The EA Campus Podcast: Recent Episodes

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What does it take to move from being a transactional Executive Assistant to becoming a true strategic business partner?

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, I sit down with Gillian Gelston, Executive Assistant at Salesforce, to discuss her career journey from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service to supporting senior leaders in one of the world's leading technology companies.

Gillian shares how she built a successful remote EA career, the systems and workflows that have helped her save time and money for her Executive, and why understanding personality types has transformed the way she works with different leaders.

We also discuss:

• How Gillian transitioned into the Executive Assistant profession
• Building trust and credibility as a remote EA
• The importance of boundaries and protecting your time
• Using Slack workflows to streamline approvals and reduce email overload
• How a simple budget approval workflow saved thousands in unauthorised spend
• Why compliance can be a valuable area of expertise for Executive Assistants
• Managing competing priorities in a fast-paced sales environment
• Creating a single source of communication to reduce overwhelm
• The role of personality frameworks in understanding Executives
• Finding your support network as a remote EA
• Developing a growth mindset and continuing professional development
• The books, podcasts and resources Gillian recommends for Executive Assistants

This conversation is packed with practical ideas for Executive Assistants who want to become more strategic, work more effectively with their Executive, and create systems that make work easier for everyone around them.

Whether you work remotely, in the office, or in a hybrid role, you'll come away with plenty of ideas you can implement immediately.

Training & Courses

→ The Strategic Business Partner Online Course (The EA Campus)

→ Elite EA Course by C&C Academy

Books

→ The Modern-Day Assistant by Lucy Brazier

→ The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

→ The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Podcasts

→ The EA Campus Podcast

→ The Crodie Files

→ Executive Office Insights

Frameworks & Assessments

→ Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)

→ The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin

Technology & Tools

→ Slack

→ Slack Canvas

→ Slack Workflow Builder

→ ChatGPT

→ Google Gemini

→ Google Docs

Learning Resources

→ Slack Academy

→ The Global Skills Matrix for Executive Assistants

→ The Rundown AI

The EA Campus

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In Ep98 of The EA Campus Podcast, we discuss the question of whether to trust or rely upon. Why the difference matters for EAs. As Executive Assistants, many of us become the person everybody depends on. We manage the details, keep things moving, solve problems quickly, and often hold together far more than people realise.

But there’s an important difference between being relied upon and being trusted.

In ep98 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas explores how trust develops in the EA role, why being operationally dependable can sometimes keep us stuck in reactive working patterns, and how stronger Executive partnerships are built through communication, consistency, visibility, and confidence in our thinking. In Ep98, we look at:

• Why trust and reliance are not the same thing
• How EAs become operationally central in organisations
• The shift from task support to a strategic partnership
• The small behaviours that build Executive confidence over time
• Why many experienced EAs already have more influence than they realise

If you’ve ever felt like your Executive depends on you for everything, but you still want more autonomy, visibility, or strategic involvement, this episode is for you.

Resources and links:

• The Difference Between Being Trusted and Being Relied Upon

Read more from The EA Campus:

• 10 Micro-Behaviours That Build Executive Trust
• From Task Manager to Trusted Partner: Building a Strategic Relationship with Your Executive
• Inspiring Trust in Your EA Work
• Strategic Business Partner Online Course
• Upcoming EA Campus Events

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas sits down with Molly Looney, Executive Assistant to the CEO of San Carlo Restaurants and winner of National PA of the Year.

From supporting international restaurant expansion projects to managing charity partnerships, travel, operations, and high-level stakeholder relationships, Molly shares what life really looks like behind the scenes of a fast-moving EA role in hospitality.

The conversation explores the importance of emotional intelligence, building trust with your Executive, learning how to read the room, and why “walking the floor” can become one of the most valuable habits an Executive Assistant develops.

Molly also opens up about:
☑ Working with difficult Executives and what those experiences taught her
☑ Knowing when to protect your Executive’s time and energy
☑ Managing reactive workloads without rigid systems
☑ Building strong workplace relationships and culture
☑ Why the EA role goes far beyond calendar management
☑ Her experience winning National PA of the Year
☑ The opportunities available for EAs who want to grow into more strategic roles

This is an honest, practical, and relatable conversation about the reality of modern Executive Assistant work, and the human skills that make the biggest difference.

You can find upcoming EA Campus masterclasses, virtual summits, and events at:
→ https://theeacampus.com/events/

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As Executive Assistants, we are used to working in environments where priorities shift quickly, plans change, and no two days look the same. One minute everything is mapped out, the next you are reworking the schedule, solving problems, and keeping everything moving behind the scenes.

So how do you build a way of working that actually supports that?

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore Agile working and how it can be adapted for the EA role. This is not about adding more process or complexity. It is about creating structure that allows you to stay flexible, make better decisions, and manage your workload with more clarity.

We break down what Agile working really means in practice and how you can start using it straight away in your role.

In this episode, we cover:

1. What Agile working is and why it fits the EA role
2. How to manage shifting priorities without feeling overwhelmed
3. The Moscow method for prioritising your workload
4. How to use sprints to focus on high-impact work
5. What Scrum looks like for EAs, including simple daily check-ins
6. How feedback loops can help you continuously improve how you work

If you are looking for a more structured but flexible way to manage your day, this episode will give you practical approaches you can start using immediately.

And a quick reminder. Our annual EA Campus Conference is taking place in London from April 22nd to 24th. If you want to learn, connect with other Assistants, and spend time working on your role, we would love to see you there. You can find all of the details on theeacampus.com.

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In Ep95 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas sits down with experienced Executive Assistant Ronie Williams to talk about what it really looks like to build a long-term career in the EA role.

Ronie has worked as an Executive Assistant for nearly three decades across finance, startups, and global tech companies. In this conversation, she shares how she started her career at 17, the lessons she learned working in demanding corporate environments, and how those experiences helped shape the way she works today.

Ronie now works at the SaaS company Contentful, supporting senior leaders across different regions while also playing a key role in building the London office culture from the ground up. From creating systems that help executives perform at their best, to building an environment where teams genuinely enjoy coming into the office, Ronie shares how EAs can influence far more than their job description suggests.

Throughout the episode, we discuss managing competing priorities, navigating difficult workplaces early in our careers, building trust with executives, and why experience is such a powerful asset in the EA profession.

Ronie also shares practical advice for assistants starting their careers today, including why curiosity, confidence and understanding your executive deeply are some of the most valuable skills you can develop.

If you’ve ever wondered how experienced EAs think about their role, their career, and the value they bring to organisations, this conversation is packed with insight.

Resources Mentioned:

• Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson

The EA Campus

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Some Executives think very quickly. Ideas arrive mid-conversation, instructions come in half-sentences, and priorities can shift between one meeting and the next.

As Executive Assistants, we often receive the headline version of the thought. The context, the reasoning, and the next steps may still be sitting in our Executive’s head.

In Ep94 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky explores what it is like to support leaders who think faster than they communicate, and how EAs can turn those fragmented conversations into clear, practical action.

We talk through how to recognise patterns in the way your Executive thinks, how to clarify ideas without slowing them down, and how to translate broad concepts into operational work.

Nicky also shares practical techniques that many Assistants use every day, including the “answer first” communication style, quick recap conversations, and simple ways to capture ideas before they disappear into the pace of the day.

If you have ever left a meeting thinking, “I know there was an idea in there somewhere…”, this episode will feel very familiar.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why fast-thinking leaders often communicate in fragments
• How EAs can recognise patterns in the questions their Executive asks
• Ways to clarify ideas without interrupting the flow of a conversation
• Turning broad concepts into practical next steps
• Using simple notes and AI tools to capture ideas quickly
• The quick recap technique that prevents misunderstandings

As EAs, we often become the person who helps bring structure to leadership thinking. When you learn how to listen for the intention behind the conversation and organise the next steps, your role becomes far more strategic.

If this episode resonates with you, share it with another Assistant who might recognise the same dynamic with their Executive.

You can also explore more training, masterclasses, and resources for Executive Assistants at theeacampus.com.

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In Ep93 of The EA Campus Podcast, we look at what it really takes to build a long and successful career as an Executive Assistant.

In Ep93 of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas is joined by Scot Wizniewski, Executive Assistant at Spotify and a respected voice in the global EA community.

Scot has spent more than 25 years working as a career Executive Assistant, supporting senior leaders across multiple industries, including publishing, beauty, and now technology. In this conversation, he shares how the role has evolved over time, how Assistants can move from a task-based position into a true strategic partnership with their Executive, and why adaptability is one of the most important skills for long-term success in the profession.

Together, Nicky and Scot explore the realities of supporting global executives, including managing complex calendars, prioritising requests when everything feels urgent, and building strong relationships across an organisation.

Scot also shares practical systems he uses every day. From colour-coded calendars that help executives manage their energy and focus, to decision-tracking documents that reduce email overload and help leadership teams stay aligned.

The conversation also touches on the rise of AI in the workplace. Scot shares his perspective on how Assistants can use tools like ChatGPT and Gemini productively, while recognising that the most valuable aspects of the EA role remain deeply human.

If you’re an Executive Assistant who wants to strengthen your strategic partnership with your executive and build a long-term career in the profession, this episode is full of insight and practical ideas.

