The Sam + Jo VA Show

Agency owners (aspiring, newbies and old hats) this one's for you! In this episode we're talking about the messy, emotional, not-so-glam side of building a team. You know – the stuff that no one posts about on Insta: When a team member lets you down and leaves you to pick up the pieces.When you're still doing client work, managing a family and now … dealing with shitty HR issues.When you're exhausted and wondering, “Is this even worth it?” Running a VA agency isn't for the faint hearted, but if you go into it with realistic expectations, knowing that your resilience will be tested, and you're open to growing into a leader your team deserves, then it's totally worth it! Get comfy while we talk you through the real challenges you'll face as an agency owner, the mindset shifts you'll need to make, and the practical ways you can lead with more confidence, boundaries and breathing space. This is your reminder that your journey doesn't have to be lonely or overwhelming – especially with the right support. Find out more about the Scale It Mastermind here. Download the Free Pre-Scale Checklists here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Thinking of adding payroll services to your virtual assistant or bookkeeping biz? This episode is your sign to explore it… the smart way. We're joined by Alick and Vicki from Thankyou Payroll who break down exactly what it takes to build a payroll offering that's profitable and stress-free (for you and your clients!). What you'll learn:  Why payroll can be a powerful recurring revenue stream How to package and price it like a pro What you must know to stay compliant (and protect your client) Where to get trained up if you're new to the game How to grow this service through referrals and collaboration If you're looking for a sticky, high-trust service to add to your offering - or you've been asked about payroll and not sure what to say - this convo is packed with gold nuggies. Whether you're side-eyeing payroll as your next service or you're already doing it and want to do it better, this one's for you. Book a call with Vicki to chat about adding payroll services to your business  Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. ~ Sam + Jo xo

At times being a virtual assistant can feel like the loneliest place in the world. So many of us work at home in isolation, connecting only at a surface level from behind our keyboards. But it doesn't have to be this way. ‘Connection' may have become a bit of a buzz word in recent years, but there's a good reason for it. Connection is absolutely vital for overall our well-being and longevity not just as business owners – but as human beings! Connection provides us with a sense of belonging and purpose and the emotional support it brings cannot be underestimated. Connection is a choice, but it's a choice every virtual assistant needs to make – even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone to do so. In this episode you'll learn: Why virtual assistants are prone to feelings of loneliness and isolation, and how to combat it.How Jo beat loneliness from the outset and what Sam did to ensure no VA had to feel alone again.The big benefit of connecting with fellow VAs that may surprise you.The 2025 events you need in your diary. 2025 International VA Day 2025 VA Bali Retreat 2025 New Zealand Virtual Assistant Awards Virtual Assistant Network NZ Scale It Mastermind (for established virtual assistants) Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Thinking about soft launching your VA biz or side hustle? Think again! Ironically your fear of failure (that's holding you back from launching for real) has put you on a path that's doomed to fail. It's time to take control of your destiny, to take the bull by the horns, to put your fear of failure and judgement aside and to stop allowing assumptions to hold you back. It's time to take courageous action. 'Cos stepping out of your comfort zone is where you'll truly thrive. In this episode you'll learn: Why soft launches don't work.The VA soft launch story that had us SHOOK!Why your fear of failure will become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Find out more about Launch in 30 Days here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Are you a stay-at-home mum thinking about starting a wee VA side hustle to bring in some extra income? Then this episode is for YOU! Grab a pen and paper, and get ready to learn the exact steps you need to take to create a profitable side hustle while remaining present for your kids. In this episode you'll learn: How to remain present for your kids while supporting your clients.Our very different SAHM/VA journeys.Why there's no such thing as a side hustle hourly rate!The best way to figure out your services and hourly rate as a SAHM VA.Why you may only need to find 1 client. Wanna tip your toes in? Check out the 7 Step Formula and Pricing Calculator. Ready to go all in? Launch in 30 Days is exactly what you need. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo 

In business there are oodles of ways to find yourself in the proverbial sh#t – and being in the virtual assistant space means you're even more likely to fall headfirst. Why? ‘Cos virtual assistants seem hardwired to appease their leads and clients – to the detriment of their own success and mental health. Please don't feel embarrassed if you're doing one (or more!) things on our Sh#t List! Remember. We don't know what we don't know! The important thing is that now you DO know, it's your responsibility to take action, make change and learn from the mistake/s that have put you on a path of high client (or team!) turnover, low profits and where you're asking yourself “is this really worth the hassle?”. In this episode you'll learn: Why you're forgetting your non-negotiables and how it's led to having a business you no longer love.Why all those unbilled phone calls are causing more issues than you realise.Why you've got to stop making assumptions about leads and clients.Why it's time to accept the need for having a robust client contract and onboarding process that protects YOU.The client management reminders you didn't know you needed to hear. Find out more about Scale It Mastermind here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

