Rewrite The Playbook with Rachael Bonetti – Details, episodes & analysis

Personal brand is already shaping your career, whether you engage with it or not. In this episode, Rachael unpacks why capable executive assistants are often categorised as “helpful support” rather than talent, and how that distinction quietly affects trust, opportunity, and protection inside organisations.

This isn't  a conversation about visibility or self-promotion. It’s about reputation, judgement, and the narratives that form when value isn’t clearly articulated. Especially in environments under pressure, where decisions about roles, investment, and capability are being made quickly.

If you’ve ever felt the gap between the value you know you bring and how you’re being seen, this episode will help you understand why that gap forms and what’s actually at stake.

Show notes

This is a keynote and in-house training topic Rachael works with regularly, shaped by real conversations with EAs, executives, and leadership teams navigating change in real time. To learn more, visit www.rachaelbonetti.com 

Connect with Rachael on socials:

LinkedIn

Instagram @rachaelbonetti

The EA role is at a crossroads. Not a trend. A decision point. Organisations are consolidating. AI is reshaping work. Executives are relying more on judgement and context than ever, yet many EA roles are still being designed for a world that no longer exists. In this episode, Rachael explores what’s changing, why timing matters, and what happens when EAs and organisations actively shape the role versus letting it be shaped for them.

Show notes

Connect with Rachael

Linkedin

Instagram  @rachaelbonetti

Website www.rachaelbonetti.com

The reflection questions shared in this episode:

• Where is the way you’ve always done things no longer fit for purpose?
• What changed last year in your workplace?

• And the year before that?
• What might that tell you about what’s coming next?
• What your opportunities could be?
• And what’s one stretch you could make in how you’re showing up, so you’re positioned on the right side of this shift rather than watching it happen around you?

Welcome Back: New Name, New Energy!


In this raw and honest relaunch episode, Rachael shares the story behind stepping into disruption as her theme for 2025 and how questioning “Who the hell does she think she is?” almost stopped her from building a business and pursuing bigger ambitions.

If you’ve ever held yourself back because of self-doubt or fear of what others might think, this episode will resonate.

Rachael opens up about:

• Why sameness is killing creativity and what it takes to break free. 
• The mindset shifts that helped her stop playing small and start making bold moves.
• How to let go of perfection and lean into messy but intentional action.
• Why your gut instinct is your most under-utilised compass for your career.
• How to thrive by staying true to yourself, even when it feels risky.

This episode is a rallying cry to stop shrinking, embrace evolution, and rewrite the rules for yourself—whether you’re looking to thrive in your career, show up differently at work, or take a leap into something new - maybe even your own business. 

Links mentioned in this episode:

Follow Rachael on Instagram @rachaelbonetti

Follow and connect with Rachael on LinkedIn

Explore Rachael’s Work 

Join the waitlist to hear more about her forthcoming training

Tune in to Episode 9 to hear from Tina Paterson, a corporate culture pioneer, remote working expert and author of the book Effective Remote Teams. 

Tina shares her experience with burnout and how it made her determined to find a better way work, a quest that sent her on a mission to discover the tangible and practical strategies and tools that enable genuine work-life balance.

She shares her insights into the new frontier that is remote working - not a passing hangover from the pandemic, but a way of working with tremendous benefits for employees and organisations alike that’s here to stay, and why the culture of always being 'on' is the fastrack to burnout.

You'll hear why we should value outcomes over hours and understand how leaders can embrace remote working and retain high performance without sacrificing their culture and connection. 

SHOW NOTES

Connect with Tina Paterson

LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-paterson/

Website https://tina-paterson.com

Connect with Rachael

LinkedIn 

Instagram @rachaelbonetti

Website  www.rachaelbonetti.com

Email Hello@rachaelbonetti.com

In this episode, Rachael delves into the critical issue of "toxic loyalty" in the Executive Assistant (EA) profession, using the recent news about Matthew Perry’s assistant as a catalyst for the discussion. Rachael highlights the complexities and ethical dilemmas that EAs often face, shedding light on the hidden challenges that come with the role.

