The Secret Sauce of Outsourcing

Hiring my first VA from the Philippines didn't just help my business—it changed my life.I hired my first Filipino VA back in 2005. Suddenly, it felt like there were two of me in my business. That guy still works for me today—just like the ones I hired in 2007, 2009, and 2011. He now runs and manages my 8-figure-a-year business.At this point, I've got almost 50 full-time Filipino VAs. You could find good people anywhere. But it's way easier to find great ones in the Philippines.Here's why:

Ever wonder why the whole world's outsourcing to the Philippines now? There's a reason. Actually... there are seven solid reasons—and one more that might matter a lot more than you think.Outsourcing used to mean India. Not anymore. In 2010, everything changed—and the Philippines quietly became the global leader in business process outsourcing.I've hired over 50 full-time Filipino workers. I've seen firsthand why they outperform, outlast, and flat-out care more than anything I ever got from freelancers or agencies.So what makes the Philippines the best-kept secret in global hiring—and how did it become the world's outsourcing giant?In this episode, I'm breaking down the 7 core reasons businesses are shifting their outsourcing to the Philippines—and the bonus reason that might be even more important for your team:

You think living the 4-hour work week is just a dream? I used to think that too—until life forced me to figure it out fast.Back in 2007, my wife got a life-threatening diagnosis late in her pregnancy. I had two toddlers, a growing business, and zero margin for error. I couldn't work. At all. And yet… the business kept going. Actually, it grew. That was the moment everything changed.I didn't just try the 4-hour work week. I got thrown into it. And the reason it worked? Two Filipino VAs I had trained from the ground up. Not tools. Not some automation hack. Just real people I trusted.So how did I go from grinding 50+ hour weeks… to stepping away cold turkey—while my business didn't just survive, but got stronger?In this episode, I break it all down:

If you're still stuck thinking “India = outsourcing,” you're living in 2005. The world's moved on—and there's a reason.You ever call support, get someone you just can't understand, hang up, and call back hoping for a miracle? Yeah—I did that once.

There's always a gorilla in the room when it comes to outsourcing—and right now? It's the Philippines.Everybody's been talking about India for decades—but the truth is, the Philippines has quietly become the real heavyweight champ of outsourcing.I started hiring from the Philippines back in 2005, when nobody was doing it. Today? It's the world's go-to spot for everything from animation to engineering, medical transcription to game dev, graphic design to full-blown customer support. Let me break it down in this episode—from call centers to coders, graphic designers to video editors, and everything in between.

The Philippines isn't just any outsourcing destination—the culture, the education, the work ethic, it all comes together in a way that makes them crazy good at stuff you wouldn't expect. I'll show you exactly what they're good at and why. In this episode, I'm breaking down 34 roles (not just tasks) that Filipinos are REALLY good at.You'll hear about the obvious stuff—admin, customer support, lead gen, transcription. But then we'll dig into the specialized stuff: SEO, ads, copywriting, full-on social media strategy, and content creation. And then we'll hit the surprising stuff: real estate support, outbound sales, tutoring, engineering, bookkeeping, even legal work. By the end of this episode, you'll know why Filipinos are wired for trust—especially when handling financial data, HIPAA-compliant tasks, or sensitive client info. You'll see how I run my business with an entire Filipino team managing SEO, ads, content, and even project management—without a US-based babysitter. And you'll learn what makes Filipinos shockingly great at roles like outbound sales or tutoring math and English—and how to tap into it for your business.▶️ Ready to blow up your idea of what a VA can do? Hit play and unlock the full potential of hiring in the Philippines.

Outsourcing to the Philippines has exploded over the last 15 years. Businesses are shifting from India to the Philippines for one reason—it works. Filipino workers are skilled, reliable, and cost-effective. But here's the thing: outsourcing isn't perfect. If you don't know what you're doing, you might run into challenges that cost you time and money.In this episode, I break down the six biggest advantages of outsourcing to the Philippines—and why it's about more than just cost savings. You'll learn why English proficiency gives Filipino workers an edge, the biggest hiring mistakes business owners make, and the five challenges no one talks about (but should). I'll also share how to handle these challenges so you can build a strong, dependable team from day one.By the end of this episode, you'll know why Filipino workers aren't just looking for their next gig—they want to be part of your team. You'll see why the Philippines became the outsourcing hub (and it's about way more than cheap labor) and how time zones, holidays, and family commitments actually make Filipino workers more dependable—not less.▶️ Thinking about hiring in the Philippines? Hit play and learn why a Filipino team might be the last hire you ever make.

