The path from EA to business owner isn't always straight. Here's how life's biggest challenges became my greatest business assets.  

In this episode, I take you through my journey from navigating major life changes to building a thriving Virtual Assistant Agency.   

You'll hear about my diverse background, from college to prestigious banking roles, the unexpected curveballs I faced and how I decided to take control of my own destiny.  

Key takeaways include:  

• Embracing challenges 
• Leveraging past experiences for growth 
• The importance of resilience and community support  

The right mindset shift was crucial to my success. 

By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with actionable insights to build and grow your own business despite life's curveballs.  

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations: https://pages.visionaryvacircle.co.uk/scale-with-success⁠ 

Hiring Associates free guide: https://pages.visionaryvacircle.co.uk/hiring-associates⁠ 

Find us at: ⁠https://visionaryvacircle.co.uk/

The Visionary VA Podcast is for ambitious virtual assistants ready to scale their businesses into thriving agencies. Hosted by Holly Copsey, who has built an approaching seven-figure VA business with a team of 30, this podcast gives you the tools to transform your solo VA business into a scalable, multi-VA agency.

Tune in weekly for actionable tips, success stories, and expert interviews covering everything from team building and systems to pricing strategies and attracting high-paying clients.

Subscribe now and get ready to scale!

Join the waitlist here: https://pages.visionaryvacircle.co.uk/podcast-waitlist

This episode is a really special one.

Joanne Munro, founder of The VA Handbook, joins me to share some exciting news about the next chapter for the business and community she’s built.

After years of growing The VA Handbook and supporting so many VAs on their journey, Jo has made the decision to step back - and I’m incredibly proud (and honoured) to be taking it forward.

In this conversation, we talk openly about:

• Jo’s journey building The VA Handbook and what she’s most proud of.

• How she knew it was the right time to move on.

• Why finding the right person to take it on mattered so much.

• What this transition means for the community.

• And what’s coming next.

This isn’t about something ending - it’s about building on everything that’s already been created and taking it into its next phase.

Key takeaways:

• Building a strong, supportive community takes time, consistency and care - but the impact it creates is huge.

• Knowing when to step back is just as important as knowing when to push forward.

• Trust, values and alignment matter when handing over something you’ve built.

• Growth often comes from making bold, sometimes uncomfortable decisions.

If you’re part of The VA Handbook community (or have been following along), this episode will give you a real insight into what’s ahead - and why there’s so much to be excited about.

Links and Resources

🔗 Follow Jo Munro on LinkedIn

🔗 Check out The VA Handbook

🔗 Sign up to the Espresso AI Newsletter

🔗 Check out all The Visionary VA Podcast

🔗 Check out The Visionary VA Circle

Don’t let the fear of hiring the wrong associate for your virtual assistant business get in the way of growing your team (and business).

“One of the biggest fears people have when they start building a team is hiring the wrong person. What if they’re not good enough, they let the client down or create more work instead of less?”

If you’d love to grow and build a team but too afraid of hiring the wrong person, this week’s episode of The Visionary VA Podcast is for you. We'll talk about the main reasons why associates don’t work out.

We’ll address setting expectations, knowing if someone is the right fit, what systems you need in place, and how leadership can help.

Key takeaways:

1️⃣ Skill is a factor when hiring, but it isn’t the most important thing. Communication, reliability, and attention to details are essential. Are they professional with clients or proactive and ask questions? You can teach systems but not attitude, work ethic and communication style.

2️⃣ A common reason why associate hires don’t work out is because expectations haven’t been clear enough from the start. If your new hires have to guess, this is where things go wrong.

3️⃣ The associates who work out best are the ones who feel like they’re part of something. They care about the business and take pride in their work. They’re not someone who is just logging hours.

There is always a risk when hiring associates, but there are things you can do to better safeguard yourself. You have to protect your business reputation, client relationships and team culture, so you have to let someone go when someone’s not the right fit.

Finding the right people to grow your team changes everything. Worrying is normal, but don’t let fear get in the way of your growth.

At some point this week, take time to think about what matters most to you when hiring an associate. Write them down and start to build your own hiring blueprint, one you can return to every time you're looking to grow your team.

Mentioned in the episode 👇

'Hiring Associates with Ease' ⁠⁠⁠free guide.⁠⁠⁠

Red Flags to Avoid when Hiring Virtual Assistants for Your Team episode - listen here.

Resources 👇

Free ⁠⁠⁠Monthly Metrics Tracker download.⁠⁠⁠

Get our ⁠⁠Free mini course⁠⁠ on Creating Solid Business Foundations.

Check out ⁠⁠our website⁠⁠.

Less than six weeks left of the year and this is the moment most people either switch off or get intentional. If you listen/watch this podcast, I can guess which camp do you want to be in.

"Goals without alignment become chores, but goals built on intention pull you forward."

You know that feeling when the year suddenly catches up with you? That's exactly where we are right now. I am talking about setting goals that actually stick, not the fluffy, vague "new year, new me" type goals, but thoughtful, aligned, intentional goals.

This episode will walk you through the essential steps of goal-setting that work: pausing before you plan, choosing how you want 2026 to feel, setting fewer but better goals, and breaking them down into micro projects that make progress feel achievable.

This isn't about waiting for January to reset, your 2026 starts now, in the decisions you make, the clarity you create, and the vision you choose to step into.

Key takeaways

• Before you plan, you must pause. Take a moment to reflect on 2025 e.g. what worked well, what surprised you, what felt heavy, and what you're proud of.

• Set fewer, better goals. Choose one primary business goal that genuinely moves the needle, one systems or structure goal that makes everything else easier, and one personal or wellbeing goal, because burnt-out VAs don't lead thriving businesses.

• Identify the obstacles before they derail you. Look at your goals and ask what could get in the way e.g. confidence, client workload, lack of boundaries, or old self-sabotage. When you expect obstacles, you're ready for them instead of shocked by them.

Finish this sentence: "In 2026, I want to become a business owner who..." This is your real starting point, not the diary, not the planner, not the colour-coded goals. Your identity shapes your year. Start simple: one feeling, one focus, one goal, one first step.

Check out episode 9 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2tv-Qmfc94

Join The Visionary VA Circle Facebook community 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/visionaryvacircle/

Resources 👇

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations: https://pages.visionaryvacircle.co.uk/scale-with-success

Hiring Associates free guide: ⁠https://pages.visionaryvacircle.co.uk/hiring-associates

Free Monthly Metrics Tracker download: https://pages.visionaryvacircle.co.uk/monthly-metrics-tracker

Find us at: ⁠https://visionaryvacircle.co.uk/

You know that moment when you realise you're the one breaking your own rule? Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do as leaders is to slow down, zoom out and make decisions that keep us aligned - even when it feels uncomfortable.

"Doing less doesn't mean lowering your standards - it means raising your focus."

In this episode, I share a personal realisation – that I was spreading myself far too thin. After reviewing Q4 plans, I recognised I wasn't following my own advice about sustainable growth. That is why The Visionary VA Podcast will shift from weekly to fortnightly episodes - not to do less for the sake of it, but to do less, better.

Growth doesn’t always mean more e.g. more output, more hours, more "showing up". Instead, real, sustainable growth often looks like subtraction, not addition. It's about giving yourself permission to pause, simplify and focus on what really matters. Because if everything's a priority… nothing is.

Key takeaways:

• Take the advice you dish out to clients ALL the time. Real growth, sustainable growth, often looks like subtraction, not addition. Don't be afraid to make a change when something isn't working at the level you want it to.

• Grab a notebook and create three columns. One column for things that energise you and move you forward). Another column for the stuff that drains you or no longer fits where you're heading. The last column is for the things that still matter, but don't have to be done by you. You'll be surprised how much clarity this simple exercise brings.

• As business owners, we can fall into the trap of overcommitting - saying yes to everything and everyone. But you don't scale by doing more; you scale by doing better. Sometimes, something has to give, and you need a way to figure out what that is.

If you're listening to this and thinking, "yeah, I'm definitely doing too much," this is your nudge. Take your own advice. Review, refine, and be brave enough to adjust course. Doing less doesn't mean lowering your standards - it means raising your focus. Here's to doing less, better - and to creating more space for the kind of growth that actually feels good.

Check out the episode #17 where I talk about recognising overwhelm and stopping the spiral 👉  Listen here

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

What started out as a slightly terrifying idea has turned into one of the most rewarding things I've done so far. This week, we're celebrating a whole year of The Visionary VA Podcast, and I'm revisiting conversations from incredible guests who've shifted my perspective on leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to build a thriving VA business.

"You don't have to feel ready to start, you just have to start."

It's been a year since I hit record on episode one, and what a journey it's been. In this special anniversary episode, I'm reflecting on 12 months of honest conversations about what it's actually like to grow a VA business and build a team. Not the polished version, but the messy, human, sometimes magical reality of running a business that's built around freedom, purpose, and possibility.

I'm revisiting some of my favourite interviews from the past year, pulling out key learnings from brilliant guests like Kathy Soulsby, Emma Mills, Sarah Dodsley, and Robin Waite. We're talking about the importance of resilience, getting your rates right, understanding your numbers, embracing the loneliness of leadership, and what it really means to build a fearless business.

