perpetuates exploitation

11:00 - Unlearning academic patterns after leaving

13:45 - Boundary #1: Set your work schedule

16:30 - Using your calendar as boundary

19:15 - The vacation trap: never taking time off

22:00 - Why real rest keeps business sustainable

24:45 - Boundary #2: Stop over-delivering work

27:30 - Permission to be "good enough"

30:15 - Scope creep: "just one more thing"

33:00 - Charging for work beyond contract

35:45 - Boundary #3: Don't undercharge clients

38:30 - Why nervous energy repels quality clients

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, former professor Rachel LaTouche shares how she went from a traditional tenure-track path to launching a thriving consulting business. She didn’t even know what "consulting" was at first—and now she's booked out, well paid, and finally working on her own terms.

Rachel started small—on Upwork. But one client turned into a department-wide contract, and that pivot away from free labor in academia led to a sustainable business. Her story is proof that you don’t need it all figured out to begin.

If you’re finally realizing that you've been unfairly giving away your time and energy for free, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s possible outside academia. Consulting might be the post-academic path you didn’t know you needed.

🎧 Listen now to hear:

How Rachel realized her "side projects" were actually consulting gigs

The questions she asked to get started—without a website

How she booked her first clients (and how you can, too)

The difference between B2B and B2C consulting—and how to choose

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/map

Resources mentioned:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlatouche/

https://www.hireraretalent.com

Registration for Rachel's program opens Feb 1, 2026! Go to her website for more info!

2:17 - Researching Workplace Culture

4:29 - Why Grad Students Need Support

5:20 - Faculty Life Challenges

6:17 - Discovering Consulting

8:37 - Navigating the Pandemic Pivot

10:17 - Landing Your First Client

13:57 - Evolving Your Consulting Business

18:57 - The Consulting Futures Lab

20:34 - Program Structure & Goals

22:08 - Embracing Your New Identity

24:05 - Valuing Your Expertise

25:12 - Setting Business Boundaries

26:34 - The Power of Talking About Yourself

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If your excitement is quickly turning into panic, you’re not alone. Many new freelance editors and academic coaches freeze when it comes time to respond professionally and quote their first project.

In this episode, I walk you through exactly what to do (and what to avoid) so you can handle that first inquiry with confidence.

I’ve helped dozens of editors and coaches go from overwhelmed to fully booked—and it all starts with this one moment.

What You’ll Learn:

✔️ What information to collect from a potential client

✔️ How to read between the lines to understand what they really need

✔️ How to price your services—even if you’ve never done it before

✔️ What to include in your first quote

✔️ How to follow up, close the deal, and set boundaries early

📣 Ready to turn your skills into a flexible, fulfilling academic business?

Go to AcadiaEditing.com/map

4:20 - Understand Client Needs

8:40 - Decipher What Clients Truly Need

13:00 - Gather Essential Project Details

17:20 - Assess Client Personality & Style

21:40 - Draft and Deliver Your Quote

26:00 - Pricing Your Services Wisely

30:20 - Manage Client Relationship Steps

34:40 - Crafting Your Letter of Agreement

39:00 - Deliver Exceptional Client Experience

43:20 - Gracefully Close the Project

47:40 - Reflect and Document Your Work

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you're standing at that crossroads—wondering whether to jump into industry or build something of your own—this episode is required listening.

💡 In this conversation, Tory Wobber shares how she went from a Harvard PhD in biology to a leadership role in data science at Facebook and Google… and eventually became a sought-after coach helping other academics make the leap.

Here's Your Problem:

You’ve done everything right—grants, publications, multiple job market seasons—and it still feels like you’re losing.

When Tory faced this, she set a boundary, walked away from academia, and found a path that gave her both impact and freedom.

Her coaching program, Academic Exit, has helped over 100 PhDs (especially in the social sciences) transition successfully into industry jobs they actually enjoy.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

🔑 Decide if industry or entrepreneurship is right for you

🔑 Translate your PhD into real-world skills

🔑 Avoid the biggest mistakes academics make when leaving

🔑 Build a career rooted in your actual goals—not just survival

Whether you’re curious about data science, career coaching, or just desperate for a way out—this one’s for you.

Resources:

Join Tory's program, Academic Exit:

VictoriaWobber.com

AcademicExit.com

Connect with Tory on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-tory-wobber-phd-cpcc-0364682b/

Recovering Academics group:

Message Gabrielle Filip-Crawford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellefc/

Ready to explore academic editing or coaching? → AcadiaEditing.com/map

4:27 - Tori's Journey From Harvard PhD to Industry Leader

7:07 - Academia's Unreasonable Expectations

10:18 - The Data Science Leap to Facebook

14:25 - Navigating Corporate Culture Shock

18:00 - Finding Your Fit Beyond Academia

22:30 - The Power of Career Coaching

26:00 - Avoid the Spray-and-Pray Job Search

30:00 - Your Next Career Chapter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Burnt-out from academia but still struggling with guilt about charging for your skills?

In this episode, I challenge the beliefs that keep academics underpaid and overworked—and show you what’s possible when you embrace your worth.

I share how I went from tenure-track burnout to running a six-figure editing and coaching business. You'll also learn how not being perfect in your marketing can actually help you grow, and why higher pricing doesn’t scare good clients away—it attracts them.

If you’ve ever felt uneasy about charging for your work or feared being “one of the bad guys” for making money, this episode will change your mind.

🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube.

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/map

04:04 - Academia's pressure to work without financial reward.

06:15 - The belief that good people don't care about money.

10:56 - Sharing knowledge builds respect and encourages payment.

11:32 - Common misconception that lower prices attract more clients.

13:18 - Price perception affects perceived value.

15:14 - Good people can also accumulate wealth.

16:16 - Wealth brings the ability to help others.

17:17 - Abundance allows for increased generosity and freedom.

18:12 - Fair exchange for knowledge without guilt.

18:51 - Authenticity earns trust more than polish.

21:57 - Reflection on personal limitations and guilt about pricing.

23:24 - Confidence is developed through overcoming past fears.

25:02 - You deserve to be paid well for your knowledge.

25:46 - Encouragement to make 2026 a year of change.

26:05 - Invitation to connect for support in building a business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cara Jordan did just that—and in this episode, she reveals how she went from freelancing for artists in NYC to founding Flatpage, a thriving academic editing agency and publishing house.

So many academics feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure how to market themselves beyond word of mouth.

Cara shares exactly how she marketed her editing services, grew a team, and expanded into publishing—all while navigating relocation, burnout, and the challenges of marketing to academic clients.

Today, Flatpage serves a wide range of humanities and social science scholars. Cara teaches in the UCSD editing certificate program and co-edited the fabulous book, The Art of Academic Editing.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to attract clients, overcome fear of visibility, and build a sustainable editing business—even if you're starting from scratch.

Resources Mentioned:

Flatpage: https://www.flatpage.com/

UCSD Copyediting Certificate: https://extendedstudies.ucsd.edu/certificates/copyediting

Book: The Art of Academic Editing (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/48uH30u

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:01:00 - Cara's Academic Background

00:02:30 - Early Freelance Experience

00:04:00 - Transitioning from Academia to Freelancing

00:05:30 - Initial Client Acquisition

00:07:00 - The Importance of Word of Mouth

00:08:30 - Marketing Strategies for Editors

00:10:00 - Overcoming Marketing Hesitations

00:11:30 - Networking and Community Engagement

00:13:00 - Challenges of Marketing to Academics

00:14:30 - Creative Approaches to Finding Clients

00:16:00 - The Importance of Niching Down

00:17:30 - Growth of Cara's Editing Business

00:19:00 - Starting Flatpage and Team Expansion

00:20:30 - Differences Between Copy Editing and Developmental Editing

00:22:00 - The Value of Formal Editing Training

00:23:30 - The Role of Academic Background in Editing

00:25:00 - The Need for Professional Development

00:26:30 - Advice on Working for Free

00:28:00 - The Decision to Add Publishing Services

00:29:30 - Advocacy Through Publishing

00:31:00 - Final Advice for Aspiring Editors

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Academics starting their businesses often fall into the trap of chasing social media trends—thinking they have to do Reels, show up daily, and perform for the algorithm.

In this episode, I walk you through a step-by-step system that simplifies content creation by drawing on your academic strengths—writing, planning, and strategic thinking.

This is the exact system I've used to create a month of content in a few hours—and stay off the content hamster wheel that leads to burnout.

You’ll learn how to brainstorm blog topics, batch-write posts, repurpose them for social media, and even delegate to AI (ethically and efficiently). If content has ever felt overwhelming, this is how you can simplify.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

Why Instagram-style content isn’t effective for academic businesses

How to repurpose blog content into multiple social posts

A 3-step batching system that saves hours of time

Tips for using AI tools (like Claude and ChatGPT) without losing your voice

How to avoid burnout and still show up online

📚 Resources Mentioned:

Ep 39 of my podcast with SEO expert Laura Jawad

📣 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:00 - Target mindset shift away from fleeting social media engagements.

03:40 - Choose where to spend time online based on ideal client presence.

04:02 - Brainstorm topics based on client questions to improve SEO.

05:14 - Create a list of five to ten questions, select the top four.

06:27 - Draft short blog articles, aiming for 1000-1500 words each.

11:48 - Avoid task switching; focus periods for each content creation step.

13:24 - Repurpose blog posts into social media content for consistent messaging.

15:07 - Use excerpts from blog articles for engaging LinkedIn posts.

19:05 - Use AI tools for drafting social media posts based on articles.

21:14 - Expect low visibility; only a small percentage of followers will see posts.

25:38 - Schedule blog articles in advance for consistent content delivery.

30:05 - Implement a systematic approach for efficient content creation over time.

31:26 - Protect your energy; pace content creation to avoid burnout.

32:57 - Focus on platforms that resonate with your target audience.

35:02 - Success isn’t based on follower count but on client conversion.

36:17 - Prioritize driving engagement toward your email list for control.

37:17 - Understand that building a brand takes time and effort.

37:55 - Practice will help refine your brand voice and messaging.

39:02 - Utilize support resources like coaching when growing your business.

39:44 - Explore educational opportunities for aspiring academic editors.

39:52 - Each step in content creation contributes to your professional growth.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, master life coach and midlife mentor Suzy Rosenstein shares how to regret-proof your life, especially if you’re over 50 and stuck in a career that no longer fits.

Suzy left a 27-year career and built a thriving coaching business—proof that it’s never too late to pivot.

If you're in midlife and wondering “is this all there is?”, this episode is your wake-up call.

