Podcast

Episode 139: Freelancer vs Agency: Understanding Differences & Choosing What’s Right for You

By Zach Swinehart

In this episode, I explain the differences between being a freelancer or an agency owner and why it’s important to choose one of these business models.

Both options have their pros & cons, and it depends on which path suits you best.

I’ll show you how you can make the right decision based on your lifestyle and business goals.

I also talk about:

  • Creating effective strategies that work for your goals
  • Resources for informed decision-making and business development
  • Key considerations for scaling fulfillment and lead generation
  • How your business decisions impact your long-term goals
  • Insights into lifestyle flexibility, income potential, and business growth

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AI-Generated Summary:

  • 0:00 – 2:00 — Introduction to the podcast episode, derived from YouTube videos about freelancer versus agency.
  • 2:00 – 4:00 — Explanation of why choosing between freelancer and agency matters, focusing on project fulfillment and lead generation.
  • 4:00 – 6:00 — Definitions and distinctions between a freelancer and an agency, including a discussion on the job-business spectrum.
  • 6:00 – 8:00 — Explanation of the three aspects of a business (leads, sales, fulfillment) and how they differ for freelancers versus agencies.
  • 8:00 – 10:00 — Advice on deciding between freelancing and running an agency, with references to other videos and courses for further guidance.
  • 10:00 – 12:00 — Zach explains the trade-off between time and money in freelancing versus passive income.
  • 12:00 – 14:00 — Discussion about the challenges and misconceptions of achieving passive income and financial independence through freelancing.
  • 14:00 – 16:00 — Zach compares the potential for higher earnings and different lifestyles in freelancing versus running an agency.
  • 16:00 – 18:00 — Insights on the complexities and time investment required to run an agency, highlighting the “game of business” aspect.
  • 18:00 – 20:00 — Zach introduces an upcoming comparison between the day-to-day of a six-figure freelancer and a seven-figure agency owner, emphasizing different goals and business stages.
  • 20:00 – 22:00 — Zach describes the ideal lifestyle of a high-earning freelancer working minimal hours and enjoying leisure activities.
  • 22:00 – 24:00 — Discussion on the challenges of running an agency while maintaining a flexible lifestyle; importance of self-sufficient business structures.
  • 24:00 – 26:00 — Explanation of the necessary steps to delegate tasks effectively and the significant effort required to achieve business autonomy.
  • 26:00 – 28:00 — Zach outlines the essential components of running an agency: lead generation, sales, and fulfillment, and the importance of understanding these areas before delegating.
  • 28:00 – 30:00 — Detailed look at the day-to-day tasks of an agency owner, including managing teams and analyzing business metrics.
  • 30:00 – 32:00 — Zach shares personal experience on the struggles and insights of scaling an agency and the importance of structuring the business for proper delegation.
  • 32:00 – 34:07 — Encouragement for listeners to share their preferences for podcast content and a reminder about a free email course on positioning services.