This podcast has taught me so much. Not just about podcasting, but about communication, connection, and consistency. Showing up every week, recording, promoting, and juggling it all alongside client work, mentoring, and family life, it's no small thing. But it's also one of the things of which I'm most proud.

Whether you've listened since episode one, or this is your very first time tuning in, your support means the world. Here's to another year of growth, connection, and courage.

Key takeaways:

• Start messy, start scared, but start. You don't have to feel ready to begin. Confidence comes from doing, not from waiting until everything is perfect.

• You can't run a thriving business on hustle alone. It takes structure, yes, but also heart, purpose, and alignment. Take the time to put systems in place whilst charging your worth and factoring in the increasing costs of running your business.

• The more we understand ourselves (our triggers, strengths, energy, and boundaries), the better leaders we become. Leadership can be lonely, and we don't have to have it all figured out (no one does!)

If you've been sitting on an idea (whether it's a podcast, a new service, or just a new direction for your business) take this as your sign to start. Don't wait until it's perfect. Growth takes courage, and progress always comes with a bit of discomfort. Everyone's path looks different, so create a version that fits you.

Interviews mentioned in this podcast:

• Kathy Soulsby
• Emma Mills
• Sarah Dodsley
• Robin Waite

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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The version of you that started this business isn't the same one leading it today. If you've been feeling that inner voice saying "something needs to change" but don't know how to move forward, this episode is your permission slip.

"Every time I've evolved, it's created space. Space for the next stage of growth. And often, what feels like an ending is actually the start of something better aligned."

This episode of The Visionary VA Podcast is all about reflection. I am talking about giving yourself permission to evolve. Our lives change such as family responsibilities, caring duties, health issues, financial challenges, and as business owners and leaders, we change too.

But sometimes we keep holding onto old versions of ourselves or old ways of doing business because letting go feels uncomfortable. Discover how to recognise when you've outgrown a version of yourself or your business, why we resist change, and how to move into your next chapter. Learn the signs that you're ready for evolution and get a simple three-step framework to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

Key takeaways:

• Recognise the signs you're ready to evolve. Work no longer excites you, feeling frustrated, or craving more impact. Those nudges aren't signs of failure, they're signs of growth.

• Give yourself permission without justification, you don't need anyone else to validate your evolution. You're allowed to shift your services, reposition your brand, or restructure your team.

• Use the three Rs: Reflect, Reimagine, and Realign. Reflect on what's working and what feels heavy. Reimagine what your ideal business would look like. Realign by taking small, steady steps to bridge the gap.

Give yourself that permission slip today to evolve and grow. You've worked hard to get here, but you don't have to stay here out of obligation. The next version of you? She's already waiting and she's even more capable, confident, and aligned than you can imagine.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Why do so many virtual assistants (VAs), even those who are brilliant at what they do, hide behind their clients' businesses rather than confidently stepping into the spotlight? If you can show up fearlessly for your clients but freeze when it comes to showing up for yourself, this episode is for you.

"Visibility isn't vanity. It's leadership."

In this episode of The Visionary VA Podcast, I tackle the fear of visibility, something that comes up repeatedly in mentoring sessions and inside the VIVA community.

Discover why so many VAs struggle to showcase their skills publicly, even when they're incredible at what they do. I share examples of visibility and teach you how to reframe from performance to connection, understand why being seen is essential for growing your VA business (especially into an agency), and get practical strategies for creating business visibility without feeling salesy or performative.

Professional visibility is not showing off, it's about showing up as the leader you are and building trust by being real.

Key takeaways:

• Visibility is connection, not performance. When you share your expertise, you're helping someone who's two steps behind you.

• Begin with your voice instead of your face. Create before you consume. The imperfect posts connect the most.

• As your business grows, your team looks to you for direction. You can't expect them to show up with confidence if you're hiding behind the curtain.

This week, take one visible action for you. Not for a client. Not for your team. For you. Maybe it's sharing a post that feels a little uncomfortable, introducing yourself properly on LinkedIn, or hitting "record" on that first video. Remember: you don't build trust by hiding. You build it by showing up.

Sometimes you just need a 6.8 earthquake to wake you up and give you that push. Well, that was the case for award-winning Hayley Hudson, which was the start of her business journey, resulting in running a successful international business and virtual assistant community.

“ It took a 6.8 earthquake at the end of 2019. It just woke me up a bit to go, what am I doing? Where am I? We'd gone through life really as we do, and I think there was a lot of stuff that happened in previous years that it just made me realise, what am I doing and where do I wanna go from here?”

This week on The Visionary VA Podcast, I sit down with Hayley Hudson, founder of Hudson Admin Support and The VA Lounge, a community for virtual assistance. Known for her down-to-earth approach, love of tech, and big heart for small businesses,  Hayley helps VAs simplify systems embrace essential software.

She shares her journey from first taking the leap into becoming a freelance virtual assistant, to running and managing a team for her international business, almost 6 years down the line. She shares advice for those considering expanding their VA business by building a team, and how important support groups and communities are for virtual assistants – which is one of the reasons she set up The VA Lounge.

Key takeaways:

• First, sort out the practical and physical stuff and then go out and tell people. Connect and network with others as you never know where you’ll pick up work.

• Invest in the support and people that will help grow your business. There’s always tasks you can delegate that allow you to focus on growing and building your VA business.

• Join groups and communities where you can meet and connect with other virtual assistants. With The VA Lounge, you can meet others during virtual coffee sessions, join an upskilling session, or use the community to ask questions.

What’s the one thing you can do today that will help you to build the life you really want to lead. What will be your earthquake moment? Whether that’s developing your virtual assistant skills, joining a group or community, or allowing yourself to take time off – clients really don't mind if you give them enough notice.

About Hayley:

Hayley Hudson is the founder of Hudson Admin Support and The VA Lounge, a community for virtual assistants. Known for her down-to-earth approach, love of tech, and big heart for small businesses, Hayley helps VAs simplify systems, embrace essential software, and build successful businesses that align with their values. She believes tech doesn’t have to be terrifying - and she’s on a mission to make it feel fun, doable, and profitable. When she’s not hosting Coffee Club or testing the latest tools, you’ll find her cheering on VAs, simplifying chaos, and keeping business real and relatable.

Where to find Hayley:

Website

LinkedIn

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Building self-belief and confidence is crucial. If you’ve ever found yourself doubting your abilities or questioning if you can take the next step, this episode is for you. Remember, growth doesn’t happen at times of doubt. It happens when you back yourself anyway.

“Self-belief isn’t optional. Confidence will fuel your growth.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, I share why confidence has been the single biggest factor in building and growing my business, even when the odds were stacked against me.

From launching with a toddler and a baby at home to leading a team years later, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without self-belief and motivating myself to take the next step. I talk about why confidence matters for VA leaders, how it shapes your client relationships, and the everyday ways you can strengthen it (much like a muscle).

The truth is you don’t have to feel ready; you just have to decide to back yourself.

Key takeaways:

• Reframe failure as feedback. A setback doesn’t prove you’re not good enough; it’s just your first attempt at learning.

• Celebrate the wins, big and small. Each acknowledgement of progress builds belief, brick by brick.

• Act before you feel ready. Confidence comes after action, not before. The more you do, the more you prove you can.

Write down three things from the past year you’re proud of. Store that list somewhere safe, and when doubt creeps in, remind yourself: you’ve already done hard things. You can do the next one, too.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Are you tired of feeling like you’re always behind? Like every scroll on LinkedIn or Instagram is a reminder of what you haven’t achieved yet? You’re not alone and this episode is here to help you break free from the comparison trap once and for all and still build your virtual assistant business.

“Comparison is rarely the truth it’s just a snapshot, not the full picture.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, we’re diving deep into the comparison trap that so many virtual assistants fall into. From shiny Instagram milestones to LinkedIn highlight reels, it’s all too easy to measure yourself against someone else’s version of success. But here’s the truth: your business journey is your own, and comparison will take you off course and only slow you down.

We’ll talk about why comparison is so common in the VA world, how to reframe it into something useful, and most importantly, how to stay in your own lane. Because building and growing a virtual assistant business isn’t about racing others, it’s about creating something that works for you.

Key takeaways:

• Define your version of success. Get clear on what you actually want. Clarity kills comparison and keeps you focused on building the business that fits your goals and values.

• Measure your own progress and instead of looking sideways, look backwards. Celebrate how far you’ve come in the last 6 months or year and let that be your yardstick.

• Mute or unfollow accounts that trigger comparison and surround yourself with inspiration. Regularly note what you’re proud of to stay connected to your wins.

Next time you feel yourself slipping into comparison mode, pause. Remember their journey is theirs and your journey is yours. You’re not behind, you’re not failing, you’re building a business that’s yours and more importantly on your terms.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

If you’ve ever wondered how to tell the difference between a “good enough” associate and a true superstar - this episode is going to give you the signs to look out for (and how to keep them once you’ve found them).

“A superstar associate doesn’t just tick tasks off a list. They think ahead, take ownership, and become a powerhouse for your business.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, we’re talking about spotting superstar associates early and (more crucially) why it’s not just luck. From proactive communication to cultural fit, I share the patterns you’ll notice in the first few weeks that show you someone has the potential to become more than just support. They can be a long-term partner in your business.