The must-listen-to episode for VAs growing their teams, as well as those looking for ways to foster healthy, long-standing relationships with their clients. Personality profiling has been the single best investment in Jo's VA agency - hands down. The Process Communication Model (PCM) is a globally renowned tool (trusted by companies such as NASA, Pixar, Air NZ) for understanding personality, motivation, and communication, helping build teams, resolve conflicts and enhance relationships. Certified PCM Facilitator and Trainer Teesha Vee joins us in this episode to share how you can learn how to meet the psychological needs of your team members and clients. Hello increased profitability!! In this episode you'll learn: Why equality isn't a guiding principle you want in your biz (yep you read that right)Why you gel with some clients, and others it just feels hard (and what to do about it)The right way to praise your team and have it make them feel valuedThe 100% predictable distress behaviours of you, your team and your clients. Get your personalised PCM profile here Sam + Jo xo

Santa's elves Sprinkles McHustle and Jingle Bossbells have taken over the podcast for a very special Christmas Edition! In this episode you'll: Play the Naughty or Nice List game (2024 VA Edition).Hear Sprinkles McHustle masterfully re-write the narrative to ensure she's on the Nice List.Support the official petition for Jingle Bossbells to remain on the Naughty List FOR LIFE.Learn what you can do to ensure you move from the Naughty to Nice List in 2025. Find out more about Scale It Mastermind here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Virtual Holistic Systems Strategist Kylie Tolman empowers spiritual and soul-led business owners with aligned automations for sustainable, expansive growth. We first met Kylie earlier this year when she joined May's intake of Launch in 30 Days and within just 10 short months have witnessed her transformation from a little bit lost, generalist freelancing VA, to an award winning, thriving specialist VA agency owner! In this episode you'll learn: How to build a spiritually aligned business.Why energies in business matter.The incredible outcome of niching within a niche.The impact the Launch in 30 Days course can make on an already launched virtual assistant business. Find out more about Launch in 30 Days here. Connect with Kylie and find out more about her services here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

We've pulled out the crystal ball to share with you our biggest predictions for the VA industry in 2025! In this episode you'll learn: The most in demand services for virtual assistants in 2025.What leads and clients are looking for when outsourcing in 2025.Why the brave VAs who specialise in 2025 will reap the rewards!The biggest mistakes virtual assistants will make in 2025 when it comes to either embracing (or ignoring) AI.Why all VAs need to get comfortable with Support Stacks.The pitfalls of the rise in 'Accidental VA Agency Owners'Plus so much more!! Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo 

What word best describes how you want 2025 to be? Think of your Word Of The Year as your guiding word for the year ahead. It's the word that will help you stay aligned with your vision, it's the intention behind everything you'll do, and it's what will keep you grounded in what matters most. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of client work and before you know it, you're saying YES to everything and everyone, leaving nothing left in the tank and ending up with a business (and life!) you're not entirely sure you recognise (or want). Setting yourself word for 2025 is a perfect addition to your goal-setting for the year ahead and could be the single most powerful decision you make this year. In this episode you'll learn why setting a Word of The Year is such a transformative exercise and how to do it in a meaningful and intentional way. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

As your VA biz evolves, a 'set and forget' approach can lead to complacency - and nothing good comes from that! We know how easy it is to get caught up in day-to-day client work, but ignoring vital elements like your website copy, contracts, socials, systems and processes will only make it harder to catch up later. The solution? Regularly reviewing your business fundamentals typically requires only minor tweaks. But let things gather dust too long, and those tweaks can turn into major overhauls. Remember folks: keeping up is always easier than catching up! In this episode you'll learn: The reasons why nothing in biz is set and forget – as much as we wished otherwise.The triggers reminding you something you set and forgot needs revisiting and revising.The list of things in your VA biz to review, tweak and update regularly.Why the transition from Freelancer to Agency Owner puts a spotlight on your-out-of-date messaging, tools, pricing and more. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

A question we're getting asked a lot right now is how the current uncertain economic climate is affecting the VA industry and whether or not that should influence someone's decision to launch their business - or stick at their 9-5. We're not here to bullsh*t you or beat around the bush. There are virtual assistants who are thriving, and others who are barely surviving. Want to know exactly what the VAs who are thriving are doing? Then hit play, cos we're spilling all the not-so-secret trade secrets. In this episode you'll learn: What you need to do to have a thriving VA business in an uncertain economic climate.Why confirmation bias could be the end of your business.How to avoid the feast and famine cycle.Why referrals only get you so far. Book your private Coaching Call here. Find out more about Launch in 30 Days here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here.

