POPULARITY
Categories
What does it take to move from being a transactional Executive Assistant to becoming a true strategic business partner?In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, I sit down with Gillian Gelston, Executive Assistant at Salesforce, to discuss her career journey from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service to supporting senior leaders in one of the world's leading technology companies.Gillian shares how she built a successful remote EA career, the systems and workflows that have helped her save time and money for her Executive, and why understanding personality types has transformed the way she works with different leaders.We also discuss:How Gillian transitioned into the Executive Assistant professionBuilding trust and credibility as a remote EAThe importance of boundaries and protecting your timeUsing Slack workflows to streamline approvals and reduce email overloadHow a simple budget approval workflow saved thousands in unauthorised spendWhy compliance can be a valuable area of expertise for Executive AssistantsManaging competing priorities in a fast-paced sales environmentCreating a single source of communication to reduce overwhelmThe role of personality frameworks in understanding ExecutivesFinding your support network as a remote EADeveloping a growth mindset and continuing professional developmentThe books, podcasts and resources Gillian recommends for Executive AssistantsThis conversation is packed with practical ideas for Executive Assistants who want to become more strategic, work more effectively with their Executive, and create systems that make work easier for everyone around them.Whether you work remotely, in the office, or in a hybrid role, you'll come away with plenty of ideas you can implement immediately.Training & Courses→ The Strategic Business Partner Online Course (The EA Campus)→ Elite EA Course by C&C AcademyBooks→ The Modern-Day Assistant by Lucy Brazier→ The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor→ The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyPodcasts→ The EA Campus Podcast→ The Crodie Files→ Executive Office InsightsFrameworks & Assessments→ Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)→ The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTechnology & Tools→ Slack→ Slack Canvas→ Slack Workflow Builder→ ChatGPT→ Google Gemini→ Google DocsLearning Resources→ Slack Academy→ The Global Skills Matrix for Executive Assistants→ The Rundown AI The EA Campus
This session shares my conversation with Jillian Rochat, Activities Coordinator and Mary Hynes, Executive Assistant. We had our discussion in the Franklin Senior Center on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.We talk about All the key event highlights for June 2026Senior Center closed Friday, June 19 for JuneteenthTeasers for summer concerts on select Mondays in July/AugustTeasers for other road trips coming this summerThe show notes include links to the Senior Center page, the calendar of events, and to subscribe to the monthly newsletter. The recording runs about 29 minutes, so let's listen in.--------------Franklin Senior Center page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/583/Franklin-Senior-Center-Council-on-Aging June 2026 newsletter -> https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9582/June-2026-Newsletter?bidId= The newsletter archive page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/585/Connection-Newsletter Senior Center calendar view (just FSC events) -> https://franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false Subscribe to the newsletter -> by calling 508-520-4945My Active Center -> https://myactivecenter.com/ -------------We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.How can you help?If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighborsIf you don't like something here, please let me knowAnd if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We'll share and show you what and how we do what we doThrough this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot comThe music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.I hope you enjoy it!------------------You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
Artificial intelligence is changing the way executives work—but not in the way many people think. According to discussions across LinkedIn and the executive assistant community, the most effective approach is often a hybrid one: using AI to handle repetitive administrative and data-heavy tasks while allowing Executive Assistants to focus on strategic organization, judgment, communication, and relationship management. The goal isn't replacing people—it's helping them operate at a higher level. (LinkedIn) This week, I sat down with Harley Green, CEO of InvestAway and Workergenix, to explore how business owners, investors, and executives can use leverage—both technological and financial—to create more freedom and better results. Harley brings a unique perspective because he's lived every side of the investment journey. A former computer engineer turned real estate entrepreneur, he built his experience through house flipping, BRRRR strategies, private lending, and creative capital deployment. From utilizing HELOCs and infinite banking concepts to strategically selling properties and redeploying capital into lending opportunities, Harley understands how money can be put to work efficiently and effectively. Today, through InvestAway, he helps investors generate returns through short-term, real estate-backed lending opportunities. At the same time, through Workergenix, he helps overwhelmed business owners reclaim between 15 and 30 hours each week by pairing them with AI-powered Executive Assistants who manage inboxes, scheduling, reporting, follow-ups, coordination, and other critical operational tasks. As Harley explains, many executives don't suffer from a lack of ambition—they suffer from a lack of bandwidth. Too often, leaders spend their days trapped in execution rather than focused on vision, growth, and leadership. Workergenix was built to solve that problem by providing dedicated support that operates inside existing business systems while ensuring accountability and follow-through. During our conversation, we discuss: • Why AI works best as an enhancement rather than a replacement for human judgment • How Executive Assistants are evolving into strategic business partners • The biggest operational bottlenecks holding leaders back • Creative strategies for raising and deploying capital • Lessons learned from real estate investing, private lending, and entrepreneurship • How delegation creates freedom, scalability, and growth • What it takes to successfully run multiple businesses while traveling internationally and raising a family Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to buy back your time, an executive searching for operational efficiency, or an investor seeking new ways to grow your capital, this conversation offers practical insights on building systems that create both income and freedom. Join us for an engaging discussion on the intersection of AI, organizational efficiency, real estate investing, leadership, and wealth creation with Harley Green. For more information: https://www.investaway.co/ Discover More: https://workergenix.com/ LinkedIn: @HarleyGreen Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scale-smart-grow-fast/id1770366237 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Drowning in emails and admin tasks? Discover how Virtual executive assistants help CEOs and founders reclaim valuable hours weekly, scale smarter, and focus on strategic growth. Learn what to delegate first for maximum impact. Learn more at https://smartscale360.com/pages/executive-assistant SmartScale 360 City: Tampa Address: 1209 E Cumberland Ave Website: https://smartscale360.com/
205: What does a Chief of Staff actually do — and why are more CEOs hiring them than ever before? In this episode, Clara Ma breaks down the real role of a Chief of Staff inside fast-growing startups and modern leadership teams. From executive strategy and hiring to AI, remote work, and scaling companies, this conversation explores why the Chief of Staff role is evolving so quickly. We talk about: - Chief of Staff vs Executive Assistant - How CEOs hire the right strategic partner - Startup leadership and operations - AI tools and AI literacy for Chiefs of Staff - Emotional intelligence in executive roles - Remote vs in-office collaboration - Career growth after becoming a Chief of Staff - Building high-performing leadership teams Clara also shares lessons from building one of the fastest-growing Chief of Staff communities and working closely with founders, executives, and operators across the startup world. This episode is packed with insights for Chiefs of Staff, Executive Assistants, startup founders, operators, and business leaders preparing for the future of work. -- Clara Ma is the founder and CEO of Ask a Chief of Staff, a bootstrapped community and recruiting platform for Chiefs of Staff at every stage of their career. She launched it after serving as a Chief of Staff herself, most recently at Hugging Face during their Series A, and built it into a 500+ member community. Her work sits at the intersection of the Chief of Staff role and the business of community, and she's been recognized as an Inc. Magazine 2026 Female Founders 500 honoree for it. Through AaCoS, she's become a go-to resource for Chiefs of Staff looking to grow in the role, and for executives trying to hire the right one. LINKS: - Diana Brandl on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-brandl/ - Clara Ma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarama/ - Chiefs of Staff Community: https://askachiefofstaff.com/ - Executive Office Insights Newsletter: https://the-socialista-projects.com/#newsletter - Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3qBSDjTfYOG2x6qos7dKkS - Podcast on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/de/podcast/the-future-assistant/id1493106661 The Executive Office Insights Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3QH8HL8oWIC0HzHWvb5KLd Guest Picks Run the World by Beyoncé