Not all online reviews are fake—but way more than you think. I've been running OnlineJobs.ph for nearly two decades, and I've seen every trick in the book. The review industry is a billion-dollar game, filled with fake five-star ratings, pissed-off scammers leaving one-stars, and “experts” pushing reviews just to earn affiliate commissions. If you don't know how this system works, you're getting played.In this episode, I break down the six types of online reviews, why platforms with perfect ratings are a huge red flag, and how to tell which reviews actually matter. You'll learn how scammers manipulate review sites, why most testimonials aren't as real as they seem, and the one type of review you can actually trust.By the end of this episode, you'll know how to spot fake reviews in seconds, separate real feedback from the junk, and make smarter decisions based on reviews that actually mean something.▶️ Stop falling for fake reviews—hit play now and get the truth!

Think you can get impressive results by cracking the whip or micromanaging your team? I've been working with Filipino OFS since 2005. My team consistently delivers high-quality work while I work 17 hours a week—but it's not because I'm watching their every move. I've unlocked the real secret to getting impressive results: trust.In this episode, I explain why trust—not strict oversight or paychecks—is the key to elevating your OFS to the next level. You'll learn how cultural expectations in the Philippines differ from those in the US and why understanding these nuances is crucial for success. I'll also share how setting clear expectations and giving the right job titles can inspire responsibility and high performance.By the end of this episode, you'll understand how to build unshakeable trust, motivate without micromanaging, and create an environment where your team feels safe to innovate and excel. You'll also learn to shift the cultural mindset from “just getting it done” to delivering truly impressive work.▶️ Ready to get impressive results from your OFS without micromanaging? Hit play now!

AI is evolving fast—but are Filipino VAs on the way out? I've been hiring Filipino workers since 2005. My team of Online Filipino Specialists runs my 8-figure business while I work just 17 hours a week—and I've tested AI to see if it can do what they do. Spoiler: It can't. Not yet. But it is changing the game.In this episode, I break down how AI is impacting outsourcing and why human connection still matters. You'll hear how my AI chatbot stacks up against my Online Filipino Specialist, Julia, and why she remains irreplaceable. I'll also share how I'm using AI to help my team work faster without losing the human touch.By the end of this episode, you'll understand how to leverage AI as a productivity tool, avoid the “AI hype trap,” and make smarter hiring decisions. You'll also learn how to combine AI and human talent to grow your business faster than ever.▶️ Ready to learn how to combine AI and human talent for unstoppable growth? Hit play now!

Most people think working harder leads to success, but that's exactly what keeps them stuck. Even if you're making good money, if your income depends on you showing up, you're still trapped in the time-for-money cycle. True freedom isn't about earning more—it's about owning your time.In this episode, I break down why even high-income professionals—doctors, realtors, consultants—struggle to escape the work grind and why raising your hourly rate will never set you free. I'll share the harsh advice I gave a 22-year-old window washer, why I refused to help my son start a motorcycle-flipping business, and how I built an 8-figure business while working just 17 hours a week.I'll also share exactly how I removed myself from my business—so I make money while I ski, backpack, and spend time with my family.By the end of this episode, you'll understand why even earning $5,000 an hour won't make you free, how to step away from your business without losing money, and the framework I use to stop trading time for dollars.

For many Filipinos, working for a foreign boss starts with culture shock—but it quickly becomes a refreshing and rewarding experience. Why? The reasons might surprise you. In this episode, I'm breaking it all down. You'll discover why Filipino workers value straightforward communication, how cultural differences shape their workplace experience, and why working for foreign employers often feels like a dream job. I'll also share Julia's story—14 years on my team—and how working with a foreign boss transformed her career and life. You'll hear how she navigated culture shock, discovered the benefits of direct leadership, and found lasting loyalty in her role. By the end of this episode, you'll know how to be the “dream boss” your Filipino team members will stay loyal to for years. You'll also learn how remote jobs are keeping families together, transforming communities, and creating incredible opportunities.

