Episode 32: Reflections on 2019 and the Changing Media Landscape
We are staring down the end of the year—and of the decade! In this episode, Kate and Abigail sat down to talk shop for the first time in a while. We recapped 2019, discussed some changes we’re seeing in equine media and how to roll with the punches, and talked about our goals for 2020. Thanks for sticking with us—we’re so thankful for our Freelance Remuda community. We have learned so much from y’all, and you inspire us so much! We hope you have a 2020 that’s everything you’ve hoped for.
Kate and Abigail discussed their holiday routines in early December. Abigail blocks work/holiday task time. Kate builds gingerbread RVs for downtime (see picture above). Kate also enjoys seeing friends on social media share their “end of year” highlight reels.
(5:02) Freelance Remuda’s 2019
- A couple of great mentor clients took our advice and ran with it, or filed it away for future use. We love to highlight mentor achievements, so be sure to tag us (on Facebook or Instagram) if you make a post! We want to give kudos!
- Speaking to aspiring media pros at A&M and fellow freelancers at AHP
- Strong showing at our AHP meetup
- Supportive community in Facebook group.
- Three solid podcast episodes
(8:25) Reflections on Kate’s first year back on staff
Differences from freelancing - full time, but a hybrid position. Editing every issue of Reined Cow Horse News.
How is it the same? Still working for multiple titles and on multiple platforms. Ranch Horse News is online only, and takes a backseat to print deadlines for WH, QHN and RCHN, though I love it. RCHN is stronger than ever and has really allowed me to find a niche in that industry.
What do you like about it? Love that I get to work with multiple segments of the industry from reining to cow to cutting to ranchers. The ranch visits keep me so grounded and attending events keep me driving for my own show goals.
(9:47) Abigail’s 8th year of freelancing
- Accomplishments you’re proud of? AHP awards(1 and 2), more photo shoots, travel stories, increased productivity (133 stories, up 10% from last year). Cover photos (7), features in new-to-me publications.
- Biggest changes this year? Oldest child in school, dipping into non-horse magazine work.
- Challenges – filling workload to meet income needs from August-December and into 2020 without overworking.
(14:10) Kate’s goals for 2020
Riding more and maintaining her workload
To continue to find inspirational stories to bring readers as well as cover equine events in print in a way that still excites the reader who may already know the winners.
2020 will be 10 years of working in equine media in some way!
(15:00) Abigail’s goals for 2020
Maintain income, expand non-horse magazine work, continue to streamline workflow, improve photography.
Balance work and family, fitness goals.
Staff for many mags is becoming more similar to freelancing. We wear lots of hats from print to social media to marketing. Just know we are all juggling!
(18:00) Media changes
Every publication has some sort of change: folding altogether, reducing print frequency or shifting to online only, publishing company and editor/staff changes.
Some publications have shifted their focus
What do we think about these changes?
Change isn’t always bad or negative! A staff that expands their role can often find a new creative outlet. It is hard to see people struggling to handle change.
Media is evolving but print is still important. People still want to read about horses.
Being able to adapt to different publication styles is helpful
There’s still room for print, but it may look different than in the past.
Trying to make sure our work is as good as it can be, and not get discouraged or worried, working to adapt and find new revenue streams.
(22:00) What are we doing to roll with the punches?
Abigail: Reviewed our “Ways to make money” podcast and took our own advice
Abigail: Broadening workload and asking for last-minute work, shifting stories to turn them in sooner where there are holes allows me to take on more stories in the future. Looking for publications to pitch to and thinking about stories that might fir them.
Kate: I drink more coffee! In reality, I am simply organizing myself more. I can’t keep the deadlines, sources or ideas straight without some spreadsheet help.
(24:00) Advice
Pick up event coverage from news/association magazine editors
Maintain professionalism. Learn the magazine’s style – learn to spell key player’s names! Spell check, these simple things really make an impression on editors who can re-hire you.
Also, the hustle is important but so is self care. When a friend invites you to coffee or to come see a horse (yay) say yes. Take a moment or ten to yourself!
Be present with your family - don’t neglect your personal life for the sake of your work.
Be as reliable as possible.
Continue to hone your craft – continuing education, courses, books, mentorships.
Seek alternate publications and media outlets and pitch—and follow up! Be open to new possibilities.
Don’t be afraid to supplement your income outside of freelancing. Do what you need to do to pay the bills.
About The Freelance Remuda
The Freelance Remuda was founded by veteran freelance professionals Abigail Boatwright and Kate Bradley Byars. Beginning with The Freelance Remuda Podcast, which explores the trials and triumphs surrounding life as a freelancer in equine media, while sharing valuable tips from equine media editors and creatives doing what they love; Abigail and Kate also offer a mentorship program for aspiring freelancers in equine media.
The dictionary lists a remuda as: re•mu•da (noun): a herd of horses that have been saddle-broken from which ranch hands choose their mounts for the day. The goal of The Freelance Remuda is to help train up a herd of professionals specializing in equine media, from which editors and businesses can hire to do great work. Find and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, and for more information on The Freelance Remuda Mentorship Program, go to freelanceremuda.com.