In Ep98 of The EA Campus Podcast, we discuss the question of whether to trust or rely upon. Why the difference matters for EAs. As Executive Assistants, many of us become the person everybody depends on. We manage the details, keep things moving, solve problems quickly, and often hold together far more than people realise.But there's an important difference between being relied upon and being trusted.In ep98 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas explores how trust develops in the EA role, why being operationally dependable can sometimes keep us stuck in reactive working patterns, and how stronger Executive partnerships are built through communication, consistency, visibility, and confidence in our thinking. In Ep98, we look at: Why trust and reliance are not the same thingHow EAs become operationally central in organisationsThe shift from task support to a strategic partnershipThe small behaviours that build Executive confidence over timeWhy many experienced EAs already have more influence than they realiseIf you've ever felt like your Executive depends on you for everything, but you still want more autonomy, visibility, or strategic involvement, this episode is for you.Resources and links:The Difference Between Being Trusted and Being Relied UponRead more from The EA Campus:10 Micro-Behaviours That Build Executive Trust From Task Manager to Trusted Partner: Building a Strategic Relationship with Your ExecutiveInspiring Trust in Your EA WorkStrategic Business Partner Online CourseUpcoming EA Campus Events The EA Campus
204: Eine internationale Geschäftsreise. Ein gesperrter Luftraum. Und plötzlich werden aus wenigen Stunden ganze elf Tage im Ausnahmezustand. In dieser Podcastfolge erzählt Tanja Donislreiter von einer Reise, die völlig anders endete als geplant: Nach einem Meeting in Indien strandet sie gemeinsam mit einem Kollegen in Doha – mitten in einer geopolitischen Krisensituation. Was folgt, sind Tage voller Unsicherheit, Alarmmeldungen, spontaner Entscheidungen und emotionaler Momente. Wir sprechen über: - Krisenmanagement unter extremen Bedingungen - mentale Stärke und Resilienz - Entscheidungen unter Unsicherheit - internationale Geschäftsreisen - Zusammenhalt in Ausnahmesituationen - die moderne Rolle von Executive Assistants - sowie den Einfluss von Künstlicher Intelligenz auf die Zukunft der Assistenz Außerdem geht es um Verantwortung, Vertrauen, strategische Zusammenarbeit und die Frage, warum Struktur und Ruhe in Krisensituationen oft entscheidend sind. Eine ehrliche, bewegende und zugleich inspirierende Folge über Menschlichkeit, Leadership und den Umgang mit Situationen, die niemand planen kann. --- Tanja Donislreiter ist Executive Assistant des CEO bei NETZSCH Pumps & Systems und seit über 25 Jahren Teil des Unternehmens. In ihrer Rolle ist sie weit mehr als klassische Assistenz: Sie versteht sich als strategische Partnerin des CEO, Sparringspartnerin des Managements und verbindende Schnittstelle innerhalb der Organisation. Ihr Fokus liegt auf moderner Zusammenarbeit, Führungskultur und der Weiterentwicklung der Assistenzrolle. Besonders beschäftigt sie die Frage, wie Künstliche Intelligenz sinnvoll eingesetzt werden kann, um Freiräume für echten menschlichen Mehrwert zu schaffen – ohne den Menschen zu ersetzen. Als Corporate Influencerin teilt sie ihre Erfahrungen zu Transformation, Vertrauen und persönlicher Entwicklung – authentisch, reflektiert und nahbar. Privat lebt Tanja Donislreiter mit ihrer Familie in Oberbayern, ist Mutter von drei Kindern und engagiert sich ehrenamtlich in ihrer Heimatgemeinde. LINKS:
Tanya Kitchings is the former Executive Assistant for Steven Kendrick, when he was Richmond County Tax Commissioner. She has served notice to the City of Augusta that she is seeking damages for alleged sexual harassment and misconduct at the hands of Kendrick, and that it occurred with the knowledge of other employees. Austin's full interview with Kitchings is presented here, and we need to remind you that we came back at the end of the show with an extra two minutes of content, involving a written statement she requested to make.That addition went out over the air shortly after 6pm...and we again, share it here.Kendrick, who is currently running for Mayor of Augusta, is welcome to answer the claims made by Kitchings, and respond in any way he deems necessary. We will certainly accommodate any reasonable response he has, however he feels he needs to deliver it, written or in a live interview.Keep in mind, Ms. Kitchings' claims are shared in the public interest, and represent one side of the story she tells.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this spotlight episode of Diana Brandl's Executive Office Insights, Anne Marie Otañez details her intentional career path, moving from early roles at Netscape, Disney, and Apple to her current strategic position.Learn what it truly means to be a Chief of Staff—a trusted partner, liaison, confidant, and proxy—and the importance of clearly defining the role against that of an Executive Assistant. Anne Marie, who is also an author and the founder of the Chief of Staff Academy, shares how she supports senior leaders, manages a 100% remote work environment with intentional travel, and her goal to build a sustainable family business. Tune in to Episode #375 for insider knowledge and new perspectives on leadership and executive support.Show notes → leaderassistant.com/375--It's the last day of the offsite and it was exactly what the team needed. The CEO pulls you aside to say, “Thank you. This was next level.”Your secret? You used Offsite. They handled the venues, negotiations, and logistics – so you could focus on shaping the experience.Sound too good to be true? It's actually within reach. (And it can even save you money.)See how at leaderassistant.com/offsite. --Are you ready to level up? Enroll in The Leader Assistant Academy at leaderassistant.com/academy to embrace the Leader Assistant frameworks used by thousands of assistants.More from The Leader Assistant...Book, Audiobook, and Workbook -> leaderassistantbook.comThe Leader Assistant Academy -> leaderassistantbook.com/academy Premium Membership -> leaderassistant.com/membershipEvents -> leaderassistantlive.comFree Community -> leaderassistant.com/community
In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas sits down with Molly Looney, Executive Assistant to the CEO of San Carlo Restaurants and winner of National PA of the Year.From supporting international restaurant expansion projects to managing charity partnerships, travel, operations, and high-level stakeholder relationships, Molly shares what life really looks like behind the scenes of a fast-moving EA role in hospitality.The conversation explores the importance of emotional intelligence, building trust with your Executive, learning how to read the room, and why “walking the floor” can become one of the most valuable habits an Executive Assistant develops.Molly also opens up about: ☑ Working with difficult Executives and what those experiences taught her ☑ Knowing when to protect your Executive's time and energy ☑ Managing reactive workloads without rigid systems ☑ Building strong workplace relationships and culture ☑ Why the EA role goes far beyond calendar management ☑ Her experience winning National PA of the Year ☑ The opportunities available for EAs who want to grow into more strategic rolesThis is an honest, practical, and relatable conversation about the reality of modern Executive Assistant work, and the human skills that make the biggest difference.You can find upcoming EA Campus masterclasses, virtual summits, and events at: → https://theeacampus.com/events/ The EA Campus
'A Transparent Sham': Howard Stern Fires Back at Ex-Executive Assistant's Bombshell Lawsuit Seeking $2.5Million in DamagesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Administrative Professionals Day 2026 is celebrated during the month of April to recognize the essential work of administrative staff, including secretaries, assistants, and support professionals. For our Administrative Professional Empowerment Series, Plan Dulce Hosts Michelle E. Zuñiga, PhD, AICP (she/her/hers) and Haydee Urita-Lopez (she/her/hers) interview Cecilia Lamas (she/her/ella), Commission Executive Assistant II at the City of Los Angeles' Planning Department. Cecilia Lamas is a 42-year-old Latina (Mexican-American) that grew up in the City of Cudahy, and is an LA Girl at heart. She recently earned an associate's degree in Law, Public Policy and Society from Riverside Community College and East Los Angeles Community College, and plans to pursue a Law Degree in the field of Estate Planning and Family Law. With 20 years of civil service status, she started with the city as an Administrative Clerk in 2005 and her first 10 years were with the Housing Department, Code Enforcement Division, followed by the Department of City Planning, Commission's office. She was promoted from Senior City Clerk to Commission Executive Assistant II, a position that plays a vital key role in managing the City Planning Commission, and helping to lead and motivate peer Administrative Clerks in the Commission Office. Cecilia helps to manage 9 commissions, including the City Planning Commission, seven Area Planning Commissions, and the Cultural Heritage Commission. Outside of work she is a proud Mom to a beautiful 24-year-old young woman, and three boys ages 13, 11, and 9. Her boys play club water polo and consume her weekends with exciting tournaments and games. Cecilia enjoys traveling with her family to different parts of Mexico and also enjoys camping, playing tennis, reading and watching football. Links and Resourceshttps://planning.lacity.gov/https://ewdd.lacity.gov/index.php/employment/worksource --------------------------------------Plan Dulce is a podcast by members of the Latinos and Planning Division of the American Planning Association. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Want to recommend our next great guests and stay updated on the latest episodes? We want to hear from you! Follow, rate, and subscribe! Your support and feedback helps us continue to amplify insightful and inspiring stories from our wonderfully culturally and professionally diverse community.This episode was conceived, written, and produced by Haydee Urita-Lopez (she/her/hers), Michelle E. Zuñiga, PhD, AICP (she/her/hers) and co-produced by Vidal F. Márquez (he/him).Connect:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/plandulcepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/LatinosandPlanning/Youtube:Subscribe to Plan Dulce on Youtube LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4294535/X/ Twitter:https://twitter.com/latinosplanapa?lang=en
Let's be clear—the right Executive Assistant isn't just support... they're leverage.In this episode, Beth sits down with her Executive Assistant, Nat, to unpack what itreally takes to evolve from task-based support into a true strategic partner. Together, they explore the standards, trust, discipline, and ownership required to operate in close proximity to leadership—and how that kind of partnership becomes a force multiplier for scale.Beth shares how she has intentionally challenged Nat to rise into a higher standard, while Nat opens up about the mindset shifts, pressure, and growth that transformed the way she leads from where she sits.This conversation is about clarity, accountability, strategic thinking, and the kind ofbehind-the-scenes partnership that protects momentum as a company grows. This episode is for leaders, operators, and high-capacity support professionals ready to expand beyond execution and become indispensable.