In Ep93, We Discuss

• Scot’s journey into the EA profession and how he built a 25+ year career as a career Executive Assistant
• Moving from a task-focused role to a strategic partnership with your Executive
• Why adaptability is one of the most important skills for Executive Assistants
• Managing complex global calendars and working across time zones
• How to prioritise when everything feels urgent
• Scot’s colour-coded calendar system for managing Executive time and energy
• Using a decision tracker to reduce email overload and support executive decision-making
• The role of AI in the EA profession and where human skills still matter most
• Why emotional intelligence, empathy, and relationship-building remain essential EA skills

Resources Mentioned

• Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
• ChatGPT
• Google Gemini
• Calendar AI

Follow Scot on LinkedIn for insights on the evolving Executive Assistant role and practical advice from his experience supporting global executives.

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In Episode 92 of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore how AI is changing inbox management for Executive Assistants in a practical, day-to-day way. If you support one Executive or several, you already know how quickly inboxes can take over the rhythm of your day. Constant checking, forwarding, reacting, and chasing can easily become the default way of working. In this episode, we walk through what a typical EA day actually looks like and talk honestly about how we can build a clearer structure around email, rather than letting it dictate everything.

We start by looking at why inbox habits matter. As EAs, we handle a significant volume of communication, and the way we process email shapes expectations around response times and availability. When we are constantly checking and escalating messages in real time, we create a pace that is hard to sustain. Research shows that task switching reduces focus, and email is one of the biggest contributors. So we explore how triage creates structure, and how AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini can reduce the time spent reading and drafting without removing our responsibility to think and decide.

From there, we move into the morning pre-triage stage. This is where we use built-in summary features in Outlook and Gmail to scan long threads, extract key decisions, and identify open questions before replying. Instead of reading every message line by line, we generate a structured overview and then sense-check it. We revisit the 4 Ds framework. Do, Delegate, Defer, Delete or archive. Every email needs an outcome. AI can assist by drafting routine responses and suggesting meeting confirmations, but the decision about what happens to that email remains with us.

We then look at how AI supports your dedicated processing block. Drafting replies in your Executive’s tone using Copilot or Gemini, suggesting meeting times using calendar data, and converting emails into tasks through Microsoft To Do, Planner, or Google Tasks. The shift here is simple. The inbox is where requests arrive. Your task manager is where work is tracked. For EAs who are newer to this way of working, the advice is to start small. Choose one integration and use it consistently so that the system becomes habit rather than another layer of admin.

Midday, we focus on decision support and meeting preparation. Before a one-to-one or board meeting, you can prompt Copilot or Gemini to summarise recent email exchanges with a specific stakeholder, extract unresolved questions, and list commitments made. That gives you a working briefing note in minutes. We also cover how to draft structured follow-up emails with next steps, owners, and deadlines, then refine them so they reflect how your Executive communicates. Over the course of a week, those small time savings add up and allow you to focus on clarity and preparation.

Finally, we cover follow-ups, accountability, and the end-of-day reset. Many inbox tools allow you to set reminders for unanswered emails so that important threads do not disappear. We also talk about bulk archiving in Gmail and Outlook to reset an overgrown inbox while keeping everything searchable. The episode closes with a reminder that AI can reduce reading time, assist with drafting, surface unanswered threads, and support meeting preparation. It does not replace your role in prioritising, protecting sensitive information, and managing your Executive’s time with intention.

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There are conversations that would make your role as an Executive Assistant significantly easier.

You probably already know which ones they are.

• The clarification you’ve been meaning to ask for.
• The boundary that needs resetting.
• The expectation that was never fully defined.
• The salary discussion you keep postponing.

In this episode, Nicky talks through six specific conversations that directly impact how smooth, strategic, and sustainable your role feels. These are not dramatic confrontations. They are practical, calm, well-timed discussions that remove guesswork and reduce unnecessary rework.

You’ll hear about:

• The “I Need Help” conversation and how asking early saves hours later
• The immediate feedback conversation that prevents small patterns from shaping your role
• The unclear expectations conversation that stops you from aiming at the wrong target
• The managing up conversation and why it changes how your week runs
• The mistake admission conversation and how it can actually build trust
• The salary and value conversation and how to prepare properly for it

Throughout the episode, Nicky shares real EA scenarios and practical wording you can use, so you’re not walking into these discussions hoping they go well. You’re walking in prepared.

Resources Mentioned

Managing Up Guide for Executive Assistants:
https://theeacampus.com/blog/managing-up-as-an-executive-assistant/

EA Salary Survey:
https://www.easalarysurvey.com/

Confident Communicator Course:
https://theeacampus.com/online-course/confident-communicator/

Explore all upcoming masterclasses, virtual summits, and the London conference:
https://theeacampus.com/events

If this episode resonated, share it with another EA who might be carrying a conversation in their head that really needs to happen.

And as always, thank you for being part of The EA Campus community.

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In The EA Campus Podcast Ep 90, we sit down with Alicia and Yvette, the creators of the EA Salary Survey, to explore how the report came to life and why having a large, representative dataset really matters. We talk about the difference between small, skewed reports and meaningful data, and why transparency around respondent numbers is essential when you’re making career decisions.

We unpack the key findings from 2024 and 2025 across the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. EA salaries are above regional averages in most areas; education does not automatically determine earnings; and only two specific benefits in each country truly move the needle on job satisfaction. Career progression, however, consistently impacts whether people plan to stay or leave.

We also discuss hybrid versus remote working, peak earning years, and the gap between actual salary and salary satisfaction. One of the most important insights is that perception and progression often matter more than headline figures. Context is everything. Location, industry, and experience all play a role.

Finally, we share practical advice on how to use the report properly. Read it carefully. Compare like-for-like. Use it as part of a strategic business case rather than a blunt instrument. This episode is about perspective, evidence, and helping you make informed decisions about your career.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re talking about how to decide which AI tools are actually worth your time as an Executive Assistant, and which ones you can safely ignore.

If you’ve felt pressure to keep up with every new AI release, or you’ve tested tools that looked promising but never quite fit your day-to-day work, this episode is for you.

I’m sharing how I make decisions about AI from an EA perspective. Starting with the work we’re responsible for, not the features being promoted. We’ll talk about inboxes, calendars, executive prep, documents, events, and decision support. The real work EAs are doing every day.

This isn’t a tool roundup or a comparison episode. It’s a practical conversation about judgement, focus, and choosing tools that reduce mental load rather than add to it.

If you want a calmer, more realistic way to approach AI in your role, this episode will help you think it through.

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Inside episode 88 of the EA Campus podcast, you'll hear a conversation many Executive Assistants will recognise, even if we’ve never quite named it before. In this episode, we’re talking about perfectionism in the EA role. Where it comes from, how it quietly shows up in day-to-day work, and why it can start holding us back rather than helping us do better work.

As EAs, we care deeply about standards, accuracy, and getting things right, because our work affects our Executive’s time, priorities, and credibility. In The EA Campus Ep88, we explore how those high standards can slowly turn into overthinking, hesitation, and unnecessary pressure, especially when every task starts to carry the same emotional weight.

Inside The EA Campus Ep88

We talk through what perfectionism actually looks like in real EA work. From delaying low-risk decisions, to rechecking work late in the day, to holding things back for one more sense-check when the context is already there. This episode also looks at how judgement really develops in the role, not through getting everything right the first time, but through making decisions, seeing how they land, and adjusting next time.

If you’ve ever felt tired by your own standards, or noticed that being “careful” sometimes slows things down more than it helps, The EA Campus Ep88 will feel familiar, practical, and reassuring.

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In The EA Campus Ep87, we’re talking about something that sits at the heart of the EA–Executive relationship. Decision-making, and knowing when to act without constantly checking in.

As Executive Assistants, we’re expected to move work forward, protect priorities, and reduce pressure on our executive. In The EA Campus Ep87, Nicky Christmas explores how judgement, problem-solving, and clear processes help EAs build trust through everyday decisions.

This conversation is grounded in real EA work. Inbox management. Calendar decisions. Priorities. Access. The moments where you pause and wonder whether to decide or check in.

You’ll hear why over-checking often creeps in, even for experienced EAs, and how executives actually experience repeated confirmation requests. In The EA Campus Ep87, we look at how trust is built through consistency rather than big moments.

Nicky shares practical ways to strengthen your decision-making using context, past experience, and an understanding of what genuinely moves work forward. This includes what to do when a decision doesn’t land as expected, and how to recover without retreating into over-checking.

One of the key themes in the episode is what changes once your Executive fully trusts how you think and work. Autonomy increases. Your role becomes clearer. You’re managing work end-to-end rather than relaying decisions.

We also explore how this level of trust affects influence. You’re involved earlier. Your recommendations carry more weight. Others begin to see your role differently because of how consistently you operate.

Beyond the relationship itself, The EA Campus Ep87 looks at how confident decision-making shapes your day-to-day work. Fewer check-ins. Clearer ownership. Less second-guessing. More focus on solving problems that matter.

If you’re an EA who wants to feel more confident making decisions, especially in fast-moving or high-pressure environments, The EA Campus Ep87 will feel very familiar.

