Freelancers Union was created to serve the interests of independent workers, and member participation is critical to shaping the future of the organization. We need you, the Freelancers Union members, to help decide on the next Member Representative to join our board.

The Member Representative will have the same responsibilities as all other board members, playing an integral role in developing our organization’s strategy for the future. Check out the three candidates for the next Member Representative below, and vote here:

1. How would you use your role as Member Representative to advocate on behalf of members?

Bryan:

The Freelancers Union has already built an incredible foundation for independent workers. Unions don’t just benefit their own members—they raise the standard for everyone.

Cities and states with vigorous union activity have higher wages and better benefits across industries—regardless of union membership. That’s because when unions fight, they set the bar higher for all workers.

Freelancing is a game of survival. No benefits, no employer protections, no guarantees. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have power—we just have to fight for it differently.

The Freelancers Union already does great work, and we need to go further. That means not just advocating for freelancers, but making sure every freelancer knows what’s happening, has a say, and sees actual results.

Three priorities I would focus on:

• Unemployment benefits for freelancers. We deserve the option to pay into and collect unemployment, just like employees. I’d push for state-level legislation in more states modeled after New York’s Freelance Isn’t Free Act and build grassroots freelancer campaigns to apply pressure where it matters.
• Stronger payment protections. No more waiting months to get paid. We need real legal consequences for non-payment and a Union-backed mediation system that freelancers can actually use when clients stall.
• A vetted freelancer job board. Too many job postings lead to clients who lowball or delay payment. We need a trusted Union-run platform where only companies with a history of fair pay and fair contracts can post gigs.

Advocating for freelancers isn’t just something I aspire to, I’m already doing it. As a lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how unfair the legal system can be for freelancers. Big companies have legal teams. Freelancers have strongly worded emails and the desperate hope that circling back will magically produce payment.

At a macro level, I push for freelancers’ rights by writing about pay equity in major publications, exposing exploitative business practices, and advocating for stronger legal protections. I also work with businesses to educate them on ethical freelancer treatment—because part of fixing the system is changing how companies engage with independent workers.

At a micro level, I work directly with freelancers—helping them develop contracts, structure their businesses, set sustainable rates, and figure out when to walk away from bad clients. I’ve helped freelancers transition out of full-time jobs, build stable independent careers, and protect themselves in an unpredictable industry.

But advocacy can’t just be the Union fighting for freelancers from the top down—it has to be freelancers driving the agenda. That means:

• Quarterly town halls so freelancers can share concerns and shape Union priorities.
• A public advocacy tracker that shows exactly what the Union is working on and how members can get involved.
• Clearer communication about wins, fights, and how freelancers can take action.

We can build a system that protects freelancers. But only if we fight for it together.

Diesha:

As Member Representative, I will leverage my connections to drive policy changes that directly benefit freelancers, ensuring stronger legal protections and greater recognition from the Department of Labor.

Marie:

As a long-time freelancer and official member of the Freelancers Union since 2021, I understand the unique challenges and needs of independent workers. If elected as the Member Representative, I would leverage my experience and stand-out dedication to further advocate for our members in the following ways:

• Create accessible feedback channels, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard and act as a champion for our members;
• Further advocate for driving policy implementation and changes that protect freelancer rights;
• Enhance and create member resources as the freelance landscape changes rapidly;
• and promote transparency and accountability within the board as a whole.

We can build a system that protects freelancers. But only if we fight for it together.

2. What are some issues you would like to focus on as a Member Representative?

Bryan:

 Losing a major freelance client taught me a hard lesson: I had put too much of my business into one company, and when they cut me loose, I had no safety net.

But that experience also reshaped my approach to freelancing and highlighted how much the system is stacked against us.