203: Was passiert, wenn man eine erfolgreiche Konzernkarriere hinter sich lässt – und komplett neu anfängt? In dieser Folge spricht Annika Tringali über ihren Weg in die Selbstständigkeit als virtuelle Executive Assistant und die Entscheidungen, die sie dorthin geführt haben. Du erfährst, wie sich Arbeiten im internationalen Umfeld wirklich anfühlt, welche Herausforderungen hinter einem scheinbar klaren Karriereweg stecken und warum ein Neustart oft weniger geplant ist, als man denkt. Es geht um echte Einblicke in den Arbeitsalltag auf Top-Management-Level, um persönliche Wendepunkte und um die Frage, wie man den eigenen Weg findet, auch wenn er nicht geradlinig verläuft. Für alle, die sich für Karriere im Ausland, Selbstständigkeit, virtuelle Assistenz und persönliche Entwicklung interessieren. --- Annika Tringali arbeitet seit über zwanzig Jahren als Executive Assistant in internationalen Unternehmen. Sie ist in Hannover aufgewachsen und hat ihre berufliche Laufbahn in München verbracht, größtenteils bei Amazon. Dort unterstützte sie Führungskräfte auf Director- und Vice-President-Ebene in Deutschland, Großbritannien und den USA. Ihr Schwerpunkt lag auf funktionierender Zusammenarbeit in komplexen Organisationen, klaren Abläufen und verlässlicher Kommunikation im Arbeitsalltag. In diesem Rahmen war sie mehrere Jahre als zertifizierte Amazon Bar Raiserin in Interviewprozesse über unterschiedliche Funktionen hinweg eingebunden. Seit 2021 beschäftigt sie sich intensiver mit Fragen von Kommunikation und Beziehung. Auslöser war der Einzug ihrer Shiba-Inu-Hündin Makenzie. Die daraus entstandenen Beobachtungen fließen heute sowohl in ihre berufliche Tätigkeit als auch in einen eigenen Podcast ein, den sie aktuell launcht. Heute lebt Annika zwischen Taormina auf Sizilien und München, und ist mit Bureau Tringali als virtuelle Executive Assistant für Führungskräfte in Europa tätig. LINKS:
I had the honor of speaking with Maaike Knoester for an interview on the 5 Star Assistant Podcast to discuss my 20-year career as an Executive Assistant, my book The Leader Assistant, and the journey of producing over 360 episodes of my own podcast.In this conversation we talk about challenging misconceptions about our profession. The greatest misunderstanding is that EAs are merely "one-trick ponies" focused on scheduling and expenses. In reality, we are strategic partners who see the whole picture for our executives. Internally, the biggest barrier I see is a lack of confidence, often stemming from attaching personal worth to job performance.To combat burnout and build a sustainable career, I emphasize two core principles:Detach your worth from your work. Your value as a person is separate from your job performance.Set clear boundaries. I made it a point with my current executive to log off on the weekends because you cannot truly help others long-term if you don't take care of yourself.Finally, when it comes to being busy, I see "multitasking" not as doing two things at once, but as the critical skill of prioritizing and context switching effectively between diverse responsibilities.Thank you, Maaike, for the opportunity to be on your show, and for asking such great questions!Show notes -> leaderassistant.com/373--It's the last day of the offsite and it was exactly what the team needed. The CEO pulls you aside to say, “Thank you. This was next level.”Your secret? You used Offsite. They handled the venues, negotiations, and logistics – so you could focus on shaping the experience.Sound too good to be true? It's actually within reach. (And it can even save you money.)See how at leaderassistant.com/offsite. --Are you ready to level up? Enroll in The Leader Assistant Academy at leaderassistant.com/academy to embrace the Leader Assistant frameworks used by thousands of assistants.More from The Leader Assistant...Book, Audiobook, and Workbook -> leaderassistantbook.comThe Leader Assistant Academy -> leaderassistantbook.com/academy Premium Membership -> leaderassistant.com/membershipEvents -> leaderassistantlive.comFree Community -> leaderassistant.com/community
What if I told you that for less than the cost of one case, you could buy back hours of your week—and finally focus on the work that actually grows your practice?In this Five Minute Friday, I'm challenging one of the biggest blind spots I see in orthodontists today: the belief that “I can do it all myself.” After coming off a high-level Orthopreneurs RD meeting, it became crystal clear—most of you aren't lacking solutions… you're lacking time. And more importantly, you're holding onto tasks you should've delegated years ago.Quotes“The overwhelming majority of you are way too busy, don't have enough time, and are making enough money that you can afford an executive assistant.”— Dr. Glenn Krieger“If you can take $20,000 a year to free you up and focus on the things you need to be doing, it'll be the best money you ever spend.”— Dr. Glenn KriegerKey TakeawaysIntro (00:00)Why orthodontists resist solutions they actually need (00:58)What an executive assistant really does (and doesn't do) (01:20)Real-world examples: travel, scheduling, and life logistics (01:45)Fractional hiring: how to start small (02:25)The ROI of buying back your time (03:00)Why this may be the highest-leverage investment you can make (03:45)Additional Resources
Catalyst is a Creative Industries podcast, from Chapman University. Each episode features Chapman students who have completed a Podcasting course through the Center for Creative and Cultural Industries at the university. Students who had no podcasting experience or technical ability in the genre before taking the course were able to contribute all the segments to Catalyst this season with the goal being that they will take this 'hands-on' experience and carry it over to the launching of their very own series. Each episode of Season 15 will feature one to two different interviews conducted by CCI students, exploring different aspects of the Creative and Cultural Industries. For our first interview this week we are joined by Erik Lund who hosts a fascinating interview with Anton Poriazov, a Bulgarian actor and bodybuilder whose credits span both Bulgarian and international feature films. Anton joins fresh from The Running Man gala in London and with upcoming projects including Nightingale and the TV series Torque on the horizon, making for a conversation that arrives at exactly the right moment in his career. The pair dig into what it actually looks like to balance so many creative industries at once, exploring how each one feeds and shapes the others in a cycle that seems to have no off switch. Anton's profile as a well-known public figure in Bulgaria also opens up a fascinating thread about celebrity in smaller national markets, and how that context breeds a humility and gratitude that stands out in any room. Concluding the episode this week Tatum Behrens interviews Hannah Pierce, an Executive Assistant at Hybe America, the diversified entertainment and media company at the intersection of music, film, television, technology, and culture. They discuss Hannah's career prior to landing the position at Hybe, and get into some candid talk about the unglamorous realities behind the spotlight. Hannah challenges the glossy narratives that define Hollywood's public image and makes a compelling case that the most essential work in entertainment is the work no one ever sees.
