Episodes
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Thinking about becoming a Virtual Assistant but still have questions? You're not alone. In this episode, I answer some of the most common questions she receives from aspiring and new VAs—from experience and pricing to finding clients, AI, and knowing whether this career path is right for you. If you've been sitting on the fence about starting your VA business, this episode will give you clarity and confidence to take the next step.
In This Episode, I Cover:Whether you need previous experience to become a successful VA.How to choose the right services and price yourself sustainably.Practical ways to find your first clients and build visibility.Common myths around websites and whether AI can replace VAs.How to know if becoming a VA is the right fit for you and what it really takes to succeed.
Ready to Launch or Grow Your VA Business?Inside VA Mastery, you'll get the training, tools, support, and community you need to confidently build and grow a thriving VA business. If you're ready for a clear roadmap and ongoing support, we'd love to welcome you inside.
Doors close for our July intake tonight @ 11.59pm. Enrol here
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With AI tools like ChatGPT becoming more accessible, many aspiring business owners are asking: Do I still need a coach? In this episode, I share my honest thoughts on where AI can be an incredible support tool and where personalised coaching still makes all the difference. If you've been relying on endless Google searches, consuming content without taking action, or wondering whether coaching is still worth it, this episode is for you.
In This Episode, We Cover:Why having access to information isn't the same as knowing what action to take.The limitations of AI when it comes to personalised business advice and strategy.How accountability can dramatically change your business growth.The value of lived experience, coaching, and recognising business patterns.Why the future isn't AI versus coaching—it's learning how to use both effectively.
Ready to Build Your VA Business?If you're ready to stop second-guessing yourself and start building a sustainable, profitable VA business, VA Mastery gives you the roadmap, training, tools, templates, support, and community to help you succeed.
Join before midnight today to take advantage of our EOFY sale saving $300. Learn more and join us here
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode, I bust four of the biggest myths aspiring Virtual Assistants believe about client attraction. From thinking you need more experience to believing the market is saturated, you'll learn what actually helps beginner VAs gain momentum and attract opportunities.
What You'll Learn:
Why being a beginner isn't what's holding you backThe difference between visibility and being everywhereWhere many of the best client opportunities actually come fromThe truth about market saturation in the VA industryWhy preparation can become a form of procrastinationHow confidence is built through action, not before itThe key activities that create client attraction momentumKey Takeaway:
Finding clients isn't about luck, having the perfect website, or waiting until you feel ready. It's about building visibility, having conversations, creating relationships, and taking consistent action.
Ready to stop overthinking and start attracting clients with confidence?
The Startup VA Challenge is now live.
If you're tired of consuming more information and want a clear, step-by-step plan to help start, launch and sign clients in 30 days, you'll want to register here
Connect with Ashlee:
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another aspiring VA who needs this reminder today.
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If you've been questioning whether it's still worth becoming a Virtual Assistant in 2026, you're not alone.
With AI tools becoming more powerful and more businesses exploring offshore hiring options, many aspiring VAs are wondering if there's still room for them in the market.
In this episode, I'm unpacking what's actually happening in the industry right now—without the fear-mongering or unrealistic promises. We'll talk about why businesses still need support, what clients are really paying for, and where beginner VAs can create value in a changing market.
In This Episode We Cover:• Why AI isn't replacing Virtual Assistants anytime soon
• The real reason business owners hire support (hint: it's not just for tasks)
• How offshore hiring impacts the VA industry and what it means for beginners
• The difference between competing on price versus competing on value
• Three service areas businesses are still actively looking for support with
• How beginner VAs can position themselves for success in today's market
Whether you're considering starting a VA business or you've been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the "right time," this episode will help you see the opportunities that still exist and where to focus your energy moving forward.
Resource mentioned: Free VA Starter Kit
Ready to start your VA business with clarity and confidence? Download my free VA Starter Kit and get the tools and guidance to help you take your first steps.
If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can see you're listening.
Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear that there is still plenty of opportunity in the VA industry.