We also reference current EA Campus training throughout the episode, including our Virtual Summit on 27 January and upcoming AI masterclasses in January and February, all designed to support better decision-making in real EA workflows.

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January often starts with good intentions. New plans, new priorities, and a quiet expectation that you’ll somehow be more organised, more productive, and more on top of everything than ever before.

In this episode, Nicky Christmas kicks off the 2026 season of The EA Campus Podcast by tackling something foundational for Executive Assistants. Clarity around responsibility.

This episode is about the day-to-day reality of the EA role. The tasks that quietly creep in. The decisions you’re expected to make without authority. The mental load of holding context, chasing actions, and keeping everything moving. And how all of that shapes how productive, effective, and confident you feel in your role.

You’ll hear:

• Why responsibility often expands without anyone deliberately deciding it should
• The three types of responsibility most EAs carry, whether they realise it or not
• How unclear responsibility affects productivity, expectation setting, and your day-to-day workload
• What an alignment conversation with your executive actually looks like, and how to structure it using real examples rather than vague feelings
• A simple responsibility reset exercise you can do this week to get clearer on what you own, what’s shared, and what needs a conversation

Nicky also references several EA Campus resources during the episode, which you can explore here:

• Job description and role clarity resources: https://theeacampus.com/tag/career-development/ https://theeacampus.com/resources/job-description/
• EA task and competency lists: https://theeacampus.com/resources/task-list/
• Tools and tech masterclasses: https://theeacampus.com/masterclass/
• Virtual Summit taking place on 27 January: https://theeacampus.com/virtual-summit/

This episode sets the tone for the year ahead. Before new tools, new systems, or new productivity frameworks, it starts with clarity. Because knowing what you’re responsible for is the foundation for how you work, how you partner with your executive, and what a good day actually looks like.

If this episode resonates, share it with another EA who might need it right now, and make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas is joined by long-time friend, global thought leader, and former Executive Assistant Diana Brandl.

Diana shares her journey from supporting CEOs in global organisations like Sony and Babbel to building her own business, hosting a successful podcast, writing multiple books, and training assistants around the world. Together, Nicky and Diana reflect on what it really takes to evolve in the EA role without losing yourself along the way.

This conversation goes far beyond job titles. You’ll hear honest insights on visibility, people-pleasing, career transitions, and why so many assistants struggle to articulate their impact. Diana brings a truly global perspective, drawing on her recent travels and work with assistants across Europe and beyond.

They also dig into some of the biggest topics facing the profession right now. Strategic influence, the Chief of Staff conversation, professional qualifications, and how different countries approach the EA role. There’s a refreshingly balanced discussion on AI and automation too. What’s genuinely useful, what’s being overhyped, and why soft skills still matter more than ever.

This episode is for you if you’re:

• Reflecting on where your EA career is heading
• Curious about thought leadership, training, or alternative career paths
• Feeling the pressure to be more visible without wanting to shout
• Trying to make sense of AI without losing your human edge
• Ready to stop people-pleasing and start protecting your energy

It’s thoughtful, honest, and packed with perspective from someone who’s seen the EA profession from every angle.

Grab a cuppa and enjoy this wide-ranging conversation with one of the most respected voices in our industry.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky sits down with Kimberly Spencer, founder of Crown Yourself and CEO of Communication Queens, for an honest conversation about what founders really need from their Executive Assistants. Kimberly shares her journey from Pilates instructor to screenwriter to entrepreneur, and how hiring her first EA completely changed the way she built and led her business.

You’ll hear Kimberly talk about learning to delegate, understanding your zone of genius, hiring for values rather than skills, and why radical ownership matters on both sides of the EA.founder partnership. She also shares how podcast guesting became a major part of her business strategy and references her book Make Every Podcast Want You.

If you work with a visionary executive or support a founder who moves quickly, this conversation will give you practical insight into their mindset and how you can support them more effectively.

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What do entrepreneurs actually want from their Executive Assistants? In this episode, Nicky speaks with Andrew Chesnutt, CEO of The Authority Forge and a serial entrepreneur who’s built multiple seven-figure businesses, about what separates a good EA from a great one.

Andrew shares a candid look at the realities of working with founders—many of whom are fast-moving, neurodivergent, and juggling multiple priorities. Together, they unpack:

• The real difference between a Virtual Assistant and an Executive Assistant
• Why EAs who move from order taker to consultant quickly become indispensable
• How to build trust and anticipation with entrepreneurs who find it hard to let go
• Why clear communication and understanding neurodiversity are key to a strong partnership
• How EAs can use AI tools and SOPs to translate an entrepreneur’s “brain dump” into structured, actionable workflows

Andrew references the “Radar” character from MASH* as the perfect example of an Assistant who anticipates every need before it’s even voiced—and he’s right. This episode will help you see what it takes to become that kind of strategic partner.

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In The EA Campus EP82, Nicky Christmas dives into one of the most talked-about phrases in the Assistant world - Strategic Business Partner. Is it a genuine evolution of the role, or just a buzzword that’s been stretched too far? In The EA Campus EP82, Nicky unpacks what it really means to be “strategic” as an Executive Assistant, why it’s a mindset rather than a job title, and how to turn that mindset into everyday action.

You’ll hear honest reflections on the disconnect between expectation and recognition, practical advice for working strategically without waiting for permission, and a step-by-step Weekly Operating System to help you align priorities, protect focus, and build influence in your role.

If you’re ready to stop reacting and start leading with purpose, The EA Campus EP82 will help you bridge the gap between support and strategy - and show that being a Strategic Business Partner isn’t about status, it’s about how you show up every week.

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In Ep81 of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas explores how Executive Assistants can take control of their personal brand and rebrand themselves for the next stage of their career.

If you’ve ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or ready for more responsibility but unsure how to communicate that growth, this episode is for you. Nicky breaks down a practical process to diagnose your current brand, define the three words you’re known for now, and choose the three words you want next.

This isn’t about buzzwords or personal logos — it’s about building evidence, understanding perception, and showing up intentionally every day.

Listen to Ep81: The EA Campus Podcast to learn how to realign your reputation with your ambitions and start shaping the next chapter of your EA career with clarity and confidence.

Read the full article here 👉 Rebranding Matters for EAs Who Want More

📝 Show Notes

In Ep81: The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky dives into the art of rebranding yourself as an Executive Assistant. You’ll learn how to build a clear picture of how you’re currently seen, identify the gap between where you are and where you want to be, and take practical steps to shift your professional reputation.

In this episode:

• Why rebranding matters for Executive Assistants who want more
• How to diagnose your current brand with real evidence
• The “three words” exercise to define how others see you today
• Choosing your three future brand words that align with your Executive’s priorities
• How to start living your new brand through small, visible actions
• EA Tip of the Week: Treat your personal brand like a living document

💡 Read more: Rebranding Matters for EAs Who Want More
🎧 Listen now to Ep81: The EA Campus Podcast and start defining your next career chapter with purpose and intention.

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In this inspiring episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas sits down with the brilliant Julia Schmidt, Executive Assistant, author, speaker, and Executive Vice Chair of IMA (International Management Assistants).

Julia shares her remarkable 20-year journey from Brazil to Norway, highlighting the three key decisions that shaped her career: joining a professional community, pursuing a business education to build strategic influence, and becoming a certified Reinvention Practitioner.

Together, Nicky and Julia explore what it means to be an agent of change in a profession that’s constantly evolving. They discuss how Executive Assistants can align personal growth with organisational goals, lead through reinvention, and use feedback as a tool for transformation.

Whether you’re looking to refresh your goals for 2025, boost your confidence, or simply hear from one of the most forward-thinking voices in the EA profession, this conversation is packed with perspective, warmth, and practical advice.

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In today’s episode, I’m joined by William Thomson—our go-to events guru at The EA Campus and a renowned events management expert with 20+ years’ experience. William has delivered multiple masterclasses for our community, and he’s partnering with me to bring The EA Campus Conference to London next April.

We get practical about office socials and team-building: how to turn a vague brief into a clear plan, set the right expectations, budget smartly (without cutting corners that matter), and design inclusive food and drink that keeps everyone happy. William also shares creative, low-cost ideas to spark real connection, the run-sheet details that make or break an event, and how to gather feedback that actually improves the next one.

If you’re an EA juggling events alongside everything else, this conversation will save you time, money, and stress - while helping you deliver socials people genuinely enjoy.

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As Assistants, we’re often told to be the “magic behind the scenes”, quietly making everything happen while others take the credit. However, the truth is that building autonomy around your work and confidently sharing your achievements is essential if you want to grow in your role and be recognized for the value you bring.

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’ll explore how to:

• Create more independence in your role, even when responsibilities aren’t clearly defined
• Set clear goals and objectives that align with your Executive and organisation
• Communicate your achievements without feeling like you’re bragging
• Advocate for yourself with confidence and authenticity

You’ll leave with practical tips to take ownership of your work, gain recognition, and feel proud of the impact you make every single day.

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When your Executive is out of the office, your role doesn’t slow down — it shifts gears. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas shares practical strategies for managing both sides of the job: supporting your Executive on the road and keeping the office moving in their absence. From setting clear communication rhythms and decision boundaries to running a triage inbox and planning a smooth re-entry, this episode is packed with grounded, tactical advice you can apply straight away.