We cover:

☑️ Why being stuck isn't just painful—it's costly

☑️ How identity and fear keep us trapped in academia

☑️ Simple mindset shifts to help you imagine a new future

☑️ How Suzy used coaching to get unstuck and build a business

☑️ Why it’s okay (and essential) to want more

🎧 Whether you're thinking about leaving your faculty role, building a side hustle, or just feeling “off,” this is a must-listen for anyone craving more clarity and freedom in midlife.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Suzy Rosenstein's podcast: Women in the Middle

Take Suzy's Midlife Quiz: https://midlifequiz.com

Suzy's coaching site: https://suzyrosenstein.com

Connect with Suzy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themidlifecoach_suzy

🎯 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach?

Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

02:23 - Personal transformations during midlife are common and necessary

10:00 - Detaching from academic identity is a significant challenge

11:12 - Rethinking identity can offer opportunities rather than a crisis

17:09 - Understanding the cost of staying stuck is crucial

19:00 - Prestige in academia does not equate to personal fulfillment

20:06 - Journaling helps examine limiting beliefs .

24:21 - Imagining success can counter fears of failure

25:24 - Exploring alternatives can unveil unexpected career options .

29:28 - Engaging in curiosity without immediate action is valuable .

31:27 - Identifying perspectives about potential career changes is critical .

33:01 - Solidifying your what is essential before determining how .

34:42 - "I'm open to the idea that" promotes exploration of possibilities .

36:32 - Transitioning from academia to business fosters community connections .

39:04 - The online entrepreneurial world offers diverse opportunities .

40:57 - Group coaching can enhance the transition experience .

41:36 - Taking advantage of midlife opportunities can be life-changing .

42:11 - Personal stories of resilience in entrepreneurship are inspiring .

42:44 - Midlife quizzes and exploration can clarify future desires .

46:29 - Embracing a beginner's mindset is essential for growth

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've spent tens of thousands of dollars on your education—but when it comes to starting your academic editing or coaching business, you're trying to do it with zero investment, zero tools, and zero support. Why?

Because academia trained you to survive on scraps.

This week, I’m breaking down:

💡 Why investing feels so risky for academics

💡 How to shift into a true ROI (return on investment) mindset

💡 What I did wrong at first (and how I changed my strategy)

💡 Small, high-impact investments that can save you time and land you clients faster

If you're tired of spinning in circles and trying to figure it all out yourself—this episode will help you take that first powerful step toward a business that actually pays you (well!) and gives you your life back.

👇 Resources mentioned in this episode:

PerfectIt editing software: intelligentediting.com

BeefText: beeftext.org

TextExpander: textexpander.com

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:00 - Introduction of the topic about money in business.

00:52 - Importance of investment in your business, not treating it like a hobby.

03:28 - Academia teaches resourcefulness, not investment.

04:07 - Spending on your business is a responsible choice.

04:49 - You need tools and support to build a successful business.

06:10 - Reclaiming agency as a business owner is essential.

07:07 - Invest in learning how to run a successful business.

11:55 - DIY mindset keeps you stuck; investing buys back your time.

12:29 - Shift to an ROI mindset to think like a CEO.

14:32 - Statistical predictions guide your investment decisions.

20:04 - Coaching programs provide structure and accountability for growth.

22:22 - Tools and systems simplify workflows and improve efficiency.

24:26 - Use flexible payment options to attract more clients.

28:52 - Community support enhances your business journey.

31:00 - Over-analysis can hinder decision-making and progress.

35:00 - Start small but start investing now to see growth.

36:28 - Acting like a CEO boosts confidence in business.

38:00 - Investing improves your chances of attracting higher-paying clients.

39:58 - Your past investments in education justify new business investments.

41:45 - Importance of joining a program to support your growth.

42:28 - Conclusion and invitation to consider the program offered.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a brutal truth that haunts many academics—but what does it actually mean?

In this raw and radically honest episode, I sit down with coaches Tory Wobber and Jen Polk to unpack one of the hardest parts of leaving academia: letting go of your academic identity.

For so many of us, being a professor isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. We internalize the idea that we’re special, self-sacrificing, and above the grubby world of capitalism. But all that prestige? It doesn’t pay the bills. And it definitely doesn’t buy you freedom.

Tory and Jen offer a compassionate, no-BS conversation about how to grieve your academic identity, try on new ones, and build a life that actually makes you happy—even if it’s outside the ivory tower.

Drawing from their own exits from academia and years of coaching other scholars through the same process, they reveal just how common—and navigable—this identity shift can be.

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel seen and supported. You’ll have practical tools to begin detaching your self-worth from your job title. And you'll have permission to build an identity that’s truly yours.

▶ Sign up for Tory's newsletter

Join 2000 PhDs on the Academic Exit Newsletter to receive free tools and techniques for how to move from academia into industry quickly and easily:

https://www.academicexit.com/opt-in-36add534-500b-4e74-a319-408d4810480e

▶ Subscribe to Jen’s From PhD to Life newsletter to get advice and resources for professors, postdocs, and other PhDs who are ready to change careers, even if that means moving away from academia or their discipline: https://subscribe.fromphdtolife.com/

▶ Get Paulina’s free workbook

Love what you do but hate where you do it? Get my free workbook Map Your Academic Business and start building your “Plan B.” Use your academic training inside a profitable business that you control–no more free labor, no more toxic workplace, no more burnout. https://acadiaediting.com/map

1. **00:00** - Transitioning from academic to alternative careers discussed.

2. **01:11** - Cultural norms in academia strongly influence identity.

3. **02:52** - Academics often feel a calling, tying work to identity.

4. **05:00** - Discussing barriers to seeing oneself in new roles.

5. **06:15** - Grieving the loss of previous academic identity is crucial.

6. **09:02** - Finding personal identity beyond job titles emphasized.

7. **14:56** - Practicing new identities through self-reflection suggested.

8. **17:00** - Importance of letting go of old descriptors for self-identity.

9. **18:56** - Emphasizing gradual exploration of new professional identities.

10. **20:00** - Taking small steps towards new roles instead of abrupt changes encouraged.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's podcast episode, I'm joined by fabulous PhD career coaches Victoria (Tory) Wobber, PhD, CPCC and Jennifer Polk, PhD to answer this very question.

Rather than just saying "yes" and patting ourselves on the back, we share insights into our own experiences working with coaches and clients and give some tips on when and how you might go about choosing a coach to work with.

🎃 Jen shares her own journey from academia into coaching

🎃 I talk about how my childhood affected my own money mindset

🎃 Tory explains how a talented coach can help you feel good about yourself and your job search so you don't end up mired in self-doubt

Tune in for this info and other spicy snippets, and keep your eyes peeled for more videos from these lovely post-ac coaches! 🤩

Happy Halloween! 👻

Learn from PhD Career Coaches Tory Wobber (Academic Exit) and Jen Polk (From PhD to Life) in conversation with PhD Business Coach Paulina Cossette (Acadia Editing) about whether and when coaches are worth the money.

Looking for more resources to chart your path outside of academia?

▶ Sign up for Tory's newsletter

Join 2000 PhDs on the Academic Exit Newsletter to receive free tools and techniques for how to move from academia into industry quickly and easily:

https://www.academicexit.com/opt-in-3...

▶ Subscribe to Jen’s From PhD to Life newsletter to get advice and resources for professors, postdocs, and other PhDs who are ready to change careers, even if that means moving away from academia or their discipline: https://subscribe.fromphdtolife.com/

▶ Get Paulina’s free workbook

Love what you do but hate where you do it? Get my free workbook Map Your Academic Business and start building your “Plan B.” Use your academic training inside a profitable business that you control–no more free labor, no more toxic workplace, no more burnout.

https://acadiaediting.com/map

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Nicole Pettitt didn’t set out to build a business. She just wanted accountability for her own writing. So she launched a free co-writing group for women in grad school—and it quietly became a coaching business, with paid clients and real impact.

Many academics want a “Plan B” but don’t know where to start. They feel stuck between their current role and the unknowns of entrepreneurship—especially when they still enjoy aspects of their job.

Nicole started with what she already had: experience advising grad students, a deep understanding of writing struggles, and a Zoom link. From there, she organically built a coaching business—without quitting her tenure-line role.

In this episode, she shares how she turned her Saturday morning co-writing group into a business that supports women finishing their dissertations—while staying in alignment with her values and energy.

Whether you’re toying with a side hustle or looking for a sustainable exit strategy from academia, Nicole’s story will give you the clarity and confidence to begin.

🔗 Learn more about the BAE program: AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Connect with Nicole:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-pettitt/

Email: drnicolep31@gmail.com

01:24 – Nicole's shift toward supporting women in academia

05:14 – Balancing academic roles with entrepreneurial aspirations

08:11 – Free writing group beneficial for community building

09:13 – Majority of clients found through the writing group

10:57 – Importance of providing community for online doctoral students

12:11 – Similarities between coaching others and personal challenges

14:30 – Bridging the gap between knowledge and action

14:30 – The necessity of community and feedback for doctoral students

16:07 – Community aspects tied to external feedback in coursework

18:48 – Recognizing that information alone isn’t enough for student success

22:39 – Advice to focus on one-on-one coaching first

24:56 – Writing group as a funnel for attracting one-on-one clients

26:03 – Clarity is key to helping clients execute their projects

30:20 – Establishing boundaries between coaching and editing services

36:39 – Pricing coaching services fairly based on value offered

42:03 – Strategies for promoting coaching services to writing group members

48:40 – Testing marketing strategies as a scientific experiment

49:43 – Understanding client pain points as core to effective marketing

50:53 – Providing contact information for potential clients

51:21 – Encouragement for women to pursue their academic goals

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Servais, a former fiction editor and agency owner who pivoted her entire career after asking ChatGPT to edit a paragraph.

Erin has since trained hundreds of editors in 20+ countries in her signature course, AI for Editors.

She shares:

🤖 How she transitioned from agency work to AI instruction

🤖 The Star Trek-fueled curiosity that led her to AI long before it was cool

🤖 Why vague prompts ruin AI editing—and how to fix them

🤖 Her favorite tools for developmental, line, and copy editing with AI

🤖 Why emotional resistance to AI is valid—and how to move through it

Whether you’re curious or resistant, this episode will shift your mindset and give you concrete tools to future-proof your editing business.

📌 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Erin’s course: aiforeditors.com

Tools discussed: Notebook LM, ChatGPT, Claude, Draftsmith

🔗 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:00 - AI is powerful but requires knowledgeable human editors.

01:03 - Editors need skills in AI prompting for effective editing.

13:39 - Interest in AI has developed over a long career in editing.