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What does it actually look like to take radical responsibility in your business… and your life?
In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by Business Strategist Angela Henderson to unpack what it really means to lead yourself through challenging seasons — whether that’s in business, relationships, or life behind the scenes.
We dive into the realities of navigating heavy seasons, making aligned decisions (even when they’re hard), and the truth about growth that most people avoid.
This episode is honest, grounded, and full of perspective shifts — especially if you’re in a season that feels messy, uncertain, or a little heavier than usual.
In this episode we cover:
What “radical responsibility” actually looks like in real life (not just in theory)How to navigate challenging personal seasons while still running a businessThe difference between scaling, alignment, and what you actually wantBoundaries, ownership, and where your responsibility begins and ends in businessWhy sustainable growth often looks “boring” — and why that’s a good thingAbout Ange:
Angela Henderson is a Business Strategist, Speaker, and Founder of The Healing Centre of Australia.
With over 15 years of experience, she has supported thousands of women globally to grow sustainable, profitable businesses while strengthening leadership and resilience.
Her work combines strategic business growth with a holistic approach — focusing on alignment across health, wealth, relationships, and business to create long-term, sustainable success.
Loved this conversation? Come and connect with us:
→ Follow Angela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelahendersonconsulting/
→ Explore Angela’s work: https://www.angelahenderson.com.au/
→ Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
→ Learn more about working together: www.ashleethomas.com.au
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What happens when the business you once loved… just doesn’t feel that exciting anymore?
In this honest episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at a season I’ve been navigating — feeling flat, unmotivated, and not as connected to the growth side of my business.
After 9 years of genuinely loving what I do, this felt unfamiliar… and uncomfortable.
But here’s the truth no one really talks about:
Not every season in business is going to feel exciting.
Sometimes it feels heavy.
Sometimes it feels boring.
And sometimes… it just feels like a job.
In this episode, I’m unpacking what this has looked like for me, how I’ve been moving through it, and the difference between a season you need to ride out vs a business you’ve outgrown.
If you’ve been questioning your motivation, your energy, or wondering if something’s “wrong” — this one is for you.
In this episode we cover:
Why your business won’t always feel exciting (and why that’s normal)The difference between boredom, burnout, and misalignmentHow to navigate heavy seasons without making reactive decisionsWhat it looks like to lead your business without relying on motivationWhy the most sustainable businesses are often the “boring” onesIf this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you 💛
Come and connect with me over on Instagram or explore how we can work together:
→ Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
→ Learn more about my programs + offers:
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“I’ll just figure it out myself…”
Sounds responsible, right?
But in this episode, I’m breaking down why this mindset is actually keeping so many VAs stuck in cycles of overwhelm, inconsistency, and second guessing.
Because while free content, podcasts, and DIY learning can absolutely help… there comes a point where consuming more information isn’t the thing moving your business forward anymore.
I’m sharing the hidden cost of trying to piece everything together alone, the patterns I see constantly with VAs in this phase, and why support, structure, and strategy often become the missing piece.
If you’ve been spinning your wheels wondering why things still feel harder than they should… this episode is for you.
In the episode I cover:
The hidden downside of the “I’ll figure it out myself” mindsetWhy consuming more content isn’t always the answerThe difference between being busy vs making real progressHow second guessing keeps you stuck in inconsistent actionWhat actually helped one client move forward fasterWhy structure and support matter more than “doing more”If you’re done piecing things together alone and ready for more clarity, structure, and direction in your business…
Join the LEVEL UP waitlist
This is where we focus on refining your business, creating more predictable income, and helping you grow without the constant overwhelm.
Plus, waitlist members will get first access + exclusive bonuses when doors open.
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You’ve got clients. You’re working. You’re busy. So why does it still feel like you’re not getting ahead?
In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the biggest traps I see virtual assistants fall into — staying “busy” without actually building a business.
If you’ve been feeling stretched or stuck in inconsistent income, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and what actually needs to change.