You’ll learn how to:

• Build trust so you can make confident decisions while your Executive is away
• Operate a sharper, more assertive inbox triage system
• Protect your Executive’s focus during high-stakes trips
• Use tools and templates to handle disruptions and keep things steady
• Plan the first day back so your Executive avoids burnout and stays effective

If you’ve ever been told, “Now the boss is travelling you can put your feet up,” this episode will prove just how wrong that is.

Show Notes

• Free Travel Itinerary Template
  – create seamless, professional itineraries
• Assistant Essentials Online Course
  – master travel management, stakeholder comms, and proactive support
• Upcoming Events
  – September & October highlights:
  • Lead Virtual Summit – 26 September: Build influence and become a strategic partner
  • Community Webinar – 30 September: What Assistants need from their Executives to create a true partnership
  • Calm Under Pressure Masterclass – 10 October: Stay focused and composed in high-stress situations
  • ChatGPT for Executive Assistants Masterclass – 24 October: Prompt smarter, streamline workflows, and use AI securely
  • Strategic Time Management Masterclass – 30 October: Align time with strategy and deliver impact

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In this Q&A, Courtney Salas joins me to unpack what it really takes to succeed as an Executive Assistant in a fast-paced tech startup. From organising constant change to stepping confidently into a strategic partnership, Courtney shares honest stories from life inside a 40-something-person scale-up—where there are no playbooks, just problems to solve and opportunities to grab.

You’ll hear how Courtney:

• Swapped corporate certainty for startup “productive chaos” and found her happy place
• Balances EA fundamentals with high-impact projects (including running a full Series A process)
• Builds confidence to challenge decisions and propose better options
• Hires for grit, curiosity, and bias to action - over years of experience
• Uses AI smartly, including a custom “Joe AI” profile to draft in her executive’s voice
• Streamlines calendars and inboxes with booking links and sensible automation - without losing control

Listen if you’re:
Curious about moving into tech, keen to elevate your remit beyond the “basics,” or ready to use tools and workflows to free up time for genuinely strategic work.

Highlights

• Owning the chaos: why uncertainty can accelerate your growth
• The fine line: keeping the day-to-day tight while driving big outcomes
• Influence in action: weekly prioritisation check-ins that actually work
• Tech stack talk: calendar links, inbox design, and practical AI
• Career mindset: choose leaders who open doors—and remember “everything is figureoutable”

Tools and Resources:

• Google Calendar – daily scheduling, advanced setup for blocking priorities and tasks
• Calendly – as another option for sharing availability
• ChatGPT – used daily to draft, edit, and research
• Slack – team communications, used as a source for training the AI

Resources & next steps
If you’re working towards a strategic partnership, explore our Strategic Business Partner course and check what’s coming up on The EA Campus events calendar. You’ll find masterclasses, summits, and community sessions designed to support you at every stage.

Enjoy the episode, and if it resonates, share it with an EA who’s ready for their next leap.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Microsoft Office maestro Shelley Fishel, founder of Tomorrow’s VA. Shelley has spent decades training assistants to get brilliant results with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and now, of course, Microsoft Copilot. We dig into what’s genuinely useful right now, what’s coming next, and how EAs can lead the conversation on AI without losing sight of the fundamentals.

Shelley shares how she uses Copilot daily (from redrafting tricky emails to prioritising the inbox and summarising meetings), why core skills like slide masters and brand-safe templates still matter, and how to make the most of lesser-known gems across Microsoft 365. We also talk mindset—staying curious, learning out loud, and saying “yes” then figuring it out—plus the big question: Will AI replace EAs? (Short answer: no. Nuance, judgment, and calendar strategy still need a human.)

What you’ll learn:

• Practical ways EAs can use Copilot today in Outlook, Teams, Word and beyond
• Why knowing the basics (formatting, slide masters, rules/quick steps) saves hours every week
• How to make a case for Copilot licences—and the security benefits of using it inside your tenant
• Mindset shifts to keep pace with fast-moving tech (without chasing every shiny thing)
• Where Microsoft 365 is quietly evolving—and the features most assistants overlook

Tools, features & terms mentioned:

• Microsoft Copilot across Outlook, Word, Teams (meeting summaries), and forthcoming Excel capabilities (including =COPILOT)
• Outlook: Quick Steps, Rules, prioritising the inbox
• PowerPoint: Slide Master, custom layouts, brand-safe decks
• Microsoft Loop (pages & live components), Copilot Pages
• Microsoft Sway (lightweight, web-style internal newsletters)
• Microsoft Forms, Microsoft Lists, Microsoft Bookings
• Security/Tenant awareness (enterprise data protection vs. pasting data into public AI tools)
• Other AI tools touched on: ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity

Perfect for: Executive Assistants who want clear, real-world ways to work smarter with Microsoft 365 and lead on AI - without the hype.

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts or on The EA Campus website.

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Managing your Executive’s inbox isn’t just about clearing emails - it’s about saving them time, reducing stress, and protecting their reputation. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas shares the essential first conversation you should have with your Executive about email management.

We’ll explore:

• How to agree on who replies and in what voice
• Setting realistic expectations for how often the inbox should be checked
• Understanding your Executive’s email stress points and behaviours
• Moving actions out of the inbox and onto proper task lists
• Identifying the priority senders your Executive can’t afford to miss
• Creating time in their schedule to process emails effectively

This isn’t about hitting inbox zero. It’s about building trust, setting boundaries, and showing the strategic value you bring as an Assistant.

Tune in and discover how a simple conversation about emails can transform the way you work with your Executive.

Events: https://theeacampus.com/events/

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore one of the most overlooked but powerful dynamics in the Executive Assistant role: the ability to be both interested and interesting.

Nicky shares personal stories and honest reflections on how curiosity and personality can shape your career path—from missed promotions in roles that felt uninspiring, to thriving in environments where she connected with the work and the people around her.

You’ll learn:

• Why being curious about your Executive, their goals, and your organisation matters
• How showing your personality (yes, even your love of movies or gardening!) can open unexpected doors
• Practical tips for building confidence and authenticity—even in quieter or less inclusive workplace cultures
• What to do if you’re not interested in your industry, and how to decide whether it’s time to move on

Plus, don’t miss this week’s freebie: our Elevator Pitch for EAs, a guide to confidently explain your role in any setting. Download it now at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep73

Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com
https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/

CONNECT WITH US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES:
https://theeacampus.com/resources/
https://theeacampus.com/online-course/

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When your Executive’s calendar is bursting at the seams, it’s tempting to feel responsible, like somehow, you should have prevented the chaos. But guilt doesn’t belong in your job description. In this episode, we’re flipping the script on calendar management and giving you the tools to start strategic conversations that lead to real change.

We’re diving into:

• Why it’s so important to talk about time, especially when your Executive is “too busy”
• How to ask subtle, thoughtful questions that spark meaningful reflection
• What to do when your Exec says, “I don’t know,” and how to gently guide the conversation forward
• The real difference between being the calendar manager and being a strategic partner

You’ll walk away with 10 practical conversation starters (and yes, there’s a free template!) to help you uncover what’s really driving the diary, and how to make smarter decisions with your Executive, not just for them.

🎧 Plus, this week’s free download includes a script and toolkit you can use straight away: theeacampus.com/podcast/ep72

Whether your Exec thrives on the hustle or is teetering on burnout, this episode will help you start the conversations that matter.

Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com
https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/

CONNECT WITH US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES:
https://theeacampus.com/resources/
https://theeacampus.com/online-course/

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re diving into the real-life juggle of supporting multiple executives—because yes, it’s a lot. But with the right systems, honest conversations, and a bit of forward planning, it can be done without losing your mind (or your lunch break).

I’m sharing the strategies that have helped me stay on top of it all, plus we’ve got brilliant insights from Natalie Egan, Senior Executive Assistant & Operations Lead, International Communications at Salesforce. Natalie knows what it takes to manage several high-level stakeholders at once, and she’s generously shared her tried-and-tested approaches with us.

We cover:

• How to set expectations early and fairly across multiple execs
• Why time alignment is your first (and most important) step
• Tips for staying visible, building trust, and avoiding calendar chaos
• What to do when people dynamics get a little tricky

🎁 Plus, we’re giving away a free Daily Briefing Document to help you manage tasks, priorities, and updates for each of your execs. Download it at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep71

Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com
https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/

CONNECT WITH US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES:
https://theeacampus.com/resources/
https://theeacampus.com/online-course/

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Ever feel like your brain has 47 tabs open – and not a single one is loading properly?

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, I’m sharing 10 real ChatGPT prompts I use every week to streamline my business, clarify my thinking, and save serious time – and I promise, they’re not just for techies. Whether you're writing tricky emails, planning events, building SOPs, or just trying to get your head straight for a 1:1, there’s something in here you’ll want to borrow (and make your own).

We’ll talk about how ChatGPT can become your second brain – not to replace your skills as an Assistant, but to amplify them. I’ll show you how to adapt these prompts for your own role or even share them with your Executive to help them work smarter too.

Plus, I’ve created a free EA ChatGPT Prompt Sheet to go with this episode – packed with examples you can copy, tweak and try straight away. Grab it at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep70.

