Leaving Academia: Becoming a Freelance Editor12 Des 2024

From Traveling Postdoc to Freelance Success: Building an Editing Career

Do you need more free time–for yourself, your family, and your hobbies? Have you been thinking about making the leap from academia to freelance editing or coaching?

In this episode, I chat with Tom Smith, PhD, a social scientist who recently took his editing side hustle full-time. Tom’s journey from academia to editing spans multiple countries and reflects the challenges and rewards of forging a new path outside the ivory tower.

Tom shares his story of navigating the demands of postdoc positions–and frequent relocations with a family–while building his editing side hustle. He also explains how he ultimately made the leap to full-time freelance work.

We dive into:

👉 The reality of leaving academia and the crossroads many PhDs face

👉 How to get started as a freelance editor, even without certifications

👉 Navigating platforms like Upwork and building a sustainable client base

👉 How editing can help you stay connected to your passions while offering freedom and flexibility

Tom also offers practical advice on managing imposter syndrome, learning to self-promote, and building a business that aligns with your values.

Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch this episode on YouTube.

Ready to take the leap into freelance academic editing? Get my free video series on academic editing and coaching:

https://AcadiaEditing.com/BecomeAnEditor

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

https://www.dr-smith-editing.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-079293201/

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