Dealing with editorial scope creep and client boundaries

Dealing with editorial scope creep and client boundaries

Author: Louise Harnby (fiction editor) and Denise Cowle (non-fiction editor) April 10, 2026 Duration: 11:52

Learn how to manage scope creep and set healthy boundaries in your editorial work.

Listen to find out more about

  • What is scope creep?
  • Why scope creep happens
  • How to prevent scope creep
  • Spotting scope creep early
  • Setting and communicating boundaries
  • How to say no (nicely)
  • When it’s time to reassess
  • The emotional side of boundary setting

Book series: Notes from the Podcast

Want to hone your editorial business skills? Our actionable guides and workbooks help you plan and implement a programme for business growth and development.

Find out more here: https://www.louiseharnbyproofreader.com/notes.html

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Denise and Louise


Post-production


Music credit

'Vivacity’ by Kevin MacLeod

  • Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/4593-vivacity
  • Licence: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a professional editor's desk? The Editing Podcast pulls back the curtain, offering a genuine and practical look at the craft and business of editing. Hosts Louise Harnby, a fiction editor, and Denise Cowle, who specializes in non-fiction, bring their distinct perspectives to every conversation. They don't just talk about theory; they delve into the real-world challenges editors face, from tricky grammatical choices and style guide dilemmas to the nuts and bolts of running a successful freelance business. Each episode feels like a chat with knowledgeable colleagues who are generous with their hard-won advice. You'll hear specific strategies for improving your technical skills, whether you're working on novels or academic texts, alongside frank discussions about client communication, pricing, and sustainable workflows. This podcast is a trusted resource for both newcomers finding their footing and seasoned professionals looking to refine their practice. Tune in for relatable stories, actionable solutions, and the reassurance that comes from two experts who have been there, making the often solitary work of editing feel a lot more connected.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Editing Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Accountability groups for editors [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:25
Louise Harnby and Denise Cowle talk about accountability groups, and how they can help editors and other freelance editorial professionals emotionally and practically.
Zombie rules we can do without, part 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:14
Louise Harnby and Denise Cowle talk about zombie rules, and why they have no place in a professional editor's toolbox.
Why editors and proofreaders should use audio [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:59
Louise Harnby and Denise Cowle talk about why audio is such a great medium for editors who want to build brand trust and grow their businesses.

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