Being an EA is not just about supporting someone else’s success; it’s also about safeguarding your own wellbeing, ethics, and career trajectory. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of setting boundaries and staying true to yourself in a role that demands so much loyalty and discretion.

This episode is a must-listen for Executive Assistants who want to understand the risks associated with toxic loyalty and how to navigate them.  

You'll hear insights and support on:

• The Concept of Toxic Loyalty: Rachael introduces the term "toxic loyalty," describing how the dedication and commitment required in the EA role can sometimes become harmful. 

• Real-World Relevance: The episode draws parallels between the news of Matthew Perry’s assistant being involved in a fatal incident and the everyday realities of EAs. Rachael emphasises that while the situation is extreme, the underlying issues of blurred boundaries, responsibility creep, and manipulation are familiar to many in the profession.

• Red Flags to Watch Out For: Rachael outlines key warning signs that an executive might be exploiting their assistant’s loyalty, including manipulative language and requests that push ethical boundaries.

• Practical Advice for EAs: The episode offers actionable advice for EAs on how to protect themselves, including setting boundaries early, documenting questionable requests, and maintaining a strong sense of self that is not overly tied to the person they support.

About Rachael

Rachael Bonetti ia a thought leader in the EA space, someone who is unafraid to tackle the tough issues and provide the meaningful guidance that's often lacking for those in the profession. She is a highly regarded international trainer, speaker, corporate consultant, private mentor and Forbes Australia contributor.

Additional Resources:

• Explore Rachael’s full team training and The Elite EA Academy for in-depth development on navigating the complexities of the EA role.
• Access limited edition masterclasses, free training, and other resources to empower your career, wellbeing, and longevity in the profession.

Connect with Rachael

Instagram

Join the newsletter

LinkedIn

Discover Rachael's services and learn more about her 

Your work isn't who you are it's what you do ,and that's what we  dive into in this bite size episode on the concept of labels and how they shape our professional identities.

Too often, we define ourselves by our roles—entrepreneur, trainer, project manager, designer, CEO, executive assistant—without realising the limitations these labels impose.

Inspired by recent observations in her business and reflecting on her own corporate career experience, Rachael explores how these labels can box us in, restrict our growth, and prevent us from exploring new opportunities. 

You'll hear insights and actionable advice on:

1. Labels and Identity: Understanding the difference between what we do and who we are.
2. Breaking the Box: How labels can limit our growth and exploration of new opportunities.
3. Mindset Shift: The importance of maintaining an open mind and being willing to step out of comfort zones.
4. Potential Over Labels: Recognising and unlocking potential beyond the labels assigned to us.
5. Career Satisfaction and Burnout: How detaching from labels can lead to greater career satisfaction and prevent burnout.
6. Talent mapping and succession planning behind closed doors: what it takes to progress at work and be regarded as talent.

Join us as we challenge the labels, embrace our true potential, and unlock new possibilities in our careers and lives.  What might unfold for you if you thought about your potential a little differently?

Connect with Rachael

Explore the website to partner, explore her courses, corporate training and consulting and private mentoring.

Join the newsletter 

Follow along on IG and LinkedIn

Read her articles in Forbes Australia 

Read her insights on her website

Book Rachael for keynotes and talks 

In this bite size episode recoded from her hotel room during a Sydney visit, Rachael shares a very personal insight on the rollercoaster of body image as a late 40's woman, and the shift in mindset it takes to move through the changes with grace and acceptance. 

In this raw and honest, but uplifting and empowering episode you'll hear:

• How perimenopause and the seasons of life impact our body image
• Why being focused on what's transient robs us of the joy of life
• How our personal growth peaks at a time when our outside shifts the most
• How the current wave of weight loss drugs triggers memories of the early 2000s obsession with celebrity skinny
• Why loving the skin we're in is the antidote to societal pressure and norms

Episode notes:

Episode 4 of What It Means To Be Well is where you'll find special guest, Casey Rose 

If you're looking to discover a healthier perspective of high performance, one that prioritises self care, find Rachael's workplace wellbeing offerings here

Contact Rachael

Website 

LinkedIn

Instagram

In this bite-sized solo episode, we delve into a story about a pivotal moment on TikTok and the reflections it spurred. From celebrating admin professionals to facing unexpected backlash with a post that was on the cusp of going viral, this episode navigates authenticity, social media dynamics, and the cost of online engagement. Tune in for insights on staying true to yourself amidst the noise of the digital world. 

