Hey! I’m Ebony-Storm, a freelance writer focused on the human side of business, tech, and work.

I started this newsletter because my relationship with work is changing.

It all began in the last half of 2022 when this stuff happened:

  • I started a once-in-a-lifetime role with a Y combinator company.

  • I said goodbye to most of my freelance clients in pursuit of the role.

  • I quit the role because I was unhappy.

  • I scaled up my freelance business in the space of a month.

  • I got really sick with strep.

  • Strep led to long-term health complications.

Safe to say, my health, happiness, and confidence took a beating.

Going back to my old freelance business was like going back to an ex after they’ve cheated.

Except, I was the one who cheated. And I wasn’t actually sure what I wanted from the relationship anymore.

Truthfully, the thought of work in 2023 left me feeling a little bit like this:

And I know I’m not the only one.

For the past five years, I’ve worked with tech start-ups, journalists, authors, founders, and major software companies. I’m a regular contributor at The Next Web, and recently started working with my biggest-ever software client, Xero.

I’ve ghostwritten content for industry leaders, and interviewed countless founders and CEOs. And they all know business as usual is over for good.

Work is changing. Not just for me – for everyone.

In a post-pandemic digitally-driven world, I find myself wondering:

  • Does my job need to be meaningful?

  • Is it okay if I have no desire to climb the career ladder?

  • Would I still do my job if I wasn’t dependent on it for income?

Y’know, the lighter stuff.

Making a Living is a newsletter that explores questions just like these, and challenges our preconceptions about work.

Every month, I’ll share research, news, and carefully curated content about how work – and our relationship with it – is changing. Plus, I’ll write a little think piece sharing my current and innermost thoughts about work.

Ready to think differently about making a living? Hit the button below.


Why subscribe?

Subscribe to get full access to the newsletter and website. Never miss an update.

Stay up-to-date

You won’t have to worry about missing anything. Every new edition of the newsletter goes directly to your inbox.

Join the crew

Be part of a community of people who share your interests.

To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.

Subscribe to Your Freelance Ally

A monthly newsletter that explores the emotional realities of freelancing. Mini essays, curated content, and handpicked resources that have helped me sustain my freelance biz for 5+ years.

People

I'm Ebony-Storm, a writer specialising in business, technology and work. I started my freelance business when I was 20 years old, back in 2018. Since then, I've worked with major software companies, start-ups, journalists, and content agencies.