Plus, I dive into what you need to do as an agency owner to nurture and keep these high-performers, while avoiding the common mistakes that make them slip through your fingers.

Key takeaways:

• Look for early signs such as proactive communication, attention to detail, accountability, problem-solving, and cultural alignment.

• Nurture them by giving recognition, creating opportunities, and providing clarity so they can shine.

• Don’t cling to average performers out of fear or overload your superstar until they burn out.

Take a look at your team today. Ask yourself, who’s showing those early signs of being a superstar? Recognise them, support them, and create the environment where they can thrive. That’s how you build the dream team your business deserves.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Are your clients truly the right fit for your business, or are they quietly draining your energy and holding you back?

“Scaling your VA business is as much about who you say no to as who you say yes to.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, we dive into the art of auditing your clients. As your business grows, not every client will remain the right fit, and that’s okay. We explore why regular client reviews matter, the red flags to look out for, and how to decide whether to reset, retain, or release. Think of it as spring cleaning for your client list: clearing out the misaligned relationships to make room for clients who are a better fit.

Key takeaways:

• Late payments, boundary pushing, misaligned values, or that sinking feeling when their name lands in your inbox are all cues it’s time to review the relationship.

• Look at hours, rates, profitability, alignment with your bigger vision, and most importantly, whether they energise or drain you.

• Reset, retain, or release. Decide whether the relationship needs boundaries, small tweaks, or it’s time to let go to create space for the right opportunities.

Set aside an hour this week to run a quick audit of your client list. Ask yourself, who lights me up and who drains me? Who do I need a reset conversation with?

Always remember: your business, your rules.

Resources:

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Do you feel like you’re constantly busy but unsure if you’re actually moving the business forward? This episode is for you, as we explore strategic business planning and the importance of weekly CEO check-ins.

“If you don’t create space to lead your business, you’ll spend all your time reacting to it.”

In this week’s episode of The Visionary VA Podcast, we’re exploring how you can switch from delivery mode to acting more as a CEO and business leader. It’s when you stop asking “what do I need to get done this week?” to “what does my business need from me this week?” as that subtle mindset shift is leadership.

The simplest (and most effective) way to do this is a weekly CEO check-in. If you can’t manage weekly now, start with monthly, then fortnightly and finally work your way towards weekly.

Key takeaways:

1️⃣ Look at your financials and be clear on what’s coming in, going out and expected. This isn’t to panic you, but about staying informed. It gives you the space to review your revenue and identify any gaps or risks.

2️⃣ Take a moment to review your capacity and workload. Are you or your team at capacity, and things starting to feel a little stretched? This is how you spot burnout (before it happens) and when extra support is needed.

3️⃣ Do a light touch audit of clients. Who feels aligned, and are there any red flags? Maybe you can see some quick wins? This is all about staying aware, as often small issues can quickly become big ones if ignored.

4️⃣ Do not ignore your sales and pipeline. What leads do you have? Where could work drop off? This will help you avoid the feast and famine cycle.

Once you have reviewed your financials, capacity, clients and sales, ask yourself this one important question, “what will actually move my business forward this week?” Choose 1 to 3 tasks to focus on and break down the steps needed to achieve them.

Put time aside this week for your CEO check-in. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Give yourself one hour, at the same time each week (or month) to allow you to get into a rhythm. Tell yourself this is non-negotiable.

Resources 👇

Free ⁠⁠Monthly Metrics Tracker download.⁠⁠

Get our ⁠Free mini course⁠ on Creating Solid Business Foundations.

Hiring Associates ⁠free guide.⁠

Check out ⁠our website⁠.

September has that new year energy. The routines return, the slate feels wiped clean, and we’ve got one final push before the year wraps up. The question is: how do you use these last four months intentionally, so you don’t come to the end of December wondering where the time went?

“Mindset is everything. If you go into autumn thinking it’s already too late to achieve anything, guess what? That’ll become true.”

In this episode of The Visionary VA Podcast, we’re diving into year-end business planning and how to finish the year strong in your virtual assistant business.

September is the perfect time to reset and refocus. Why? It’s a natural checkpoint in your business planning for Q4. You’ll hear how to reset your mindset, create a virtual assistant business plan that works for you, and stay consistent with sales and business development.

If you’ve been wondering how to prep your business for Q4, this episode will help you get clear, intentional, and motivated to create real virtual assistant business growth before the year is out.

Key takeaways:

• Treat September as your fresh start and approach the rest of the year from a place of possibility, not exhaustion.

• Q4 is prime time for client growth. Budgets are being set, decision-makers are ready, and your visibility matters.

• Simplify, delegate, and block out time for the priorities that will fuel your end of year planning.

Visualise the week before Christmas. What do you want to feel proud of? Use that picture to shape your year-end business planning and make sure your business plan supports you in finishing the year strong, without burning out.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Money can feel like a tricky subject, but if you want to build a thriving Virtal Assistant agency, you’ve got to get comfortable with your numbers. In this episode, we’re exploring the reality of virtual assistant pricing, paying associates fairly, and making sure you still come out profitable.

“If you can’t afford to pay an associate £25 per hour, it’s not because they’re too expensive. It’s because you’re not charging your clients enough.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, Holly talks openly about one of the biggest challenges agency owners face: setting your virtual assistant pricing structure in a way that’s fair, profitable, and sustainable. From understanding industry-standard virtual assistant rates per hour UK, to avoiding common mistakes that drain your margins, Holly gives you all the practical strategies you need.

You’ll hear exactly how to work out your numbers, how much virtual assistants charge on average, and why paying fairly is the only way to keep great associates on your team. By the end, you’ll have a clear framework for pricing, paying, and building a VA agency that works for everyone.

Key takeaways:

• Don’t pluck a rate out of thin air. Do the maths and make sure your pricing covers associate pay, expenses, and your profit margin.

• Associates deserve to be paid properly. Paying below industry-standard virtual assistant rates in the UK may save money short-term, but it won’t keep great people.

• You’re not running an expensive hobby. Build in £10 to £15 per hour margins after associate pay so you can grow with confidence.

Audit your current virtual assistant pricing structure this week. Ask yourself: Am I charging enough? Am I paying fairly? Am I building in the profit I need to keep growing? Small changes now will create a business that’s profitable, fair and sustainable.

Resources:

Episode 16: Pricing, Scaling and Thinking Bigger with Robin Waite

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Marketing doesn’t have to feel fake, forced or awkward. When it feels aligned and authentic, it becomes easier and therefore much more effective.

“Marketing isn’t about you. It’s about the people you’re trying to help.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, we’re tackling something that makes many virtual assistants squirm: marketing yourself.

Most VAs didn’t start their businesses because they love marketing, we started because we’re brilliant at supporting others, organising and getting things done behind the scenes. But the reality is, if you want a successful business, you need to put yourself out there.

This episode will help you to find a marketing approach that actually feels good. From choosing channels that fit your natural style, to leaning into storytelling, to focusing on connection rather than perfection, this is your permission slip to stop copying someone else’s playbook and start showing up in a way that feels authentic to you.

Key takeaways:

• Marketing is about sharing stories about how you can make life easier, smoother, or more successful for your clients.

• Speak the way you do with clients you already love working with. Storytelling always beats polished sales pitches.

• Whether it’s writing, video, or conversations, choose one or two channels you can commit to consistently.

Choose one piece of content, whether that’s a post, reel, blog, or video and share it in your natural voice this week. The more you practice marketing that feels good, the more your ideal clients will feel like they know, like and trust you.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Sometimes the best thing you can do for your business is saddle up and ride away from it for a while.

"You don’t ‘find’ time for a hobby, you create it. And the return on investment is far bigger than you think."

In this episode, I share why getting back into horse riding after 15 years has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, not just for me, but for my business too.

From gaining perspective and confidence, to having an outlet that’s completely separate from my role as a business owner and mum, riding has transformed how I lead, how I work, and how I show up in life.

You’ll hear the lessons horse riding have taught me about patience, balance, and showing up, and why making space for something you love might be the most strategic move you make this year.

Takeaways:

• Your business isn’t your identity. Creating space for something outside work helps you navigate challenges without taking every setback personally.

• Hobbies build transferable skills, such as patience, balance, and the confidence that comes from consistent action apply to both the arena and the boardroom.

• You make time, you don’t find it. Prioritising joy is an investment in your energy, leadership, and resilience.

This week, think about something you used to love doing and take one step towards bringing it back into your life. Nurture yourself first, and watch your business thrive as a result.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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You finally hired help… so why does it feel harder?

“Your associate’s job isn’t to be you, it’s to deliver the result you’ve outlined.”

In this episode, Holly dives into the challenges of hiring, especially when bringing on help doesn’t feel like the relief you hoped it would. If you've ever had that "what have I done?" moment after onboarding your first associate, you're not alone.

From team tension to client complaints, Holly explores why hiring isn’t always the magical fix we imagine and more importantly, what to do when it feels like it’s making things worse, not better.

If you’re stuck managing instead of leading, frustrated that things aren't being done “your way”, or unsure whether your team is really serving your business, this episode is for you. It will help you to hit pause, reflect honestly, and move forward with clarity and confidence.

Key takeaways

• If your associate isn’t doing things “how you would,” ask yourself, did you give them a process or expect them to read your mind?