In this eye-opening episode, Sam dives deep into her personal journey through perimenopause, revealing why it's so much more than just the infamous hot flushes. Grab your tissues and get ready to have your misconceptions challenged around this often-misunderstood phase of life. With honesty and vulnerability, Sam bravely addresses the mental health challenges that can accompany perimenopause and dispels the myths surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Our hope is that this episode provides clarity and support to women in their 40s who are facing similar struggles. Join us for a conversation that aims to empower, enlighten and educate, breaking the silence around perimenopause for those who may be suffering in silence. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or treatment options. Trigger Warning: This episode briefly touches on topics related to suicidal thoughts, which may be sensitive to some listeners. In this episode you'll learn: The perimenopause symptoms that will surprise you.The defining moment when Sam realised she needed help.How one documentary saved Sam's marriage, and her life.Why hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is not the villain it's been made out to be. Resources: The 34 Symptoms of Perimenopause by Happy Healthy YouMust watch/listen to Diary of A CEO Podcast Interview with Dr Mandy Pelz (Fasting, Hormones, Cycles, Perimenopause)Sex, Myths And The Menopause documentary (Davina McCall)Sex, Mind And The Menopause documentary (Davina McCall) Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Freelance Event & Sponsorship Manager Tania DeJonge from Virtually There took home the biggest crown of the night at this year's Thankyou Payroll New Zealand Virtual Assistant Awards, but that's not all! As well as her deserving win of VA of The Year, Tania is also in the possession of Top Performing VA Freelancer AND Best VA Speciality or Niche for 2024!! Has it all sunk in yet? Not on your life! Tania is well and truly still in a 'pinch me now, this can't be real' phase of her success. But that didn't stop one of the most loved VAs in Aotearoa from sitting down with us just days after her big wins to share her inspiring 9 year (and counting!) business journey, the gold nuggies she has for other VAs who are experiencing the same struggles she's overcome, and why community and connection are so important in the VA space. #itsavibe! In this episode you'll learn: The niche that changed EVERYTHING!The structured business planning system that helped Tania become an award-winning VA.The reasons Tania kept entering the NZ VA Awards despite never getting past finalist status for 3 years straight.Why Tania moved from an embarrassing low casual hourly rate to fixed fee packages, and how it enabled her to reach $15k revenue months.The perimenopause/menopause symptoms that lost Tania clients and what she advises all VAs do in order to prevent the same happening to them. Connect with Tania from Virtually There here and see how she can help you create epic events that captivate and inspire: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here.

We've carried out HUNDREDS of website reviews for virtual assistants over the years, helping them to improve their online presence. And because of all those hours spent scrolling, reviewing and providing feedback we know first-hand the #1 most common mistake VAs are making time and time again when DIYing their site. Today we're sharing with you the simple tweak you can make to your website copy guaranteed to ensure you're not losing leads online. In this episode you'll learn: The #1 mistake VAs make on their website and how to fix it fast! Build your website in a day! Check out The Essential Website Template (plus tutorials!) for Virtual Assistants here. Sam + Jo xo

Little did Sam know when setting her 2024 Word of The Year as ‘healthy' just how drastically that would change her life both personally and professionally. Sam isn't sharing her journey to shame you into making similar changes in your life or to tell you her way is the only way – ‘cos it's not! Sam is opening up about her journey to getting healthy in all the ways in the hope it will help (maybe even inspire) other women in their 40's who are having similar struggles. There is so much overwhelming ‘wellness' noise online that it can do more harm than good, so if this episode helps cut though the stress of not knowing where to start, then we reckon it's worth opening up so vulnerably. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or treatment options. Trigger Warning: This episode very lightly touches on topics relating to eating disorders which may be sensitive to some listeners. In this episode you'll learn: How Sam lost 35kgs in 9 months without setting foot in the gym or breaking a sweat.Why gut health matters.The life-style changes Sam has made in 2024 to work towards a healthy body, mind, business and family.The downsides of dramatic growth and how to overcome the guilt of being ‘selfish' when investing in yourself. The resources and products mentioned in this podcast: Love Ya Guts Foundation Box (Culvic Humic Concentrate, Organic Bentonite Clay, Methyl Sulfonyl Methane, Liver Detox Tea, Collagen) Magnesium Oil Spray, Salt Lab Must watch/listen to Diary of A CEO Podcast Interview with Dr Mandy Pelz (Fasting, Hormones, Cycles, Perimenopause) Live Cultured Goodness, Wildly Turmeric Supplements HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) (Although it wasn't mentioned specifically in the podcast, we want to make it very clear that throughout this journey Sam has been seeing her GP regularly for observation and testing ensuring the lifestyle changes she has made were safe ones for her personally.) Sam + Jo xo

Yeah, we know. The most annoying thing you can say to an overthinker is for them to stop overthinking