You can run a flawless calendar, solve travel chaos, and defuse workplace fires before most people finish coffee and still get blindsided by one quiet risk: your executive walks into the room looking slightly off. Not scandalous, not sloppy, just misaligned enough to blur authority, weaken credibility, and chip away at the outcomes you worked hard to set up. That “unwritten responsibility” lands on executive assistants all the time, with maximum discretion and almost zero training.I share the three moments where what your leader wears matters most: high stakes external visibility like board meetings and investor presentations, recurring moments like leadership meetings and all hands, and the last minute media request or VIP meeting that appears with 24 hours notice. If you want to support executive branding while becoming a stronger strategic partner, press play, then subscribe, share with an EA friend, and leave a review so more assistants can find this kind of support.THE FOUNDATION EDIT:http://www.theeverydayicon.co/the-foundation-editADDITIONAL RESOURCESTHE SIGNATURE EDIT NEWSLETTER http://the-executive-edge.kit.com/560a58e519WEBSITE:www.theeverydayicon.coYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@tiffanyodeanINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/styledbytiffanyo/
Happy Administrative Professionals Week! As promised, we have double the content for you this week. On today's episode of REACH, we're joined by Nicky Christmas, Founder of EA Campus and a globally recognized voice in the executive support space. Nicky has built her career around elevating the role of the Executive Assistant, helping assistants move beyond task execution and into true strategic partnership. Through EA Campus, she's worked with thousands of EAs around the world, equipping them with the mindset, frameworks, and confidence to operate at a higher level. What makes Nicky's perspective especially valuable is her focus on the realities of the role that aren't always formally taught. The nuance, the judgment calls, and the moments where there is no clear right answer. In this episode, we explore what it really means to operate in the gray. How to make decisions without a playbook, build trust with your executive, and confidently step into a more strategic, operator mindset. It's not too late to join Nicky in person or remotely. The EA Campus Conference is running this week, April 22–24, 2026, at ISH Venues in London and online. Find out more and register here: https://theeacampus.com/conference/ You can also learn more about Nicky and access her resources at https://theeacampus.com/
Happy Administrative Professionals Week! On today's episode of REACH, we're joined by Monique Helstrom, former Executive Assistant, Producer, and “Chief of” to Simon Sinek, author of Start with Why. Often described as the “HOW Girl to the WHY Guy,” Monique spent nearly a decade helping build and scale one of the most influential leadership brands in the world, giving her a front-row seat to high-level leadership, communication, and partnership. Now a keynote speaker and coach, Monique shares practical guidance for Executive Assistants on leading up, communicating with clarity, and stepping into their roles with confidence. We also explore how EAs can embrace AI as a powerful tool to stay relevant and enhance their impact. This episode is packed with actionable insights on communication, connection, and evolving as a strategic partner in today's workplace. Resources & Offers: Podcast Listener Offer Get $100 off The AI-Powered Assistant course. Learn how to think with AI so you can produce stronger work, faster, and position yourself as a strategic partner. https://www.moniquehelstrom.com/ai-powered-assistant Use code: reachpodcast April Coaching Offer Special Administrative Professionals Month pricing on coaching sessions focused on confidence, communication, career direction, and strategic partnership skills. Book a Discovery Call: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/discoverycallwithmonique Double Course Bundle (April Only) Get The AI-Powered Assistant and Introduction to Effective Communication together to build both technical skills and communication clarity. Explore the bundle: https://moniquehelstrom.thinkific.com/bundles/administrative-professionals-month-2026 About Monique Monique Helstrom is a recruiter, coach, and speaker specializing in the executive–assistant partnership. A former Executive Assistant to Simon Sinek, she now helps executives hire and work effectively with high-level assistants and supports assistants in building strategic, future-proof careers. Website: www.MoniqueHelstrom.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniquejhelstrom/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquehelstrom/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrz2UEjZterB-2AdKZuAYxQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoniqueJHelstrom
Nicole Grinnell is an experienced podcast guest and a two-time business owner. Drawing from her experience as the owner of Bosun Solutions, she's passionate about helping business owners understand the benefits of scaling their businesses with fractional teams. Nicole is also the founder of Mic'D Up Booking, a podcast booking agency who works with clients to package and pitch your brand strategically to podcasts in your niche. Nicole comes from a family of entrepreneurs and small business owners. With a background as an Executive Assistant, she excelled by applying her small business knowledge and strong work ethic. Driven by her passion for organization and efficiency, she founded Bosun, a remote staffing firm that provides affordable solutions to help small business owners grow and scale, regardless of economic conditions.
202: She built a global business for assistants, starting with a simple blog. In this episode, Nicky Christmas shares how she went from Executive Assistant to founder of The EA Campus and what it really takes to turn a side project into an international platform. Instead of following a traditional career path, Nicky created something that didn't exist at the time: a space for assistants to learn, grow, and be taken seriously. Today, her platform reaches thousands of Executive Assistants and Personal Assistants globally through online courses, virtual summits, and a strong professional community. But this conversation goes beyond her story. We talk about: - The real shift from Executive Assistant to entrepreneur - Why so many assistants are still underestimated in today's workplace - The gap between skills and recognition in companies - How AI tools and digital transformation are changing the assistant role and why many organizations are falling behind This episode is a must-listen if you're ready to think bigger about your Executive Assistant career, step into a more strategic role, and explore what's truly possible beyond the job title. --- This is what Nicky says about herself and her work: Hi! I'm Nicky Christmas. Let me tell you about The EA Campus. Back in 2011, I launched what would become Practically Perfect PA as a passion project, while working full-time as an Executive Assistant to the COO and CFO of a global insurance organization. At the time, there were few resources for Assistants, and I wanted to create a platform that not only provided guidance but also reshaped the conversation about the role of Assistants. Practically Perfect PA quickly became one of the leading voices in the online learning space for Assistants - long before virtual training and digital communities became the norm. Over the last 15 years, our platform has evolved, staying ahead of trends and continuing to provide relevant, cutting-edge content that moves the conversation forward while actively challenging and shifting outdated perceptions of the Assistant role. As an international speaker and thought-leader, I've had the privilege of traveling the world, engaging with thousands of Assistants, and sharing strategies to help them excel. In 2025, we officially rebranded as The EA Campus, a space designed to cater to the evolving demands of Assistants today. The EA Campus continues to push boundaries, offering virtual summits, online courses, and a thriving community, all designed to meet the changing needs of Assistants globally. Our commitment has always been to put our audience's needs first, ensuring that every Assistant, at any stage of their career, has access to the tools, knowledge, and community support they need to thrive. LINKS:
From 2004 - Jim. Kuhn, author of "Ronald Reagan: In Private - A Memoir of My years in the White House." Kuhn served as Executive Assistant to the President.
