Maddie Ace - Content and Advocacy Artist

This Freelance Insights interview features Maddie Ace, a content and advocacy artist whose freelance work includes graphic design and social media marketing.

Maddie also happens to be one of my best friends from university. It’s been 10 years since we met and lived together and, despite both moving continents for love, we’re still in touch and both running freelance businesses!

Alongside her freelance work, she is a champion of openness and honesty around mental health. Follow Maddie on Instagram for a refreshing insight into the reality of living with mental health struggles. Far from the highlight reel that is most people’s grid, Maddie shares what her life really looks like and what helps her cope on a day-to-day basis.

How do you describe what you do for work?

I am a content and advocacy artist who owns 3 brands, 2 of which are centered around mental health advocacy. I'm addicted to creating bold aesthetics and vulnerable narratives for my clients and my mental health work. This includes all forms of design - hard copy, digital, social media, photo editing, and event materials as well as copy writing, blog management, event planning and numerous others.

What's your favourite thing about working freelance?

That I can work in my flow, when I feel at my most creative, and that I can choose to work in an environment that supports my mental health recovery.

Where do you usually work from?

I do work from home but definitely prefer working from coffee shops. One of my favorites is in the yoga studio I have a membership for - Surya Cafe. They have smoothie bowls and a tree hugger waffle to die for!

What does a normal working day look like for you?

Contrary to popular recommendations, I am up and on my computer quite early. I tried for years to implement a morning routine but it just isn't for me. I love working in the morning when my mind is clear and cognitive energy is at its highest. I'll work on more intense projects in the morning and then lighter, more creative work in the afternoon, which includes my mental health advocacy work. I take two breaks to play piano, or take some space to find what feels good to keep my mind and body grounded. I think the most important thing is to work some flexibility into your schedule so you are able to change it up and quickly pivot when you need to.

What one tip would you give other freelancers about running a freelance business?

I love the quote that says you have to be willing to suck at something before you can get good at it. I remind myself of this whenever I take on anyone new, or upgrade my services, or make a mistake. It's vital in keeping me willing to learn and grow.

Free resource

With co-host Leora, Maddie releases weekly episodes of The Oh Sh*t Kit podcast. The podcast tells real-life stories of individual experiences with mental health, and aims to reduce stigma while giving listeners tools to help them overcome their own struggles.

Listen to Maddie's podcast