Think working as an Online Filipino Specialist (OFS) was always the dream job? It wasn't. Fifteen years ago, being an OFS was misunderstood, and many workers faced stigma from their families and communities. Today, it's The New Filipino Dream Job. In this episode, I'm breaking it all down. We'll talk about how online work in the Philippines went from being looked down on to becoming a respected career. You'll learn why staying home as an OFS is now a better option than working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) and how online jobs are reuniting families and transforming lives. I'll also share a real-life story—my son's experience living in the Philippines—where he saw firsthand how job scarcity forces people to leave their loved ones just to make a living. He also saw how online work is changing everything, helping families stay together while earning a great income. You'll learn how to create dream job conditions for your OFS, build trust for long-term success, and make a real difference in their lives while growing your business.

In this episode of The Secret Sauce of Outsourcing Podcast, we're talking about the amazing resilience of your OFS—something deeply rooted in Filipino culture—and how it helps your business thrive when things get tough. I'll share an inspiring story about one of my OFS who found ways to stay connected and help out, even after facing the aftermath of two typhoons in a single week.  You'll also pick up some easy tips for building trust and supporting your OFS so they can bounce back stronger, no matter what life throws their way.

Feeling overwhelmed trying to do it all yourself? In this episode, I'm talking about how focusing on progress—not perfection—has completely changed how I work with my Online Filipino Specialists (OFS). From refining Apply Points on OnlineJobs.ph to improving video editing and creating standout content, you'll hear real examples of how small, consistent improvements lead to big results.  If you're ready to finally make outsourcing work for you, this episode is a must-listen.

Feeling stuck doing it all in your business? In this episode, I'll share how hiring your first Online Filipino Specialist (OFS) can be a total game-changer. You'll hear how Liz, Nicole, and Duncan started with just one OFS and transformed their businesses. If you've been thinking about outsourcing but don't know where to start, this episode is for you.

We've been encountering more Filipinos with multiple jobs lately, and I agree that it's frustrating.We want to do something about it. We can't stop Filipinos from having multiple jobs because some need to do it to make ends meet. What we're trying to do is to make the situation more transparent. You need to know when you're hiring someone who already has another job, and the worker needs to know what happens when they juggle all these jobs.Let's talk about it in this episode.

Are you exploiting a Filipino worker when you hire them?There are many people out there who will tell you that hiring from the Philippines is exploitation. But what those people don't know and understand is that nothing can be further from the truth.When you bring an Online Filipino Specialist into your business and pay them fairly, it's a win-win-win situation.I'll explain how that works in this episode, but if you want to learn what a fair wage for an OFS is, check out Onlinejobs.ph/salaries.

Two questions I get a lot about hiring an OFS are:1. How can you trust them, especially with personal or confidential information?2. Can you find someone super skilled? Someone who can work the night shift?I'll answer those questions by sharing Dei's and Dej's stories. You can listen to them in this episode or watch their stories on YouTube:- Dei's story: https://youtu.be/JbVdCTCS_k8- Dej's story: https://youtu.be/NgwQKCbIs6kYou can't hire them, but you can hire people like them at Onlinejobs.ph.

You already have an Online Filipino Specialist, and you're looking to hire more.Should you let your OFS hire for you? Yes! Well, it depends.Let's talk about it.

We tend to overcomplicate things, especially hiring.The reasons people have why they're not hiring yet, even though they need to, is the same. It hasn't changed over the years.At the end of the day, they're all rooted in fear. It's fear that you need to overcome if you want to change your life.Let's talk about that in this episode.

I actually hire family members of my OFS team.I don't always do it. They go through my hiring steps like anybody else. If they're not good enough, I don't hire them.Also, your OFS won't want to recommend a family member who might be bad for the business. They know they'll lose face if that person doesn't do well.Let's talk more about it in this episode.

There's a reason why I often remind people NOT to pre-pay for work.You should pay for a test task, but once you hire someone, don't pre-pay for the work they'll do.If they ask you to pre-pay for work, that's usually a red flag.Instead, you should pay them every week, at least at the beginning. This allows you to build trust without having to pay them in advance.Let's talk more about this in this episode.

Should you pay your OFS in Philippine peso or your currency?It depends.No matter what happens, your OFS will receive their salary in pesos.We actually had an interesting conversation with our team about that. It turns out the amount they receive will fluctuate when we send them their salary in USD. How much is this going to affect your OFS? Let's talk about that.

