Episode 33: The Democratization of Work with Steve King

Episode 33: The Democratization of Work with Steve King

Author: Sarah Duran October 10, 2024 Duration: 37:44

It was a pleasure having Steve King, a founding partner of Emergent Research, on the podcast. With over 25 years of experience, his work focuses on the future of work, particularly how it impacts small businesses, independent workers, and the gig economy.

Our conversation covers a range of topics, including the post-pandemic rise in full-time freelancing, the impact of AI on independent work, and the changing perceptions of freelancing in academia and business. Steve offers unique insights as both a researcher and a practitioner, running Emergent Research as a two-person operation that leverages freelance talent.

We discuss the importance of understanding risk profiles for freelancers, the need for better systems to connect independent workers with clients, and the exciting opportunities that new technologies bring to the freelance world. Whether you're an independent professional or a company leader, this episode provides valuable insights into the trends shaping the future of work.

To learn more about Steve go to www.emergentresearch.com or his LinkedIn.

For more content and live events go to www.fruitioninitiatives.com.


Hosted by Sarah Duran, The Future is Freelance moves beyond the typical success story narrative to tackle the real, often unspoken, challenges of independent work. This podcast operates on a core belief: the most practical and resilient solutions are forged by the people living this reality every day. Each episode convenes voices from across the entire freelance ecosystem-from solo creators and agency owners to platform developers and policy advocates. The goal is to break down the silos and echo chambers that often isolate us, creating a rare space for genuine dialogue. You’ll hear frank discussions about pricing, client relationships, systemic inequities, mental health, and the philosophical shifts redefining modern work. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all advice, these conversations leverage collective wisdom to explore actionable paths forward. Tuning in means joining a grounded community effort to not just navigate the present landscape, but to actively shape what comes next. It’s for anyone curious about the human and structural dynamics behind the growing freelance economy, seeking both solidarity and substantive strategy.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 72

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