• Micromanaging isn’t sustainable. If you're still rewriting everything, it might be a training issue or a ‘you’ issue. Either way, it’s learnable.

• Trust is non-negotiable. If someone’s consistently missing deadlines or causing friction, it’s okay to have that hard conversation. It’s not harsh, it’s business.

Hiring is never perfect from the get-go and that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Take a breath, check your systems, revisit your expectations, and keep going. Leadership is a skill, and you’re learning it every day. You’ve got this.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Feeling less overwhelmed isn’t about doing more but planning better. Find out exactly how I plan my week as a VA agency owner and how you can too.

“Planning is leadership. It’s how you ensure you are spending your time on the right things, not just the loudest things.”

From juggling client calls and content creation to team check-ins and business development, this is the real-life planning approach that helps me stay (mostly!) sane and intentional with my time.

You’ll hear how I theme my days, the tools I use, and why weekly planning isn’t about perfection but about creating clarity. Whether you're a solo VA or running a growing team, this episode will help you take back control of your calendar.

Key takeaways:

Forget the endless to-do list. Focus on just three things that will move your business forward and then plan your week around them.

From VP Mondays to ViVA Fridays, assigning themes helps batch tasks and protect your brainpower for what matters.

Block time for deep work, honour personal commitments, and outsource the admin. Your calendar should reflect your role, not just your inbox.

Take 30 minutes this week to get your plan out of your head and into a system, a notebook, ClickUp, Google Calendar, whatever works. Know your top 3 priorities, structure your week around them, and create space for what really matters.

You’ve got this.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Celebrating my 7th business anniversary and I’m laying it all on the table. The highs, the lows, and the lessons I really wish I’d learned sooner. If you’re building or running a virtual assistant business, this one’s for you. I am hoping that opening up, shows the importance of reflection in business and leadership.

“I stretched myself and quite frankly nearly broke myself from trying to do ALL the things in the early days.”

This is a special episode as I’m celebrating Virtually Priceless and 7 years in business! It’s been a journey, from launching as a solo VA with two little ones at home, to growing a thriving team and building a business that brings me freedom and joy.

But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. I’m opening up about what I’d do differently if I had the chance, including delegating sooner, charging my worth, and setting firmer boundaries. Whether you're just starting your VA journey or a few years in, this episode is packed with raw reflections and practical wisdom from seven years of doing the work.

If you’ve ever wondered how to build a successful virtual assistant business or questioned whether you’re doing it "right" this is your reminder that it’s OK to evolve.

Key takeaways:

• Don’t wait until burnout hits, bringing in help earlier would have saved me so much stress and helped the business grow faster.

• Undercharging held me back for years. Raising my rates gave me space, confidence, and clarity.

• Winging it works until it doesn’t. Proper systems and documentation are essential for scaling sustainably.

Ask yourself: “What do I want my story to be in 7 years’ time?” Start today with the decisions your future self will thank you for because building a successful virtual assistant business that gives you freedom is possible.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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What happens when a corporate PA with a side hustle becomes the leader of a 30+ VA team? In this episode, Kathy Soulsby shares how she built her business from a single client to supporting global consultancies, all while hosting a podcast, writing two books, and navigating the realities of managing people.

"I realised I didn’t want to go back into a job. I wanted to keep this thing going... and then I started building a team."

This week, the brilliant Kathy Soulsby is on the podcast, a VA agency founder, author, and host of the Productivity Nerd podcast. We talk about her leap from working in hospitality and as a PA to becoming a fully booked VA, and eventually building a thriving team of freelancers. Kathy opens up about the challenges of managing a team, supporting big clients, and letting go of her own to-do list. From imposter syndrome to procurement nightmares, this is a real and refreshing take on the messy middle of business growth.

Whether you’re thinking about outsourcing, building a team, or just want to hear what it’s really like behind the scenes of a VA agency, this episode is full of practical insights, honesty, and a few productivity confessions too.

Key takeaways:

• Start messy and then refine later. Kathy didn’t wait for the perfect system before building her team. She started with one associate and grew from there, learning as she went.

• Let go to grow. Handing over tasks can be a game-changer. "It’s taken me years to give it up... but now someone manages me."

• Relationships build resilience. From local dog-walking meetups to online referrals, Kathy credits her network of VAs and former PAs for the success and sustainability of her agency.

If you’re sitting on the fence about getting support or scaling up, ask yourself: what’s stopping you? You don’t need to have it all figured out, just start with one person, one task. Your future team (and future self) will thank you.

About Kathy:

Kathy set up Personally Virtual in 2014 providing high-level freelance EA support to B2B businesses. This is now a team of 30 plus VAs supporting 1-man bands right up to some household names.

Kathy has also authored two books about the VA industry (Virtually Painless about going from PA to VA and Outsource Everything but Your Brilliance) and has a productivity podcast called Productivity Nerd.

When she's not working, she can be found in a field with dogs, or, her latest hobby, managing a hive of bees.

Where to find Kathy:

Website

Website

Facebook

Virtually Painless book

How To Work With A Virtual Assistant: Outsourcing Everything But Your Brilliance book

Podcast

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Saying no can make your stomach twist, but it’s also one of the most powerful things you can do as a VA business owner. If you’ve ever found yourself saying yes when you really wanted to say no, this episode is for you.

"Saying no doesn’t make you difficult. It makes you discerning. And that is a superpower in business." 

In this episode of the podcast, we’re diving into something that doesn’t always come naturally in the service space: saying no. From red-flag clients and scope creep to overcapacity and opportunity mismatch, we unpack the common situations where it’s essential to set clear boundaries.

This isn’t just about avoiding burnout. It’s about leadership, clarity, and confidence. Because when you learn how to say no in the right way, you create more space for aligned opportunities, better clients, and a more effective business.

We’ll also explore how to say no professionally and respectfully, with a few phrases you can keep in your back pocket for the next time you’re faced with a tricky client.

Key takeaways: 

• Saying yes to everything leads to overwork, resentment, and muddy boundaries. If it doesn’t feel right, listen to your gut.

• Saying no builds trust with yourself, your team, and your clients. It shows you’re operating from a place of vision, values, and intention.

• Remember that no is a complete sentence. Use simple, clear language that respects your capacity and maintains your professionalism. No need to over-explain.

This week, try a “yes/no” audit. Look at your calendar, inbox, team, and current offers. Where are you saying “yes” when you really mean “no”? And what might shift if you had the courage to change that?

Because saying no isn’t selfish, it’s strategic. It’s a leadership skill. And it’s one of the most important muscles you can build in business.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Delegation is more than just giving jobs away - it’s a leadership skill. Many VA leaders want to develop this skill, but where do you actually start?

"You’re not giving things away - you’re creating space. Space to grow, space to breathe, space to do the work you’re really here to do."

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the most common questions asked within VA communities: how do you start delegation, and what should I give away first?

If the idea of letting go makes you feel uneasy, you’re not alone. We dig into why delegation feels so hard, how to shift your mindset from control to trust, and (most importantly) what to start with when bringing in help, whether you’re hiring an associate or bringing on a VA to support your internal admin.

You’ll learn that delegation doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Whether you’re handing over client tasks or starting with admin jobs that are low risk, this episode walks you through how to begin with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• If delegation feels scary, begin with repeatable, low-impact admin tasks that don’t need deep client knowledge - think research, metrics, or content scheduling.

• Whether you're easing in with behind-the-scenes support or diving in by assigning a client, it’s all about your comfort level and readiness to train and trust.

• Don’t delegate chaos. Tasks still stuck in your head or lacking clear processes should stay with you, for now. Get them solid first, then hand them off.

Look at your to-do list and pick one task that doesn’t need your brain, just someone’s time. Outline what it would take to hand it over or even better, build a process.

Remember: scaling starts with one brave step. Delegation is a muscle. Use it, and it gets stronger.

Resources:

Check out 'From Solo to CEO' podcast episode

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Is it important to take risks and be brave in your virtual assistant business? Yes, absolutely! If you stick with what is comfortable, you won’t push yourself or grow.

“And that’s the thing about growth. What once stretched you eventually becomes your baseline. And if you don’t deliberately stretch again… You get stuck.”

In this week’s episode of The Visionary VA Podcast, we’re talking all about how and (more importantly) why we should take risks and dare to be bolder.

Following a session I had with one of my mentees, I’ve been reflecting on when business starts to feel flat, and the fact that it may be a strategy problem but more of a comfort problem.

Key takeaways:

1️⃣ There’s a stage in business where the things that used to feel terrifying start to feel normal. What once stretched you becomes your baseline. If you don’t stretch again you become stuck.

2️⃣ Business decisions often feel uncomfortable before empowering. But dare to be brave as every decision shifts the landscape of your business. Not just financially but also identity-wise.

3️⃣ There’s nothing wrong with stability if that’s what you have consciously chose but if you’re feeling frustrated, bored or under-challenged that’s a sign you’ve probably outgrown your current comfort zone. Not your capability.

This week ask yourself, what am I avoiding because it feels uncomfortable? That one move may make your stomach flip, but it could be the very thing that changes the trajectory of your business.

Resources 👇

Listen to episode 48, 'Self-Belief Isn’t Optional: How to Build Self-Belief as a VA Leader and Business Owner'.