In this episode:

• How to turn brain dumps into action plans
• Prompts for writing emails, LinkedIn posts, and meeting agendas
• Using AI to reduce decision fatigue and create routines that work
• Tips for crafting SOPs, summarising meetings, and getting budget clarity

Whether you’re just starting with AI or already dabbling, this is a practical, jargon-free guide to using ChatGPT in a way that makes sense for you as an EA.

Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com
https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/

CONNECT WITH US:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook

🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES:
https://theeacampus.com/resources/
https://theeacampus.com/online-course/

The EA Campus

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As Executive Assistants, we’re no strangers to juggling a hundred things at once, but how often do we stop and ask: Is this a task, or am I actually running a project? In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we are diving into why recognising the difference between tasks and project work matters more than you might think.

We’ll talk about how to spot project work in your day-to-day, why the language you use can completely change how others see your role, and how to start framing your contributions in a more strategic way, without adding loads of admin to your plate.

You’ll walk away with a simple framework for thinking about your projects (yes, they are projects!) and the confidence to say, “I delivered this” - because you did.

EA Insight of the Week: A small shift in language can lead to a big shift in impact.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas sits down with Gisele Karame-Kemp for a candid and inspiring Day in the Life conversation.

Gisele joins us from Sydney, Australia, where she leads a global team of Executive and Administrative Assistants at Atlassian. With a career that’s taken her from the University of Sydney to the private investment world supporting Lachlan Murdoch, and five and a half years as EA to Atlassian’s CEO, Gisele shares the real story behind her career evolution—and what it’s like to go from EA to people manager in a fast-paced tech environment.

We talk about:

• What it takes to lead a team of Assistants while staying true to the EA mindset
• How to build confidence and shift out of perfectionism
• Managing burnout, creating sustainable routines, and prioritising self-care
• Why a growth mindset is more valuable than a polished CV
• Navigating roles that look impressive on LinkedIn but don’t align with your life

Gisele brings a refreshing blend of insight, humility, and humour to this conversation—whether you're an EA exploring your next step, or a leader supporting others in their careers, you’ll take so much away from this episode.

Resources and links mentioned:

• Feel Better, Live More podcast with Dr Rangan Chatterjee
• Upcoming EA Campus events: https://theeacampus.com/events

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re taking a deep dive into the Eisenhower Matrix — specifically the quadrant that too often gets overlooked: important but not urgent work.

As Executive Assistants, it’s easy to get caught in the whirlwind of urgent requests, Slack pings, and last-minute diary dramas. But real strategic impact? That lives in Quadrant 2.

Join Nicky Christmas as she explores how EAs can protect time for the work that improves processes, builds trust, and prevents future fires — all without needing a crisis to prioritise it. You’ll learn how to schedule and defend deep work time, link your projects to long-term goals, and frame your accomplishments to reflect the real value you bring.

💡 Related Reading:
👉 Mastering Prioritisation as an Executive Assistant with the Eisenhower Matrix

📅 Upcoming Events Mentioned:
🚀 Innovate Virtual Summit – AI & Automation for Assistants (11th July)
💻 Microsoft Office Essentials and AI Masterclass with Shelley Fishel (25th July)

Whether you’re planning ahead, refining your systems, or just trying to make space for the work that really matters, this episode is for you.

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Ever wish you had a clear roadmap for working seamlessly with your Executive? In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas guides you through the powerful process of creating an Executive User Guide - a strategic tool that captures everything you need to know about your Executive’s preferences, communication style, and leadership approach.

From defining how they like to receive updates to understanding their management style, Nicky breaks down each section with practical tips and real-world examples. You’ll learn how to:

• Identify your Executive’s communication preferences
• Set clear expectations around reporting and meetings
• Navigate feedback and performance conversations
• Align with your Executive’s strategy and priorities

Plus, don’t miss the free download to help you get started: the Executive User Guide Template, available at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep66.

This episode is a must-listen for any Assistant who wants to build a stronger partnership with their Executive and elevate their impact. Tune in and discover how to take the guesswork out of working together!

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we sit down with freelance Executive Assistant Kaitlin Bekken for one of our ever-popular Day in the Life conversations.

Caitlyn shares her journey into the EA world, how she transitioned into freelancing, and what a typical day looks like supporting multiple clients across industries. From managing inboxes and booking complex travel to using AI tools like ChatGPT and NVO to streamline her workflow, Caitlyn walks us through the systems and mindset that keep her on top of her game.

We also dive into the importance of knowing your own working capacity, how to build strong remote relationships with executives, and the career-defining power of problem-solving and tenacity.

Whether you’re an in-house EA curious about life as a freelancer, or a virtual assistant looking to refine your own approach, Caitlyn’s insights are full of practical wisdom, humour, and reassurance.

In this episode:

• Caitlyn’s journey into the EA role and her move into freelancing
• How she manages her day across multiple clients and time zones
• Her favourite tools and tech, including ChatGPT and NVO
• Building trust remotely and setting healthy boundaries
• Advice for new EAs (and why “just go for it” might be your new motto)

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Welcome to The EA Campus Podcast with your host, Nicky Christmas. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the different types of meetings your Executive attends and how you can manage them strategically to drive real progress.

Here’s what we cover:

• Why meetings matter more than ever—and how EAs can support their Executive’s time as their most valuable resource
• The six key meeting types you need to know:
  • Decision-Making Meetings – Where critical choices happen
  • Information-Sharing Meetings – Updates and reports that matter
  • Brainstorming/Creative Sessions – Sparking new ideas
  • Relationship-Building Meetings – Building trust and connections
  • Crisis/Problem-Solving Meetings – When urgent solutions are needed
  • Governance/Board Meetings – Formal, high-level decision-making
• How to categorise meetings and tailor your prep: from agendas and pre-reads to setting the right mindset for each type
• The importance of managing transitions between meetings to avoid ‘meeting hangovers’ and keep your Executive focused
• Tips for asking the right questions when scheduling meetings—like clarifying objectives, success criteria, and your Executive’s role
• The difference you can make as an EA by setting every meeting up for success, transforming from a diary manager to a strategic partner

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Free Meetings Checklist Template: theeacampus.com/podcast/ep64
• EA Campus Online Courses – 30% off with code SUMMER30
• Upcoming Events:
  • Advanced Management Masterclass – 13th June
  • Strategic Time Management Masterclass – 24th June
  • AI Virtual Summit – 11th July
  • Microsoft & AI Masterclass – 24th July

https://theeacampus.com/events/

🗓️ Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to The EA Campus Podcast so you never miss an episode
• Leave us a review - it helps other EAs discover the show
• Share this episode with a fellow EA who’d find it helpful

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Business travel – glamorous on Instagram, chaotic in real life. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas revisits one of her most-requested topics: how to expertly plan and manage business travel for your executive. Originally recorded at her first public speaking event back in 2012 (or maybe 2013 – who’s counting?), this session has been fully updated for 2025 with all the latest tools, AI tricks, and tech tips.

Whether your executive is flying long-haul or hopping on a train to a regional office, you’ll learn how to build a bulletproof itinerary that keeps them calm, collected, and exactly where they need to be. From pre-flight prep to worst-case scenario plans, we’re covering it all.

Oh, and yes – we still print the itinerary. Even in 2025.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why travel planning is still one of the most essential EA skills
• Setting clear expectations before your executive sets foot on a plane
• Questions to ask before you book anything (trust us, these are game changers)
• What the purpose of the trip tells you about how to plan it
• How to build an itinerary your executive will actually use
• Four essentials every itinerary needs – plus the added extras that make all the difference
• Why paper copies still matter (yes, really)
• Who should get a copy of the itinerary – it’s not just your exec!
• How to prep for delays, jet lag, and all those unexpected curveballs
• The best AI and travel tech tools to streamline the process in 2025
• One final Google Maps trick that will make you look like a total travel genius

🎁 Free Download:
Grab our customisable Travel Itinerary Template – complete with emergency contact checklist and pre-trip planning questions.

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In this solo episode, host Nicky Christmas dives into a topic that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential for Executive Assistants - feedback. Not just collecting it, but organising it, categorising it, and using it to demonstrate your value, influence, and impact.

We’ll unpack how to turn everyday praise into a powerful narrative you can use in performance reviews, salary conversations, and even job interviews. If you've ever struggled to explain your contribution, this episode will give you the tools—and the confidence—to make your invisible work visible.

Plus, Nicky shares a free downloadable Feedback Categorisation Template to help you get started.

🔗 Download the free template here: https://theeacampus.com/podcast/ep62

🗂️ Show Notes:

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why feedback often goes unnoticed—and how to start spotting it
• How to collect feedback in a way that fits into your busy schedule
• A step-by-step system for categorising and analysing your feedback
• How to turn praise into a compelling narrative for performance conversations
• Why sending your feedback summary ahead of time changes the tone of the meeting
• How tools like ChatGPT can help structure and polish your feedback log

💡 EA Tip of the Week:
Track praise like you’d track spending. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be captured.

🎁 Resources Mentioned:

• Download the Feedback Categorisation Template
• Sign up for The Collaborative Assistant Masterclass – Friday 30th May

📣 Don’t forget to:

• Subscribe, share, and leave a review
• Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram @TheEACampus
• Visit https://theeacampus.com for upcoming events, courses, and community support

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This week, we’re tackling one of the most common challenges Assistants face - getting your Executive to delegate.