Ryan goes live — sort of — and ends up doing what he does best: real, honest coaching. In this solo-ish episode, Ryan chats with Mark Cruz about the fear of hiring help and what it actually looks like to start delegating in a small video business. Ryan also gets candid about overcoming perfectionism and why launching imperfectly beats not launching at all. Key Takeaways Hiring a virtual assistant through sites like onlinejobs.ph or Upwork — even for just 5–10 hours a week — can free up serious mental bandwidth and open the door to more revenue-generating work You don't need consistent income to start hiring; start small, build trust, and scale from there Perfectionism is the enemy of progress — in business and in life, done beats perfect every time Use AI tools (like Claude!) alongside personality assessments to build a hiring process that finds someone who truly complements how you work About Ryan Koral Ryan Koral is a documentary filmmaker, founder, and creative coach based in Michigan. Over the last 20+ years, he's built a 7-figure story-driven video studio (Tell Studios), a global community of filmmakers and creative entrepreneurs (Studio Sherpas), and a weekly podcast with over 1 million downloads. His work has reached email audiences of over 100,000 people, and he's had the privilege of working with names like Gino Wickman, Mike Kim, Disney, and the University of Michigan. Today, Ryan helps founders and experts who are the best-kept secret in their industry step into their voice, tell their story, and build a brand people believe in. He's currently writing a book about storytelling in the age of AI. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [07:24] Hiring an Executive Assistant [16:02] Buy Back Your Time [23:25] Overcoming Perfectionism [25:49] What Could Happen? [28:51] Being More Authentic [31:22] Outro Quotes "You don't learn until you launch." — Ryan Koral "If you just got 10 hours back a week — how would that feel?" — Ryan Koral "I built my job, my studio, for my life — I'm not trying to build my life around my work." — Ryan Koral "Make mistakes, go ugly early, try things out at a fraction of the cost to learn your processes." — Ryan Koral Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter
In this episode of REACH, we're joined by Julia Menez, founder of GeoBreeze Travel and host of the GeoBreeze Travel Podcast. Julia is a travel strategist and points expert who has built a loyal following by helping professionals maximize credit card points, airline miles, and loyalty programs to unlock elevated travel experiences. For Executive Assistants and Personal Assistants, travel planning is a critical part of the role. Julia shares how assistants can take a more strategic approach to booking travel, using points and rewards programs to maximize budgets, unlock upgrades, and create seamless, high-quality experiences for their executives. Whether you're managing frequent business travel or looking to level up your approach to planning, this conversation offers practical insights on how to turn travel logistics into a true value-add. You can learn more about her offerings at: https://geobreezetravel.com/
As Executive Assistants, we are used to working in environments where priorities shift quickly, plans change, and no two days look the same. One minute everything is mapped out, the next you are reworking the schedule, solving problems, and keeping everything moving behind the scenes.So how do you build a way of working that actually supports that?In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore Agile working and how it can be adapted for the EA role. This is not about adding more process or complexity. It is about creating structure that allows you to stay flexible, make better decisions, and manage your workload with more clarity.We break down what Agile working really means in practice and how you can start using it straight away in your role.In this episode, we cover: What Agile working is and why it fits the EA role How to manage shifting priorities without feeling overwhelmed The Moscow method for prioritising your workload How to use sprints to focus on high-impact work What Scrum looks like for EAs, including simple daily check-ins How feedback loops can help you continuously improve how you work If you are looking for a more structured but flexible way to manage your day, this episode will give you practical approaches you can start using immediately.And a quick reminder. Our annual EA Campus Conference is taking place in London from April 22nd to 24th. If you want to learn, connect with other Assistants, and spend time working on your role, we would love to see you there. You can find all of the details on theeacampus.com. The EA Campus
Most founders don't hire an executive assistant for one simple reason:They think it will create more work.More training.More managing.More explaining.But what if the opposite is true?In this episode, we bring in Terry Pham to break down the real reason founders stay stuck—and how delegation actually works when it's done right.We cover:The 5 delegation roadblocks holding founders backWhy “I don't have time” is the biggest lieHow founders accidentally become the bottleneckWhat a great executive assistant actually doesThe crawl → walk → run system for delegationWhy control is costing you growthHow to get 10–20 hours of your week backThis episode isn't about hiring help.It's about removing yourself as the thing slowing everything down.00:00 The Value of an Executive Assistant02:29 Terry Pham's Journey and Insights05:08 Common Misconceptions About EAs08:04 Delegation Roadblocks and Overcoming Them10:52 The Role of EAs in Managing Entrepreneurs13:45 Creative Delegation Examples16:20 Identifying Tasks to Delegate19:21 The Importance of Clarity in Delegation21:42 Building a Productive Relationship with EAs24:44 The Emotional Aspect of Delegation27:34 Final Thoughts on Executive Assistants39:36 Evolving the EA Relationship40:23 Understanding Personal Work Styles41:53 Building Effective Partnerships44:43 The 90-Day Integration Process46:47 Anticipating Needs and Responsibilities49:42 Daily Syncs and Accountability52:51 Refining Communication and Expectations55:54 Gatekeeping and Access Management59:02 Balancing Accessibility and Boundaries01:06:30 Transformative Experiences with EAsResourcesSuperpowers HQ - https://superpowershq.com/commerciallyspeakingEO Dallas - https://www.eonetwork.org/Strategic Coach - https://www.strategiccoach.com/guest linksLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrypham/
On today's show, host Dana Pellebon is in conversation with District Attorney Ismael Ozanne about his office and the new community court that will help reduce racial disparities and recidivism in Dane County. DA Ozanne has a long history in Madison, from playing soccer at UW-Madison to overseeing the report on racial disparities commissioned by Governor Doyle. He says that in a city with a growing population and growing law enforcement, there aren't enough public defenders to represent the community. His office has 30 total prosecutors, but there should be 1 prosecutor for every 10,000 residents. Many of these positions are funded by the state, but others like the Victim Witness Program and Crime Response Program are funded by the county. DA Ozanne discusses how these offices work together and how they will connect to a new initiative out of the Community Justice Council (CJC). The CJC was created in 2008 and now works to take criminal justice decisions out of the criminal courts. The CJC is composed of major criminal justice leaders and aims to make evidence-based improvements and expand restorative courts with the goal of slashing recidivism rates, like similar programs in New York City and Chicago did. However, laws in Wisconsin mean that community courts have to take place in a courthouse, not in a more relaxed community setting. The new community court will be led by Circuit Judge Nia Trammell. District Attorney Ismael Ozanne is a lifelong resident of Madison, Wisconsin. He received his law degree from the UW Madison Law School in 1998 and was appointed as the Executive Assistant for the Department of Corrections (DOC), the largest cabinet agency in the state, by Governor Doyle in 2008. In 2010, he was appointed by Gov. Doyle to Dane County District Attorney and is the first African American District Attorney in Wisconsin's history. Featured image of District Attorney Ismael Ozanne. Did you enjoy this story? Your funding makes great, local journalism like this possible. Donate hereThe post A New Community Court is Coming to Dane County appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.