We explore

• Authenticity vs. Algorithm: The clash between authenticity and the allure of social media growth
• Navigating Trolls: The effects of online negativity and the surprising insights it can bring about societal biases.
• Online Well-being: The impact of social media on mental health and the importance of curating a digital space that supports authenticity and positivity.
• Empowerment in Admin Work: Explore the significance of admin/executive assistant roles and the power of lived experience in understanding their value.
• Takeaways and Action Steps: Hear practical tips for enhancing your online experience, from muting negativity to mindful engagement.

Recommended Resource:

• Book Recommendation: Stolen Focus by Johann Harri
• Free Meditation: Enjoy a meditation to help you block out the noise, be in the present moment and allow your body, mind and nervous system to soften. You can access this in the Secret Freebie Vault, a space that's usually reserved exclusively for newsletter subscribers. Want in on the newsletter so you never miss the good stuff? Sign up here 

Connect with Rachael

Instagram

LinkedIn

Website

Join the weekly newsletter

In this captivating episode, we sit down with a multifaceted talent, Dean Head ACS, an award winning cinematographer,  producer and director who has contributed to some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters.  His impressive career portfolio includes Hollywood hits such as Tomb Raider, Rush Hour 2, Enemy at the Gate, Double Impact, and Transformers 4. He is also a TED Talk speaker and a published author and he is known for his insightful perspectives on the film industry and beyond.

Tune in to hear his incredible career journey, the surprising truths he discovered in the realm of blockbuster creation, and how stepping out of his comfort zone of being a behind the scenes talent,  allowed him to achieve unimaginable success.

We get into:

• The fascinating path Dean took to become a leading talent in film making,
• The pivotal moments that shaped his career and the lessons he learned along the way.
• Insight into the obstacles he faced in the competitive film industry.
• Strategies and mindset shifts that helped him navigate and overcome these challenges.
• Practical tips on resilience and staying motivated.
• Behind-the-scenes anecdotes and experiences from sets of major films.
• What the public doesn’t see about the filmmaking process and celebrity life.
• Reflecting on the challenges and stigma associated with behind-the-scenes roles.
• The journey to delivering a TED Talk and its impact.
• The transition from filmmaker to author.
• Exploring the themes and inspirations behind his book, Earth Movers and how the book aims to inspire and educate the next generation of custodians of the earth.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed it, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and valuable insights from industry leaders and people doing cool things.

Connect with Dean and learn more about his work

Dean's TEDx Talk:

Earth Movers book

See Dean’s work:

HSR with Brian Johnson of AC/DC

Filming a scene of Transformers 4 

Contact Dean

Email

IMDB profile

Connect with Rachael

Email

Instagram

LinkedIn

Website

In the first episode of season four I'm joined by the incredible and inspiring Lou Kelle for a soulful conversation on all things self discovery, authetic living and the liberation of living our truth.

Lou has dedicated the last nine years to teaching yoga full-time in Melbourne, Australia, while also co-facilitating international yoga teacher training programs in Thailand and hosting transformative retreats in Bali, Thailand, and Australia.

As a certified life coach, Lou's passion lies in combining yoga and self-development to create healing spaces where participants can shift limiting beliefs and create inspired lives.

Conversation Highlights:

• The path to courage and willingness to follow the heart and pursue a life of freedom.
• Lou's journey and the experiences that have shaped her into a beacon of hope and freedom for others.
• Lou shares what excites her the most in her business and life, highlighting the fulfillment she finds in helping others transform and thrive.
• Lou discusses her journey of discovering high sensitivity and how it has influenced her life and work.
• And we talk about the importance of holding space for oneself AND others, particularly in roles like Executive Assistants and other in-service professions, to prevent burnout.

If you like what you hear, please get in touch to let us know, or even better, rate, review, follow or subscribe so conversations like these get into as many ears as possible.

Please share this episode if someone you know might benefit from it.

Show Notes:

Connect with Lou: