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The Content Byte podcast serves up real talk and actionable, no-fluff tips and advice for freelance writers

Tune in every Monday for smart guests and great conversations with co-hosts Lynne Testoni and Rachel Smith. It’s the go-to podcast for freelance pros in journalism, content and copywriting.

The Content Byte podcast
280+ episodes • New eps drop every Monday • 109, 785 downloads • Listeners in 46 countries • 6 years on air • Top 2.5% global podcast ranking (ListenNotes.com) 

Your hosts
Meet Lynne and Rachel

Hi! We’re your weekly podcast co-hosts on The Content Byte. We’re both senior freelance journalists who met in magazines and later crossed over to the content and copywriting worlds. Initially, we bonded over our shared love of writing podcasts, but when we couldn’t find a local pod that fit the bill, we decided to create our own. That was in 2019 and we’ve been on the mic ever since.

Although The Content Byte is a separate entity to Rachel’s List, the two will always be intrinsically linked. And of course, they both speak to similar audiences: people who use their words to make money!

How #podlife evolved
First us, then guests, then the Summit

Our podcast was initially a double act with 10-15 minute episodes – hence the ‘byte’! Inviting guests into the mix has meant our eps are now longer and, we think, far more valuable for listeners.

We’ve talked to high-level book editors, magazine chiefs, content directors and freelancers of all kinds about how they’ve built a successful business. We’ve covered just about every topic – from firing bad clients to making good money. In 2023, we took our headphones off and launched The Content Byte Summit, a much-loved in-person and online event which ran in 2023 and 2024, to rave reviews. We’re always evolving and looking for new ideas and guests – so if you have something in mind, get in touch.

How #podlife evolved

Tune in. Start-here playlists

New to the podcast? Here are some super-valuable eps to get you started.

Pricing yourself

Finding work / client management

Finding work / client management

Tools, routines, systems

Tools, routines, systems

Here from our poddy friends

“This podcast is like having friends in your ear cheering you on! I feel so lucky to have found it when I was just starting out in my freelance biz. I’ve gone from feeling “how am I going to do this?” to “I think I can do this now!” Thanks Lynne and Rachel for being so generous with your knowledge.”

Abby WallaceCopywriter

“As a freelance writer and editor, I tune in every week to this show. Lynne and Rachel are so generous with their experience, insight and tips. It always leaves me feeling really inspired and positive about freelancing. Thank you!”

Penny Carroll

“Great podcast if you’re a freelance writer of any kind and full of real, practical tips. Rachel and Lynne have a relaxed dynamic and so much real life experience to share, as do their various guests. Especially motivating if you’re starting out - it’s proof it can be done!”

Diana Ioppolo

“I came for the tips but stayed for the inspiration. Not only do these clever ladies share their wisdom, they’re super encouraging to all of us freelancers navigating the rapidly changing media landscape. I even took them on my long iso bike rides, knowing that cycling with air pods is not the greatest idea. That’s how much I like this podcast. :)”

Sez Ordonez

“These podcasts are really handy. Rachel and Lynne generously share their wisdom without any hard sell. Each episode is packed with really valuable tips - the kind of knowledge normally only shared between friends.”

Sara Tiefenbrun

Featured eps
Our top listener favourites

Martina Donkers

Grant writing with Martina Donkers

One of our most popular eps – lots of info for budding grant writers!

Takeaways include:

  • The different sorts of grants available
  • What makes grant writing different
  • How to price grant writing work
Listen now
Damien Whelan

Damien Whelan

If you’re a Mad Men fan, you’ll love this ep about agency copywriting.

Takeaways include:

  • How freelancers can get into agencies
  • How to come up with clever one-liners
  • What’s it like working on campaigns or in pitch meetings?
Listen now
Lucy E Cousins

Lucy E Cousins

Mag fans! This is a much-loved ep in our successful freelancer series.

Takeaways include:

  • The sliding doors moment that got Lucy into journalism
  • Her highlights and memories from editing top women’s mags
  • Being an evidence-based writer in the health and wellness niche
Listen now
Lisa Thomas

Lisa Thomas

Our listeners loved Lisa’s story on moving from print to govt comms. Takeaways include:

  • Her early days at Marie Claire, Home Beautiful and Vogue Living
  • How she moved into media, PR and government comms
  • Why she’s so passionate about working in the public service
Listen now
Rashida Tayabali

Rashida Tayabali

Her tips on finding leads and choosing a niche made Rashida’s ep a must.

Takeaways include:

  • Why she ditched marketing for freelance writing (and is happier)
  • Her decision to niche and how it impacted her biz
  • Her favourite SEO tools and how she’s approached lead gen
Listen now

FAQ
Your questions, answered

Where can I listen?

While you’ll find us pretty much wherever you pick up your podcasts, the two most popular places listeners tune in are on Apple or Spotify.

How often do you publish?

A fresh new episode lands every Monday – if you subscribe via the Apple Podcasts app, it should update automatically in your app.

Can I ask a question or suggest a guest?

Sure! Contact us via our website, or pitch a guest here.

Can I sponsor an episode?

You can! Check out our media kit for all the details and pricing options.medi

Do you offer transcripts?

We do – you’ll find them in the episodes section of our website.

Before you go…
Join hundreds of happy podcast subscribers

Our monthly newsletter shares links to our latest eps, a sneak peek of upcoming guests, our personal takeaways and the podcasts WE’RE listening to this month. Plus, we’ll swing you our exclusive digital tools download – detailing 12 tools our guests swear by.

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