In the episode I cover:
Why being busy doesn’t equal growth or profitabilityThe difference between filling your time vs building a businessThe hidden reasons your income still feels inconsistentHow reactive work is keeping you stuck in the same cycleThe real problem (hint: it’s not a lack of clients)What actually creates stability, clarity, and growthAND If you’re ready to move out of the busy cycle and start running your VA business with structure and intention…
Join the LEVEL UP waitlist now
This is where we focus on moving beyond the messy middle and building a business that works long term.
Be the first to hear when doors open + access waitlist-only bonuses for founding members.
ASH
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In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a big decision I’ve recently made in my business… Closing down my mastermind.
This wasn’t something I decided overnight. And it definitely wasn’t the “easy” choice — especially when it meant walking away from consistent revenue.
But over time, something became really clear. Most of the women I support aren’t in the scaling stage.
They’re in the stage before that.
The stage where you’ve already started your VA business, you’ve landed clients… but things still feel inconsistent, a bit messy and not quite as stable as you’d like.
And what they actually need isn’t more strategies around digital products or building a team.
They need refinement.
In this episode, I walk you through:
• why I made the decision to close the mastermind
• what I started to notice in my clients
• the gap I believe exists in the online space
• the stage of business that’s being overlooked
• and the biggest lesson I’ve taken from this (hint: it’s not about money)
I also share what this means moving forward… and introduce the new program I’ve created to better support this stage.
This decision led me to create something new…
Level Up — a coaching program designed specifically for VAs in that in-between stage.
If you’ve started your business, have clients, but want:
• more consistent income
• clearer offers and pricing
• stronger messaging
• and a business that actually runs smoothly
This is for you. Jump on the LEVEL UP WAITLIST here to access exclusive waitlist only bonuses
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If your offers aren’t converting, it’s not always about visibility — it could be confusion.
In this episode, I’m breaking down 3 subtle (but common) signs that your offers aren’t as clear as you think — and why that’s stopping your audience from taking action.
Because when your offers feel overwhelming, unclear, or too similar… your audience doesn’t lean in — they hold back.
Inside this episode:
Why over-explaining your services is actually hurting your salesThe problem with having multiple offers that sound the sameWhy listing tasks doesn’t translate into value for your audienceHow unclear offers create hesitation (even if people are interested)A behind-the-scenes look at clients who went from scattered services to simplified, profitable packagesIf this one hit home and you know your offers need work — I’ve created something for you.
Inside my 3 Fixes Masterclass, I walk you through how to simplify, position, and refine your offers so they actually make sense to your audience (and convert).
REGISTER HERE
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AI is moving fast… like really fast.
And if you’ve been feeling a little unsure about what it means for your business — you’re not alone.
In this episode, I’m joined by AI educator Em Gee, who teaches women in business how to save 10–15+ hours a week using AI (yes please 🙋🏻♀️).
We’re cutting through the noise, the hype, and the fear… and getting real about what’s actually changing, what matters, and how you can stay ahead.
Because here’s the truth:
AI isn’t replacing you… but it is changing how you work.
And the VAs who learn how to adapt?
They’re the ones who are going to thrive.
Inside this episode we dive into:
✨ How AI is actually changing online businesses (beyond just content)
✨ Why the VA industry isn’t “dying”… it’s evolving
✨ The rise of AI agents — and what that means for your role
✨ The biggest mistakes people make when using AI
✨ Why learning how to think with AI matters more than mastering tools
✨ How to start using AI without going into overwhelm
✨ Real talk on where AI is heading in the next 3–5 years
AI isn’t something to fear…
It’s something to learn how to work with.
The VAs who stay stuck in “task mode” will struggle.
The VAs who evolve into thinkers, problem-solvers, and AI managers?
They’ll be in demand more than ever.
Find Em here:
👉 Instagram: @therealemgee
And follow along @ashleethomas.vacoach for more biz tips
I'll be in your ears next week
ASH
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In this weeks episode, I’m joined by messaging and marketing strategist Tahryn from The Social Bolt, and we’re diving into what actually makes people pay attention, connect, and buy in today’s online space.