In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou breaks down the AI tool she says is saving her over $10,000 a month and replacing multiple team members: Claude Cowork.While most small business owners think of AI as just writing captions or emails, Gloria explains how “agentic AI” actually executes tasks across your business.What Makes This Different✔️ Not just writing—AI that completes tasks for you ✔️ Connects to your tools (Drive, Airtable, Calendar) ✔️ Analyzes data, workflows, and customer behavior ✔️ Works like a digital team, not just a chatbotThe 4 Roles It Replaces
In Ep95 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas sits down with experienced Executive Assistant Ronie Williams to talk about what it really looks like to build a long-term career in the EA role.Ronie has worked as an Executive Assistant for nearly three decades across finance, startups, and global tech companies. In this conversation, she shares how she started her career at 17, the lessons she learned working in demanding corporate environments, and how those experiences helped shape the way she works today.Ronie now works at the SaaS company Contentful, supporting senior leaders across different regions while also playing a key role in building the London office culture from the ground up. From creating systems that help executives perform at their best, to building an environment where teams genuinely enjoy coming into the office, Ronie shares how EAs can influence far more than their job description suggests.Throughout the episode, we discuss managing competing priorities, navigating difficult workplaces early in our careers, building trust with executives, and why experience is such a powerful asset in the EA profession.Ronie also shares practical advice for assistants starting their careers today, including why curiosity, confidence and understanding your executive deeply are some of the most valuable skills you can develop.If you've ever wondered how experienced EAs think about their role, their career, and the value they bring to organisations, this conversation is packed with insight.Resources Mentioned: Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson The EA Campus
Imagine getting handed a project of sifting, sorting and organizing over 10,000 emails
Minnie Leung, a hotelier at heart, got a degree in Hospitality and Marketing in one of the top 3 hotel schools in the world- Glion Institute of Higher Education, Switzerland.Worked in 5 stars properties for a few years then decided to change career path as an Executive Assistant. I love traveling, experiencing new cultures/ foodContact Minnie Leung:IG: minniethecloserDr. Kimberley LinertSpeaker, Author, Broadcaster, Mentor, Trainer, Behavioral OptometristEvent Planners- I am available to speak at your event. Here is my media kit: https://brucemerrinscelebrityspeakers.com/portfolio/dr-kimberley-linert/To book Dr. Linert on your podcast, television show, conference, corporate training or as an expert guest please email her at incrediblelifepodcast@gmail.com or Contact Bruce Merrin at Bruce Merrin's Celebrity Speakers at merrinpr@gmail.com702.256.9199Host of the Podcast Series: Incredible Life Creator PodcastAvailable on...Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/incredible-life-creator-with-dr-kimberley-linert/id1472641267Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6DZE3EoHfhgcmSkxY1CvKf?si=ebe71549e7474663 and on 9 other podcast platformsAuthor of Book: "Visualizing Happiness in Every Area of Your Life"Get on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4cmTOMwWebsite: https://linktr.ee/DrKimberleyLinertThe Great Discovery eLearning platform: https://thegreatdiscovery.com/kimberleyl
Some Executives think very quickly. Ideas arrive mid-conversation, instructions come in half-sentences, and priorities can shift between one meeting and the next.As Executive Assistants, we often receive the headline version of the thought. The context, the reasoning, and the next steps may still be sitting in our Executive's head.In Ep94 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky explores what it is like to support leaders who think faster than they communicate, and how EAs can turn those fragmented conversations into clear, practical action.We talk through how to recognise patterns in the way your Executive thinks, how to clarify ideas without slowing them down, and how to translate broad concepts into operational work.Nicky also shares practical techniques that many Assistants use every day, including the “answer first” communication style, quick recap conversations, and simple ways to capture ideas before they disappear into the pace of the day.If you have ever left a meeting thinking, “I know there was an idea in there somewhere…”, this episode will feel very familiar.In this episode, we explore:• Why fast-thinking leaders often communicate in fragments • How EAs can recognise patterns in the questions their Executive asks • Ways to clarify ideas without interrupting the flow of a conversation • Turning broad concepts into practical next steps • Using simple notes and AI tools to capture ideas quickly • The quick recap technique that prevents misunderstandingsAs EAs, we often become the person who helps bring structure to leadership thinking. When you learn how to listen for the intention behind the conversation and organise the next steps, your role becomes far more strategic.If this episode resonates with you, share it with another Assistant who might recognise the same dynamic with their Executive.You can also explore more training, masterclasses, and resources for Executive Assistants at theeacampus.com. The EA Campus
My guests are Sheila Evans-Trannum, former Associate Commissioner of Education for NY State Board of Education, former Chairperson of Casey Family Programs and Education Advisor to President G W Bush and Joyce Johnson, former Joseph E Seagrams Co executive, former Special Assistant to former Manhattan President Ruth Messenger and Executive Assistant to former NYC Board of Education Chancellor Rudy Crew. This episode is full of surprises regarding "Six Degrees of Separation" of family and friends. Holman family and people who lives or lived in Fayetteville, NC and Charleston, SC...you will be surprised! It is a wonderful example of the theme of the show "Progress Despite Obstacles".It also answers the question of who and how a Democratic got to advise President Bush on 'No Child Left Behind" legislation enacted by Congress and signed into law by the President. A "must see' for parents with children in public school! A formula of how Democrats and Republicans can work towards important goals despite differences. This episode is full of surprises regarding "Six Degrees of Separation" of family and friends. Holman family and people who lives or lived in Fayetteville, NC and Charleston, SC...you will be surprised! It is a wonderful example of the theme of the show "Progress Despite Obstacles".It also answers the question of who and how a Democratic got to advise President Bush on 'No Child Left Behind" legislation enacted by Congress and signed into law by the President. A "must see' for parents with children in public school! A formula of how Democrats and Republicans can work towards important goals despite differences. Produced, directed, edited and hosted by Stephen E Davis Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In last week’s episode, Andy sat down with his Executive Assistant of nearly 30 years, Diane Grant, to talk about one of the most overlooked leadership advantages: a strong leader–assistant partnership.In this REVERB episode, Andy and Suzy unpack what it takes to make that partnership work well. They discuss how trust multiplies leadership capacity, why many leaders struggle to release decision-making to their assistants, and why saying “you decide” may be one of the most important leadership moves you can make.If you want to delegate more effectively, build trust with your team, and create a no-surprises leadership environment, this conversation will help you lead with greater clarity and confidence. Recognized as one of Forbes' 6 Leadership Podcasts To Listen To In 2024 and one of the Best Leadership Podcasts To Stay in the Know for CEOs, according to Industry Leader Magazine. If this podcast has made you a better leader, you can help it by leaving a quick Spotify or Apple Podcasts review. You can visit Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and then go to the “Reviews” section. Thank you for sharing! ____________ Where to find Andy: Instagram: @andy_stanley Facebook: Andy Stanley Official X: @andystanley YouTube: @AndyStanleyOfficial See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deborrah Mac Kenzie-Meneades has over 30 years of experience in executive support.In this episode of The Leader Assistant Podcast, Deborrah shares her assistant career story, including a bit from her experience leading EA teams, and talks about superpowers assistants have.Show notes -> leaderassistant.com/366 --It's the last day of the offsite and it was exactly what the team needed. The CEO pulls you aside to say, “Thank you. This was next level.”Your secret? You used Offsite. They handled the venues, negotiations, and logistics – so you could focus on shaping the experience.Sound too good to be true? It's actually within reach. (And it can even save you money.)See how at leaderassistant.com/offsite. --Are you ready to level up? Enroll in The Leader Assistant Academy at leaderassistant.com/academy to embrace the Leader Assistant frameworks used by thousands of assistants.More from The Leader Assistant... Book, Audiobook, and Workbook -> leaderassistantbook.com The Leader Assistant Academy -> leaderassistantbook.com/academy Premium Membership -> leaderassistant.com/membership Events -> leaderassistantlive.com Free Community -> leaderassistant.com/community
In Ep93 of The EA Campus Podcast, we look at what it really takes to build a long and successful career as an Executive Assistant.In Ep93 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas is joined by Scot Wizniewski, Executive Assistant at Spotify and a respected voice in the global EA community.Scot has spent more than 25 years working as a career Executive Assistant, supporting senior leaders across multiple industries, including publishing, beauty, and now technology. In this conversation, he shares how the role has evolved over time, how Assistants can move from a task-based position into a true strategic partnership with their Executive, and why adaptability is one of the most important skills for long-term success in the profession.Together, Nicky and Scot explore the realities of supporting global executives, including managing complex calendars, prioritising requests when everything feels urgent, and building strong relationships across an organisation.Scot also shares practical systems he uses every day. From colour-coded calendars that help executives manage their energy and focus, to decision-tracking documents that reduce email overload and help leadership teams stay aligned.The conversation also touches on the rise of AI in the workplace. Scot shares his perspective on how Assistants can use tools like ChatGPT and Gemini productively, while recognising that the most valuable aspects of the EA role remain deeply human.If you're an Executive Assistant who wants to strengthen your strategic partnership with your executive and build a long-term career in the profession, this episode is full of insight and practical ideas.In Ep93, We DiscussScot's journey into the EA profession and how he built a 25+ year career as a career Executive AssistantMoving from a task-focused role to a strategic partnership with your ExecutiveWhy adaptability is one of the most important skills for Executive AssistantsManaging complex global calendars and working across time zonesHow to prioritise when everything feels urgentScot's colour-coded calendar system for managing Executive time and energyUsing a decision tracker to reduce email overload and support executive decision-makingThe role of AI in the EA profession and where human skills still matter mostWhy emotional intelligence, empathy, and relationship-building remain essential EA skillsResources MentionedEssentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeownChatGPTGoogle GeminiCalendar AIFollow Scot on LinkedIn for insights on the evolving Executive Assistant role and practical advice from his experience supporting global executives. The EA Campus