15:30 - Specific prompts lead to better editing results with AI.

16:58 - Editing involves numerous specific, granular tasks.

17:10 - AI tools need clear instructions for better outcomes.

19:07 - Teaching AI prompting can enhance communication skills across contexts.

20:38 - The course design followed AI technology advancements.

22:46 - Courses evolve as functionalities of AI improve.

23:57 - Accept that constant updates in AI tools are challenging.

27:33 - Validate feelings about AI, whether fear or skepticism.

29:43 - AI is not a magic solution; it requires proper use.

30:23 - Companies are realizing AI does not entirely replace human editors.

35:54 - Notebook LM can efficiently handle long documents, excellent for content analysis in editing.

38:58 - Smaller text pieces yield better results in AI editing.

39:18 - Use specific prompts for effective copy editing with AI.

41:37 - Draft Smith improves line editing directly in Microsoft Word.

44:42 - Transparency with clients about AI use is crucial.

45:04 - Explain how AI tools will protect client’s intellectual property.

50:10 - Erin's AI for Editors program is available online.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Jeff Malins quietly exited a tenure-track position to protect his marriage, mental health, and creativity… he didn’t know how to talk about it. He didn’t even post an update on LinkedIn.

In this honest conversation, Jeff shares what led him to walk away from a ‘successful’ academic career—including the surprising clarity that came after the decision—and how he’s now thriving as an AI scientist, part-time editor and coach, and side-hustle business owner.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What if I just left?”, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible—and remind you that you're not alone.

In this episode, we discuss:

🎨 Why Jeff left academia without having a toxic workplace

🎨 How he found meaningful work at the Mayo Clinic

🎨 The emotional weight of leaving and not knowing what’s next

🎨 How painting, public speaking, and coaching helped him reconnect with himself

🎨 His journey through the BAE program and how he’s shaping his new business

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-malins/

Learn more about my friend, and phenomenal coach, Tory Wobber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-tory-wobber-phd-cpcc-0364682b/

Explore the Becoming an Academic Editor program: https://acadiaediting.com/becomeaneditor

05:11 Personal factors influenced job relocation decisions.

06:00 It's okay to prioritize family over academic career.

07:28 Choosing happiness and family is a valid choice.

08:56 Transition from academia to a research role in AI.

09:20 Research opportunities continue outside of academia.

22:05 Different institutional cultures affect work-life balance.

23:42 Creative marketing strategies enhance professional identity.

26:22 Importance of personal narratives in scientific communication.

29:09 Shift towards career coaching from editing services.

30:49 Workshops bridge community and offer unique learning experiences.

33:00 Assessing unique contributions beyond academic roles.

36:20 Broadening definitions of professional opportunities.

38:09 Integrating personal passions into professional work encourages fulfillment.

43:30 Targeting university departments for workshops increases visibility.

45:00 Workshops provide revenue and client opportunities.

49:21 Personalized outreach can strengthen professional connections.

51:02 Taking advantage of existing networks for referrals.

51:39 Building a supportive community enhances entrepreneurial confidence.

52:05 Engaging with a broader audience strengthens personal brand.

52:24 Learning from peers is valuable in professional development.

52:27 Encouragement fosters readiness for new business ventures.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Burned out academics often assume the business world is greedy, exploitative, and cutthroat—worse than higher ed.

But what if the right corner of online business was actually collaborative, compassionate, and aligned with your values?

In this episode, Paulina shares her personal journey from academia to entrepreneurship—including the shocking moment she realized how different (and better) the business world can be. She introduces communities like the MixerMind, highlights successful former academics turned entrepreneurs, and breaks down the myths that keep so many of us trapped in higher ed.

If you're burned out, craving flexibility, and wondering whether running a business could ever be ethical or joyful, this episode will show you what’s really possible—and that you were never the problem. Academia was.

👇 RESOURCES & LINKS

▸ Book a chat with Paulina to share why you burned out and left (or are considering it): https://acadiaediting.com/chat

▸ Get my free workbook, Map Your Academic Business: https://acadiaediting.com/map

▸ Follow Paulina on Instagram: @acadiaediting

▸ Connect on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/paulinacossette

📌 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

02:47 - Discussion on backgrounds of academics and perceptions of job stability.

03:33 - Negative socialization regarding capitalism and business in academia.

04:08 - Academia framed as morally superior compared to business.

05:11 - Critique of the narrative perpetuated by senior faculty.

05:37 - Recognition that many businesses are indeed run for profit.

06:21 - Contrast between academia’s challenges and business community’s support.

07:28 - Surprising kindness in the business community compared to academia.

10:02 - Emergence of women entrepreneurs in online business.

14:23 - Growth of digital products and courses among women.

17:06 - Description of joining a welcoming entrepreneurial community.

19:35 - Successful women entrepreneurs with academic backgrounds.

20:06 - Ethical marketing practices in the online business community.

21:16 - Common fears of leaving academia and the stigma attached.

22:26 - The supportive environment outside academia for entrepreneurs.

23:29 - The unique qualities and personalities of business owners.

24:24 - The importance of connection and choosing the right mentor.

28:19 - Encouragement to see abundance in business opportunities.

29:06 - Myths of the business world debunked.

29:26 - Introduction to resources for aspiring business owners.

30:04 - Prompts for exploring potential business ideas and lifestyle integration.

30:42 - Guidance on creating a business around personal life.

30:56 - Overview of the editing program as a pathway to entrepreneurship.

31:16 - Emphasis on community support within the editing program.

31:29 - Invitation to consider the editing course for those unhappy in academia.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm talking with Chris McRae, a tenured professor of communication and published author who found himself burnt out by the grind of academic publishing. But instead of staying stuck, he created something entirely new: Writing from Wonder: the Writing Workshop in a Box—a sensory, curiosity-driven experience that brings joy and creativity back to the writing process. (Keep reading to find out how to get your free gift! 🎁)

The problem for many authors? Writing feels like a chore. Burnout is real, and the joy of discovery is often lost in the pressure to publish.

To help solve this, Chris shares how he reconnected with the joy of writing through creative play—and how he turned that insight into a physical product for writers everywhere.

After joining my program, Becoming an Academic Editor, Chris explored editing, coaching, and eventually launched a limited-run product that sold to total strangers—proof that your creativity can become a business.

In this episode, you'll find out how to turn your love of writing into a meaningful side hustle (or full-time gig) using the expertise and skills you already have.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

Chris's Website: https://www.creatingcuriositycoaching.com

🎁 For your free gift: mention the "Leaving Academia" podcast in the notes for your Etsy purchase

“Source of Sources” for PR leads: https://sourceofsources.com/

Connect with Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creatingcuriosity_box/

Connect with Aubrey (Chris's business partner) on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aubreyahuber/

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mcrae-phd/

👉 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:00 - Introduction of Chris McRae, a communication professor and entrepreneur.

01:45 - Discovery of potential in applying academic skills to support others.

02:48 - Desire to contribute more meaningfully beyond academia.

03:23 - Constraints of academic writing affecting creative expression.

04:16 - Starting a side hustle to recapture creativity in writing.

06:26 - Innovators thrive during disruptions through creativity.

07:44 - Academic burnout leads to questioning writing's enjoyment.

08:46 - Transition from editing to launching writing workshops in a box.

09:05 - Appeal of the workshop concept, especially for academics.

10:32 - Freedom to write without academic constraints fosters creativity.

12:00 - Box includes sensory prompts to enhance writing experience.

14:31 - Using physical items as inspirational aids for writers.

18:25 - Commitment to launch business by a self-imposed deadline.

19:34 - Emphasizing learning through experimentation in business.

20:34 - Acknowledgement that imperfect efforts can still be valuable.

23:02 - Surprise at first sales coming from unknown sources.

24:10 - Importance of experimentation in marketing strategies.

27:20 - Ideas for creating a community around writing workshops.

28:44 - Potential collaboration with writing workshop facilitators.

36:20 - Understanding the numbers game in e-commerce and marketing.

51:05 - Offering a special surprise for Etsy purchases to promote outreach.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Leslie Wang, PhD, shares how she transitioned from a tenured academic to a thriving writing coach and podcast host, finding deeper purpose and flexibility outside academia.

Leslie’s podcast is now ranked in the top 3% globally, and she runs a successful coaching business helping academics write their books without burning out. She shares how she made the leap into business, found her niche, and now works with clients she loves—on her own terms.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s really possible to leave academia and build a meaningful (and profitable!) business, this episode will give you clarity, courage, and steps to take action.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

📌 Leslie’s full journey from PhD to tenure to entrepreneurship

📌 How coaching gave her what teaching couldn’t

📌 Her 4-month financial test before quitting

📌 Why being 80% ready is enough

📌 Advice for launching your side hustle the right way

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

👉 Your Words Unleashed Podcast: https://yourwordsunleashed.com/podcast/

👉 Princeton University Press Coaching Program: https://press.princeton.edu/book-proposal-development-grants?srsltid=AfmBOoq-kAZYOXpzEJRWsrxggELLaDoOdn0mQv97PPOJlH2XJo9zmfIQ

👉 Book: The Prosperous Coach by Steve Chandler & Rich Litvin (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4n31GHb

👉 Coaching resource: Rhonda Hess – The Prosperous Coach Podcast: https://prosperouscoachblog.com/prosperous-coach-podcast/

📣 Know someone stuck in academia? Send them this episode.

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach?

Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:00 - Overview of Leslie's background as an academic and coach.

02:27 - Starting a business feels daunting yet rewarding.

06:23 - Experience of burnout in academia.

09:58 - Transitioning from academia to coaching and editing.

12:20 - Email from the chair marked a turning point.

14:10 - Importance of finding happiness beyond career.

17:15 - Coaching differs from teaching in tangible impact.

18:32 - Light bulb moments bring fulfillment in coaching.

20:35 - Empowering clients through coaching without advice.

23:09 - Importance of mental and scheduling space in coaching.

27:39 - Learning to say no to avoid burnout while freelancing.

29:01 - Rule to replace salary for four months as a threshold.

31:37 - Balancing a side hustle with academic commitments.

35:40 - Embracing uncertainty in decision-making.

37:24 - Majority of clients focus on book coaching.

39:00 - Coaching incorporates developmental editing for effectiveness.

45:54 - Podcast creation keeps business engaging.

46:31 - Interviews enrich the podcast experience.

48:10 - Social media is crucial for marketing outreach.

55:30 - The role of support in leaving academia behind.

56:45 - Final thoughts on pursuing personal fulfillment outside academia.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think the only way to grow your editing or coaching business is by taking on more clients or becoming a marketing guru? Think again.