Freelancers are businesses. But too many independent workers are left without basic protections or resources. That’s why my focus would be on:

• Unemployment benefits for freelancers. Traditional workers have safety nets—why don’t we? The Union must continue and expand work at the state level to build freelancer-inclusive unemployment insurance programs, ensuring freelancers can pay in and collect benefits just like other workers.
• Stronger contract enforcement and legal support. A contract is only as strong as its enforceability. The Union already provides contract templates, and we need to go further:
  • Free or low-cost legal consultations so freelancers can get expert reviews on agreements.
  • A legal referral network that connects members with attorneys who specialize in freelancer protections.
  • Training on contract negotiations so freelancers enter agreements from a position of strength.
• Transparent rates and business education. Freelancers should know their worth—and charge accordingly.
  • Rate transparency should be the norm. Businesses benefit when we keep our rates secret—we benefit when we share. When freelancers know what others are charging for similar work, we can collectively raise rates and set industry standards.
  • More expert-led business training. From tax considerations to entity formation, freelancers need real education on running a business. The Union can offer training on structuring a business, understanding tax obligations, and negotiating higher rates.
• Defending DEI in freelancing. The Trump administration is actively attempting to penalize companies for DEI programs. We cannot ignore this. These rollbacks aren’t about “fairness”—they’re about reinforcing systemic advantages.

I know it might seem ironic for me, a white man, to be calling this out—but that’s exactly why I should. The people most likely to benefit from the rollback of these policies should be the loudest in rejecting them. We need to track the impact of DEI rollbacks and create support systems for freelancers from marginalized communities—whether that’s access to legal resources, networking opportunities, or grants.

Freelancers deserve stability. And the Union can fight to make that a reality.

Diesha:

• Fair Rates & Pricing Education: Many freelancers undervalue their services. I want to equip freelancers with better tools and training to confidently price their work and negotiate with clients.
• Stronger Contracts & Legal Protections: I want to help freelancers have better contracts that protect their time, work, and payments. Strengthening contract education and enforcement will reduce late payments and scope creep, ensuring freelancers get paid fairly and on time.
• Business Growth & Sustainability: Freelancing isn’t just about survival—it’s about building a profitable and sustainable business. I’d work on programs that help freelancers move beyond the “feast or famine” cycle and create long-term stability.

Marie:

Of course I’d continue to improve upon current open freelance issues such as healthcare benefits, retirement plans, inconsistent pay/payment delays, and professional development. But in addition to that, I’d like to get ahead of potential emerging issues freelancers might face in 2025 and beyond, such as:

• AI: Job displacement, particularly areas like writing, data entry, and basic coding, adapting skills to work alongside AI, and ensuring ethical considerations related to their work (i.e. algorithms, copyright)
• Freelance platform changes and technology: Some popular freelance job platforms may change algorithms or fee structures, impacting potential earning and visibility
• Economic and societal shifts: Uncertainty in national and global economic fluctuations that could impact potential clients and demand for freelance services overall, the ever growing popularity of freelance work, and balancing work and mental health

3. How do you handle problematic clients, and what is your advice to others?

Bryan:

I have an unpaid invoice sitting in limbo. The company approved my article months ago, and published it. And then silence.

Every freelancer has been there.

So what do we do?

• Start with a contract that protects you. Late fees, upfront deposits, clear payment terms. As a lawyer, I never do any work without a contract, and I help other freelancers do the same. If a client balks at signing a contract, that’s a huge red flag. 
• Follow up professionally, but escalate when needed. If a client stops responding, don’t wait—act.
  • The Union could offer structured mediation services to help freelancers recover unpaid invoices without expensive legal action.
  • If mediation fails, freelancers should have clear guidance on how to escalate disputes—whether through small claims court, legal assistance, or collective pressure.
• Make non-paying companies public knowledge.
  • The Union already tracks non-paying companies, but that list needs to be more visible, and there must be real consequences for repeat offenders.
  • We need a public-facing non-payment database so freelancers can check client histories before accepting work.
  • Stronger enforcement mechanisms—mediation, legal action, or public accountability—should be part of the Union’s strategy.

Freelancers should never have to beg for their own paychecks.

Diesha:

I approach problematic clients with clear boundaries and firm expectations. Freelancers often fear pushing back, but setting expectations early—through strong contracts, clear communication, and documented processes—prevents many issues before they arise.