FACTS 2026 Annual Conference Preview FACTS for Restoring Reproductive & Whole-Body Health
Diana Brandl is a longtime C-Suite assistant, and host of the Executive Office Insights podcast.In this spotlight episode, Diana speaks with Lauren Bradley about how EAs can thrive.Show Notes -> leaderassistant.com/365 --It's the last day of the offsite and it was exactly what the team needed. The CEO pulls you aside to say, “Thank you. This was next level.”Your secret? You used Offsite. They handled the venues, negotiations, and logistics – so you could focus on shaping the experience.Sound too good to be true? It's actually within reach. (And it can even save you money.)See how at leaderassistant.com/offsite. --Are you ready to level up? Enroll in The Leader Assistant Academy at leaderassistant.com/academy to embrace the Leader Assistant frameworks used by thousands of assistants.More from The Leader Assistant... Book, Audiobook, and Workbook -> leaderassistantbook.com The Leader Assistant Academy -> leaderassistantbook.com/academy Premium Membership -> leaderassistant.com/membership Events -> leaderassistantlive.com Free Community -> leaderassistant.com/community
In Episode 92 of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore how AI is changing inbox management for Executive Assistants in a practical, day-to-day way. If you support one Executive or several, you already know how quickly inboxes can take over the rhythm of your day. Constant checking, forwarding, reacting, and chasing can easily become the default way of working. In this episode, we walk through what a typical EA day actually looks like and talk honestly about how we can build a clearer structure around email, rather than letting it dictate everything.We start by looking at why inbox habits matter. As EAs, we handle a significant volume of communication, and the way we process email shapes expectations around response times and availability. When we are constantly checking and escalating messages in real time, we create a pace that is hard to sustain. Research shows that task switching reduces focus, and email is one of the biggest contributors. So we explore how triage creates structure, and how AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini can reduce the time spent reading and drafting without removing our responsibility to think and decide.From there, we move into the morning pre-triage stage. This is where we use built-in summary features in Outlook and Gmail to scan long threads, extract key decisions, and identify open questions before replying. Instead of reading every message line by line, we generate a structured overview and then sense-check it. We revisit the 4 Ds framework. Do, Delegate, Defer, Delete or archive. Every email needs an outcome. AI can assist by drafting routine responses and suggesting meeting confirmations, but the decision about what happens to that email remains with us.We then look at how AI supports your dedicated processing block. Drafting replies in your Executive's tone using Copilot or Gemini, suggesting meeting times using calendar data, and converting emails into tasks through Microsoft To Do, Planner, or Google Tasks. The shift here is simple. The inbox is where requests arrive. Your task manager is where work is tracked. For EAs who are newer to this way of working, the advice is to start small. Choose one integration and use it consistently so that the system becomes habit rather than another layer of admin.Midday, we focus on decision support and meeting preparation. Before a one-to-one or board meeting, you can prompt Copilot or Gemini to summarise recent email exchanges with a specific stakeholder, extract unresolved questions, and list commitments made. That gives you a working briefing note in minutes. We also cover how to draft structured follow-up emails with next steps, owners, and deadlines, then refine them so they reflect how your Executive communicates. Over the course of a week, those small time savings add up and allow you to focus on clarity and preparation.Finally, we cover follow-ups, accountability, and the end-of-day reset. Many inbox tools allow you to set reminders for unanswered emails so that important threads do not disappear. We also talk about bulk archiving in Gmail and Outlook to reset an overgrown inbox while keeping everything searchable. The episode closes with a reminder that AI can reduce reading time, assist with drafting, surface unanswered threads, and support meeting preparation. It does not replace your role in prioritising, protecting sensitive information, and managing your Executive's time with intention. The EA Campus
Shripal Morakhia is an Indian serial entrepreneur best known for founding the pioneering online retail brokerage Sharekhan and the sports-entertainment venture Smaaash. His career began in the United States, where, after earning his MBA, he served as the Executive Assistant to the President of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).Following the death of his father in 1981, Morakhia returned to India to helm his family's stockbroking business, eventually establishing SSKI, an early institutional brokerage firm serving foreign investors. Beyond finance, Morakhia explored the entertainment industry by launching iDream Productions, through which he produced and distributed notable films like Bend It Like Beckham and Monsoon Wedding, and made his directorial debut with Naina in 2005.In 2012, he partnered with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar to create Smaaash, an innovative indoor gaming and virtual reality center. While his career has been marked by high-profile successes, it has also involved complex business challenges, including the corporate insolvency proceedings of Smaaash in recent years. Morakhia recently documented his professional journey and entrepreneurial philosophy in his candid memoir, Never Say Die: My Life in Business and Entrepreneurship, where he reflects on his business setbacks and his subsequent philosophical rebuilding, now describing himself as "Shripal 2.0."
There are conversations that would make your role as an Executive Assistant significantly easier.You probably already know which ones they are.The clarification you've been meaning to ask for. The boundary that needs resetting. The expectation that was never fully defined. The salary discussion you keep postponing.In this episode, Nicky talks through six specific conversations that directly impact how smooth, strategic, and sustainable your role feels. These are not dramatic confrontations. They are practical, calm, well-timed discussions that remove guesswork and reduce unnecessary rework.You'll hear about:The “I Need Help” conversation and how asking early saves hours later The immediate feedback conversation that prevents small patterns from shaping your role The unclear expectations conversation that stops you from aiming at the wrong target The managing up conversation and why it changes how your week runs The mistake admission conversation and how it can actually build trust The salary and value conversation and how to prepare properly for itThroughout the episode, Nicky shares real EA scenarios and practical wording you can use, so you're not walking into these discussions hoping they go well. You're walking in prepared.Resources MentionedManaging Up Guide for Executive Assistants:https://theeacampus.com/blog/managing-up-as-an-executive-assistant/EA Salary Survey:https://www.easalarysurvey.com/Confident Communicator Course:https://theeacampus.com/online-course/confident-communicator/Explore all upcoming masterclasses, virtual summits, and the London conference: https://theeacampus.com/eventsIf this episode resonated, share it with another EA who might be carrying a conversation in their head that really needs to happen.And as always, thank you for being part of The EA Campus community. The EA Campus
This is a very special episode for me as I introduce you to a dear friend and member of my team, Emma Price. Emma is an educator, speaker, and advocate whose work explores motherhood, disability, infertility, and resilience. With over twelve years in elementary education, she began her career as a classroom teacher and later became a private tutor specializing in literacy and executive functioning, helping students build confidence and independence. Emma now serves as my amazing Executive Assistant here at The Big Talk and makes it possible for me to support leaders globally in sharing their voices on major stages. She has spoken internationally on disability, access to education, resilience, and the power of desire, bringing a grounded, deeply human perspective to conversations about life transitions and rebuilding identity after adversity. In this episode, we'll explore: Why resilience is relative to each person's experience Emma's experience of speaking from healing, not wounds, and how this can impact your speaker journey How we successfully navigate working together while maintaining our friendship The reason your desire signals what's possible for you, and why overcoming limiting beliefs is ongoing work Emma's current favorites: Book: All the Light We Cannot See, Speaker: Emily Oster, and Podcasts: Good Hang & Landlines More from Emma Price Her SPEAK talk, Wishful Thinking Get in touch with Emma at emma.price@triciabrouk.com More from Tricia Join me LIVE for my Free Monthly Workshop Explore my content and follow me on YouTube Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Visit my website at TriciaBrouk.com
Jordan Alexandra Blizzard Planit created Planit Butter®—the peanut butter dimension of art and philosophy. Her work invites her international audience to be Intucentric™: The collaboration between the ego and intuition.Planit Butter is home to the immersive podcast, From My Planit to Yours…™, as well as thought-provoking mixed-media books, publication, digital art compositions, and Planit Butter Nutter™. Jordan integrates philosophical depth with playful creativity to cultivate a world where non-conventionality becomes the norm.Before founding Planit Butter, Jordan worked as Fran Drescher's Executive Assistant and then as Creative Assistant to comedian Krystyna Hutchinson, supporting writing and structuring for stand-up and books while building Planit Butter's foundation. With the world of Planit Butter conceptualized and Party of One! written, Jordan then led innovation at Backpack Healthcare as Author, Editor, and Creative Director, pioneering their children's bibliotherapy series and self-help app. Jordan is also a professional voice actor, represented by TGMD in Los Angeles. She has leveraged each and every aspect of her experiences to continue to craft Planit Butter's timeless ecosystem.Webpage: PLANITBUTTER.COMInstagram: @PlanitButterConnect and tag me at:https://www.instagram.com/realangelabradford/You can subscribe to my YouTube Channel herehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDU9L55higX03TQgq1IT_qQFeel free to leave a review on all major platforms to help get the word out and change more lives!