Join the Visionary VA Circle Facebook group.

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations.

Hiring Associates free guide.

Free Monthly Metrics Tracker download.

Check out our website.

Sometimes you have to be the fairy godmother with a laptop and build a business that frees others and yourself. If you’ve ever wondered how to go from solo Virtual Assistant to running a thriving VA team, this episode is your behind-the-scenes peek at what it really takes.

This week, we’re chatting to the lovely Mel Maw, founder of The Lifestyle VA, who went from supporting high-flying execs and celebrities in London and New York to building her own lifestyle VA agency that gives ambitious families their time back.

Mel shares what led her to make the leap, how she’s grown an external team of super-efficient Virtual Assistants contractors, and why her “Hire a VA for the Day” offer is the magic wand so many clients never knew they needed. We talk building teams, letting go of client work, what she’d do differently, and the surprising freedom that comes from not doing it all.

If you’re growing your own virtual assistant business or thinking about building a VA team, you’re going to love this one.

Key Takeaways:

• “Fairy godmothers with laptops” is more than a tagline. Mel’s team helps working families reclaim their time so they can grow their careers without drowning in admin. It’s a business model with heart and serious impact.

• You don’t have to do it all. Mel’s honest about the turning point when she gave up client work and focused on leading her team. If you’re still doing everything, this is your nudge to delegate and step into your CEO role.

• Start simple but think long-term. Mel reveals how she’s built her agency intentionally, with an eye on sustainability and service quality. It’s not just about growing fast, it’s about growing smart.

Whether you’re just starting your virtual assistant career or you’re wondering how to grow your VA business, Mel’s story is proof that you can scale in a way that feels aligned, joyful and purpose-driven. Ask yourself: What’s one thing I can hand off this week to move closer to the business I actually want?

About Mel Maw:

After years supporting London and New York's biggest CEOs, celebrities, and Ultra High Net Worth clients, Mel launched The Lifestyle VA seven years ago.

Now she leads a growing team of super-efficient Virtual Assistants who act like fairy godmothers with laptops—handling everything from business admin, tech and systems to family logistics.

Their mission? Give ambitious working families their precious time back so they can build stellar careers AND create those magical core memories with their loved ones, minus the admin overwhelm.

Where to find Mel Maw:

Instagram

LinkedIn

Website

Podcast

Resources:

⁠Check out 'From Solo to CEO' podcast episode⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Feeling stuck in your VA business? This episode is your guide to making the right decision(s) when everything feels, “not quite right”.

"Pause when you need clarity. Pivot when you need change. Push through when you need growth."

In this episode we're talking about strategic decision-making - especially for VAs who are spinning a hundred plates at once. Whether you’re questioning your next move, feeling overwhelmed, or on the edge of something new, this episode will help you figure out whether you need to hit pause, make a pivot, or push through.

We talk about how pausing is not quitting, why pivoting is a sign of growth, and how to recognise when you’re simply facing resistance that requires you to dig deep and move forward.

Through reflection and real-life examples, you’ll come away with clarity and confidence about your next step, whatever that might be.

Key takeaways:

• You don’t have to go full steam all the time. Sometimes the most strategic thing you can do is stop long enough to reassess and make smarter, not rushed, decisions.

• If something’s no longer working or lighting you up, it’s okay to change direction. Your business is allowed to evolve as you do.

• Not everything that’s hard is wrong. Learn to spot the difference between discomfort that signals growth and misalignment that calls for a shift.

If you’re facing a big decision in your business, take time to check in with yourself. Sit with it. Journal. Talk it through with someone you trust. The right answer might not come instantly, but it will come. And this messy middle? It’ll be just a tiny blip when you look back a few months from now.

Resources:

Business mentoring for Virtual Assistants

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Leadership skills are rarely spoken about in the VA world, even though they’re the thing that changes everything when you move from solo VA to agency owner. It’s not just about managing people or juggling schedules. It’s about stepping fully into your role as the leader of your business and your team, so you can scale sustainably, profitably, and without burning out. In this episode, I’m sharing the five key leadership skills every VA agency owner needs.

"Leadership isn’t about having all the answers or being perfect. It’s about being willing to grow. To lead with intention and just do your best."

This episode gets to the bottom of what it really means to lead. Not just keeping things ticking over but stepping into the role of a business leader. Whether you’ve just started your agency or you’re feeling stretched at the seams, these five essential leadership skills will help you lead in a way that’s clear, confident and authentic.

We explore how to hold the vision, communicate effectively, make solid decisions, lead with emotional intelligence and create strong boundaries. If you’re scaling a VA agency, this is the mindset and skillset shift that matters most.

Key takeaways:

• Know where you’re going, what you stand for and how you want your team and clients to feel. Vision brings clarity to every decision.

• Clear, kind, and consistent communication is important. It’s not just about giving direction; it’s about listening.

• Set boundaries. Empower your team. Let go of the idea that you must do everything. Leadership means trusting others to step up.

Pick one of the five leadership skills and give it your attention this week. Leadership is a muscle and like any muscle, it gets stronger with use.

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

What if building a successful VA business didn’t mean sacrificing joy, wellbeing, or time? In this episode, Emma Mills shares how she scaled MiPA into one of the UK’s most respected Virtual PA companies, all while embracing fun, fitness, and freedom.

This week, we’re joined by the inspirational Emma Mills, founder of MiPA, host of Focus on the Fun Stuff podcast, and long-time champion of making business life not just productive, but enjoyable.

Emma walks us through her journey from corporate PA to multi-award-winning business owner, reflects on her choice to grow a bricks-and-mortar team, and shares how personal development, fitness, and content creation have helped with success. She opens up about the challenges of leadership, getting more comfortable with delegation, and why she believes in giving others “the gift of time.”

Key Takeaways: 

• Emma makes time each month to read and learn, because she knows that growing her business starts with investing in herself.

• From fitness routines to food habits, Emma shares how looking after her health has helped with her energy, focus and leadership.

• Emma didn’t follow the remote-only route; she built a physical team with a strong internal culture, and that decision changed everything about how she scales.

Take a leaf out of Emma’s book and prioritise what’s important to you. Whether it’s learning something new, hiring help, or carving out space for movement and rest, when you focus on the fun stuff, your business and life will be more aligned with you and what you’re passionate about. 

About Emma:

Emma Mills is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, founder, and host of the brand-new business and lifestyle podcast Focus on the Fun Stuff.

Where to find Emma:

Check out her Instagram

Check out her Facebook

Check out her LinkedIn

Check out her podcast

Check out her website

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Thinking about growing your VA team but unsure about the finances? This episode breaks down the real profit potential by looking at the facts.

“Adding team members doesn’t automatically mean making more money. You’ve got to be strategic about it and do it in the right way.” 

In this episode of the podcast, we’re unpacking one big question, how profitable is a virtual assistant business? From solo VA earnings to building a team that brings in £9,000+ per month, we explore what it really costs, what you can actually earn, and how to scale sustainably.

Whether you’re wondering how to be a highly paid virtual assistant, do virtual assistants make good money, or how to scale a virtual assistant business, this episode gives you the numbers and clarity to move forward confidently.

With real life examples and practical advice, we’ll walk through margin management, rate setting and how to ensure your growth model is profitable.

Key Takeaways: 

• Before you build a team, get your spreadsheet out. Know exactly how much a VA can earn and what it costs to scale. 

• A high revenue doesn’t necessarily mean high profit. You need a decent hourly margin to build a sustainable model. 

• Want to know how to scale a virtual assistant business? Start with one associate, test your model, and play around with your pricing. 

This week, look at your current VA business structure. Use a spreadsheet to explore how adding one or two associates could boost profit, reduce your hours, and give you the flexibility to scale. 

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

What if the key to building the VA business you’ve been dreaming of isn’t working harder but smarter? Imagine creating more freedom, income, and impact, starting with a single, intentional step toward building a team.

“You’re not building a team just to say you have one. You’re building a team because it gets you one step closer to the life and business you actually want.”

Fresh from the North East VA Conference, Holly explores what it truly means to build a dream business that supports your life. From personal reflections to practical insights, we share the realities of building a team as a VA. Whether you’re wondering if a team is right for you or simply curious about what’s possible, this is your permission to dream big and build with purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t start with a team structure, start with a vision of the life you actually want, as your team should support that.

• A team doesn’t have to mean “big.” It can mean strategic support that creates space and sustainability.

• Growth isn’t linear and that’s okay. Life shifts and your business can too. Building a team gives you room to pivot, pause, or push forward.

Ask yourself: What would I do with 10 extra hours a week? Then start thinking about the smallest, most intentional step you could take to reclaim that time. Your dream business is valid and achievable.

Resources:

⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Before jumping into hiring associates for your VA business, let’s talk about the red flags that scream “this could go wrong”. Why? Being careful and knowing what to look out for will save you headaches further down the line.

"You’re not just hiring a pair of hands. You’re bringing someone into your business. They’ll be representing your brand, your values, and potentially working directly with your clients."

In this practical (and slightly juicy) episode, we’re diving into the subtle (and not-so-subtle) hiring red flags that can cause trouble when bringing new associates into your VA business. From sloppy application forms to the over-promisers, we’re unpacking what to watch for and how to respond when something doesn't feel quite right. This is for you if you’re scaling your agency, building your team, and want to do it with peace of mind.