Agency owners and sub-contractors. This one's for BOTH of you! This is your friendly reminder that no matter the VA pathway you're on, it's likely you can be doing better. We know you both have your unique frustrations with one another, and boy do we feel for you when the shit hits the fan or you've simply reached the end of your rope after being let down and disappointed one too many times. We get it. It's not easy. In fact some days/weeks are so far from easy you may have one foot out the door already. But you've come this far - too far to give up now! Sam has a unique insight into the issues that often take place between the two of you due to her ring-side seat as Founder of the Virtual Assistant Network of NZ. To help save Sam's sanity (and your own!) let's all take a moment to understand both sides. Let's step into one another's shoes so next time something doesn't go the way you expect you can understand why, learn from it, and do better next time around. Or even better, pre-empt it! In this episode you'll learn: The most common complaints agency owners have about potential team members.The most common complaints potential team members have about agency owners.The things both sides can be doing better so everyone's happy!What aspiring sub-contractors can do to ensure they're making a great first impression on the VANNZ Sub-Contractor/Employee Directory. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo 

Before stepping foot into the VA space we need for everyone to understand the difference between billable and non-billable work. Just cos you may be available to work X number of hours a week, doesn't mean all of those hours will be spent supporting clients.  Anyone that tells you otherwise is delulu. The reality is, in order to make this VA gig a profitable, successful one where you're not working more hours than you were in your 9-5 and you're earning more than minimum wage, you can't be spending 100% of your available working hours on billable client work. It's time to take your head out of the clouds when it comes to your available working hours and how they will be spent so you're accurate when forecasting your future revenue. In this episode you'll learn: The percentage of your time you'll need to spend on non-billable work as a Freelancer and Agency Owner.The non billable tasks you need to make a priority.Why your non billable hours increase even more as an Agency Owner.Why working ON your business is equally as important as working IN your business.How to ensure you're pricing profitably, working at capacity and avoiding the dreaded Feast and Famine Cycle. Get the Ultimate Pricing Calculator for Virtual Assistants here. Download the Pre-Scale Checklists here. Sam + Jo xo

Warning: This episode will make you cringe as hard as you will laugh. You loved Part 1 so much we decided to record Part 2, this time focussing on the untold, after-dark stories from July's VA retreat in Bali. Nothing (and we mean NOTHING) was left on the table. These are all the stories from Bali you didn't know you needed to hear, and stories you probably don't need to hear, but we're over-sharers, so you're welcome! In this episode you'll hear all about: The meaning behind all the giant wooden

Welcome to our un-planned, unexpected, live debrief of the 2024 VA Retreat in Bali! The reason we decided hit record on this very honest, behind the curtain convo? Well, it turns out this (our regular weekly podcast recording session) was our first opportunity to sit down together since returning home from beautiful Bali, and we thought it would be fun to share the highs (and lows!) of taking 11 VA biz owners along with us for a life-changing retreat experience full of self-discovery and business breakthroughs. In this episode you'll learn: How Jo's control freak tendencies almost derailed Bali.How we got the balance right between business and woo-woo.All the reasons we're doing it again in 2025.What we definitely won't be doing again in 2025!Who's having a baby and who needs to shower differently.How you too can lose 4kgs physically and emotionally. Join us at our next lux retreat for VA business owners here. Sam + Jo xo

Would you love to have an ongoing, steady stream of leads knocking at your door – all from online networking? Well, you'd better stop breaking our #1 online networking rule then! If you've been guilty of dropping links and running instead of building meaningful relationships and showcasing why you're the right VA for a potential client, then keep listening … And if you're a VA who DMs potential clients without permission or an invitation … watch out ‘cos Sam's about to slap you sideways! In this episode you'll learn: The online networking lead generation strategy that works!Why your unwelcome, spammy DMs are the equivalent of an unsolicited d**k pic.Why dropping links and running is lazy and losing you leads.The biggest mistake you're making with your personal Facebook profile if online networking is part of your lead generation strategy. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

You've got problems! We've got answers - quick-fire style! There's no pussy footing around in this episode virtual assistants! Coz whose got time for fluff and beating around the bush? Not you that's for sure! In this episode you'll learn what to do if: You've got clients, but not making money.Clients are saying they can't afford you.Leads are ghosting you.You can't get work out of clients.You're only attracting iddy-biddy clients.You have late paying clients.You don't know what to set your prices at.You're not getting any leads from social media.You're working way more hours than you were in your 9-5.You're struggling to find reliable team members.You keep losing clients.You're not getting any work from the VANNZ Sub-Contractor/Employee Directory.Your lack of confidence is holding you back from launching your VA biz.Your lead is questioning your contract.You can't find any clients. Take the What's Your VA Pathway Quiz here. Get the Ultimate Pricing Calculator for Virtual Assistants here. Buy the Virtual Assistant Service Agreement Template here. Join us inside Launch in 30 Days here. Download the Pre-Scale Checklists here. Join us inside the Scale It Mastermind here. Sam + Jo xo 