If your Executive insists on doing everything themselves, avoids handing off tasks, or says they simply don’t have time to show you the ropes, you're not alone. In this episode, I unpack eight key reasons why so many Executives struggle to delegate and what you can do about it. From perfectionism and fear of failure to not knowing where to start, we’ll explore the mindset behind the resistance and give you practical strategies to break through the barrier.

You’ll learn how to:

• Understand the psychology behind under-delegation
• Use the “multiple-choice strategy” to make it easier for your Executive to say yes
• Build trust and showcase your capability through small wins
• Create a system that makes delegation a habit, not a headache

Plus, I’ll share tips on how to keep your Executive accountable once they start delegating.

👋 A quick heads-up before we dive in - May is a big month here at The EA Campus! Join us for the Project Management Masterclass with Mary Beth Imbarratto on Friday, 9th May, our Impact Virtual Summit on Friday, 16th May, and the Collaborative Assistant Masterclass on Friday, 30th May. We’d love to see you there!

Project Management Masterclass

Impact Virtual Summit

Collaborative Assistant Masterclass

Ready to help your Executive let go and level up? Let’s get into it!

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From setting goals and refreshing their profile to drafting content and tracking engagement, Nicky walks you through seven practical steps to help your Executive build a personal brand on LinkedIn - without it taking over your day.

Whether you're already ghostwriting posts or just starting to explore what this might look like, this episode is packed with advice, real-world EA insights, and helpful tools to make the process smoother.

You don’t need to be a social media manager to add value here. You just need the right plan, the right tools, and the confidence to get started.

Plus, don’t miss the bonus segment on what not to do when managing your Exec’s LinkedIn, and a reminder of the exciting events coming up on The EA Campus!

🎧 Listen now and learn:

• How to set goals and boundaries with your Executive
• What kind of content works best on LinkedIn
• How to create a sustainable content schedule
• Tools to help you write, schedule, and track content
• How to turn social media support into real performance wins

Content Planning & Scheduling:

• Trello / Asana (content calendar)
• Notion (content tracker)
• SocialBee (scheduling, categorising, and repurposing posts)
• Buffer / Later (content scheduling)
• LinkedIn’s Native Scheduling

Content Creation & Design:

• Canva (graphics, thumbnails)
• ChatGPT (drafting ideas - just make sure to edit for tone!)

LinkedIn-Specific Tools:

• Shield App (performance analytics)
• Taplio (personal branding, scheduling, AI help)
• LinkedIn Creator Mode (highlight posts, access extra tools)
• Crystal (understand tone of potential connections)

Profile Optimisation:

• Teal
• Resume Worded

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In this special Admin Week episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re exploring one of the most important (and often most uncomfortable) topics for Executive Assistants: asking for a training budget.

If you've ever felt awkward or unsure about asking for professional development support, this episode is for you. We’re unpacking the mindset shift that turns “asking for permission” into “claiming what’s already available to you” - because training isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.

We cover:

• Why EA-specific training matters more than ever
• The reasons assistants hold back from asking for budget—and how to move past them
• How to make a confident, strategic ask (with a strong ROI)
• What to do if the answer is “no”
• The tools and templates available to make your ask easier (including our free Business Case Template)

Plus, to celebrate Admin Week, we're offering 40% off all EA Campus online courses through April—the perfect reason to take that next step.

This is your moment. You deserve professional development, and in this episode, we’ll show you how to ask for it with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

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In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that sparked a massive response on LinkedIn - KPIs for Executive Assistants. If you've ever struggled to explain your value, felt stuck in performance reviews, or wondered how to track the impact of your work, this is the episode for you.

We explain KPIs, why they matter in our role, and how you can start measuring your impact in simple, practical ways without adding to your workload. We also discuss how to use this data in one-to-ones, performance reviews, interviews, and even casual conversations with your Executive (yes, without feeling like you’re bragging!).

And a huge thank you to our sponsor, Vimcal EA, for supporting this episode. Their brand-new Executive Calendar Audit feature is a game-changer for Assistants looking to save time and prove their value. Make sure to check out the free upcoming webinar!

Links and Resources Mentioned

• Free KPI Template for Executive Assistants
  → theeacampus.com/podcast/ep58
• Vimcal EA – Executive Calendar Audit Tool
  → https://vimcal.com/ea
• Vimcal EA Webinar – Hosted by CTO Michael Zhao
  → Next session: April 18th, 2025 – Register here: https://lu.ma/ro0ylk6k
• 📌 Recommended Tools to Track KPIs
  • Project/Task Management: Asana, ClickUp, Trello
  • AI Tools: ChatGPT, Zapier, Microsoft Power Automate
  • Travel & Expense Management: Concur, Expensify, Navan
  • Feedback & Survey Tools: Google Forms, Typeform

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In this inspiring episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas sits down with the one and only Hallie Warner - Force Multiplier, coach, consultant, and co-author of The Founder and the Force Multiplier. If you’ve followed Hallie’s work, you’ll know how much she’s impacted the assistant community. And if this is your first introduction to her, you’re in for something really special.

Hallie shares her career journey from early assistant roles to becoming Chief of Staff and now launching her own business, including the brand-new Force Multiplier Academy. We dive into what it means to show up as a strategic partner, how Hallie defines the Force Multiplier mindset, and what makes a true, trusted partnership with your Executive.

We also talk about:

• The transition from EA to Chief of Staff (and how to know if it’s right for you)
• Building your personal brand intentionally (even if you're an introvert)
• Taking a meaningful career break and learning to rest
• The power of self-awareness and communication style in building influence
• Her current coaching and consulting work, plus exciting new projects on the horizon

And yes, Hallie shares her latest book recommendations, her love for reality TV (hello, The Traitors), and what’s always on her desk, even on a deserted island.

Whether you're just starting out in your career or stepping into a senior EA or Chief of Staff role, Hallie’s honest, practical advice will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take the next step.

• Hallie Warner LinkedIn
• The Force Multiplier Academy
• Email: hallie@halliewarner.com
• The Inner Circle Weekly Newsletter

Books:

• All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
• The Wedding People by Alison Espach
• Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott
• Multipliers & Impact Players by Liz Wiseman

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most powerful strategies you can adopt as an Executive Assistant: goal-driven scheduling.

If your Executive is constantly running from one meeting to the next with no time to think, strategize, or actually do the work, this episode is for you. I’ll walk you through how to shift from reactive calendar management to a more purposeful, high-impact way of structuring the schedule — and why this is a game changer for both you and your Executive.

We’ll explore what goal-driven scheduling actually means, how to build it into your workflow, how to handle pushback, and the tech tools that can make it all feel easier and more doable.

💡 Mentioned in this episode:

• Tools & Tech for Assistants Masterclass – Friday 4th April
• Email Management & Triaging Inboxes Masterclass with Steuart Snooks – Friday 25th April
• Effective Calendar Management Online Course
• Vimcal EA – The First Calendar Built for EAs
• Read the Full Vimcal EA Review on The EA Campus Blog
• Resources to Help Run Better 1:1s with Your Executive

Thank you to this week's sponsor - Vimcal EA.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore the world of event technology, specifically for Executive Assistants. If you're responsible for planning, managing, or supporting events in your role, this episode offers valuable insights and 15 carefully selected tech tools that will help you streamline your entire planning process.

From venue sourcing and attendee registration to engagement tools and multilingual support, we cover all the platforms that will make your life easier as an EA. Nicky also shares personal experience managing countless events and previews two upcoming EA Campus events focused on tech and tools.

✨ Don't miss out!

• The Evolve Virtual Summit is happening Friday, 28th March — there’s still time to grab your ticket!
• Our Tools & Tech Masterclass is taking place next Friday, 4th April — come join us live!

🎁 Resources Mentioned:

• DOWNLOAD PRODUCT: Events Management Template Pack – $90

Show Notes:

• Cvent
• Whova
• Eventbrite
• RegFox
• Splash
• Attendify
• HeySummit
• Hubilo
• Bizzabo
• Eventcombo
• Mixhalo
• ZipKister (or search relevant badge printing tools if this is not publicly available)
• VenueScanner
• Grip
• Interprefy

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re diving into the topic of career mapping for Executive Assistants. Career progression in the EA world isn’t always linear, and for many of us, it’s something we don’t often prioritize. Whether you see the EA role as a stepping stone to another career or you’re committed to excelling in this profession, having a clear career map is essential.

We’ll walk through the five key steps to career mapping, from setting clear goals to identifying skill gaps and building an action plan that aligns with your professional aspirations. We also discuss common challenges EAs face when planning their careers—like falling into the role without a plan, not having enough time to focus on development, or chasing salary increases without a long-term strategy.

You’ll also hear about the latest trends in career mapping, including:

• The importance of soft skills and how to develop them
• The rise of technology in the EA role and why embracing digital tools is crucial
• Non-linear career paths and why the EA profession offers more flexibility than you might think

This episode is packed with practical steps, insights, and advice to help you take charge of your career and make intentional choices about your professional growth.