You’ll learn how to spot potential employee red flags and the subtle signals that someone might not align with your values (before they get near an important client of yours).

Key Takeaways:

• First impressions count: an incomplete or careless application is often a preview of how someone will treat your business and clients.

• Be on the lookout: generic responses and poor communication signal a lack of initiative and genuine interest. You’re hiring a collaborator, not a 'yes person’.

• Trust your gut: just because someone looks good on paper doesn’t mean they’re the right fit. Culture and attitude matter just as much as capability.

You deserve a team that reflects your standards and values. Don’t settle for someone who ticks boxes but doesn’t feel right. Be selective and remember, your business deserves the right support, not just any support because you’re desperate.

Resources:

⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

You're fully booked, your calendar’s bursting at the seams… it's no wonder that you feel utterly drained. This episode will help you to recognise the signs of burnout and put strategies in place before it’s too late.

"Being fully booked is only worth celebrating if it’s also sustainable and aligned with the kind of life you want."

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, we're having an honest conversation about what happens when the dream of being ‘booked out’ becomes a fast-track to burnout. If you’re running a packed schedule, juggling client demands, and silently wondering if this is really what you signed up for, this episode is for you.

Get personal insights and practical strategies to help you spot the symptoms of burnout early, understand what’s causing the overwhelm, and take actionable steps to realign your business with your life.

From boundary-setting to pricing shifts and outsourcing, start implementing strategies to help you deal with the overwhelm.

Key Takeaways:

• If your inbox fills you with dread, clients feel draining, and you haven’t had real time off in months, those are signs it's time to reassess your workload.

• A full client roster isn’t always a success story. If it’s built on undercharging, loose boundaries, or unsustainable hours, it’s a recipe for burnout.

• Audit your commitments, raise your prices, start outsourcing, and reconnect with your original vision. Your business should support your life and not consume it.

Take a deep breath and ask yourself honestly, does the way I’m working reflect the life I actually want? Then take one small, intentional step to shift something, whether that’s your pricing, hours, or support. Burnout isn't a failure, it's a signal. Listen to it. ⁠⁠⁠

Resources:

Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

How many times have you been unable to sleep, it’s gone midnight but you're wrestling with a decision that could shift your entire business. Sound familiar? This one’s for every founder or boss, who knows the weight of being a leader. 

“Doing the right thing is always the right thing — and deep down, you already know what that is.” 

In this episode we get real about what is often not spoken about when building your business, and that is sometimes being the boss means making the hard calls and decisions. From letting clients go to raising prices, we unpack the kinds of decisions that don’t come easy but are essential for growth. You’ll hear firsthand how these tough moments shaped a stronger business and in turn, a stronger business owner. 

If you’ve been putting off something heavy, this episode will help you step into action with clarity, confidence, and courage. We can't escape and ignore hard decisions forever. Done correctly, it’s a signal you’re stepping into leadership. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Listen to your gut. If a decision feels off, listen. Trusting your instincts is part of growing into the leader your business needs. 

• Avoiding hard conversations only makes them harder further down the line. Whether it’s letting a team member go or turning down the wrong client, avoiding tough calls can cost you more than money, it can drain your energy, your team, and your brand. 

• Bravery builds confidence. Every hard decision you face (and act on) makes you better at being a boss. Leadership is a muscle you build with each tough call. 

Grab your notebook and scribble down the decision you've been avoiding. Answer, what’s the worst that could happen, and what’s the best that could happen if you take action? Start there, because you are the boss, and you’re doing better than you think. 

Resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Have you ever read a book that felt like it was written just for you? That’s exactly what happened when I picked up She Means Business by Carrie Green. This book really changed everything for me.

"Shifting from 'Can I do this?' to 'I WILL do this' made all the difference."

In this episode, I’m taking you back to the very beginning of my business journey and the one book that changed everything: She Means Business by Carrie Green, founder of the Female Entrepreneur Association. If you’ve ever felt stuck in self-doubt, overthinking your next move or questioning if you're really cut out for this, this episode is for you.

I’m sharing how I discovered the book at a crossroads in my life, the mindset shifts it started, and how its lessons helped me go from being stuck to taking real action. Whether you’re just starting out or in need of some motivation, this episode is your reminder that the only person you need permission from is you.

Key Takeaways:

• Carrie Green’s focus on visualising success and mindset work helped me realise that belief comes before evidence. You have to see it before you can build it.

• Waiting until you’re ‘ready’ is just another form of procrastination. Starting scrappy is better than not starting at all. Clarity and confidence come through action.

• Being surrounded by ambitious, encouraging people was a game changer. Community matters. Whether it’s the Female Entrepreneur Association or the Visionary VA Circle, your village makes a difference.

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to begin, this is it. Grab a copy of She Means Business, plug into a community, and start doing. You’re more ready than you think.

Resources

Episode 5 - Dream Big, Plan Smart: How to Set Goals that Transform your Life and Business

She Means Business by Carrie Green

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Is it good to be VAT registered? Virtual assistants usually avoid hitting the VAT threshold, because they think it's bad news. However, if you’re approaching the point where you’re required to be VAT registered, that’s not a problem; it’s proof your business is doing something right.

“VAT doesn’t have to be scary, it’s just another stage of growth.”

This episode tackles one of the biggest mindset blocks small business owners face: the VAT threshold. We explore what VAT registered actually means, who is required to be VAT registered, and why so many business owners dread it.

We break down the key facts, including the important distinction that the VAT threshold is based on a 12-month rolling period, not the tax year. We then walk through three practical pricing strategies for when you become VAT registered: adding VAT on top of your current prices, increasing your prices before you hit the threshold, or absorbing the cost.

Most importantly, we talk about reframing. Don’t position VAT registration as bad news for your clients, it’s good news. It means your business is growing, becoming more structured, and stepping into a new level of professionalism.

Key takeaways:

1️⃣ Hitting the point where you’re required to be VAT registered means your turnover is strong. Stop seeing it as a penalty and start seeing it as a milestone.

2️⃣ Get your pricing strategy sorted early. Whether you choose to add VAT on top, raise your prices in advance, or absorb the cost, plan ahead. Talk to an accountant and work out the approach that suits your business and your clients.

3️⃣ VAT is a business upgrade, not a burden. Becoming VAT registered is the moment your business becomes more structured.

If you’re anywhere near the VAT threshold, don’t bury your head in the sand. Book a call with your accountant this week, review your 12-month rolling turnover, and start mapping out your pricing strategy. You’ve built a business that’s growing, now it’s time to make sure your structure supports the growth.

Resources 👇

Join The Visionary VA Circle Facebook group

Get our ⁠free mini course⁠ on Creating Solid Business Foundations⁠

Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠

Free Monthly Metrics Tracker download⁠⁠

Check out our website

What if the secret to self-confidence isn't always pushing harder and “putting your best face on”, but giving yourself permission to put yourself first and feel your emotions?

“Maybe I don’t have to move on in the way everybody thinks I do. Maybe I just get to feel what I feel – and that’s okay.”

In this personal and eye-opening episode of The Visionary VA Podcast, Holly is joined by Sarah Dodsley, a seasoned executive and life coach who has played an essential part in Holly’s personal growth. From the early days of breakdowns at her desk to breakthroughs in both life and business, Holly shares how coaching changed everything.

Together, they explore recurring challenges like people pleasing, self-confidence, and the loneliness of leadership, especially for women juggling work, children, and invisible emotional loads. Sarah brings a refreshingly honest take on personal growth, showing how self-awareness and tailored coaching can lead to long-lasting change.

Key takeaways:

• What looks like a confidence issue is often a symptom of deeper patterns, especially around putting everyone else first. Awareness is the first step to shifting it.

• Leadership can feel isolating. Having a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard (not just “fixed”) is essential.

• Sometimes the most powerful coaching move is helping you access what you already know. You just need time, space and permission to know how to deal with a particular situation.

You don’t have to wait for breaking point to get support. Start by giving yourself permission, permission to feel, ask questions and reach out. Whether it's a blog, a conversation, or community, take one small step toward getting resourced, not just “resilient”.

About Sarah: 

Sarah is a highly skilled Executive and Life Coach, dedicated to empowering people to achieve what they want in life and work. With a strong foundation in personal growth strategies and leadership development, Sarah helps clients gain clarity, build confidence, drive meaningful and long lasting change.  

Specialising in really going beneath the surface and tapping into deeper meaning, purpose and subconscous beliefs, she provides tailored coaching that fosters self-awareness, resoursefulness and understanding about what is going on in your world.  

Sarah brings a mix of traditional and experiential coaching technqiues to her sessions to support people in unlocking their strengths, overcoming challenges, and creating a more fulfilling and successful life. 

Where to find Sarah:

Website 

TikTok

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast

Resources

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Let’s be honest, it’s easy to focus on getting new clients but what happens after you get that ‘yes’? In this episode, we’re diving into how to craft an impressive client journey that turns them into a loyal customer and forges a partnership.

“A great client journey isn’t just about doing the work well. It’s about making them feel supported and confident in your partnership.”