When a client becomes difficult, I prioritize facts over emotions and always keep records of conversations, agreements, and invoices. If necessary, I’m not afraid to walk away from a toxic situation.

Marie:

From my own experience, I know that avoiding problematic clients is crucial for a successful freelance career. I've learned to spot the red flags early on and, even more importantly, I've developed clear agreements and client expectation documents as part of my onboarding process. My advice? Protect yourself from the start with a solid contract and a well-defined list of expectations. But it goes beyond that. Positioning yourself as a strong, independent business – not just someone taking gigs – is key. Remember, we're not employees; we're business owners in B2B relationships. Maintaining that mindset, especially when things get challenging, is essential. It's the best way to deter those who might try to take advantage.

4. How would you build community within the union?

Bryan:

Freelancing can feel isolating—but it doesn’t have to.

We need spaces—both physical and digital—where freelancers can connect, support each other, and grow together.

• Co-working spaces outside NYC. Right now, the Union’s only physical coworking is in New York. That needs to change to include more locations with thriving freelancer communities like Chicago, LA, Seattle, and more.
• Online workshops and networking events. Whether it’s contract negotiation tips or industry-specific roundtables, freelancers need more chances to learn from each other.
• A Union-run freelancer forum or Slack community. A space for freelancers to ask for advice, share leads, and collaborate.
• Stronger local chapters. As freelancing grows, we need regional hubs where members can organize, network, and advocate for state-level protections.

Community isn’t just about networking—it’s about building a support system.

Diesha:

I will promote coworking, participation in mentorship groups, and engagement in networking events as key ways to foster community and combat loneliness among freelancers.

Marie:

I believe open communication is absolutely essential for our success as a union, and as your Member Representative, I'll be highly accessible, relatable, and empathetic. I want to be someone you trust to bring your feedback to – because your voice matters. I'm committed to building a true two-way dialogue, not just broadcasting information. That means creating more opportunities for engagement, both online and in person. I believe in a "give, give, ask" approach to online interaction, offering value and building relationships before asking for support. Efficiency and effectiveness are core to how I operate, and I'll bring that same focus to this role. Leveraging technology to ensure our communication channels are open, easy to use, and accessible is a top priority for me. Finally, I'm passionate about building strong relationships – not only with individual members, but also with other organizations – to foster collaboration and expand our reach and impact.

5. When I'm not freelancing, I am…

Bryan:

Traveling the country with my wife and our dog in our campervan. But we also love coming home. Freelancing gives us the freedom to explore new places, but also the time to build a home life that matters.

And then there’s wine. Because every freelancer needs a coping mechanism.

Wine has taught me something that freelancing doesn’t always allow for—patience, presence, and appreciation for the process. You can’t rush a great bottle of wine. It needs time. It needs care. And the best ones are shaped by struggle on the vine—the weather, the soil, the unpredictable conditions that make the final result unique.

Freelancing is the same way. The process isn’t always easy, but it shapes you into something better.

Diesha:

Trying out new restaurants, cooking for friends, and shopping at the local market—okay, I admit, I love food! But beyond that, I’m also an avid DIYer, a passionate gardener, and a long-time kayaker who has recently started exploring paddle boarding.

Marie:

Spending time with family, playing sports, line dancing, and traveling/adventuring.

6. What is the number one song on your Spotify or other streaming service playlist?

Bryan:

Music has always been part of my life, and my playlists reflect my wide range of tastes—from classical to jazz and Celtic folk to classic rock.

Caution: now entering the potentially pretentious portion.

My top played song for 2024 was Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3. It’s intricate, chaotic, and demands everything you have to give—just like freelancing.

But when I’m writing? Jazz. Bud Powell, Art Blakey. Freelancing and jazz have a lot in common—there’s structure, but also improvisation. A great jazz solo, like a great freelance career, explores, adapts, shifts gears—but always finds its rhythm.

And sometimes, the most powerful part isn’t the note you play—it’s the silence in between.

Freelancing is the same way. Knowing when to say no, when to pause, when to let things breathe. It’s just as important as the work itself.