Show Notes:

• Career Mapping Template
• Episode 44: Setting Meaningful Career Goals as an EA – eacampus.com/podcast/ep44
• Upcoming Events at The EA Campus:
  • Automation Masterclass – Tuesday, 25th March
  • EVOLVE Virtual Summit – Friday, 28th March

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we welcome back the inspiring Becky Kaapuni, author of The Unstoppable EA and founder of the EA Social Club. Becky shares her incredible journey of resilience, mindset shifts, and what it truly means to be the CEO of your own life. We delve into the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the challenges she's overcome, and the power of embracing vulnerability as an Assistant. Becky also shares insights on building supportive communities, why mindset is key to success, and how to navigate setbacks while staying true to your goals.

Plus, we talk about the exciting upcoming events at The EA Campus, including the Automation Masterclass on Tuesday, 25th March, and the EVOLVE Virtual Summit on Friday, 28th March. Don’t miss out—check the show notes for all the details!

Show Notes:

• Becky Kaapuni’s Website: easocialclub.com
• Join the EA Social Club: Sit With Becky
• Becky’s Book – The Unstoppable EA: Available now—details on Becky’s website.
• Upcoming Events at The EA Campus:
  • Automation Masterclass – Tuesday, 25th March
  • EVOLVE Virtual Summit – Friday, 28th March
    ➡️ Full event details and registration are available in our show notes.

Stay connected with The EA Campus for more insights, events, and resources to empower your EA career!

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Ad-hoc tasks are an inevitable part of the Assistant role, but when they start taking over your day, they can prevent you from focusing on strategic, high-impact work. In this episode, we break down how to manage, track, and take control of ad-hoc tasks so they don’t define your role.

We’ll cover:

• What ad-hoc tasks are and why they impact Assistants more than other roles How to quantify them so they don’t disappear into ‘invisible work’
• Strategies to push back on unnecessary requests while maintaining great relationships
• How to approach your Executive when ad-hoc work is dominating your workload
• What to do if your role has become entirely reactive

Listen in for practical tips and a step-by-step approach to making sure these tasks work for you, not against you.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Ad-Hoc Task Tracker & Prioritization Template – Start tracking your ad-hoc tasks and take control of your workload. Download the template
• Assistant Fundamentals Masterclass – Strengthen your foundational skills. Join the masterclass
• Community Webinar: Creating a User Manual for Your Executive – Learn how to set expectations with your executive. Sign up here
• Mastering Automation Masterclass – Learn how to streamline and automate repetitive tasks. Register now

Show Notes

00:00 – Welcome & March Event Round-Up

• Overview of upcoming EA Campus events and why you should join.

04:15 – What Are Ad-Hoc Tasks & Why They Matter

• Definition of ad-hoc tasks and why they impact Assistants more than other roles.

09:30 – The Challenge: Requests from Colleagues vs. Executives

• Why colleagues don’t always recognize the impact of their requests.
• How to manage last-minute requests from your Executive.

15:45 – How to Quantify & Track Ad-Hoc Tasks

• The importance of tracking and logging these tasks.
• How to use data to make a case for workload balance.

22:10 – How to Take Control & Set Boundaries

• Practical strategies to manage ad-hoc tasks effectively.
• How to push back professionally while maintaining strong relationships.

30:00 – What to Do if Ad-Hoc Tasks Are Your Whole Job

• Signs your role needs redefining.
• How to have a productive conversation with your Executive.
• The impact of updating your job description and performance review criteria.

38:20 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action

• Try the one-week ad-hoc tracking challenge and share your insights in The EA Campus Community.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we sit down with two incredible industry voices, Candice Burningham and Jodie Mears, for an insightful and lively discussion on the evolving role of Executive Assistants.

We cover everything from key industry trends, AI and automation, and the future of job titles to some of the more controversial topics shaping the profession today.

• Is the Executive Assistant role evolving or disappearing?
• How do we ensure assistants are recognized, compensated, and empowered?
• Is "Strategic Business Partner" a mindset shift or a new job title?
• What does the future hold for EA career progression?

If you enjoyed this conversation and want to be part of more discussions like this, join The EA Campus Community for free for one month! Gain access to exclusive content, live discussions, networking opportunities, and a support network of like-minded professionals.

Listen to the full, unedited conversation inside The EA Campus Community!

Connect with Candice & Jodie

🔗 Candice Burningham

• Founder of Admin Avenues
• Co-founder of The Future Focused Admin
• LinkedIn: Candice Burningham

🔗 Jodie Mears

• Executive Assistant & LinkedIn Thought Leader
• Co-host of The Crodie Files Podcast
• LinkedIn: Jodie Mears

Loved this episode?

⭐ Leave us a review
📢 Share it with your network
📩 Subscribe so you never miss an episode

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In this episode, we’re exploring one of the biggest challenges for Assistants: email management! How do you start the conversation with your Executive about taking control of their inbox? What systems can you set up to streamline the process? How do you ensure emails don’t take over your entire day?

Nicky walks you through practical strategies for managing email overload, setting expectations with your Executive, and implementing a structured system that keeps both of you organized and productive. Whether your Executive is a hands-on inbox checker or prefers a more hands-off approach, these insights will help you create a workflow that actually works.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a concrete plan to take away so you can start transforming how you handle email today!

Show Notes & Resources

🔹 Free Resource: 50 Outlook Hacks for Assistants – Grab your free guide to mastering Outlook shortcuts and email efficiency. Download it here - https://eacampus.com/podcast/ep50

🔹 Upcoming Events:
Events Management Masterclass – Tomorrow! Join us for an in-depth session on planning and executing successful events. Register here.
Free Webinar: Making Your 1:1 Meeting with Your Executive Indispensable – Thursday, 27th February. Don’t miss this essential training! Sign up here - https://theeacampus.com/events/

Want to go deeper? Check out our Effective Email Management for Assistants Course, designed specifically for EAs who want to master inbox management. Learn more here - https://theeacampus.com/online-course/effective-email-management/

🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review and share it with another Assistant who could benefit from these tips!

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas dives into one of the most critical topics in the Executive Assistant profession—salary transparency. Assistants often struggle to access clear, unbiased salary data, but today’s guests have taken a groundbreaking step to change that.

Joining Nicky are Yvette Pearson, founder of Admin Wrap, and Alicia Fairclough, founder of EA How To. Together, they’ve created the EA Salary Survey, a report that brings real salary data to the table—without bias, without agenda, and purely for the benefit of the EA community.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The inspiration behind the EA Salary Survey and how it differs from traditional salary reports
• Surprising findings—such as the unexpected correlation (or lack thereof) between education and salary
• Regional differences across the UK, US, and Australia, including the highest-earning job titles
• How salary transparency impacts career progression and job satisfaction
• Why EAs should have open conversations about salary and how the survey can help

Download the EA Salary Survey: EASalarySurvey.com

EA How To: eaHowTo.com

Admin Wrap: adminwrap.com

The EA Campus: theeacampus.com

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas explores how Executive Assistants can leverage AI to streamline their workflow, reduce administrative burdens, and focus on strategic, high-impact tasks.

Key Takeaways:

AI is not about replacing assistants—it’s a tool for efficiency, helping with email drafting, scheduling, meeting summaries, and report generation.

Assistants can use AI to manage complex calendars, generate executive briefings, draft presentations, research industry trends, and create training materials.

Effective AI usage starts with well-structured prompts. The more context and detail provided, the better the AI output.

Practical AI Tools for EAs:

• Multimodal AI: Upload PDFs, images, and documents for analysis.
• Advanced Voice Mode: Use AI for voice-to-text brainstorming and dictation.
• AI Data Privacy: Secure sensitive company data by using AI responsibly.

Once comfortable with AI, assistants can explore automation, custom AI workflows, and tools like Claude for long-form content creation.

💡 Call to Action: Start small—experiment with AI for emails, reports, and task automation. Download the ChatGPT Prompts for Assistants freebie at eacampus.com/podcast/ep48.

🎧 Listen Now & Work Smarter with AI!

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Today’s episode is all about the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle. What if 80% of your results come from just 20% of your effort? Sounds like a game-changer, right?

In this episode, we’ll explore how Executive Assistants can apply this powerful principle to cut through distractions, prioritize high-impact tasks, and truly make a difference in their role. You’ll learn practical strategies for identifying the tasks that drive the biggest results, how to protect your focus and manage interruptions, and simple ways to track your progress for continuous improvement.

🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ Why the 80/20 rule is a productivity superpower for EAs
✔️ How to identify the high-impact tasks that truly move the needle
✔️ Daily prioritization strategies to stay focused and in control
✔️ How to protect your time, set boundaries, and reduce distractions
✔️ Tracking your progress and making data-driven decisions about your workload

📢 What’s Happening on The EA Campus?
Our first Virtual Summit of 2025 is happening this Friday, focusing on developing your EA career. There’s still time to grab your ticket! Next Friday, 7th January, we’re hosting the Strategic Time Management Masterclass—a high-impact session designed to help EAs take control of their workload. Spaces are limited to just 20 participants, so don’t wait too long to register!

🎁 FREE TEMPLATE ALERT!
Saying no is a crucial skill for any high-performing EA, and we’ve got a free template to help you do it gracefully and effectively. Download it here: eacampus.com/podcast/ep47.