In this episode, I’m breaking down what a seamless, supportive and standout client journey really looks like, from first enquiry to long-term relationship and beyond. You’ll hear how to structure your process, impress clients from day one, and keep them coming back (and raving about you to everyone they know). Whether you’re just starting out or refining your systems, this is your complete roadmap to creating a client experience that feels effortless, professional and downright impressive.

We’re talking quick wins, deeper strategies, and exactly why the client journey isn’t just nice to have – it’s the must have to building a sustainable VA business that succeeds.

Key Takeaways:

• First impressions matter – A quick, friendly reply and a clear enquiry process set the tone for everything that follows. Confidence starts here.

• Onboarding is your secret weapon – Use tools to streamline contracts and payments, and follow up with a warm welcome and structured kick-off call.

• Nurture beyond the work – Stay in touch, celebrate wins, and check in regularly to build long-term relationships that lead to referrals and repeat work.

Refine just one step in your client journey this week – maybe it’s adding a warm welcome video, a “how’s everything going?” email, or automating your onboarding docs. Small tweaks = big impact. Remember, the best VAs don’t just deliver work. They deliver experience.

Resources

⁠⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Free monthly metrics tracker download⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Holidays don’t have to derail your business. Whether it’s planned leave or a last-minute sick day, this episode is your blueprint for staying calm, confident and in control when your team isn’t at full capacity.

“Managing team holidays and absences isn’t just about keeping things running smoothly – it’s about building a business that isn’t fully dependent on any one person.”

In this episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, we’re exploring the reality of managing team holidays and unexpected absences without sacrificing client service or your sanity. From setting clear guidelines to handling sick days, this is your guide for making sure your business doesn’t grind to a halt just because someone’s off.

If you’ve been feeling like you’re firefighting every time someone’s off, it’s time to get proactive, put systems in place, and start managing absences with ease. Whether you’re running a growing VA team or thinking about scaling, this episode will help you navigate the juggle and keep your clients happy.

Key Takeaways:

• Even if your team are associates, you still need a system. Define holiday notice periods, blackout dates and overlap limits to remove uncertainty and keep cover consistent.

• Use a centralised holiday calendar to track availability, spot gaps early and make sure client needs are reviewed as soon as leave is requested. A little upfront planning saves a lot of future stress.

• Clients don’t mind holidays but they do mind surprises. Keep them in the loop, offer flexible cover options and make sure expectations are clear well in advance. Always have a plan, and ideally a familiar face to step in.

Start today by putting one simple holiday process in place - whether that’s setting up a shared calendar or drafting a basic SOP. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. Your future self (and your clients) will thank you.

Resources

⁠⁠⁠Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠⁠

Free monthly metrics tracker download

⁠⁠⁠Visit the website

Ever felt like you’ve been thrown in the deep end, trying to navigate running a VA business on your own? I’ve been there. However, every major breakthrough I’ve had came from investing in coaching and personal development. Deciding to invest in myself. In this episode, I’m sharing why it’s been the game-changer in my journey and why it could be in yours too.

Building a VA business isn’t just about working harder, it’s about working smarter. And for me, that meant investing in coaching. In this episode, I take you through my journey, from learning to ride horses as a child to scaling my VA business and how expert guidance has helped me at every stage. I’ll share the real impact coaching has had on my mindset, confidence and leadership, plus how to decide what kind of coaching is right for you. If you’ve ever wondered whether coaching is worth the investment, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• You don’t know what you don’t know. Having expert guidance helped me guide my success and avoid costly mistakes.

• Investing in personal development helped me step into the role of CEO, rather than just a service provider.

• Surrounding yourself with people who understand your journey can make all the difference in staying motivated and pushing forward.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of your next step, coaching could be the key to unlocking your next level. Take a moment to reflect on where you need support, whether it’s mindset, strategy or skills, then start exploring your options. The right investment in yourself could change everything.

Resources

⁠⁠Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠⁠

⁠⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠⁠

⁠⁠Visit the website

Ever wondered what it takes to go from a one-woman VA business to leading a team? In this episode, we chat with award-winning VA Joanne Manville as she shares her journey, the mindset shifts that made it possible and the power of giving back. 

Joanne reflects on the highs and lows of her 10-year journey, from taking on her first associate to rebranding her business and finding her niche in supporting charities. She opens up about the lessons learned, the importance of trusting your gut and why building the right team (plus working with the right clients) is crucial.  

She also shares insights on applying for awards, leveraging university interns and ensuring work-life balance remains a priority. If you're considering growing a virtual assistant business, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. 

Key Takeaways: 

• When exploring how to grow your virtual assistant business, your intuition is often your best guide. If something feels off, it probably is. 

• Being an award-winning virtual assistant isn’t just about recognition - it forces you to reflect on your achievements, build credibility and stand out in a competitive market. 

• Managing a virtual assistant business growth strategy isn’t just about being a great VA. If you’re expanding, be prepared to develop leadership, recruitment and communication skills. 

Take a step back and assess where your VA business is heading. Whether it's expanding your team, refining your niche or outsourcing tasks you shouldn't be doing, make a plan for your next strategic move. 

Who is Joanne? 

Joanne worked for over ten years as an Executive Personal Assistant before launching what was known as Joanne Manville Virtual Assistance in 2015 (we rebranded in 2024). She has grown the business to include a team of specialist associates as well as employing two interns through the University of Exeter. Joanne and her team love assisting charities and small businesses, helping them understand what to outsource and what approach will benefit their organisation the most. 

Work/life balance is high on Joanne’s priority list - not just for herself running a successful business, but also for her clients and her team. Aside from her passion to support growing businesses, Joanne enjoys walks with friends on Dartmoor, the challenge of Escape Rooms, and a good giggle at a Comedy Night. 

Of course, spending time with her family is paramount - Joanne loves with her 8 year-old daughter and her husband Paul. Never one to shy away from lending a helping hand, Joanne is also a Trustee for Exeter District Scouts, a volunteer role which has lasted over 20 years!

Follow Joanne on LinkedIn

Check out Joanne’s website 

Resources

⁠Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠

⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠

⁠Visit the website

Does the thought of joining a networking group make you cringe and dread that awkward small talk or hard sell? It doesn’t have to! Networking is all about building relationships - and when done right, it can open the doors to new opportunities and clients. In this episode, I’ll give you practical tips when it comes to networking for virtual assistants. You’ll know how to approach it with confidence and make genuine connections that help you grow.

If you’re building a VA business, you already know that people buy from people. While marketing and social media are important, most opportunities come from networking for virtual assistants. In this episode, we explore:

• Why VA networking is essential and how it helps business growth.

• Three mindset shifts to help you network with confidence (without feeling pushy).

• How (and where) to network to find clients, collaborations, and support.

• How to nurture relationships so you stay top of mind for future opportunities.

When it comes to networking for virtual assistants, it isn’t just about finding clients - it’s about creating strong and supportive connections and positioning yourself as the go-to VA.

Key Takeaways:

1. Networking is about relationships, not selling. Focus on getting to know people, understanding their challenges, and seeing how you can support each other.
2. Opportunities are everywhere. From social media to casual conversations, staying open to connections can lead to unexpected business growth.
3. The follow-up is key. A quick LinkedIn message, engaging in online communities, and being a connector all help to keep relationships strong.

Challenge yourself this week to take just one small networking step. Comment on three LinkedIn posts, send a message to a past client, or introduce yourself in a new virtual assistant networking group. Small actions add up, and before you know it, you’ll be building meaningful connections that open new doors.

Resources

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations

Hiring Associates free guide

Visit the website

Want to avoid team miscommunication, repetitive questions or inconsistent work quality? A well-crafted team handbook could be exactly what your VA business needs. In this episode, we’ll walk you through exactly what to include - so your team stays aligned, efficient and stress-free.

If you're growing a team - whether a few associates or a fully scaled agency - a virtual assistant handbook is a must-have. It sets expectations, streamlines communication and keeps your business running smoothly. In this episode, we break down:

• Why a team handbook is so important for consistency and efficiency

• The key sections to include, from working principles to payments and IT security

• How to make sure your handbook is actually used and stays up to date

• Plus examples to use in your team handbook today!

  
  

A team handbook isn’t about creating unnecessary rules - it’s about clarity, structure and protecting your brand. Whether you start small or build a detailed guide, having a go-to resource for your team is one of the best investments you can make.

Key Takeaways:

1. Set clear expectations – Outline your working principles, communication preferences, and quality standards to ensure consistency across your employees.
2. Keep it simple and accessible – Use bullet points, headings and an easy-to-navigate format so team members can quickly find what they need.
3. Update regularly – A handbook isn’t a set-and-forget document. Revisit it at least every six months to keep it relevant and useful.

If you don’t have a virtual assistant team handbook yet, start small. Even a simple one-page “Working With Us” guide can make a big difference. As your team grows, build on it - your future self (and team) will thank you.

Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations

Hiring Associates free guide

Find us on our website

Overwhelm can creep in before you even realise it. In this episode, I share how to spot the early signs, practical strategies to stop it in its tracks and mindset shifts to help you take control before stress takes over.  
Every VA experiences overwhelm at some point - whether it’s juggling multiple clients, trying to grow your business, or simply keeping up with everything life throws your way. The problem is, overwhelm doesn’t always hit suddenly. It builds up over time, and before you know it, you’re feeling stuck, exhausted and unsure where to start. 