Ask anyone what's the first thing that comes to mind when they think of AI and it's likely they'll say “ChatGPT!”. Since its launch 2 years ago other competitors have come to the market, but there's no doubt ChatGPT is the most well-known of all the AI tools, and we're certain it's the one the majority of VAs are cutting their AI teeth on. Like any new technology, it's taking users a while to get their heads around how to get the most out of it, so in this episode ChatGPT Queen, Jess Clark, joins us to share her biggest hacks to ensure VAs are training their AI tools to sound like THEM – instead of the 'generic robot on emoji steroids' content currently being pumped out

You're not an expert at everything – and no one expects you to be! We all have our zones of genius and we all need help occasionally to succeed in the things we don't know yet. But even if intellectually we know this, we still discount – or outright ignore – great advice. (And yeah, right now we're specifically talking about our advice that you're ignoring!) So the question is why? Why are you ignoring our expert advice? ‘Cos we may not know everything there is to know about everything, but what we do know inside out and back to front is the VA biz. This is OUR zone of genius. Well, there's generally two reasons aspiring and established VAs ignore our advice (even those that pay for that advice!). The first is that the more confident you are in life, the more you feel like you've got your shit together, the more likely you are to ignore the advice of others. Yeah, it's an ego thing. The second reason is fear. You HEAR the advice, you UNDERSTAND the advice, but the actions required to TAKE the advice are scary and hard and you'd rather self-sabotage your success than step out of your comfort zone. But no matter the reason, if you're struggling with something in your VA business, chances are you simply can't afford to ignore us any longer. In this episode you'll learn: The most ignored pieces of advice VAs love to ignore, and the reasons why they shouldn't.Why we only want you to join us inside the next intake of Launch in 30 Days if you're willing to listen to ALL of our advice! Join us inside the next intake of Launch in 30 Days here. Sam + Jo xo

Witnessing a virtual assistant's journey to going all-in on a niche or speciality is a truly beautiful thing, and we've had ringside seats for Transcend Admin's rise to VA fame. VA biz owner Mandy Purdie has found not only her niche – but her calling, and she's reaping the benefits both personally and professionally that come from scaling New Zealand's first (and only!) ADHD-friendly virtual assistant agency. In this episode you'll learn: Mandy's secret to an inbox flooded with referrals.How to increase your conversion rate through deeply understanding your ideal clients' concerns, worries and fears.How Mandy sustainably scaled to a team of 5 over 3 years. To find out more about ADHD-friendly virtual assistance, connect with Mandy here: Website LinkedIn Instagram Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Are you an aspiring or established virtual assistant agency owner wanting to grow a team while remaining ‘affordable'? Are you struggling to scale, unhappily working all the hours, unable to fully switch off while taking time off and sick and tired of juggling client work alongside recruiting and managing your team? Are you reluctant to put up your prices because you're worried leads will balk at your rates? If this sounds familiar - you aren't alone! It's cold hard truth time: For the majority of VA agency business owners, it's impossible to scale without premium pricing. And the longer you fight us on this, the longer you will continue to struggle. In this episode you'll learn: The team, client and financial issues you'll face as a VA agency owner if you don't have premium pricing.The only agency model that works with pricing that isn't considered ‘premium'.How to work out a profitable premium rate.How to access the exact steps required to scale your agency successfully. Download the FREE Pre-Scale Checklist for Virtual Assistants here. Buy the Ultimate Pricing Calculator for Virtual Assistants here. Join us inside the Scale It Mastermind here. Sam + Jo xo

It's likely you became a VA ‘cos you were over the 9-5 grind. You may have wanted to have more freedom and flexibility than a traditional corporate role allowed you. Or perhaps your priorities changed since starting your family? But let's be honest, you also became a VA to earn a decent income from home! Otherwise, why bother?

Are you really a fully-fledged virtual assistant unless you've received a “I've been ghosted

It's a cold hard fact that people do business with people, and this couldn't be any more true than inside the virtual assistant industry. The quicker you can build the know, like and trust factor online the quicker you'll become fully booked with a steady stream of leads knocking at your door. And the best strategy to achieve this fast is being the face of your business. The worst strategy to achieve this is hiding behind your business name and logo. But we get that this is easier said than done for a lot of virtual assistants more comfortable in behind the scenes roles. This episode is for all the aspiring and established virtual assistants who'd rather make a thousand cold calls than show their face online. You'll learn: The most common reasons you're reluctant to be the face of your business.Why your lack of confidence on camera is holding your business back.The reframe you need to make in order to feel the fear and do it anyway! Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Last year we released the What's Your VA Pathway Quiz to help guide aspiring virtual assistants to find their perfect pathway to success. Those that take the quiz get one of four results: Sub-contractor, Freelancer, Agency Owner, and …. Not Ready. Every time someone receives the ‘not ready' result a little part of us dies. We know seeing these two words pop up on the screen is disappointing for some who receive it, and for others it reinforces what they already know. But just because you may not be ready right NOW, doesn't mean your journey is over! In this episode you'll learn: The 3 reasons you will have received this result.Why this result doesn't mean you should give up.What you can do now to prepare for success in the VA space. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