In this episode, I’m sharing the uncomfortable truth: if you want to earn 6 figures, your beliefs—not your rates or resume—are what's standing in your way.

Most academics-turned-editors undercharge, overdeliver, and wonder why they’re burned out and still broke. They think more clients or more credentials will fix things—but it never does.

This episode walks you through the mindset shifts, pricing experiments, and systems that actually work when you're trying to scale to $100K. I'm sharing boundaries, business experiments, and real talk about what’s keeping you stuck undercharging and overworking.

These exact strategies helped me grow from side-hustling freelancer to fully booked CEO of a six-figure editing and coaching business. And it’s not just me—plenty of other editors and coaches are doing it too.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand the core identity shift required to grow your academic business into a profitable, sustainable career.

👇 MENTIONED TOOLS & RESOURCES:

The EFA rate chart: https://www.the-efa.org/rates/

Episode 20: 5 Tools to Edit Faster and Earn More Money: https://youtu.be/ipJSNA-XytQ

Episode 38: Two Things Keeping Editors Stuck at $20/hr: https://youtu.be/cOkUjIGMB9c

🧠 Map Your Academic Business (Free Workbook): AcadiaEditing.com/map

🧰 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

00:12 - Common misconceptions affecting business growth.

00:33 - Shift thinking to reach income goals.

01:10 - Transition from freelancer to CEO mindset.

01:58 - Reactions to earning $100,000 are revealing.

02:20 - Beliefs shape income potential.

02:59 - Skills are not the main barrier to six figures.

03:22 - Academia encourages overwork for low reward.

04:04 - Cultural narratives diminish perceived value.

05:24 - Let go of distorted beliefs about earnings.

06:51 - Set boundaries; do not work for free.

08:10 - Minimum charge for coaching: $100/hour.

14:22 - Price based on value, not hours.

18:20 - Invest in your business for growth.

18:47 - Seek out a business coach for support.

19:09 - Build connections with industry peers.

20:20 - Commit to earning $100,000 by a set date.

21:11 - Regularly raise your rates without fear.

21:51 - Embrace discomfort as a part of growth.

22:06 - Make decisions as the six-figure version of yourself.

22:31 - Join a supportive community of entrepreneurs.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I reveal the most accessible, low-risk, high-reward way to monetize your academic skills: offering paid workshops.

Workshops have helped me and many other coaches and course creators test their offers, gain confidence, and even land long-term coaching or editing clients—without the overwhelm of building a course or running a full-time business.

👉 I’ll walk you through exactly why workshops are effective, two simple workshop formats you can try, and a 3-step plan to launch your first event.

Whether you want to earn extra income or transition fully out of academia, this episode gives you the roadmap to start now—before burnout wins.

👇 FREE RESOURCE: Map Your Academic Business

https://acadiaediting.com/map

🌟 Kit (affiliate link): https://partners.kit.com/koj113xbly45

🐦‍🔥 Join the BAE Program (Becoming an Academic Editor):

https://acadiaediting.com/becomeaneditor

🔥 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review if you found this helpful!

00:00 - Celebrating one year of Leaving Academia podcast.

01:04 - Expanding topics to include business ownership.

02:25 - Workshops as fast and easy way to earn money.

03:08 - Familiarity of workshops builds on teaching skills.

03:45 - Workshops boost confidence and perceived value.

04:15 - Effective client attraction method through workshops.

19:58 - Participants should leave with tangible results.

24:07 - Keep structure simple and include accountability.

31:21 - Don’t undersell; value perceived is important.

35:51 - Repeat workshops to build audience and revenue.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I talk to Anna Clemens, a chemistry PhD who left research to become an academic writing coach. Through her Journal Publication Formula, Anna helps researchers get published faster—without the overwhelm. What started as a blog turned into a full-blown coaching business, and she now runs the Researchers' Writing Academy, supporting scholars around the world.

Anna shares how she navigated the transition, what made her pivot from editing to coaching, and how she built a business that gives her freedom and fulfillment.

If you’ve ever wondered how your academic skills could be used in a more meaningful, flexible way—this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen now and discover how you can turn your love for writing into a freelance business you actually enjoy--and that pays the bills (and more!).

Resources:

🔗 Researchers' Writing Academy: https://annaclemens.com/

🎓 Free Training with Anna: https://annaclemens.com/training/

🧠 Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/45PjRsI

👉 Want to end burnout and build an academic business that fulfills you? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

2:31 - Meet Anna, Academic Writing Coach

5:07 - Anna's PhD Journey Frustrations

10:18 - Finding Joy in Writing

15:35 - Leaving Academia, Why The Shift

20:00 - Exploring Freelance & Internships

25:00 - Transitioning to Writing Coaching

30:00 - Building the Researchers' Writing Academy

35:00 - The Power of Community Support

40:00 - Marketing Your Business

45:00 - Academic Skills for Business Success

50:00 - Embrace Continuous Learning

55:00 - Final Takeaways & Resources

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

But for Dr. Lisa Anthony, it felt like a dead end. After years in academia, she realized something was missing—joy, creativity, and connection.

The surprising solution?

Launching a side hustle in academic editing and coaching.

What began as a reluctant experiment became a full-blown passion—and even made her fall in love with marketing (I know, right??).

In this episode, Lisa shares how starting a business reignited her energy and improved her day job as a tenured professor at an R1 university.

If you’ve ever thought, “I want something more—but I don’t know what,” then you have to watch this episode.

🎙️ We discuss:

🎯 Lisa’s realization that tenure "isn’t what I thought it would be.”

🎯 Her resistance to business—and how that changed completely after enrolling in Becoming an Academic Editor

🎯 The surprising overlap between academia and entrepreneurship

🎯 How she’s attracting editing and coaching clients while working full-time

Lisa also shares what she thinks every academic should know before starting a side hustle. Tune in to hear from someone who took the leap and is thriving.

🎯 Resources mentioned:

"The 7-Year Postdoc":

https://www.scientificamerican.com/blog/guest-blog/the-awesomest-7-year-postdoc-or-how-i-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-love-the-tenure-track-faculty-life/

🎯 Find out how to follow in Lisa's footsteps:

https://acadiaediting.com/becomeaneditor?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=ep50

🎯 Connect with Paulina on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/paulinacossette

🎯 Connect with Lisa: https://lisa-anthony.com/

🎯 Join the waitlist for Lisa's CAREER grant-writing program:

https://agapanthus-editing.kit.com/career

2:44 - Side Hustle Academic Editing

4:09 - COVID Changes Work Practices

6:34 - Preconceived Business Notions

8:40 - Passion Creativity Reignited

11:39 - Academia Lack Collaboration

13:53 - Post Tenure Habits Change

16:33 - What's A Committee? 🤔

18:35 - Rewire Brains Learn New Things

20:36 - How Start An Academic Business

22:54 - Authentic Selling Feels Natural

25:50 - Agency Editing Part-Time Job

27:34 - Coaching Developmental Editing

29:08 - Discovery Sales Call Contract

31:14 - AI Affecting Editing Agencies

33:34 - Experience Worth It?

36:16 - How Find Editing Clients

38:28 - Cast Wide Net Get Eyeballs

40:23 - Community Been Instrumental

42:21 - NSF Career Coaching Program

45:51 - Career Workshop Overview

48:26 - Connect With Lisa Anthony

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Important NOTES for this episode:

👉 There are just 3 spots left in the September cohort of BAE. Doors close August 22.

Go here to save your seat before they're gone: https://acadiaediting.com/editingfreedom_postlaunch/?utm_source=acast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=ep49

In this episode, I walk you through the three essential steps to become a freelance academic editor or coach — even if you’ve never edited professionally or built a business before.

You’ll hear exactly how I transitioned from a tenure-track job to a six-figure freelance business, and how you can do the same, starting today.

I share:

👉 How to break into editing without a certificate

👉 The first actions to take if you want to coach instead of edit

👉 Why editing agencies can be your best (temporary) training ground

👉 Real-world examples of students who were fully booked within weeks of finishing the program

👉 A behind-the-scenes look at my BAE program and how it works

Whether you're looking to replace your academic job or build a lucrative side hustle, this episode will give you the clarity, confidence, and roadmap you need.

📌 Mentioned in this episode:

BAE Program Info & Enrollment:

https://acadiaediting.com/editingfreedom_postlaunch/?utm_source=acast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=ep49

Map Your Academic Business workbook:

https://acadiaediting.com/map/?utm_source=acast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=ep49

2:06 - My Story Leaving Academia

3:54 - Prioritizing Happiness and Freedom

5:57 - Six Figures Working Part-Time

6:54 - What Academic Editors Actually Do

7:16 - Developmental Editing Overview

8:13 - Copy Editing Tasks Explained

8:56 - Editing Agencies Pros and Cons

10:17 - Coaching Options With Editing

11:12 - What Problems Can You Solve?

12:28 - Skills Editors Need Most

13:43 - How To Land Editing Jobs

14:24 - Create a One-Page Resume

15:17 - Why Agencies Aren't Ideal

16:58 - How to Start Coaching Business

17:43 - What Is Your Ideal Client?

18:37 - Lisa's Success Story Example

19:38 - Step 2 Network and Attract

20:00 - Website Copywriting Tips

21:34 - Step 3 Hone Your Expertise

22:22 - Earn $150+ Per Hour Editing

23:65 - Coaching: Charge $100+ Hourly (Minimum)

25:27 - BAE Program Details Explained

26:06 - 12-Week Group Coaching Cohort

Q&A

27:26 - Program Includes Money Tracking

28:56 - Can I Enroll in 2026?

29:05 - AI and Future Editing Jobs?

30:94 - Editing in Other Languages?

31:64 - Stick To Your Editing Field?

32:80 - Standard For Manuscript Quality?

34:13 - Examples of Academic Coaches

35:52 - Non-Native English Writers

36:21 - Line Editing vs Copy Editing

37:80 - Explore Multiple Options?

39:03 - Don't Let Fear Get In The Way

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I coach Bhaskar Raman—a skilled academic editor—through the exact mindset and messaging shifts that help editors attract higher-paying, more satisfying private clients.

Bhaskar has years of experience working with academic publishers, but he’s ready to go direct—to work with scholars one-on-one. The problem? Marketing feels overwhelming, and he's unsure of how to stand out.

In our coaching session, we:

🚶‍➡️ Walk through how to build a marketing plan that starts with empathy, not expertise

🚶‍➡️ Uncover who Bhaskar’s ideal clients are, and the real emotional struggles they face

🚶‍➡️ Make a plan for how he can write content and website copy that truly resonates

By the end of our session, Bhaskar has a clear message, a strategy for content creation, and a renewed sense of confidence in his value—not just as an editor, but as a thought partner for academic authors.