We’re talking about the shift that’s happening right now (hello AI), why blending in is costing you clients, and how to refine your messaging so it actually lands.
If you’ve ever felt like:
You’re posting but not getting resultsYour offers aren’t convertingYou sound like everyone else online…this is a must-listen.
Inside this ep we dive into:
✨ Why messaging is the anchor for everything in your business
✨ The biggest mistake VAs make when talking about their offers
✨ How to actually stand out in a saturated online space
✨ The 3 key elements your messaging needs to convert (desire, demand, differentiation)
✨ What’s actually working on Instagram right now (and what’s not)
✨ How to attract higher-quality, premium clients
✨ The truth about AI and what it really means for your VA business
A big takeaway? Your messaging isn’t just what you say…
It’s how you connect, position, and sell.
And in a world where everyone has access to the same tools (yes, even AI), the businesses that win are the ones that sound human, clear, and different.
Stay connected with Tahryn here and listen in for all her magical marketing spells over on the How I Do Content Podcast
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In this episode of Virtually Free, I’m sharing a real-time reflection on navigating new tools, trends, and opportunities, without getting pulled into every shiny object.
And the example I'm sharing is Claude!
Yes, being an early adopter can save time
Yes, tools like Claude (and others) can be powerful.
But if you’re constantly pivoting, learning new platforms, and starting over… you’re not building momentum, you’re burning it.
When you're in the stage of growth, you don’t need more tools (yet)
You need to refine what you’ve already built.
This episode is your permission slip to stay in your lane, double down on what’s already working, and stop confusing “new” with “necessary.”
What We Cover:
The truth about being an “early adopter” (and when it actually helps vs distracts)Why constantly chasing new tools is slowing your growthThe difference between optimisation and distraction (and how to spot it fast)How to decide if something is actually worth your time right nowWhy i'm personally not adding Claude to my tech stack (just yet)If you're in the messy middle stage of business and ready to refine your services and packages to position yourself as the obvious choice, download our free Playbook here
See you next week
ASH
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There’s no shortage of business advice online… but not all of it is good.
In fact, some of the most common advice being shared—things that sound smart, logical, and even “proven”—can actually slow your growth, lead to burnout, or keep you stuck in cycles of under-earning.
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the worst business advice I’ve heard (and followed), and what I’ve seen firsthand through building my own VA business and mentoring others.
Because building a business that actually works isn’t about following trends—it’s about making decisions based on real data, real people, and what’s sustainable long-term.
In this episode I cover:
Why “build it and they will come” is one of the biggest time-wastersThe truth about niching down (and why it actually creates more opportunities)The risk of relying too heavily on social media platformsWhy Facebook groups are still one of the most powerful tools for connection + moreIf you’re ready to stop undercharging and start building a business that actually supports you, my Pricing Playbook is the best place to start.
Inside, I walk you through how to confidently price your services based on value—not fear.
👉 Grab it here: https://www.ashleethomas.site/f/pricingforpurpose
If you loved this episode, make sure you:
Follow/subscribe so you don’t miss future episodesShare this with another VA who needs to hear itLeave a review (it helps more people find the podcast!)And come hang out with me on Instagram:
👉 Follow me here: www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
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What happens when a career-driven professional suddenly finds herself rethinking everything after becoming a mum?
In this episode of Virtually Free, I sit down with VA Mastery graduate Nadia from The Virtual Edition to talk about her journey from corporate admin to running her own virtual assistant business.
After 15+ years working in admin and operations, Nadia found herself unexpectedly out of a job while on maternity leave. Rather than returning to the corporate world and long commutes, she decided to take the leap into business ownership.
Despite having no social media presence at the time, Nadia signed multiple clients through her network before officially launching her business.
In this conversation, Nadia shares the honest behind-the-scenes of starting out — including the doubts, the late nights, and the small wins that kept her going.
If you’re thinking about starting a VA business but keep putting it off, this episode is the reminder that you don’t have to have everything figured out to begin.