The knock-on effect of the introduction of AI is HUGE. No one is immune – least of all virtual assistants. We may not have a crystal ball that will predict the future (wouldn't that be nice!), but we do have a decade plus of industry knowledge and hundreds of hours of research, testing and speaking with other experts in our greater network under our belt. All of which has culminated in us being able to confidently predict how the VA space will look in the future ‘thanks' to AI. Look, it's not all doom and gloom! In fact, we believe there are some incredible opportunities for virtual assistants ready to embrace AI in order to stay relevant! Being the first coaches in the industry to talk about the future of VAs in an AI world is a responsibility we don't take lightly. And finding the balance between sharing our knowledge so you can start prepping without freaking you out can be challenging. But when have you ever known us to shy away from speaking out and telling it like it is?

Do you pay your friends to hang out with you? Do you expect your friends sign contracts before hanging out with you? No? Then why are you treating your clients like friends? It's only natural you'll get close to certain clients, especially the long-term ones who you feel comfortable having a laugh, coffee or a cheeky wine with. But when the lines start blurring between professional and personal, when you start questioning whether or not you should put your timer on, and when you can no longer decided whether to introduce this person as a client or a friend … well that's when things can get tricky. You may assume that this type of close-knit VA/client relationship is one to celebrate. We're here to tell you that in most cases it's one to avoid and that having defined, professional boundaries will protect you BOTH. In this episode you'll learn: The VAs most at risk for allowing/encouraging the lines to blur.The unexpected consequences of treating your clients like friends.How to be friendly but not friends with clients. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Shouldering the responsibility of running a business, wearing all the hats and knowing the buck is always going to stop at you can feel heavy. So heavy that it often puts aspiring VAs off from moving from lurker to launcher. Too heavy some days that even well-established virtual assistants feel the temptation of bringing on a partner to lessen the load. On paper, who wouldn't want to go into business with a ride-or-die biz bestie who will always have your back? Imagine having someone at your side to bounce around ideas, keep you motivated & inspired, do all the things you aren't great at, and who is as excited and committed to the business as you are! Sounds like a bloody dream ... right? For anyone considering entering a business partnership, we urge you to listen to this episode first. You'll learn: The conversations you must have before going into business with someone.The alternatives that will provide you with what you are seeking.The parts of Jo's failed business partnership you've never heard. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

It's real talk time! Yessiree, it's time to share some of our biggest biz “icks” as virtual assistant coaches, mentors and business owners. Some of these icks are instant turn-offs; our personal deal breakers. Others however aren't as black and white as we initially thought they'd be prior to hitting record. But whether you agree with our Ick List or not, there's no shying away from the fact that if they are on our ick radar, then some will also be your potential clients' icks too. In this episode you'll learn: The icks that have some potential clients running for the hills.The two icks that will offend you.Jo's unexpected ick that had Sam SHOOK! Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

Some days social media seems like one massive highlight reel of gorgeous influencer-esq biz owners, working part-time hours from their spotless all-white WFH offices, who in their spare time enjoy baking with their well behaved cute AF children and make money while sleeping soundly in their super king sized beds alongside their super king sized partners

We want to preface this episode by apologising to our American listeners

Dude! There is no ‘easier'. There's also no ‘quicker', ‘faster' or ‘better' (in case you were wondering that too). Every aspiring virtual assistant is different. You have different skills, experience, personality types, available working hours and financial responsibilities. So instead of asking us which pathway is easier, ask yourself which are you better suited to? And if you don't know, then we've made it SUPER easy for you to find out! In this episode you'll learn: The differences between being a sub-contractor and being a freelancer.The pros and cons of both sub-contractor and freelancer pathways.Why you may assume the sub-contractor route is easier and quicker.How to find out which pathway you're best suited to. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

On paper your business looks great! You're fully booked (or close to it), your bank balance isn't looking too shabby and you may even be growing a team … It's easy from the outside looking in for other virtual assistants to assume you're successful, on top of things and freaking loving life! But the reality couldn't be further from the truth. The reality is that you really want to love your business, but you've found yourself working ALL the hours, your mental and physical health is suffering, you're finding it difficult to maintain boundaries and you may have even started to resent some of your more ‘difficult' clients. It's a situation we're all too familiar with, so we're here to tell you how you got yourself in this situation (cos yeah, this one's on you) and the exact steps you need to take to turn things around. In this episode you'll learn: What to look at in your business in order to fall back in love with it.Why it's the people-pleasing VAs amongst us that find themselves in this situation.Why gold plating is costing you money.The boundaries to hold and courageous conversations needed to maintain your health. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo (

