The Modern Independent

Hosted by IndeCollective

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Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The Modern Independent is on a mission to assist modern independent workers in accelerating their growth, both personally and professionally. We provide our listeners with the necessary education, expert guidance, and inspiration to achieve greater financial freedom, fulfillment, and flexibility through their independent work.

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46 recent

May 5, 202641 min

The Back-Office Playbook: High-Leverage Moves to Increase Take-Home Pay and Reclaim Your Time w/ Ran Harpaz

Send us Fan MailMost independent consultants, coaches, and fractional leaders focus on delivering great work -- but far fewer build the back-office systems that determine how much they actually keep and how much time they get back.In this episode of The 7-Figure Playbook, SamLee (IndeCollective, Founder & CEO) sits down with Ran Harpaz (Lettuce, Founder & CEO) to break down the back-office playbook -- high-leverage moves you can make to increase take-home pay and reclaim real hours each week. Sam also shares what this has looked like in practice, including how the right setup has saved him roughly $40,000–$50,000 per year while eliminating admin work that never should have been on his calendar.We cover:The structural shift (LLC → S-Corp) that can significantly reduce your tax burdenHow to pay yourself strategically (reasonable compensation + distributions) to stay compliant and keep more of what you earnThe fastest way to clean up your finances and eliminate costly comminglingA simple quarterly audit that helps you capture deductions and avoid surprisesWhy a Solo 401(k) is one of the highest-leverage tax strategies available to independentsA smarter approach to healthcare that expands your options without adding complexityWhether you’re just getting set up or already earning at a high level, this episode will give you a clear, practical playbook to run a cleaner, more profitable operation.Ready to keep more of what you earn and take back your time? Let’s go!Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

June 13, 202536 min

The 7-Figure Playbook: Ditch the Pitch—Lead Sales Like an Expert w/ Allison Davis

Send us Fan MailThe 7-Figure Playbook: Ditch the Pitch—Lead Sales Like an Expert w/ Allison DavisMost independent consultants and coaches unknowingly sabotage their sales by rushing to the finish line—pitching too soon, pricing too low, and solving surface-level problems.In this episode of The 7-Figure Playbook, Sam Lee (IndeCollective, Founder & CEO) sits down with sales powerhouse and IndeCollective expert guide Allison Davis to flip the script. You’ll learn how to ditch “vendor syndrome” and lead sales conversations like the expert you are.We cover:Why “just saying yes” to client requests makes you look like a vendor—and what to do insteadThe ALIGN framework (Agenda, Ask, Look deeper, Inspire, Get feedback, Next steps) that helps you take command of every sales conversationWhy the best salespeople ask 11–14 follow-up questions per call (and how to do it without sounding like a robot)The importance of a Fingerprints Meeting—and how it can double your proposal close rateHow to keep TABS (Timeline, Authority, Budget, Strategy) so your proposal doesn’t get ghostedWhy your proposal should start with the client’s pain—not your company bioHow to run a three-legged race with your decision maker to cross the procurement finish line—togetherWhether you’re landing your first $50K deal or ready to scale to seven figures, this episode will change the way you sell.Ready to walk (or run) the expert path? Let’s go.Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

June 13, 202556 min

The 7-Figure Playbook: Productize & Scale Your Genius w/ Josh Neckes

Send us Fan MailThe biggest myth in consulting? That every engagement has to be bespoke.In this episode of The 7-Figure Playbook, Sam Lee (IndeCollective, Founder & CEO) sits down with productization expert and longtime IndeCollective Expert Josh Neckes to unpack how independent consultants and coaches can turn their brilliance into scalable, repeatable offerings -- without sacrificing client results or personal freedom.You’ll learn:Why productization isn’t about rigidity -- it’s about leverageThe Fourfold Path of productizing: Codify → Standardize → Modularize → ProductizeHow to turn your IP into products clients want to buy and you love to deliverWhy starting with clarity around your Ideal Client and painkiller problem is keyThe trap of over-customization -- and how to build guardrails that protect your time and profit marginsHow to use productized offers to build credibility, demand, and a waitlistReal-world examples from IndeCollective members who’ve gone from custom work to signature programs, playbooks, and diagnostic frameworksWhether you’re trying to move from freelance to founder -- or ready to build a 7-figure firm that runs without you -- this conversation is your blueprint.Your time is valuable. Productization makes sure it stays that way.Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

