Are you still thinking like a “grateful doer” instead of the boss of your business? If you’ve ever felt stuck in the freelancer-to-CEO mindset shift, this episode is for you. In this Ask Emily Anything episode, listener Candice asks a question so many of us freelancers secretly struggle with: How do you actually make the transition in your brain from service provider to boss?

It’s not just about raising your rates or slapping “CEO” in your bio. You have to own your expertise, set boundaries, and finally treat your freelance business like a business. I share my real journey (the rock bottoms, a-ha moments, and gradual pivots) that helped me shift out of the employee mindset, stop undervaluing my time, and step into my role as a confident business owner.

Listen to learn more about:

• How to recognize the difference between being a freelancer-for-hire vs. a self-employed business owner
• The importance of tracking your time, setting boundaries, and stopping scope creep before it eats your profit
• The “competence-confidence loop” that fuels your ability to raise rates, say no, and step into your CEO power
• How to reconnect with WHY you left corporate in the first place—and use that fire to fuel your boss mindset

Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School

Admin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.com

Links Mentioned in the Show:

• Got a burning question about freelancing, digital marketing, or navigating this wild business journey? Ask Emily Anything! Leave a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/unicornsunite
• Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply at marketersworkgroup.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clevercalic.co

• Facebook Community: Emily’s Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant Lab
• Instagram: @emilyreaganpr
• Facebook: @emilyreaganpr
• YouTube: Emily Reagan

1. Need to build your digital marketing skills and set up solid workflows so you can confidently put yourself out there for freelance work? Get on the waitlist for the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School where you'll learn in-demand marketing implementation skills to launch or grow your work-from-home business. I also share job leads directly with students, making this a true gateway to flexible, meaningful freelance work. Ready to get started sooner? You can jump into the self-study program right now.
2. Already doing marketing work and have a few clients? Want a stronger referral network? Apply for our Digital Marketer’s Workgroup—a tight-knit community of freelancers just like you. Inside, you'll get behind-the-scenes support, advanced trainings, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, I’ve shared over 3,000 job opportunities with this group—exclusive leads you won’t find anywhere else. If you're ready to grow your business and connect with a supportive network, join us here!
3. Looking to hire a Digital Marketing Assistant? If you want to expand your team & grow your business, submit your job opportunity here. I'll share it with the skilled unicorn marketing assistants inside my workgroup totally free.