In this episode, I’ll help you recognise the early warning signs of overwhelm, share practical steps to regain control and talk about why looking after your energy is just as important as managing your workload. From brain-dumping and prioritising ruthlessly to shifting your mindset and setting boundaries, these strategies will help you manage challenges without getting stuck in a cycle of stress. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Recognising the early signs of overwhelm allows you to take action before it escalates. 

• Practical strategies like brain-dumping, prioritisation and energy check-ins help you regain control. 

• Shifting your mindset and setting boundaries are key to preventing overwhelm in the long term. 

It’s not about doing more - it’s about doing what matters most. Overwhelm doesn’t mean you’re failing; it just means you care. The key is learning how to reset before it takes over.  
Take five minutes after this episode to brain dump everything on your mind. Then, highlight the one thing you’ll focus on next - and take that first step. Small, intentional actions will help you break free from the cycle of overwhelm.

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations.⁠ 

⁠Hiring Associates free guide.⁠ 

⁠Find us on our website. ⁠ 

Pricing is one of the biggest challenges for VAs, but getting it right is key to building a sustainable business. In this episode, I’m joined by Robin Waite, business coach, pricing expert and author of Take Your Shot, to dive into pricing strategies, scaling without burnout, and why you need to start thinking bigger.   
Robin Waite is the founder of Fearless Business, a keynote speaker, and a bestselling author known for helping business owners take control of their pricing and profitability. In this conversation, we unpack some of the biggest challenges VAs face - undercharging, trading time for money and struggling to scale. 

Robin shares why hourly rates keep VAs stuck and how to transition to pricing models that create stability and long-term success. We also discuss the importance of reviewing your numbers regularly, building a business that works for you (not the other way around), and why taking fearless action is the key to real growth. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Your pricing should reflect the value you bring - not just your time. Learn how to move beyond hourly rates and package your services effectively. 

• Scaling starts with reviewing your numbers. Track key business metrics to ensure profitability and long-term growth. 

• Fearless business owners take action. Growth happens when you push past fear and step into bigger opportunities. 

It takes confidence and clarity to charge what you're worth, scale your business, and create a sustainable future. There’s a lot to take away from my conversation with Robin. 

Look at your pricing and profitability this week. Are you charging enough to build the business and lifestyle you want? If not, identify one step you can take, whether it’s raising your rates, packaging your services or setting clearer financial goals. 

About Robin:  

Robin is the Founder of Fearless Business, an expert on pricing, a regular keynote speaker at business events and the bestselling author of several books, including Online Business Startup, Marketing Machine and the recent popular release Take Your Shot. 

 If you’d like a signed copy of, Take Your Shot, sign up here - https://www.fearless.biz/tys   

Website: https://www.robinwaite.com/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/RobinMWaite 

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/RobinMWaite 

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations.⁠ 

⁠Hiring Associates free guide.⁠ 

⁠Find us on our website. ⁠ 

If you don’t know your numbers, you can’t make informed decisions about your business. In this episode, I break down the key metrics every VA should be tracking to work smarter, not harder, and build a sustainable business.  
Tracking your metrics doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode, I share the essential numbers that will give you real clarity on what’s working in your VA business, what’s not, and where to focus your energy for growth. 

We’ll dive into financial metrics like revenue, profitability, and recurring income, client retention and conversion rates, and productivity insights to help you balance client work with business development. Plus, I’ll explain how tracking your marketing efforts can ensure you’re focusing on what actually drives leads and growth. 

Whether you’re just starting to track your numbers or looking to refine your strategy, this episode will help you take a data-driven approach to scaling your business. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Tracking financial metrics like net profit and recurring revenue helps you make smarter business decisions. 

• Understanding client retention and lead conversion rates allows you to improve your sales and service strategy. 

• Reviewing time management and marketing data ensures you’re focusing your efforts where they’ll have the most impact. 

 Pick one or two key metrics to start tracking this month. Whether it’s your profit margin, lead conversion rate, or time spent on billable work, getting clear on your numbers will help you make more strategic decisions. 

Monthly Metric Tracker Download

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations.⁠ 

⁠Hiring Associates free guide.⁠ 

⁠Find us on our website. ⁠ 

Have you ever had a quiet month or two in your business and immediately thought: "What am I doing wrong? Maybe I'm not as good at this as I thought"? Bad months happen and they do not get to decide who you are as a business owner, a leader, or a VA. "A bad month doesn't mean you're bad at business. It means you're in business." In this episode, we're diving into something that comes up again and again in mentoring sessions: detaching your self-worth from your business results. When you're a VA, especially if you're service-led and values-driven, it's very easy for business performance to feel personal. When work slows down, a client leaves, or revenue dips, it doesn't just feel like a business fluctuation. It can feel like a reflection of you. We explore what a quiet period in business is, why all businesses have quiet periods, and what to do when business goes quiet. Because you can be doing everything right and still have a slower period. Every business has seasonal dips, client churn, flat months, external factors you can't control, and phases of consolidation instead of growth. The difference isn't whether businesses have bad months, it's how much meaning they attach to them. Key takeaways: 1️⃣ Zoom out for perspective. Three to six months gives you context. Patterns matter. Blips don't. When you're navigating what to do when business goes quiet, remember that every business has seasonal dips, client churn, and phases of consolidation. 2️⃣ Instead of asking "What did I do wrong?", try asking: What worked? What shifted? What was in my control? What wasn't? This approach helps you understand the quiet period in business without making it personal. 3️⃣ You are still skilled, experienced, resourceful, adaptable, and capable of navigating change. A spreadsheet doesn't get to take that away from you. Detaching your worth doesn't make you careless, it makes you stable. This week, when you look at your numbers, write one sentence that starts with: "This month taught me…" Not "This month proves…" And notice how differently that lands. You're allowed to learn without labelling yourself. You're allowed to wobble without questioning everything. And you're allowed to be human while still being a very capable leader. Growth isn't linear. Confidence isn't constant. And leadership doesn't require perfection, it requires resilience. Check out episode 12 'Resilience, Mindset and Solutions'Check out mentoring optionsResources 👇Get our free mini course on Creating Solid Business FoundationsHiring Associates free guideFree Monthly Metrics Tracker downloadCheck out our website

What does it take to grow a successful VA business in a specialised industry? In this episode, I’m joined by Jane Scroggs, founder of Beam Virtual Property Support and Eave Assistants, to talk about her journey from solo VA to agency owner, the challenges of scaling, and how she developed a niche in the property sector. 

Jane Scroggs leads two successful VA agencies specialising in property support, managing a combined team of 25 virtual assistants. We dive into the challenges of recruitment, maintaining a strong team culture, and why Jane believes in proactively headhunting the right associates. 

Jane opens up about the highs and lows of running a VA agency, her approach to leadership, and how she’s structuring her business for long-term success, without sacrificing balance and freedom. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Building a niche VA agency requires deep industry knowledge and a proactive approach to recruitment. 

• Finding the right associates is key. Headhunting can be more effective than traditional hiring. 

• Scaling successfully means stepping away from client work and focusing on leadership and business development. 

It takes resilience, focus and commitment to run a successful business, there’s a lot to take away from my conversation with Jane.  

If you're considering scaling your VA business, start by identifying your niche and defining the kind of team you want to build. Look at your current workload and pinpoint areas where outsourcing could help you grow. 

About Jane:  

Jane leads Beam Virtual Property Support and Eave Assistants, two property-focused VA agencies with a combined team of 25 virtual assistants. They handle tenancy admin, maintenance and project management for landlords and letting agents, streamlining processes, reducing compliance risks and freeing up time for portfolio growth.   

Before founding Beam in 2020, Jane worked in the property industry as an executive assistant in London and Monaco, and helped develop Podville, a shipping container office project in Bristol. Her extensive property experience naturally led her to niche in supporting UK property professionals.   

https://www.instagram.com/janescroggs_property_va         

https://www.beam-va.com/ 

Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations.⁠ 

⁠Hiring Associates free guide.⁠ 

⁠Find us on our website. ⁠ 

You spend so much time helping clients run their businesses - but what about yours? In this episode, I’ll share why getting support in your own business is essential and how to start outsourcing with confidence. 

As a VA, you constantly advise your clients on the benefits of outsourcing, but are you applying that same advice to your own business? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or struggling to focus on growth, it might be time to bring in support. 

In this episode, I break down why getting help isn’t a luxury - it’s a smart business decision. I’ll guide you through how to track your time, identify tasks to delegate, and start small with outsourcing. From bookkeeping and social media to operations and recruitment, I’ll share practical steps to help you decide where to begin and how to build a support system that grows with your business. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Track your time and identify tasks that drain your energy or distract you from business growth. 

• Start small - bookkeeping, social media, or admin tasks are great first areas to outsource. 

• Build relationships with potential support early so you're ready when the time comes to delegate.  

This week, track your time and pinpoint one task you could outsource. Then start exploring your options - ask for recommendations, reach out to your network, and take the first step towards scaling your business.  Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations.⁠ 

⁠Hiring Associates free guide.⁠ 

⁠Find us on our website. ⁠