Hey there VA Agency owners

There are a few pathway options aspiring virtual assistants can take, one of which is very uncommon. Why? Because skipping straight to ‘Agency Owner' is not for the faint hearted, and you'll need a very particular set of skills, skills that you will have acquired over time in your corporate 9-5. In this episode you'll learn: Who can skip straight to ‘Agency Owner'.What your role would look like as an ‘Agency Owner'.What you need in place if you're thinking about skipping straight to ‘Agency Owner'.What can go wrong when skipping straight to ‘Agency Owner'. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo 

We're officially dedicating this episode to all the admin superstars out there wondering whether their skills and experience are enough to move into the VA space. Spoiler alert: WE'RE 99% SURE THEY ARE! In this episode you'll learn: Why downplaying your skills & experience as an admin support is doing you a disservice.The transferable skills that will make you a standout, in-demand VA.To celebrate your generalist VA status – cos niching isn't for everyone straight off the bat.How you can ‘sell' your admin skills and experiences to potential clients. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

What are you putting up with? Is your chair as wonky as Sam's? Is the copy on your website not converting leads to clients? Maybe you've got an underperforming team member you've been avoiding having to deal with? It's time to say goodbye to not only those niggly little daily annoyances, but also the elephant in the room issues that can no longer be avoided. 'Cos the start of a new year is a great time to identify where you're going to put your energy in to make substantial changes in your business! In this episode you'll learn: The reason you've been putting up with shitty equipment, tools, clients and team members.How to plan for upgrades in your business.Why avoiding tough conversations is harming your business. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

“But it's just so hard for VAs right now!” “Man, it's really tough finding clients – no one is hiring!” “It's a slow time of year for sure”. NOPE! Stop it! It's cold hard truth time lovelies. It's NOT slow. Clients ARE hiring. We know first-hand this to be true. We've got evidence to back this up. So enough of the excuses. If you're finding it hard right now, it's certainly not due to the lack of clients looking to outsource. In this episode you'll learn: Why it's easy to use all the reasons under the sun as to why you aren't fully booked.What you can do to turn things around.Why this time of year is often the BUSIEST for successful virtual assistants. Be your own boss, replace your 9-5 income and get the freedom and flexibility you've been searching for. Launch in 30 Days is the step-by-step course that'll see you launch your dream VA business and land your first-ever *well paying* client in just 30 days. Join the next intake of Launch in 30 Days! Are you ready for the next iteration of your business? The one where you work less hours, make more money, have a clear vision of where you're going and can safely say you've kicked overwhelm and burnout to the curb? Consider the Scale It! Mastermind your shortcut to efficiently, painlessly and sustainably scaling your VA business to align with your version of success. Join the exclusive mastermind for established virtual assistants today! Get a 2024 VA Business Planner - an invaluable resource in your business toolkit, disguised as a yearly planner PS: If you're unsure as to which pathway you're more suited to right now, then we'd recommend you do our What's Your Virtual Assistant Pathway Quiz Sam + Jo xo .

We've coached some of the most successful virtual assistant business owners across New Zealand and Australia but Bri McDonald's fast-track journey is one for the books! A fortnight after completing Launch in 30 Days Bri had onboarded 4 clients. Days later she resigned from her 9-5, and within a month she was fully booked and had replaced to her 9-5 income. But the icing on the cake …. 3 months after launching her brand spanking new VA business, Bri was announced as a finalist for Top Performing Newcomer at the 2023 NZ Virtual Assistant Awards! See what we mean?! The action taking required to reach this type of success, this quickly, is next level and to say we're proud mumma hens is an understatement. In this episode you'll learn: How Bri was able to quit her 9-5 just two weeks after launching her VA biz.The course Bri invested in that led to her replacing her 9-5 income in just 3 months.What Bri would do differently … cos it hasn't been all rainbows and unicorns!Why having a supportive partner in your corner makes ALL the difference. Connect with Bri here to find out more about The Admin Place's top class virtual assistant services. LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Just starting out on your VA journey? Join us in February's intake of Launch in 30 Days! Places are limited, so get on the waitlist and grab yourself a wee discount while you're at it. Sam + Jo xo