You can connect with Nadia over on Instagram here and find out more about our VA Mastery Startup Program here
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There’s a stage in business that no one prepares you for.
You’re not new anymore.
Clients are coming in.
Money is flowing.
But it starts to feel heavy.
In this episode, I dive into:
Why the 12–18 month mark is where most VAs quitThe people-pleasing and scope creep that leads to burnoutWhy comparison hits harder in the messy middleThe difference between chaos and growthHow to shift from employee energy into CEO energyThis isn’t the stage to quit.
It’s the stage to refine
Download our Pricing Playbook for a resource on how to price and package like a pro here https://www.ashleethomas.site/f/pricingforpurpose
Follow on IG for more growth tips here www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
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If I was 12 months into my VA business again, knowing what I know now, there are three things I would stop immediately.
In this episode, we talk about the messy middle stage of business growth and:
Why undercharging is harder to fix laterThe cost of saying yes to everythingWhy avoiding your numbers keeps you stuckThe shift from scrappy to strategicIf you’re one year in and it still feels messy… you don’t need to start over. You need refinement.
And one of the first steps? Your pricing! If pricing is your weak spot, grab the Pricing Playbook to help you raise and position properly.
👉 https://www.ashleethomas.site/f/pricingforpurpose
Come share your biggest takeaway over on Instagram and let me know where you are in business.
👉 www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
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What happens when you’re burnt out in your 9–5… but not yet confident in your business?
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Bianca, founder of Busy Bee Support and a current student inside VA Mastery.
Bianca shares her honest journey from nursing burnout to building a virtual assistant business supporting allied health and wellness professionals. We talk about mindset blocks, niching down, signing clients, marketing pivots and what it really takes to build momentum in your VA business.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re “faking it” or unsure whether your past career experience is relevant in the VA world, this episode is going to shift your perspective.
In this episode we cover:
Why Bianca originally started her VA business (and why it wasn’t glamorous)The mindset struggles that come with starting from scratchHow nursing skills translate directly into a profitable VA businessThe power of niching down (and how clarity changes everything)Why Instagram wasn’t working — and how LinkedIn generated leads insteadMistakes made from relying on one marketing channelThe importance of onboarding systems and process confidenceTransitioning from part-time employment to full-time businessThe role of AI in future-proofing your VA businessWhy human skills will always matter (even in an AI world)The doors are currently open to VA Mastery — my 6-month high level group coaching program giving you the trainings, tools and support to build a thriving virtual business in 2026.
ENROL HERE
Connect with Bianca on Instagram or view her website
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Your first client experience probably won’t be perfect — and that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be. In this episode, I share what really happened when I landed my first client, the awkward mistakes made, and why being a beginner is not a weakness. If you’re overthinking your first offer, discovery call, or onboarding steps — this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn:
Why your first discovery call will feel awkward (and why that’s okay)What clients actually care about when hiring youThe 3 things I wish she’d prepared ahead of timeWhy you don’t need to pretend to be more experienced than you areHow to start with clarity and honesty — even if you're brand newLinks & Resources:
✨ Ready to sign your first client with clarity and confidence? Join the Start Your VA Biz Challenge for free here. We begin tomorrow!
Follow me on IG for daily tips + inspo and of course let me know what you loved the most about this episode/podcast and send me through a review
Ash
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Feeling stuck in setup mode and not sure where to begin? In this episode, I break down the three foundational systems every brand-new VA needs to confidently start their business — without getting lost in tech overwhelm or perfectionism.
What You’ll Learn:
The #1 mindset block that keeps new VAs stuckWhy making clear decisions is a system in itselfHow to create a visibility plan that’s realistic (and not draining)What to include in your basic onboarding process — even if you don’t have a client yetThe difference between preparation and perfectionDid you hear? Our Startup VA Challenge begins on Feb 18. This is a free, step-by-step training to help you start, launch and find clients in 30 days!
You can register here
And here is the Starter Kit link I referenced in today's episode
Don't forget to leave me a review and share with me on socials what you think about VF
ASH
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