Whether you’re brand new or already freelancing, this episode will shift how you think about selling your services—so that you can build a business that feels good... and pays well, too.

RESOURCES:

📚 Laura Portwood-Stacer’s Book Proposal Book: https://amzn.to/46EWkwH

📘 Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) rates: https://www.the-efa.org/rates/

👉 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

02:23 – Identifying client struggles

04:00 – Credentials vs. connection in marketing

06:42 – Selling outcomes, not services

09:35 – Using client language in copy

12:18 – Bhaskar’s mindset shift

14:44 – Relatable vs. original content

17:26 – Overcoming fear of “copying” others

20:10 – LinkedIn marketing strategy

23:07 – Storytelling as marketing

26:55 – Defining Bhaskar’s ideal clients

29:34 – Writing in first-person voice

32:01 – Marketing as service

35:12 – Website copy critique

38:50 – Why Bhaskar’s experience is enough

41:26 – Coaching through imposter syndrome

44:39 – Creating a simple content plan

47:03 – What to say in your content

49:20 – Bhaskar’s final reflections

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rosalba Lopez was in your shoes—struggling through a disheartening PhD and trying to make ends meet on a stipend.

But instead of settling for the usual path, she turned her love of writing and editing into a multi-6-figure business in medical writing, academic editing, and coaching.

In this episode, Rosalba shares how she:

🎆 landed her first freelance editing client straight out of grad school,

🎆 created contracts that protect her time and sanity, and

🎆 built the FLAS Foundation to help other STEM professionals launch their own creative businesses.

You’ll hear how she finds clients without cold pitching, uses her background in both science and the arts to stand out, and balances it all as a mom of two.

Whether you're still in academia or already have one foot out the door, this conversation will show you what’s possible—and how to make it happen.

🔔 Subscribe and listen to hear:

– How to start an academic business without an MBA or prior clients

– Why retainers are a game changer (and how to set them up)

– The power of tracking your work and using it in your marketing

– How Rosalba helps scientists become successful entrepreneurs

✨ Want to map out your business and become an academic solopreneur? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/map

Work with Rosalba: https://www.flasfoundation.com/

1:43 - Rosalba's Background and Expertise

3:25 - AMWA Medical Writing Certification

6:26 - Retainer Service Agreement Defined

7:49 - Substantive Editing Constructive Feedback

8:58 - Merck Blog Post Opportunity

9:37 - Creative Freedom Benefits

10:08 - LinkedIn Medical Writer Marketing

11:08 - Networking at Daycare & Funerals?!

11:50 - Multi 6-Figure Business Breakdown

12:39 - Tapping into Neglected Passions

13:05 - FLAS Foundation Arts and Science

13:57 - Subcontracting Junior Medical Writers

14:60 - Mentoring Clients: Calendly & Zoom

15:55 - Be 10% Ahead Ideal Client

16:13 - Refuting Academic Editing Myths

16:62 - Cold Pitches Are Wasteful?

17:26 - Persuasive LinkedIn Profile Skills

18:58 - Balancing PhD Critique Power

20:00 - Track Metrics Project Management

21:56 - Postpartum Burnout Business Lessons

22:49 - Building Business Solid Foundation

23:10 - FLAS Foundation Community Building

25:48 - Freelance Industry Jobs Positioning

26:30 - Outsourcing Email Marketing Tasks

27:34 - Ideal Client Audience Defined

28:45 - Advice: Networking & Opportunities

29:15 - Find Rosalba at FLAS Foundation

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wendy Gillis has had quite a journey—from the thrills of Madison Ave., to an MBA and Doctor of Business Administration, to professor (and mom) life in North Florida.

And yet, something was still missing.

After spending years trying to launch a business on her own, Wendy discovered my program, Becoming an Academic Editor. She quickly realized that she had no interest in editing, but she was motivated and energized by our discussions of launching and marketing a coaching business and consultancy.

And that's how WendyGillis.com was born.

Now, Wendy is a professor, personal brand consultant, and clean stand-up comic with a full life that reflects her whole self.

If you've been feeling like you need more out of academia—more joy, more fulfillment, or even more money—this episode shows you how to uncover your creativity and build a successful business that fits your life.

📍Want to build a joyful post-academic life? Get started at AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Work with Wendy: wendygillis.com

0:25 - Wendy's Academic Side Hustle

2:32 - Madison Ave: Advertising Career

4:36 - Work Life Balance: Personal Decision

5:22 - Super Bowl Move: Jacksonville, FL

6:03 - Teaching Marketing: Doctorate Degree

8:19 - Adjunct Professor: Academia Transition

10:35 - Marketing Consultant: Value Proposition

12:11 - Academia vs Real World Skills

13:18 - Teaching Entrepreneurship to Academics

17:47 - Digital Marketing: Organizational Skills

23:59 - Comedy and Consulting: Business

28:14 - Business Building: Constant Evolving

30:87 - Consulting on Marketing: Non Profits

35:16 - Clean Comedy: Set Apart

36:31 - Scary Things: Confidence

37:25 - Take Course: I Felt Seen

39:45 - Women Entrepreneurs: Supportive

40:08 - Hire Comedian: WendyGillis.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I share 3 steps you can take to launch and grow your editing or coaching business before you leave your academic job.

I share:

📌 Why editing and coaching are a great fit for academics (and low-risk!)

📌 3 things you can do right NOW to get started (and bring in real money)

📌 3 mistakes I see people make that hold them back from success

📌 Why you shouldn't wait until your “ready” to launch your business

Plus, I spill the deets on my free live class that's coming up: "How to Replace Your Academic Salary as an Editor or Coach" 🎉

📅 Save your seat for the free workshop: https://acadiaediting.com/live

📚 RESOURCES:

→ Free Workshop: https://acadiaediting.com/live

→ BAE Program Info: https://acadiaediting.com/becoming-an-editor

→ Instagram: https://instagram.com/acadiaediting

→ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/paulinacossette

2:13 - Academia's Uncertainty Should Fuel Your Move to Business

1:45 - Editing and Coaching are the Safest Businesses

4:34 - Info on My Free Training on How You Can Replace Your Salary

9:16 - Step 1: Craft Your Offer

12:29 - Step 2: Work Your Network

15:28 - Step 3: Start Saving Money💰

17:15 - Mistake 1: Don't Be Embarrassed To Start

20:46 - Mistake 2: Perfectionism

23:42 - Mistake 3: Overthinking Business Basics

25:08 - Why Do Some Academics Burn Out?

28:58 - Reclaim Control Over Your Life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk with Daniel Heuman, creator of PerfectIt and the new AI tool Draftsmith, about how AI is shifting the editing landscape—and whether or not editors should be afraid of what's to come.

We discuss:

✅ How Draftsmith works

✅ Why sentence-level AI editing is so effective

✅ The surprising inspiration for Draftsmith (did he say Tinder??)

✅ How Draftsmith protects client confidentiality

Daniel also shares why burnout is baked into the way we edit—and how technology can help us do our best work without exhausting ourselves.

Whether you're skeptical about AI or curious about how to use it in your editing workflow, this episode will get you thinking about how you approach your work.

📚 Mentioned in this episode:

Draftsmith: https://www.draftsmith.ai/

PerfectIt: https://intelligentediting.com

Perfection Under Pressure (Free eBook): https://draftsmith.ai/perfection-under-pressure/

Connect with Daniel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielheuman/

🔗 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

0:48 - AI Tool Draftsmith: Editing Aid

2:39 - Editing Software Origin Story

5:58 - PerfectIt vs Draftsmith: AI Debate

9:29 - Why Editors Need AI Tools

17:03 - ESL Authors: Level Playing Field

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast episode, I talk with Becky Launder, co-founder of Oh My Hi, an all-in-one platform that helps new business owners create a website, save data on clients and inquiries in a CRM (or Customer Relationship Management platform), and stay in touch with your audience through email marketing.

Becky explains, very clearly and succinctly:

✔️ what you should look for when choosing a website host or platform,

✔️ what a CRM is and why you should use one, even if you’re just starting out,

✔️ the importance of nurturing your potential clients (or leads) using regular email marketing, and

✔️ how her company, Oh My Hi, is leaning in to personal connections and networking to grow their business.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the tech tools and options (and, I mean, who hasn’t?), this episode will help you get started with a plan to move forward.

Get started here with Oh My Hi (affiliate link): https://ohmyhi.com/?aff=282

Popular Resources:

• Download: 5 Pages Every Small Business Needs https://ohmyhi.com/lp/5-web-pages-you-need/?aff=282 
• Free Class: How to Build a Website That Works While You Sleep! https://ohmyhi.com/lp/class/?aff=282 
• Demo: Take a Peek at Oh My Hi  https://ohmyhi.com/demo/?aff=282 

👉 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

0:00 - Podcast Intro: Tech For Business

2:16 - Becky's Business Journey Begins

4:28 - Simple Tech Solution: Oh my hi

5:38 - Website Design: Clear Call To Action

8:46 - How To: Use Website Forms

11:42 - CRM For New Business Owners?

13:56 - Email Marketing: What To Say?

16:01 - Website Platform: Key Qualities

19:12 - Marketing Oh my hi: Partnerships

21:06 - Learning What Works, What Doesn't

22:35 - Social Media: Love-Hate Relationship

24:65 - Learn More About Ohmyhi.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply personal episode, I share—for the first time in such raw detail—what finally pushed me to leave my tenure-track job. From relentless burnout and institutional gaslighting to one unforgettable phone call with my provost, I walk you through the moment I knew I couldn’t stay in academia any longer… and what came next.

If you’re sitting on the fence, terrified of the unknown but desperate to find a way out, this episode is for you. You’ll hear about:

• The emotional toll that led to my decision
• How I navigated uncertainty without a backup plan
• What it looks like to build a six-figure editing and coaching business from scratch
• And why YOU might be more ready than you think to take the leap

Whether you want to quit tomorrow or simply build your plan B, I hope this episode will help you feel seen, supported, and inspired.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Find out how to start your own editing or coaching business during my next live call: AcadiaEditing.com/live
• Listen to earlier episodes about editing agencies, publishers, and client work
• Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a story

📩 Want Support?

You’re not alone. Join a community of academics exploring what’s next—and start building your life beyond burnout. AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to leaving academia and freelancing.

00:17 - Warning signs of burnout may appear suddenly or gradually.

01:14 - Share personal story of leaving academia for editing.