September 2, 202444 min

From Corporate Layoff to Consultancy Triumph: Ben Getz Shares His Journey and Tips for Success

Send us Fan MailWhat would you do if you found yourself unexpectedly laid off from your corporate job, with a young family to support? This episode of the Modern Independent offers an inspiring story as we sit down with Ben Goetz, who transformed a career setback into a flourishing independent consultancy. Ben takes us through his incredible journey from the shock of being laid off to the creation of his own sustainable business, Team Getz, specializing in e-commerce operations. Hear how his resourcefulness and adaptability played crucial roles in overcoming initial challenges and why building trust with clients was fundamental to his success.We discuss the often surprising simplicity of forming an LLC, the advantages it offers in managing taxes and operational efficiency, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls, such as the lure of third-party services. By sharing his own experiences, Ben provides practical advice that can help you navigate the journey smoothly, shedding light on why using official state resources can save you time and money.Ben wraps up this episode by delving into the intricacies of his work, from strategic communications and the art of crafting effective email newsletters to the value of authenticity in client relations. He also reflects on his transformative experience with IndeCollective, a program that helped him take risks and embrace discomfort for growth. Tune in for a wealth of insights that could prove invaluable for anyone considering or currently navigating the path of independent work.Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

August 30, 20241 hr 28 min

Mastering Clear Communication and Strategic Networking: Garrett Dailey's Entrepreneurial Journey

Send us Fan MailWhat if the key to your entrepreneurial success lies in mastering the art of clear communication and strategic networking? Join us on this episode of the Modern Independent as we sit down with Garrett, a standout graduate from Indie Collective's fall 2023 cohort. From his roots in rural North Carolina to co-founding a valet trash service and journeying through multiple startups, Garrett's story is a testament to resilience and continuous learning. You’ll hear about his challenges, triumphs, and the invaluable lessons he gathered along the way, such as the importance of simplicity in pitching and the power of effective communication.Discover the transformative power of the Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) framework and how it significantly enhances client targeting and service offerings. Garrett walks us through his experience of attending strategic networking events in East Denver and Austin, revealing their impact on business opportunities. He underscores the importance of understanding your client's needs deeply and shares real-world analogies that will help you refine your approach to marketing and lead generation. Garrett's insights on resilience, strategic networking, and continuous learning are sure to inspire and equip you for your entrepreneurial journey.Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

August 30, 202450 min

Thriving and Transformation: Insights on Education, Leadership, and Personal Growth with Dr. Kia Darling-Hammond

Send us Fan MailCurious about the true essence of education and human development? Join us as Dr. Kia Darling-Hammond takes us on a thought-provoking journey through her unique insights on thriving. With a rich background shaped by educator parents and an insatiable curiosity for understanding human experiences, Dr. Kia illuminates the contrast between genuine elucidation in education and the often rigid, compliance-driven nature of traditional schooling. Discover how personal interpretation and self-actualization are pivotal elements in the learning process that can transform lives.From the challenges of business development to the collective power of community and mentorship, this discussion is rich with practical wisdom. Dr. Kia's Bridge to Thriving framework and her upcoming book promise to inspire a vibrant and inclusive future. Join us for an episode brimming with insights on love, unity, and the pursuit of a flourishing life!Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

April 22, 202455 min

The Launchpad: Redefining Achievement Outside the Office Walls with Grace Zeigler

Send us Fan MailWhen Grace was handed her layoff notice, she faced a crossroads that would redefine her entire career trajectory. Her story unfolds in our latest episode, where she shares how the seeds of entrepreneurship were sown in the aftermath of corporate upheaval. We explore how her journey from corporate castaway to thriving independent consultant is a beacon for anyone feeling the tremors of professional instability.Stepping away from the corporate rat race, we engage in a heartfelt conversation about what success truly means. We break down the societal constructs that often confine us to a narrow view of achievement, discussing instead a life where personal joy and contentment are the true measures of a job well done. It's about crafting a career that doesn't overshadow our existence but enhances it, allowing space for those cherished midday walks and the freedom to be present for the ones we love.As we wrap up our dialogue, Grace and I share personal experiences of growth and the profound impact of choosing a path lined with purpose and passion. For anyone standing at a career crossroads or looking to infuse their work with deep-seated values, this episode is an empowering guide, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world of independent work and the joy it can bring.Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