This video is going to be intesresting and different.Well, maybe not that different because we all know about the amazing things an Online Filipino Specialist can do for your business.What's interesting about this OFS is she works for a talent agency in Hollywood. She talked about the work she does from them and it's pretty cool.

Recently, I received lousy work from one of my Online Filipino Specialists.It was not my best moment. I got frustrated. I scolded that person.Despite that, he didn't disappear.This wasn't the first time I had to deal with bad work. I have scolded my team before. But we have reached this level of trust where I don't have to worry about them disappearing whenever that happens.I know this is different for some of you. Some of you had their OFS disappear. It doesn't have to be that way. In this episode, I'll share how to deal with lousy work so our OFS doesn't disappear.

Everybody wants someone great to work for them, but not everybody wants to do the work. To some, referrals are the only way to get someone great.In this episode, I will advise you on how to find somebody great. Plus, some tips on how to screen and find the best candidates from Onlinejobs.ph.

Should you buy your VA a computer?If your VA is a new hire, has worked less than a year, or you don't trust them yet, you shouldn't.If they ask for a computer too soon, that's a red flag.If your VA has been working for you for a long time and you trust them, you should get them a computer. If an upgrade will make them more productive, it will also help your business.BUT getting your VA a computer is a bit more complicated. In this episode, I share how we do it (which is the easiest way in my experience).

I know I'd make more money if I worked on social media more, or mentorships, or phone calls, but I don't do it.I don't believe in trading time for money. It doesn't scale well for me, and I'd miss out on many things.I don't like anything that sucks my time. My time is better spent with my family and my business. So, I hired someone to do the work for me.What in your life can you cut out to get more time back? What can you delegate and have someone else do? Let me know.

I didn't know it was possible to have a life where I only needed to work 15 hours a week (most days less) and could take mini-retirements every few years. But I was able to do it because it really is a choice. I choose my life first and my business second. So, I made choices that allowed me to do that. The very first step in that journey is to hire an OFS.I've lived this lifestyle for over 15 years. In this episode, I'll show you how I did it and how you can do it with your OFS.

I know you're too busy to train someone. Hiring an expert would be easier because you don't need to do any training.But even when you hire an experienced Filipino worker, you're still expected to train them. You need to train workers on your business, what your customers want, and what you expect from your Online Filipino Specialist (OFS).Training gives them skills, helps bring them into your business, and builds trust.If you want to give your OFS training but don't have time, use our training resources at VAsMadeEasy.com.

I have noticed over the years that younger online Filipino workers are really good.They have more skills and experience than the VAs I hired ten years ago. Their English is also a lot better. Culturally, we have more in common.I'll explain why that's the case in this episode. But if you want to see these workers right now, you can find them at Onlinejobs.ph.

I always get asked how to find cold callers or appointment setters or salespeople in the Philippines.I'm going to show you my process and Mitch's process, which can be really helpful in screening out a lot of unqualified people.Want to hire a cold caller OFS? You can find a bunch of them here: https://www.onlinejobs.ph/employers/skillsearch/cold-calling/db53a7a94bab73bb6476fd58a6fa104b8385275/0

One thing I found common between Philippine and American cultures is how much we value hard work. Like Filipinos, we teach this to our kids so that when they're older, they're ready to work or start their own businesses.This is one of the reasons why so many business owners have found success when working with Online Filipino Specialists. We have so many things in common; working with them is easier.Want to know why and how an OFS can help you with your business? I answer those questions at OFSGuide.com

My son spent two years in the Philippines as a missionary for the Church of the Latter-Day Saints. One of the things that made the biggest impact on him while there was the intense heat.I knew the heat could be intense in the Philippines, but I didn't really understand it until my son explained how it affected him. So when your OFS asks to adjust their work schedule to accommodate the heat, let them.  It does affect their productivity and their health. It's one of those cultural things you should know when working with an OFS.

Can you find talented people in the Philippines?Yeah, definitely!Online Filipino Specialists can do so many things. As long as it's a task that can be done online, an OFS can do it. My OFS team does everything in my business. All I need to do is run it.Do you want to know how to find talented OFS for your business? I'll show you my hiring steps at OneVAAway.com.