01:31 - Explanation of stress and hostility in academia.

02:57 - Recognizing the breaking point in academia.

10:14 - Uncertainty of leaving academia versus staying.

11:39 - Clarity in decision-making felt overwhelming but liberating.

12:55 - Emphasis on the fresh start and clean slate in Maine.

18:08 - Marketing approach through authentic connection and service.

22:52 - Identifying who you want to help and focusing your business.

24:20 - Exploring diverse coaching options beyond academia.

30:07 - Importance of sharing your knowledge and authentic self.

33:08 - Commitment to personal happiness over staying in a miserable job.

33:32 - Encouragement to break through barriers and pursue dreams.

33:49 - Introduction to the course on becoming an academic editor.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive into:

📣 How Nata made the leap from academia to entrepreneurship

📣 Why academics already have the public speaking + teaching skills needed to market their business

📣 The mindset shift that makes “selling” feel generous, not gross

📣 Why you should delegate from day one—not when you’re already burned out

📣 How confidence is a skill you build, not something you’re born with

This episode is your sign to go for it—even if it’s messy, imperfect, or scary. You truly ARE capable of more, no matter what academia has told you.

📌 Resources Mentioned:

Nata’s website: https://accidentalceo.co

Instagram: @nataaccidentalceo

Nata's Podcast: Accidental CEO

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Leaving Academia, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes replay of a recent live call where I talked candidly about my transition out of academia and into freelance editing—and answered all the juicy questions about AI, marketing, and starting an editing or coaching business.

🎙️ You’ll hear:

➡️ The identity shift no one warns you about

➡️ The biggest mindset differences between academia and entrepreneurship

➡️ What aspiring editors and coaches are really asking right now

This was informal, honest, and full of the questions I know you’ve been thinking about, too.

If you’ve been on the fence about pivoting into editing or coaching, this one’s for you.

📅 Want to come to the next live call? Sign up here: AcadiaEditing.com/live

**00:00 - 00:16**: Introduction to the podcast and host.

- **01:41 - 02:13**: Transition from academia to freelance editing.

- **02:32 - 03:03**: Discussing the change from teaching to business.

- **03:46 - 04:34**: Challenges in leaving an academic identity.

- **16:20 - 16:52**: Insights on mentoring students versus editing.

- **25:39 - 26:03**: Recommendations for starting editing on the side.

- **29:00 - 29:20**: Impact of AI on editing jobs.

- **30:01 - 31:03**: Comparison of agency work versus private clients.

- **40:01 - 40:24**: Targeting professors and their editing budgets.

- **41:35 - 42:29**: Importance of charging fair rates as an editor.

- **51:39 - 52:41**: Discussion on transitioning from writing centers to editing.

- **53:06 - 53:25**: Strategies for light copy editing without losing the author's voice.

- **55:07 - 55:22**: Closing thoughts on career paths in editing.

- **56:22 - 56:40**: How to gain clarity on editing and coaching desires.

- **43:19 - 43:31**: Conveying the value of editing services.

- **44:35 - 44:46**: Understanding what clients gain from editing support.

- **42:51 - 43:07**: Realities of financial stability in academia and freelancing.

- **45:20 - 45:50**: Fees for journal article editing and their value.

- **53:25 - 53:49**: The difference between academic mentoring and editing roles.

- **31:03 - 31:26**: Personal support role of editors compared to academic colleagues.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, I talk with Laura Jawad, PhD, a former oceanographer, about how she teaches people to use SEO (search engine optimization) to grow their businesses without burning out.

Laura shares the exact strategies she uses to make websites searchable, how she creates content that works for her 24/7, and why SEO is the perfect tool for introverts, academics, and anyone building a service-based business online.

We cover:

🎈 How Laura transitioned from academia to running an SEO business

🎈 The SEO tips she uses to get discovered by ideal clients organically

🎈 Why blog posts (not Instagram) built her business

🎈 The mindset shifts that helped her embrace visibility without overwhelm

If you want to stop relying on word-of-mouth and start building a steady stream of aligned clients, you’ll love Laura’s practical, low-pressure approach to SEO.

Resources:

🌐 Work with Laura: laurajawadmarketing.com

📹 Free training: laurajawadmarketing.com/leaving-academia

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Want to attract more clients and end feast or famine? Join our monthly membership for established editors: acadiaediting.com/marketing

0:00 - Introduction to the Journey from Academia

2:30 - Learning the Basics of SEO

5:10 - Developing Your Niche Topics

8:45 - Importance of Blog Content

11:25 - Crafting Engaging Headlines

14:00 - Keyword Research Strategies

17:30 - Building Topical Authority

20:00 - Using Meta Tags Effectively

23:15 - The Role of Backlinks in SEO

26:40 - Social Media Presence for Academics

30:20 - Navigating Content Structure

33:10 - Marketing Your Services Locally

37:05 - Creating Engaging Website Content

40:30 - User Engagement Signals Explained

43:00 - Long-Term SEO Strategies

46:20 - Final Tips for Content Creators

49:45 - Conclusion and Resources

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve been editing for 6 months or more, this episode is your wake-up call. We’re digging into the two main reasons most freelance editors don’t reach their income goals: editing speed and marketing.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, unsure how to grow, or scared to raise your rates, this episode will give you the exact mindset shifts and practical strategies you need to finally move forward.

You’ll learn:

🎯 Why hourly pricing might be holding you back

🎯 How to track your editing speed and raise your effective hourly rate

🎯 How to confidently raise your rates without losing clients

🎯 What marketing strategies actually work—and how to know what’s working for you

🎯 How to shift your mindset from “freelancer” to “business owner”

Whether you're trying to attract better clients, earn more money, or stop feeling stuck in scarcity, this episode is packed with actionable advice.

👇 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Episode 20: 5 Tools to Edit Faster

Episode 16: How Do Clients Find Me? (2024 Review)

EFA Rate Chart: https://www.the-efa.org/rates/

🎯 Want to up your marketing game and stop struggling? Join us in Digital Marketing for Academic Entrepreneurs: https://acadiaediting.com/marketing

0:00 - Overcoming Self Doubt in Editing

1:01 - Strategies for Taking Your Business Higher

1:36 - Building a Solid Foundation

2:33 - Why Editors Struggle Financially

3:10 - Increasing Your Editing Speed

4:16 - The Importance of Tracking Your Rates

5:04 - Identifying High-Paying Projects

5:57 - Making Bold Changes for Better Pay

6:35 - Tools to Work More Efficiently

7:36 - Raising Your Rates Strategically

8:54 - Tips for Setting Competitive Rates

10:06 - Marketing Your Editing Services

10:20 - Expanding Your Client Base

11:09 - Tracking Client Acquisition Sources

11:46 - Maximizing Effective Marketing

12:54 - Adapting Your Client Outreach

13:13 - Client-Centric Messaging

16:12 - Joining Supportive Editor Communities

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jennifer van Alstyne, founder of The Academic Designer, helps faculty and researchers around the world craft powerful online presences — from strategic websites to clear social media marketing.

In this episode, Jennifer explains how she turned an unexpected opportunity in grad school into a thriving business, why most academics are making their bios WAY too boring, and how a well-crafted website can actually free up your time while attracting the right people.

Whether you're building your editing or coaching business, or simply want to stop hiding online, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

We cover:

👉 The #1 place to start if you're building your own website

👉 What most faculty websites are missing (and how to fix it)

👉 The shift from chasing engagement to creating deep connections

👉 Why visibility doesn’t mean selling out — and how to post with purpose

👉 How to think about testimonials, even if you're new to business

If you’ve been thinking about starting an editing or coaching business — or already have one and want to grow — this episode will give you mindset and strategy tools to move forward.

📌 Connect with Jennifer:

Website: TheAcademicDesigner.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifervanalstyne/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/jennifervanalstyne

Socials: @HigherEdPR / @JenVanAlstyne

Resources:

🔧 Mentioned tool: Owlstown.com – free academic website builder

🔧 AI Tool Mentioned: Minvo.pro – for podcast clip editing

Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

0:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Jennifer Van Alstyne

0:20 - Understanding Online Presence for Academics

1:06 - Jennifer's Academic Background & Business Journey

2:48 - How to Build a Strong Website

6:34 - Why Academics Struggle with Self-Promotion

12:44 - Navigating Social Media for Client Engagement

13:31 - The Importance of Deep Engagement Over Likes

15:07 - Shifting to Inbound Marketing Strategies

19:04 - What Clients Typically Seek from Jennifer

20:55 - The Range of Services Offered for Different Budgets

26:58 - Maximizing Website Functionality for Academics

29:15 - Crafting a Compelling Bio for Your Website

30:37 - The Dynamic Nature of Your Website Content

33:26 - Creating Clear Calls to Action on Your Website

34:56 - Adapting Your Website as Your Business Evolves

39:13 - The Value of Testimonials and Client Feedback

41:19 - Overcoming Content Creation Challenges

44:12 - Repurposing Existing Content Effectively

47:39 - Final Thoughts & How to Contact Jennifer

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was recently a guest on Sabbatical 101 with Bethany Wilinski, PhD, and I’m re-airing that episode today.

Bethany is an associate professor at Michigan State who also runs a business helping academics plan the sabbatical of their dreams. During the conversation, I share how I left academia, started working as a freelance academic editor, and built my editing and coaching business to six figures.

If you're burnt out, wondering what’s next, or secretly thinking about launching a business, this episode is your permission slip to consider developing these ideas and stretching your creativity toward entrepreneurship.

You'll learn:

• How owning a business has helped me reduce burnout
• Why I left academia and how I started editing
• What academic editing is and how editors work with clients, and
• My hard-and-fast rule for vacation time–and how I ended guilt forever

If you want to stop surviving academia and start building a career that works for you, listen to my conversation with Bethany.

And if you’re considering a sabbatical and want to truly make the most of it–whatever that looks like for you–reach out to Bethany and check out her podcast, Sabbatical 101.

Resources:

📹 Want to end burnout and become an academic editor or coach? Go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

 🎙 Listen to Bethany Wilinski, PhD, on Sabbatical 101: https://bethanywilinski.com/podcasts/sabbatical-101/

1:41 - What You Will Learn in This Episode

2:00 - How a Sabbatical Can Be Your Opportunity

2:21 - Introduction to Sabbatical 101

3:22 - The Benefits of Working with an Academic Editor

3:44 - The Story Behind Leaving Academia

5:25 - The Academic Background and Burnout Experience

6:58 - Transitioning to Freelance Editing

9:18 - Breaking Stereotypes of Business Ownership

10:51 - Understanding the Role of an Academic Editor

11:58 - How the Editing Process Works

12:46 - Clear Pricing for Editing Services

13:14 - The Editor's Goal: Publication

30:54 - Overcoming the Fear of Starting a Business

32:26 - Flexibility of Freelance Editing

35:05 - Starting Your Editing Journey

39:37 - Conclusion and Encouragement to Pursue Editing

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special coaching episode, I sit down with Katrien Deroost — a former malaria researcher who left academia and is now launching her career as an academic editor.