March 29, 202444 min

The Launchpad: From Economic Downturn to Design Mastery: Julie's Story of Grit, Growth, and Authentic Branding

Send us Fan MailJoin us on a captivating journey with Julie, the design and construction industry's narrative master, who opens up about her transformative career path, from weathering the storm of the 2008 economic downturn to becoming an ardent enthusiast of building and design. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone eager to learn how to turn their industry passion into a thriving niche, as Julie takes us through her experiences with Indie Collective, her leap into authorship with "Get Them to Care," and her wisdom on the importance of personal branding and strategic social media engagement to grow a professional presence.As we unpack Julie's story, we discover how she stumbled into the marketing consultancy business, creating a name for herself within Denver's design and construction circles through her exceptional service and specialized knowledge. The conversation illuminates the Indie Collective curriculum's impact on her life, teaching the value of aligning one's business with the essential aspects of living, lifestyle, and loving relationships. Julie's candid talk about overcoming imposter syndrome and finding work-life balance will resonate with many, offering hope and practical advice to those navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.Wrapping up our session, we explore the profound influence of grit and perseverance in achieving long-term goals. Julie shares her insights, drawing from Angela Duckworth's "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," revealing how these qualities have shaped her success as an entrepreneur and writer. We delve into the art of receiving critique, the importance of daily practices in honing discipline, and the ways Julie is available to mentor through LinkedIn, emphasizing the importance of community support in personal and professional growth. This episode is not to be missed by emerging leaders and creators, as it's an inspiring testament to the power of passion, resilience, and authentic connection.Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

February 19, 202451 min

The Launchpad: Charting a Path Through Anxiety to Achievement w/ Brad White

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Launchpad, Brad White joins us for this episode. As a two-time graduate of the IndeCollective cohort, Brad brings to the table his unique experiences, recounting his battles with anxiety and depression and how understanding his own emotions became a compass in navigating his professional endeavors. Brad's narrative offers a testament to the power of legacy, mentorship, and the courage to seize unexpected opportunities.Life's twists and turns often lead us to profound self-discovery, and our conversation with Brad underscores this beautifully. He opens up about the continuous process of shaping one's identity, the influence of key relationships, and the pivotal crossroads that define our personal and professional lives. Brad's journey through significant transitions, including career changes and grief, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of introspection and the support of a community. This episode not only shares the strategies Brad employed but also sheds light on the broader theme of finding one's footing amidst change.As we draw this episode to a close, Brad's story arcs towards the joy of creating a successful independent consulting practice from the ashes of adversity. The nuances of measuring success, the embrace of family life, and the challenge of personal well-being are all threads woven into the fabric of this conversation. If you'd like to connect with brad, you can do so here: Brad WhiteLooking for books/resources mentioned in this podcast:- How Will You Measure Your Life, Clayton Christenson- The Second Mountain, David Brooks- Buy Back Your Time, Dan Martell- ReThinking, Adam Grant PodcastFollow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec

February 14, 202452 min

The 7 Figure Playbook: From Touring Musician to Podcasting Pro w/ Ike Fontaine

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, IndeCollective Alum and Ike Fontaine joins our Head of Community Jan Almasy to share his remarkable evolution from a touring musician to a podcasting and online business expert. Get ready to unlock the secrets of leveraging a niche audience for impactful client acquisition, and peel back the curtain on the networking and content strategy that can transform a single podcast episode into a multi-platform goldmine. We'll tackle the practicalities and myths surrounding podcast startup—debunking the idea that you need fancy equipment to make waves in the podcasting sea. Whether you're contemplating a podcast launch or transitioning to entrepreneurship, we'll provide the reassurance and actionable advice to help you navigate these waters.Lastly, we confront the emotional and social dynamics of embarking on an independent path, discussing the deep currents of friendships, the law of attraction, and the ripples of positivity we can all send into the world. If our conversation leaves you raring to join an IndeCollective cohort or you're just curious about what it entails, learn more at: https://indecollective.co/program/Follow Us for More Content on:IG: IndeCollective | Freelance MBA (@indecollective) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indecollec