Not every episode has to hold tears, sometimes, it's about laughter, connection, and getting to know the hearts behind the mission. In this lighthearted episode of Confessions of a Grieving Mother, we're welcoming our newest team member, Lauren Kraynik, Executive Assistant at Emma's Footprints, to the podcast! Lauren gives us a glimpse into her life behind the scenes — from her role supporting our team and keeping everything running smoothly, to her life as a wife to John and mom to Bradley and Henry.
In The EA Campus Podcast Ep 90, we sit down with Alicia and Yvette, the creators of the EA Salary Survey, to explore how the report came to life and why having a large, representative dataset really matters. We talk about the difference between small, skewed reports and meaningful data, and why transparency around respondent numbers is essential when you're making career decisions.We unpack the key findings from 2024 and 2025 across the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. EA salaries are above regional averages in most areas; education does not automatically determine earnings; and only two specific benefits in each country truly move the needle on job satisfaction. Career progression, however, consistently impacts whether people plan to stay or leave.We also discuss hybrid versus remote working, peak earning years, and the gap between actual salary and salary satisfaction. One of the most important insights is that perception and progression often matter more than headline figures. Context is everything. Location, industry, and experience all play a role.Finally, we share practical advice on how to use the report properly. Read it carefully. Compare like-for-like. Use it as part of a strategic business case rather than a blunt instrument. This episode is about perspective, evidence, and helping you make informed decisions about your career. The EA Campus
Ricky Blanco Saavedra is a Sr. Executive Assistant at Viva Exec, supporting the CTO and Head of Go-to-Market at Shippo.In this episode of The Leader Assistant Podcast, Ricky talks about discarding the “I'm just the EA” mindset, and stepping into a leadership mindset, how to fight impostor syndrome, and more.Show Notes -> leaderassistant.com/360 --In-person meeting planning can be a lot to manage. That's where TROOP Planner comes in. TROOP Planner is built to make life easier for busy assistants like yourself. Whether you're organizing an executive offsite, department meeting, or team retreat, TROOP keeps it simple, fast, and organized.Visit leaderassistant.com/troop to learn more! --Are you ready to level up? Enroll in The Leader Assistant Academy at leaderassistant.com/academy to embrace the Leader Assistant frameworks used by thousands of assistants. --Eliminate manual scheduling with YouCanBookMe by Capacity's booking links, automated reminders, and meeting polls. Sign up for a FREE trial -> leaderassistant.com/calendar.More from The Leader Assistant... Book, Audiobook, and Workbook -> leaderassistantbook.com The Leader Assistant Academy -> leaderassistantbook.com/academy Premium Membership -> leaderassistant.com/membership Events -> leaderassistantlive.com Free Community -> leaderassistant.com/community
Grab Jeff Dudan's book Discernment → https://podcast.homefrontbrands.com/en-us/discernment What if the real business superpower isn't charisma, hustle, or being “the smartest in the room”… but being coachable? In this episode, Jeff sits down with Dustin Hillis (author of Capacity) to talk about: Why coachability separates high performers from everyone else The Chick-fil-A hiring “tests” that reveal humility (and why it works) How to reverse-engineer growth: revenue → people → activity → daily execution Delegation the right way (the “99% rule”) The hidden cost of “low-value” tasks when your goals demand higher leverage Building big without losing what matters most: boundaries, family, and mission-first leadership What Dustin's building now in AI safety + defense-tech (and why it's purpose-driven) Want more conversations like this? Subscribe and share this with a business owner who's ready to scale with systems, not stress. Download Discernment here → https://podcast.homefrontbrands.com/en-us/discernment Links (resources + guests) Learn more about Jeff Dudan: https://jeffdudan.com Dustin Hillis: https://dustinhillis.com/ Capacity (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Capacity-Building-Your-Business-Bigger/dp/1637748035 Capacity book page: https://capacity.dustinhillis.com/ SafeSpace Global: https://safespaceglobal.ai/ Tough Stump Technologies: https://toughstump.com/ #Unemployable #JeffDudan #BusinessLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Scaling #Delegation #Systems #CompanyCulture #Coachability #ChickfilA #AI #SafetyTech #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #MissionDriven Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Do Business. Do Life. — The Financial Advisor Podcast — DBDL
What do you do when doing the right thing gets you fired?That's the question at the center of this conversation with Keith Leverentz. Keith started his career as a high school science teacher before being recruited into a captive financial firm. He quickly became the number one producer in the organization—but he was doing something most advisors weren't. He was putting clients first, even when it meant recommending solutions that were less profitable for the company.In 2012, that decision cost him everything. He lost his business, his clients, his niche, and spent a season wondering if he'd ever get back on his feet.Keith didn't just bounce back. He rebuilt—this time with intention. Today, he leads a 25-person firm that's on pace for more than $65M in new assets this year. He's done it by building a real team, integrating his entire family into the business, and putting purpose, generosity, and client outcomes at the center of everything.If you're a founder who's been knocked down—or you're carrying a weight that feels heavier than it should—Keith's story is a powerful reminder of what's possible on the other side.3 of the biggest insights from Keith Leverentz…#1.) The Cost of Doing What's Right (And Why It Paid Off Later)Keith was the #1 producer in his captive agency — until he refused to sell products that weren't in his clients' best interest. That decision got him fired. Keith explains the ethical dilemma that forced him out, the fear and isolation that followed, and how starting over with nothing eventually led to building a 25-person firm. If you've ever felt tension between growth and integrity, this part will hit close to home.#2.) Why Most Advisors Feel Overwhelmed (And How to Fix It)Keith explains why hiring an Executive Assistant dropped his stress by 40% — and why this role is one of the most overlooked leverage points in advisory firms. He also breaks down a hard truth about his own business: the org chart was “a mile wide and an inch deep.” This section is a masterclass on why founders become bottlenecks, how poor structure slows growth, and what it actually takes to scale beyond yourself.#3.) Why Undercharging Holds Advisors BackKeith shares how he realized he was undercharging — and why raising fees actually improved client outcomes instead of hurting relationships. You'll hear how expanding planning capabilities, trusting a bigger team, and clearly communicating value allowed him to move up-market with confidence. If you're worried about fee pressure, higher-net-worth clients, or whether you're “ready” for the next level, this section reframes the entire conversation.SHOW NOTEShttps://bradleyjohnson.com/148FOLLOW BRAD JOHNSON ON SOCIALTwitterInstagramLinkedInFOLLOW DBDL ON SOCIAL:YouTubeTwitterInstagramLinkedInFacebookDISCLOSURE DBDL podcast episode conversations are intended to provide financial advisors with ideas, strategies, concepts and tools that could be incorporated into their business and their life. No statements made in the episode are offered as, and shall not constitute financial, investment, tax or legal advice. Financial professionals are responsible for ensuring implementation of anything discussed related to business is done so in accordance with any and all regulatory, compliance responsibilities and obligations. The Triad member statements reflect their own experience which may not be representative of all Triad Member experiences, and their appearances were not paid for. Triad Wealth Partners, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Please visit Triadwealthpartners.com for more information. Triad Wealth Partners, LLC and Triad Partners, LLC are affiliated companies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.