Do you want to know how I find great VAs in the Philippines? How do I find loyal, talented people who have worked with me for years?I lay out my hiring steps in greater detail at OneVAAway.com, but if you want an overview of how I do things, I'll show you how I usually hire in this episode.

Today, I will give you a peek into how we do our work, specifically how we do lead generation.It may not work for you if your business is completely different, but hopefully, it will give you an idea of how you can generate leads with an online Filipino specialist.

Once you hire an OFS, it's amazing how much they can help you with your business and your life.There have been times I have asked my OFS to do odd jobs and one-off tasks for me, stuff that isn't related to the business that I didn't have time or energy to do.Want to know how I did it and how other business owners ask their OFS to do odd jobs for them? Let's talk about it in this episode.

Do you want your OFS to take on more responsibility? Take on more work?It's simple, you just ask.Well, there's actually more to it than that. In this episode, I'll talk about how I do it with my team.

Most people don't like video interviews. But Filipinos really, really don't like video interviews.Most OFS don't push through with their applications if there's an interview. Even if you can get Filipino applicants to schedule an interview, most won't show up. Want to know why? Let's talk about it in this episode.

I have never hired a project manager. It's tough. It's not that you can't do it. It's just that if they don't trust you, it will be hard for them to take on this responsibility.What I found works best is to hire from within. Take Joven. He started with me back in 2005. He knows the business better than anyone, which is why he's the one managing Onlinejobs.ph right now. He has the skills, experience, and respect of the team. He knows how to get things done.What do you guys think? Let me know in the comments.

I like working. I like my business. I like solving problems. I like being creative with it. I like getting in touch with my team.I like it so much that I want my business to last. I don't want to work myself to the ground, burn out, or get sick of it.That's why I don't work that much. I delegate everything I can to my OFS team. I only work when I have to and want to. That means working 17 hours a week. It's just enough time to finish everything, do focused work, and have time for what matters.Want to avoid burning out and keep loving your business? Hire an OFS and get some help at Onlinejobs.ph.

I have a bunch of rockstar OFS in my team. But to be completely honest, most didn't start that way. When I hired them, many didn't look good on paper.So, how did I turn the normal VAs in my team into rockstar OFS? Let's talk about that in this episode.Want to know how you can find people who have the potential to be rockstar OFS? I'll show you my hiring steps at OneVAAway.com.

Do you know that Filipinos bring rice first to their new homes? That they scatter coins through every corner of their new homes for prosperity?These are just some of the superstitious beliefs Filipinos have when moving. I'll share more in this episode. 

Filipinos are known for their resilience, and rightfully so.Typhoons and earthquakes are not the only ones Filipinos power through. In so many ways, they also fight to overcome poverty.In this episode, I share John Paul's incredible story and how he is not letting history repeat itself.Find an OFS like John Paul at OnlineJobs.ph.You can watch John Paul's video here: https://youtu.be/YDrY9pB8nuc

I'm asked repeatedly whether high-end talent can be found in the Philippines.My answer: YES!Let's discuss how you can go about it on Onlinejobs.ph. If you need more help, check out OneVAAway.com.

Is there such a thing as “the best OFS”?No, there's not. OneVAAway.com is where I teach you how to find a great OFS for your business. You can start looking for that OFS at Onlinejobs.ph.Let's talk about what “the best OFS” really means.

People don't quit jobs; they quit bosses.So, what does it take to be a good boss in a virtual workplace? Not much, actually. Let's discuss that in this episode.Ready to jump in? Check out OFSGuide.com for answers to the 9 biggest insourcing questions.

Gifts are not my strong suit.What I'm good at is giving time, and as far as I know, time is the most precious gift you can give.Want to know how I can afford to give my time to people? Let's talk.Hire an OFS and get more time today: Onlinejobs.ph

Having an OFS is like having a second you. Having an OFS means having someone to share the load with, someone who works hard so your dreams can come true. Having an OFS gave me more time with my family and my hobbies.Let's talk about how I learned that life is better with OFS.Want to know how an OFS can change your business? Go to OFSGuide.com.Want to find amazing OFS for your business? Go to Onlinejobs.ph.Ready to hire but not sure how to go about it? I cover my hiring steps at OneVAAway.com.