Together, we dive deep into the real challenges of starting over:

✅ How burnout wrecks your confidence — and how to rebuild it

✅ Why a website alone won’t bring clients (and what will)

✅ How to write curiosity-driven copy that attracts the RIGHT people

✅ The surprising power of cold emails and LinkedIn for academic entrepreneurs

✅ Mindset shifts every new editor needs to succeed

If you're struggling to wrap your head around how to start an editing business, or you're tired of the "feast or famine" cycle, this episode will give you the concrete, step-by-step guidance you need to transform your business and life.

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

https://youtu.be/KVAmrEWNbBg

Want more tips to super-charge your editing business and get the clients flowing in? **Join our monthly membership, Digital Marketing for Freelance Editors:

AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Katrien's website: antitwilight.com

0:00 - Introduction to Katrien and Her Journey

1:02 - Discovering Burnout in Academia

2:31 - Transitioning from Research to Editing

5:37 - Realities of Starting an Editing Business

7:36 - Challenges in Attracting Clients

10:40 - The Importance of Networking

12:23 - Understanding the Role of Time for Academics

15:57 - Crafting Effective Cold Emails

19:45 - Addressing Pain Points for Potential Clients

22:13 - Strategies for Engaging Prospective Clients

24:33 - Addressing Common Client Struggles

27:53 - The Significance of Writing Quality

32:39 - Overcoming Personal Insecurities

36:10 - Building Effective Marketing Copy

50:10 - Final Thoughts and Inspirational Quote

52:37 - How to Connect with Katrien

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s Leaving Academia episode, I chat with Catie Phares—a brilliant academic editor who shares how she built her private client base, raised her rates with confidence, and created an editing agency just for business professors.

You’ll discover: 

💡 Why undercharging hurts more than your bank account

💡 How to attract clients without feeling salesy

💡 When to niche down—and when to stay broad

💡 What AI can and can’t do for editors

Oh, and did I mention? Catie’s marketing course helped me hit my first $10K month as a freelance editor. 👀

Find out how you can become an academic editor or coach at AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

📌 Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Catie’s mini-course on getting to $10k months: https://www.csphares.com/the-savvy-editrix
• Work with Catie: team@csphares.com
• Learn more about Catie’s faculty writing program: csphares.com

🔔 Don't forget to follow us for weekly episodes on building a fulfilling, profitable editing or coaching business outside academia.

0:00 - Understanding the Editing Profession

11:05 - How to Increase Your Editing Rates

12:12 - Transitioning to Package Pricing

28:47 - Exploring the Impact of AI on Editing

30:05 - Identifying AI Limitations for Editors

34:07 - How AI Can Assist Everyday Tasks

42:30 - Developing Your Own Academic Program

45:02 - Essential Advice for New Editors

48:20 - Recognizing the Value of Your Work

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about:

💬 Why most new business owners overthink their messaging

💬 How to mirror what your audience actually needs to hear

💬 The power of brand voice (and why it shouldn’t sound like your professor persona)

💬 How to make your services sound compelling—yes, even if you edit dissertations for a living

Whether you’re building a coaching or editing business, this episode will help you connect with the right people without sounding salesy or fake.

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.

Want to work with Jen? Contact her at jenliddy.com

And grab Jen's free guide here: jenliddy.com/backstage

Coupon code: PAULINA

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series and hear my story:

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

0:00 - Discovering Your Brand Voice

2:20 - Differentiating Your Message

5:00 - Understanding Brand Messaging

7:30 - Mirrors and Marketing

11:15 - Finding Your Ideal Client

15:45 - Steps to Stand Out

19:00 - Crafting Your Own Persona

23:25 - The Power of the Word You

27:40 - Engaging with Your Audience

31:00 - Strategic Use of AI

34:30 - Reducing Overwhelm in Messaging

37:20 - How to Avoid Burnout in Branding

41:05 - Practical Tips for New Business Owners

45:25 - Final Thoughts on Effective Communication

49:50 - Resources for Further Learning

53:00 - Connecting with Jen Liddy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, I’m joined by Jenn McClearen, PhD, a former assistant professor who walked away from a nearly complete tenure application and moved to the Netherlands to build a business that honors her values.

Jenn is now a writing coach and developmental editor helping early-career scholars overcome perfectionism, procrastination, and fear of criticism—so they can reclaim writing as a joyful, sustainable practice.

We discuss:

🎯 The mindset shifts that helped her leave academia

🎯 How she built her business around care and consent (not hustle and hierarchy)

🎯 Why marketing doesn’t have to feel gross when you lead with your values

If you’re looking for a way to use your academic skills without sacrificing your well-being, this episode is a must-listen.

Jenn’s story is proof that finding joy outside the academy is possible—not just for her, but for you too. 🐦‍🔥

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Want to work with Jenn?

https://www.jennmcclearen.com/

https://www.publishnotperish.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclearen/

0:00 - Embracing New Beginnings in Business

5:16 - How to Overcome Writing Barriers

9:00 - Exploring Alternative Business Models

12:39 - Shifting Perspectives on Marketing

15:06 - Attracting Clients with Your Values

18:55 - Establishing a Coaching Business

24:27 - Designing an Engaging Course Experience

29:11 - Navigating Time Management Challenges

32:47 - Reframing Writing Anxiety

35:33 - Building Supportive Coaching Relationships

41:44 - Lessons Learned from the Academic Journey

43:18 - Connecting with the Audience

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest, Katherine Wiley, is a former academic who made the leap into full-time freelance editing... and she’s thriving. In this episode, she shares why faculty members are uniquely qualified to be excellent editors (even if they don’t realize it yet).

We discuss:

💡 Why your academic skills—like writing, research, and attention to detail—make you perfectly suited for scholarly editing;

💡 The mindset shift that helps faculty transition from undervalued academics to confident business owners; and

💡 Katherine’s real talk about leaving academia behind—the challenges, the rewards, and why she’ll never look back.

If you’ve been craving more freedom, flexibility, and financial stability, this episode will show you how freelance editing can give you all three—while still allowing you to use your hard-earned academic skills.

I hope this conversation with Katherine inspires you to consider the possibilities beyond academia—and to recognize just how valuable your skills already are. 💎

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

https://youtu.be/E3msjk3TuZQ

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Want to work with Katherine? You can get in touch here:

https://www.goldenrodeditorial.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinewiley/

https://www.facebook.com/katherine.ann.wiley

0:00 - Understanding Developmental Editing

3:12 - Transitioning from Academia to Editing

6:34 - The Importance of Networking

9:41 - Marketing Strategies for New Editors

12:45 - Finding Your Niche in Editing

15:52 - Setting Up Your Editing Business

19:12 - Tips for Building a Client Base

23:29 - Creating Effective Content Marketing

27:13 - The Value of Offering Workshops

31:02 - Embracing Flexible Work Arrangements

36:17 - Leveraging Existing Skills for Editing

40:17 - Developing Authentic Marketing Approaches

43:04 - Achieving Work-Life Balance Outside Academia

45:00 - Measuring Success and Finding Happiness

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest, Meg Toth, was a tenured professor who walked away from her academic career, joined my program, Becoming an Academic Editor, and built a successful editing business in just a few months.

In this episode, she shares:

✨ The moment she knew she had to leave academia;

✨ How she found paying clients—without social media marketing;

✨ The biggest mistakes new editors make (and how to avoid them!); and

✨ How to make yourself indispensable so the clients keep coming back.

If you’re thinking about becoming an academic editor (or want to grow your existing business), you won’t want to miss this one!

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Want to work with Meg? You can get in touch here:

https://www.megtoth.com/editing

https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-toth-38945b1a/

https://www.the-efa.org/memberinfo/meg-toth-40512/

0:00 - Starting Your Editing Journey

1:19 - Navigating Academic Changes

3:16 - Making the Decision to Leave Academia

8:39 - Discovering Your Passion for Editing

10:50 - Finding the Right Course for Skill Development

12:47 - Learning to Market Yourself Effectively

15:06 - Building Your Editing Business

19:24 - Establishing Trust and Credibility Online

21:01 - Balancing Academic and Creative Projects

25:02 - Offering Flexible Coaching Services

27:32 - Gaining Practical Experience with Copy Editing

30:11 - Connecting with Clients Through Your Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Leaving Academia, I’m talking to Laura Poole, a freelance editor with 28 years of experience working with university presses and academic journals.

In this episode, Laura reveals:

🚀 The best way to land freelance work with academic publishers,

🚀 Why networking (not social media) is the key to getting hired,

🚀 How to get your first university press client—even with no formal experience, and

🚀 One strategy that can be your secret weapon for breaking in to the business.

If you’re looking for steady, reliable academic editing work, don’t miss this one! 

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

https://youtu.be/6vupRreuAf8

Want more tips to super-charge your editing business and get the clients flowing in? **Join our monthly membership, Digital Marketing for Freelance Editors:

AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Want to work with Laura? You can get in touch here:

https://www.archereditorial.com/

0:00 - Introduction to Academic Editing

0:36 - How I Started in Academic Editing

1:57 - Building a Career in Scholarly Publishing

4:12 - Finding Work as a Freelance Editor

5:39 - The Importance of Networking

6:55 - Strategies for Gaining Clients

8:16 - Establishing a Good Reputation

10:09 - Making Editing Decisions

11:15 - Working with Publishers vs. Authors

12:52 - Scheduling Projects and Deadlines

16:09 - Understanding Editorial Guidelines

17:51 - Connecting with Managing Editors

19:34 - Preparing for Editing Tests

22:34 - Proofreading as a Foot in the Door

31:55 - Valuing Your Work as a New Editor

34:40 - Connecting with Other Editors

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They create a website, spend HOURS trying to make it perfect… and then get frustrated because they don’t get much traffic or, if they do, the people who visit their page don’t hire them.

I’ve been there and I get it. BUT, I have good news.

There are some very easy tweaks you can make to your site that will make potential clients MUCH more likely to reach out and inquire about your services. And that’s exactly what this episode is all about.

My guest today is Jessica Freeman. Jess is a small business website designer with over a decade of making the internet a prettier (and more profitable) place.