Are you at risk of losing it all by having all your eggs in one basket? Do you have any back up eggs if the worst was to happen and you lost the majority of your revenue in one big ugly hit? You might be riding high right now, fully booked with one or two great-fit, chunky clients, but we want you to be fully aware of the risks around putting your all your client eggs in just one or two baskets. We want you to have a Plan B so when the unexpected happens (cos trust us - it can happen!), you're not thrown into panic mode, desperate to find clients. In this episode you'll learn: The risk involved in having a client providing you with 50% or more of your total revenue.The ideal client hour/revenue split to ensure you don't lose it all.What to do if your client eggs are currently all in one risky AF basket. Just starting out on your VA journey? Launch your very own virtual assistant business in just 30 days with our step-by-step playbook! We'll guide you every step of the way, from setting up your business to securing (and onboarding) your first client. Are you an established VA looking to scale? Join the Scale It! Mastermind for established virtual assistants looking to level up their business. Make more money, get more clients and grow your team today! Sam + Jo xo

We're wrapping up 2023 with this look back at the episodes from the past 12 months that made meaningful impact and changed the way virtual assistants do business. In this episode, we're sharing stories sent in by our awesome listeners on which episodes packed the biggest punch and why. Just starting out on your VA journey? Launch your very own virtual assistant business in just 30 days with our step-by-step playbook! We'll guide you every step of the way, from setting up your business to securing (and onboarding) your first client. Are you an established VA looking to scale? Join the Scale It! Mastermind for established virtual assistants looking to level up their business. Make more money, get more clients and grow your team today! Sam + Jo xo 

You've probably heard a lot about the importance of having an authentic and genuine personal brand as a virtual assistant in order to attract clients. But what happens if you don't like the thought of sharing everything with everyone on social media in order to be truly ‘authentic'? Or what if you've never given any thought to creating a unique brand voice for your business and don't know where to start? And for those VAs with teams - you may be wondering if you need to show up differently now you've grown your team? Is it time to switch your personal brand to an impersonal one? Communications Consultant and Brand Designer Courtney Haines joins us on the podcast to talk about how to navigate showing up authentically in order to build trust, whilst still maintaining energy and protecting boundaries. ‘Cos showing up ‘authentically' may not mean what you think it means. In this episode you'll learn: Why personal branding and a finding your brand voice is important for virtual assistants.How to use AI to create content without losing your brand voice.How to transition your brand voice from freelancer to agency owner.Whether or not you really need to be active on social media to find clients. To find out more about how you can get personalised communication and branding support, connect with Courtney here: Website LinkedIn Instagram Courtney's Personality Trifecta Template here! Just starting out on your VA journey? Launch your very own virtual assistant business in just 30 days with our step-by-step playbook! We'll guide you every step of the way, from setting up your business to securing (and onboarding) your first client. Are you an established VA looking to scale? Join the Scale It! Mastermind for established virtual assistants looking to level up their business. Make more money, get more clients and grow your team today! Sam + Jo xo

Are you cruising into the Christmas/New Year break assuming no one is hiring virtual assistants this time of year? Sure, there are industries (especially in this part of the world) that shut their doors for an extended summer break. But that doesn't mean business owners aren't scrolling through social media, pondering the year ahead, dreaming about what they want to outsource and stalking who they're going to put feelers out to. And if you're thinking virtual assistants aren't signing up and onboarding new clients right up to the Xmas break – you'd be wrong. Don't get caught up in someone else's holiday slump. There's work for the taking in December and January, so if you've got spaces to fill now is NOT the time to disappear! In this episode you'll learn: The holiday myth we don't want you to buy into!How to protect your holiday leave by automating your discovery call bookings.How to ensure you're keeping leads warm during the holiday season. Just starting out on your VA journey? Launch your very own virtual assistant business in just 30 days with our step-by-step playbook! We'll guide you every step of the way, from setting up your business to securing (and onboarding) your first client.  Are you an established VA looking to scale? Join the Scale It! Mastermind for established virtual assistants looking to level up their business. Make more money, get more clients and grow your team today! Sam + Jo xo

With Christmas fast approaching now is the time to be thinking about how you'll be saying ‘thanks' to your clients for choosing you over all the other VAs they could be working with. But before you let loose on the internet with your credit card, we want to talk with you about keeping to budget and making it personal, because no matter how big or small your budget is this year, it's the thought that counts. In this episode you'll learn: Why tiered client gifting is smart gifting.How to decide on your Christmas gift budget.The cheeky gift idea that will have you blushing.Our favourite gifts guaranteed to put a smile on your client's dial. Woo-Woo Box Knight Inspired Yoga and Oils Virtual Print Grounded Minds B1G1 Huski Good George Moustache Milk & Cookie Bar Girls Get Off Pressie Box Edible Blooms  Celebration Box Follow Your Legend Bento Ninja Trees That Count Tree Gifts New Zealand Zealong Tea Forget Me Not Journals Peg Creative Caliwoods Metal Bird Hinza Bag Champagne Direct Wine Time Bite & Delight The Cookie Collective Happy gift giving! Sam + Jo xo