Diesha:

"Unstoppable" by Sia because it deeply resonates with my journey of resilience—pushing through challenges, overcoming adversity, and growing into the person I am today.

Marie:

I’m Her by Natalie Jane

7. What else would you want members to know about yourself?

Bryan:

Freelancing wasn’t part of my original plan. I followed the safe career path—got a bachelor’s, got a law degree, took traditional jobs. You know, the responsible thing, the path you’re supposed to take. 

Then I thought, why not throw caution and a steady paycheck to the wind and work for myself? Best decision I ever made. Absolutely terrifying. Would recommend.

Freelancing gave me the freedom to do work I care about, on my own terms. It also gave me the same struggles every freelancer faces—chasing late payments, dealing with feast-or-famine cycles, and navigating a system that wasn’t built for us.

Outside of work, I’m always chasing new experiences. Freelancing made that possible and I want to make sure it’s a sustainable path for every independent worker who chooses it or is forced into it.

At the end of the day, we’re the same. We all know what’s broken in freelancing because we’ve lived it. And that’s why I’m here—to help fix it, together.

Diesha:

I didn’t start out as a freelancer. My career began in a family business in the industrial sector, where I became an owner and employer in my 20s. After selling the business in 2021, I transitioned to freelancing, bringing with me the business strategies I had honed while running a larger company. That foundation helped me successfully launch my freelance career, and now I love sharing those insights with other freelancers as they find their voice and grow their own practices.

Marie:

I firmly believe in the power and potential of the freelance career. However, as the smallest of businesses – the business of one – freelancers frequently find the legislative landscape less than favorable. My commitment is to fiercely advocate for our freelance community and help forge a legislative environment where independent professionals can not only survive, but truly thrive.

Candidate Bios:

Bryan:

Bryan Driscoll is a non-practicing lawyer, HR consultant, and legal content writer. As an HR consultant, Bryan helps businesses navigate complex workplace challenges, ensuring compliance while fostering fair, people-centric workplaces. He also coaches individual workers and job seekers, empowering them to advocate for themselves, understand their rights, and navigate career transitions with confidence. On the legal content writing side, Bryan crafts authoritative, high-impact content for law firms and legal publications. His work has been featured in major publications including Best Lawyers, Newsweek, and Forbes, earning him recognition as a trusted voice in workers' rights, employment law, HR compliance, and business strategy.

Diesha:

Diesha Cooper is a fractional CFO and COO, business strategist, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping small businesses and freelancers build sustainable, profitable companies. With years of experience in finance, operations, and leadership, Diesha has worked with founders and freelancers across industries, guiding them through the complexities of scaling their businesses with limited capital. She is the founder of Execuly, a fractional executive brand designed to empower independent professionals, and has built a career on helping business owners take control of their financial and operational strategy.

In addition to her work as a business consultant, Diesha is deeply committed to fostering strong communities among independent workers. She founded the Six-Figure Circle, a coaching program that helps freelancers and small business owners break past income barriers and build thriving, resilient businesses. With firsthand experience navigating the challenges of freelancing—negotiating fair rates, managing client relationships, and ensuring financial stability—Diesha is a passionate advocate for policies and initiatives that support freelancers in building sustainable careers.

When she’s not advising business owners or speaking on stages, Diesha enjoys exploring new business ventures, savoring a cup of tea, and kayaking on a new lake, enjoying the fresh air and the sense of adventure it brings.

Marie:

Marie Rachelle is a seasoned freelancer with over a decade of experience navigating the dynamic world of independent work. Beyond her own thriving freelance career, Marie is the founder of Convergence Coworking, a space she created specifically to foster community and collaboration among freelancers and remote workers in Buffalo. She also hosts Freelance Buffalo & Beyond, the region’s only freelance conference, since 2019. She’s hosted over 200 freelance speakers and nearly 100 sessions focusing on This venture reflects her deep commitment to creating supportive environments where independent professionals can connect, grow, and thrive. Marie's experience as both a working freelancer and a community builder gives her a unique perspective on the needs of independent professionals, making her a strong voice for freelancers everywhere.