We discuss:

👩‍💻 the basic structure of your homepage and what it should include to have the greatest impact on your audience

👩‍💻 the next two pages you should create and what info you should put there

👩‍💻 the quick-and-dirty details of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and some basic points to consider to make it easier for your clients to find you

I’m so grateful that Jess has joined me on the show, and I know you’re going to LOVE all the tips she shares to help you make your website clearer and more effective–and watch the clients start rolling in.

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

https://youtu.be/qcdgmRUNJwA

Want more tips to super-charge your editing business and get the clients flowing in? Join our monthly membership, Digital Marketing for Academic Entrepreneurs:

AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Want to work with Jess? You can get in touch here:

 jesscreatives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessfreeman/

https://www.instagram.com/jesscreatives/

Check out Jess’s keyword research video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwLSO60thxI&t=7s 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That’s exactly what we discuss in this week’s episode of Leaving Academia.

My guest, Lori Paximadis, is an experienced book editor who has built a thriving freelance business.

She shares her inspiring journey from in-house editor to full-time freelancer and reveals:

💡 The systems she uses to keep projects organized and clients happy

💡 How to streamline your workflow and speed up your editing process

💡 Why improving efficiency in your business is the key to earning more (without burnout)

💡 How to build long-term client relationships through networking and being easy to work with

Whether you're a new editor or looking to level up your business, Lori’s practical advice will show you how to build a sustainable, successful freelance career.

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.

Want more tips to super-charge your editing business and get the clients flowing in? **Join our monthly membership, Digital Marketing for Freelance Editors: AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Want to work with Lori? You can get in touch at https://www.archereditorial.com/

0:00 - Understanding the Editing Business

11:00 - Building Client Relationships

20:00 - Organizing Your Editing Workflow

30:00 - Increasing Your Editing Speed

38:00 - Investing in Professional Tools

56:00 - Embracing Continuous Learning and Change

1:00:00 - Final Thoughts and Resources

Links mentioned in this episode:

https://www.perfectit.com/wildcard-cookbook

https://www.amazon.com/Wildcard-Cookbook-Microsoft-Word-Jack/dp/1434103986

https://www.amazon.com/Macro-Cookbook-Microsoft-Word-Jack/dp/1434103323

https://www.wordmacrotools.com/

https://www.archivepub.co.uk/book.html

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my $100+/hour workday. From balancing family life to deep-focus editing sessions, I’m sharing it all.

Tune in to hear:

💻 A real look at my daily schedule—including how I balance client projects, coaching calls, and picking up my kids from school

📑 What an actual editing project looks like—from reviewing graduate theses to editing faculty research papers

📈 How I handle the “feast or famine” nature of freelancing—and why my schedule lets me work just 30 hours a week while earning a full-time income

🎯 The biggest pros and cons of freelance editing—what I love about this career and what can be a bit challenging

Whether you’re just starting to think about freelancing or you’re ready to take the leap out of academia, this episode will give you a real-life snapshot of what’s possible.

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.

https://youtu.be/5b9fAlK7VyQ

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? Get my free video series: https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, my guest, Bethany Wilinski, PhD, explains how she started her business, Sabbatical Coaching for Academics.

We discuss:

🌎 how a spark of an idea during her sabbatical led to a fully booked coaching business,

🌎 what Bethany did to define her niche and identify the problem she solves for clients,

🌎 when and why you should create a website, and

🌎 how Bethany has continued to attract clients while balancing her business with her academic job and life as a mom–WITHOUT getting burned out.

Don’t miss Bethany’s helpful advice for scholars who are considering becoming an academic coach–especially her suggestion for when you should start the business (hint: it’s not what you’d expect!).

And if you’re curious about what life as an editor or coach can do for you, discover how you can make this dream a reality by going to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

That question is the specialty of Caroline Malloy, PhD, my guest on today’s episode. Caroline is a former high school world history teacher who earned her PhD in art history in 2013.

After serving as an adjunct professor for a few years, Caroline learned of an opportunity to work as the Resident Historian on Viking Ocean cruises. 🌎 She jumped at the chance to travel and try something new.

In a serendipitous turn, Caroline began taking on developmental editing and book coaching projects, and the rest (here’s a bad pun) is history! 🤓

In this episode, we discuss:

🚢 the differences between academic and non-fiction texts written for a wider audience,

🚢 how editors can find joy in this business, no matter what their preferred niche is,

🚢 the importance of centering the reader when writing a book, and

🚢 marketing tips to help editors attract more clients.

Don’t miss Caroline’s helpful advice for academics who are considering becoming editors–especially her second point, which hits hard and I’m sure will hold a lot of meaning for many of you. ❤️

Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch the episode on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/-02RpRzwO1g

If you’re an editor who wants to super-charge your business and make 2025 your best year yet, check out my membership, Digital Marketing for Academic Editors:

AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

And if you’re just dipping your toes in the water of an alt-ac life as an editor or coach, discover how you can make this dream a reality by going to:

AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're living in strange and dangerous times. Life is enough to deal with in a normal week, and now the US government and higher ed are crumbling around us. 🔥 If you're extra burned-out these days, you are not alone.

I'm active in the Facebook group Academics Say Goodbye, and I was asked by the admin to write a featured post sharing my story of leaving academia and advice for anyone who's considering doing the same. The post got great feedback, so I decided to share it as a podcast episode.

If you want to hear my full story of leaving academia, head back to episode 1 of the podcast. But here in episode 23, I give you the brief version along with 5 honest, unfiltered tips on how you can change the way you think about leaving your academic post--and make the move if you decide that's right for you.

Keep fighting to put out this growing dumpster fire, but also be sure to take care of yourselves and be with your loved ones. 💝

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to my YouTube channel, give me a review on your podcast app, and--most importantly--share this with a friend who needs to hear it.

To become an editor or coach, go to AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor, we cross the border between academic and fiction editing.

My guest, Andrew Hodges, PhD, is a cultural anthropologist who uses his academic expertise in studying societies and culture to analyze not only academic manuscripts, but also aspects of worldbuilding in fiction texts. 🌍

After working in academic roles in Croatia and Germany, Andy returned to his roots in the UK where he also gives workshops on writing and editing at local universities.

We discuss

✒️ his move out of academia and into full-time editing,

✒️ his fabulous website and how SEO has helped him attract clients,

✒️ how he began developing courses and workshops, including a Worldbuilding webinar for authors and editors, and

✒️ one of the most beautiful aspects of entrepreneurship: helping you return to your passions and incorporate them into your business.

This episode will be helpful to anyone considering a career in editing, but it’s especially encouraging for those who want to go beyond editing academic texts.

Listen on your favorite podcast app or on YouTube, and please subscribe, review, and share the episode if you find it helpful or inspiring:

https://youtu.be/7kPLS6SB36k

If you’re an editor who’s looking for community support and guidance in marketing, like what Andy and I discuss during this episode, go to AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

And if you’re just starting to think about becoming an editor or coach, go to AcadiaEditing.com/becomeaneditor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Absolutely! 🥳

This week my podcast guest, Ellen Morgan, shares her journey from teaching middle school English to running an academic editing and coaching agency: Wise Oak Consulting Collaborative. 

Ellen spills the tea on:

🍵 how she started out editing dissertations,

🍵 what she did to start attracting clients,

🍵 how she started her agency, and

🍵 what other teachers can do to find out if editing is right for them.

If you’re debating whether or not editing is right for you, then you will LOVE this episode.

And if you’re already an editor who’s been craving community and connection, there’s a lot here for you, too!

If you want more tips to super-charge your editing business and get the clients flowing in?

**Join our monthly membership, Digital Marketing for Freelance Editors. Go to AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

Are you new to this world and curious to find out more about freelance editing or coaching?

Head over to https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Want to work with Ellen? You can get in touch here:

Website: https://wiseoakconsultingcollaborative.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/wiseoakconsulting/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/wise.oak.collaborative

0:00 - Welcome to the Podcast with Ellen

0:05 - Transitioning from Teaching to Editing

1:35 - Discovering a New Career Path

3:38 - The Emotional Side of Teaching and Editing

6:38 - Skills Needed for Successful Editing

8:31 - Balancing Multiple Projects as an Editor

10:50 - Navigating Relationships with Clients

12:03 - Building Your Client Base as an Editor

13:24 - Creating Your Website for Business

15:16 - The Importance of Networking in Editing

17:27 - Tips for Starting with Dissertation Editing

19:16 - Providing Support for Struggling Students

21:00 - The Benefits of Running an Editing Agency

24:09 - Coaching and Mentoring for Writers

27:54 - Expanding Services Beyond Editing

30:00 - Raising Your Rates as an Editor

31:02 - How to Contact for Collaboration

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let’s get one thing straight: there is NO shame in wanting to earn more money.  Especially given your skills and the value you provide to your clients, academic editors should feel confident charging rates that equate to $100 per hour… or more!

One of the best ways to reach this goal is to bill your projects using a per-word rate. This is because, as you improve your editing skills and increase your editing speed, this raises your effective hourly rate. 📈

In this week’s podcast episode, I’m sharing 5 tools (all but 1 are free!) that can help you increase your editing speed, reduce your time at your computer, and increase your earnings.

This is definitely an episode you’ll want to check out on YouTube at some point because I share my screen and walk you through how to use each tool.

Don’t be intimidated; you can do this! 💪

Watch this episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast app.  

https://youtu.be/ipJSNA-XytQ

Want more tips to super-charge your editing business and get the clients flowing in? 

**Join our monthly membership, Digital Marketing for Freelance Editors:

AcadiaEditing.com/marketing

Curious to find out more about freelance academic editing or coaching? 

**Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching: 

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor  

Links from the episode:

Clockify: https://clockify.me/

BeefText: https://beeftext.org/

Mac alternatives to BeefText: https://alternativeto.net/software/beeftext/?license=free&platform=mac

PerfectIt: https://intelligentediting.com/buy-now/

0:00 - Why Track Your Editing Speed

1:57 - How Charging Per Word Benefits You

2:59 - Understanding Effective Hourly Rate

3:42 - Tracking Your Time with Clockify

4:54 - Setting Up Projects in Clockify

6:08 - Analyzing Your Time Data

9:42 - Using Auto Text in Microsoft Word

10:33 - Setting Up Auto Text Shortcuts

13:47 - Introducing Beef Text for Windows

14:52 - Creating Snippets in Beef Text

17:13 - Utilizing Perfect It for Editing Checks

20:47 - Getting Started with Macros

23:07 - Recording Your First Macro

26:36 - Recap of Editing Speed Tools

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.