AI, freelancer platforms, F1 and more. Notes from 25th February 2026
Posted by Paul Silver
On the 25th February, 15 freelancers met in the Battle of Trafalgar pub, Brighton to talk all things self employment and tech. This is some of what we talked about:
- AI and automation with Make and n8n
- Freelancing platforms including Worksome and Contra
- Finding freelance work through networking
- Can AI become economically viable?
- Uses for smaller LLMs
- Talking at Evolve conference on short notice
- Brighton AI meet up
- Barcelona trip
- Playing guitar and RSI
- Changes to Formula 1 ahead of the new season
- Japanese film festival in Lewes
- Being realistic about how much work you can get in the system you prefer
- Working out what to do next
Quick summary
Networking to find work beats freelancing platforms hands down. I know I’m saying this as someone who has run a freelancers networking meet up for many years, but it’s still true. On the platforms, you’re a somewhat abstract potential resource competing against people with much lower overheads than you. When networking, you’re a real person making a real impression on the people you meet who might recommend you to someone they know. They are very different ways of finding work. One of them has found me local clients I’ve helped for 20 years, it certainly wasn’t the platforms.
Next meet up
Our next freelancers meet up is on Wednesday 4th March 2026, in the Battle of Trafalgar pub in Brighton from 8pm onwards. We’ll have a sign or freelancing book on the table, or ask at the bar and they’ll point you our way.
We’re a very casual group, just turn up whenever you can and have a chat. You don’t need to worry about business cards or whether your LinkedIn profile is perfect. We don’t do pitches. We just chat and help each other out.