💡 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, share it with fellow EAs, and leave us a review! See you next time on The EA Campus Podcast!

🔗 Links & Resources:
Sign up for the Virtual Summit: The EA Campus Virtual Summit
Register for the Strategic Time Management Masterclass
Download the FREE Saying No Template: eacampus.com/podcast/ep47

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas dives into the tech landscape tailored specifically for Executive Assistants. Discover 15 tools and technologies that can help streamline your workflow, boost productivity, and make a meaningful impact in your role. From scheduling with When2Meet to creating impactful presentations with Beautiful.ai, we cover essential platforms for managing schedules, collaborating effectively, and staying ahead in a tech-driven world.

Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s coming up on The EA Campus:

• Sustainable Events Masterclass on Friday, 24th January 2025
• Develop Virtual Summit on 31st January 2025
• Strategic Time Management Masterclass on 7th February 2025

For this episode, we’ve also prepared a special downloadable resource: 101 Tools and Technology for Executive Assistants. This curated list of 100 platforms spans collaboration tools, AI solutions, and more to enhance your skill set. Access it now at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep46.

Whether you’re new to the tech scene or looking to expand your toolkit, this episode will inspire you to embrace technology with curiosity and confidence. Tune in and transform the way you work!

Links to the tools and technologies featured in this episode:

1. When2Meet – A scheduling tool for finding mutually convenient times across time zones.
2. Agenda – A timeline-focused note-taking app for organizing tasks and meetings.
3. Clean Email – An email management tool to declutter your inbox and unsubscribe from spam.
4. TimeShifter – A science-backed app to help travelers minimize jet lag.
5. Serene – A focus and productivity app designed for remote workers.
6. TinyWow – A versatile online tool for file conversion, PDF editing, and more.
7. Steve AI – An AI-powered video creation tool for quick and professional content.
8. Claude AI – A secure, privacy-focused AI assistant for document drafting and collaboration.
9. Perplexity AI – A conversational AI-driven search tool for quick and accurate research.
10. Mem AI – A note-taking app with AI-powered organization and retrieval.
11. Avoma – An AI meeting assistant for transcription, notes, and post-meeting insights.
12. Beautiful.ai – An AI-driven presentation tool for creating stunning slides.
13. Sparkle – A file organizer that uses AI to declutter your downloads and desktop.
14. Ajelix BI – A productivity tool for Excel and Google Sheets with AI-driven reporting and dashboard generation.
15. ContentStudio – An all-in-one social media management and content scheduling platform.

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky dives into the transformative power of mastering your daily routine as an Executive Assistant. With practical advice and actionable tips, you’ll discover how to navigate interruptions, prioritize tasks, and create systems that work for you—not against you.

From building an effective morning routine to embracing micro-lists, leveraging technology wisely, and setting boundaries with confidence, this episode is packed with strategies to help you thrive in your role. Whether you’re new to the profession or a seasoned Executive Assistant, these 10 secrets will inspire you to take control of your day and elevate your productivity.

Highlights Include:

• Building a morning routine that sets the tone for success.
• Using micro-lists to stay focused amidst chaos.
• Prioritizing tasks with the ABC method.
• The power of time blocking with flexibility.
• Creating a daily shutdown ritual for better work-life balance.
• Working with your natural energy peaks for maximum productivity.
• The importance of saying "no" to protect your time and energy.

Don’t forget to download the free daily routine template designed specifically for Executive Assistants to help you implement these tips and stay on track, even on the busiest days!

Links:
Download the Daily Routine FREE Template here 👉 https://theeacampus.com/podcast/ep45/
Sustainable Events Masterclass
https://theeacampus.com/event/sustainable-events-masterclass/
Develop Virtual Summit
https://theeacampus.com/event/develop-virtual-summit/

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In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that hits close to home: why traditional goal-setting methods often fail for Executive Assistants and how you can set goals that actually stick. If you’ve ever felt stuck, uninspired, or frustrated by unmet goals, this episode will give you fresh perspectives and practical solutions.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Why focusing on just one “big why” for your goals can set you up for failure.
• How to create a list of meaningful reasons to stay motivated through challenges.
• The power of breaking down big goals into smaller, actionable steps for measurable success.
• How to adopt a transformative "10x mindset" to rethink and revolutionize your approach to growth.

To help you put these strategies into action, we’ve created two free resources:

1. A SMART Goal-Setting Template to ensure your goals are actionable and achievable.
2. A Weekly Evaluation Document to reflect on your progress and stay aligned with your priorities.

Download these resources for free at The EA Campus - https://theeacampus.com/podcast/ep44/.

We’ll also share real-world examples of how Executive Assistants can set impactful goals, whether it’s mastering AI tools, streamlining workflows, or aligning their professional growth with their executive’s strategic priorities. Plus, you’ll hear tips on protecting your time and creating a vision statement to keep you focused throughout the year.

Ready to redefine your goals and make 2025 your most successful year yet?

Tools and Software Mentioned:

1. ChatGPT – For drafting emails and improving productivity. Learn more at ChatGPT by OpenAI.
2. Clockwise – For smarter scheduling. Find details at Clockwise.
3. Grammarly – For enhancing document editing and writing. Explore at Grammarly.
4. Calendly – For streamlining meeting setups. Visit Calendly.
5. Zapier – For automating repetitive tasks. Discover more at Zapier.
6. Microsoft Teams – For team communication and collaboration. Check it out at Microsoft Teams.
7. Slack – Another great option for team communication. Explore at Slack.
8. TripActions – For streamlining travel bookings. Learn more at TripActions.
9. Concur – For managing travel and expense reporting. Find details at SAP Concur.

Thought Leaders and Strategies Referenced:

• Dr. Benjamin Hardy and his concept 10x Is Easier Than 2x – A transformative mindset for exponential growth.
• Michael Seltzner – The importance of crafting a vision statement. Learn about his strategies at Social Media Examiner.
• The EA Campus Article - Why every Assistant should have their own personal vision statement
• The EA Campus Free Templates - https://theeacampus.com/podcast/ep44/

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In this EA Campus podcast episode, Nicky Christmas interviews Gabrielle Waxenberg, an experienced Executive Assistant who has recently transitioned to working as a fractional Assistant for multiple clients.

Key points from the episode:

1. From hospitality management to becoming an EA, she worked in various industries, such as legal, manufacturing, IT, banking, sustainability, and healthcare.
2. Time management across multiple executives and organisations, maintaining confidentiality, and navigating different personalities and dynamics.
3. Empowerment to set boundaries, choose clients and tasks, and establish a peer-to-peer relationship with executives.
4. Set boundaries early on, learn to say no when necessary, and build strong relationships with other admins for support and growth.
5. Invaluable connections, witnessing the profession's evolution, and the ability to positively impact leaders and organisations.
6. The importance of challenging norms and providing honest feedback to executives, even when it's difficult, to help them grow and avoid potential issues.

Throughout the episode, Gabrielle shares her experiences, challenges, and lessons learned during her 12-year career as an EA. She emphasises the importance of setting boundaries, building relationships, and speaking truth to power. Her insights offer valuable advice for Assistants at all stages of their careers.

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In this episode, Becky Kaapuni shares her winding career journey spanning publishing, wine business, investment banking, tech startups, Twitter, and now Salesforce, where she supports the CEO of AI.

Some key pieces of advice and insights Becky offers:

• Be patient in building your career - you have to go through the stepping stones and start at the beginning, gaining experience over time.
• Know your worth and negotiate your compensation, even if it means being willing to walk away from an opportunity. Invest in a professionally written resume.
• For interviews, focus on showing up as your best self and demonstrating confidence. Worry about the details of the job later.
• Always maintain a beginner's mind, as every executive, company culture, and role will differ. Be ready to learn and adapt.
• Build your network and maintain connections over time. You never know when an opportunity may come back, even years later.

Becky candidly shares the triumphs and challenges of her EA career, from navigating egotistical bosses and sudden layoffs to finding executives who truly value and empower her. She emphasizes the importance of documenting issues, leveraging resources, and prioritizing one's well-being while acknowledging that immediately leaving a bad situation isn't always feasible.

While Becky admits she could lead more by example in disconnecting from work, she has found that staying on top of things helps her mental health and ability to relax. Her story illustrates the ever-changing landscape of the EA role and the resilience required to succeed in the long term.

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In this episode, Chelsea Fox shares her 15-year journey as an assistant, from starting as an event manager in Spain to her current role as an EA supporting the CEO and leadership team at a data centre startup in London.

Some key pieces of advice and insights Chelsea offers:

• Find the industry and company culture that allows you to thrive as an assistant. In a startup, being willing to roll up your sleeves and help out wherever needed is key.
• Confidence comes from having your voice heard and your opinions valued as an assistant. Chelsea appreciates that her current company seeks her input.
• Learn to say no when needed to avoid burnout, but be ready to pitch in on a wide variety of tasks, especially in a startup environment.
• Resilience and strong communication skills with your executive are critical. Have a plan A through Z, as things rarely go perfectly according to plan.
• Being bilingual (Spanish & English for Chelsea) can open up great career opportunities, especially in European companies.
• Build relationships across the organization by being friendly, remembering personal details, and, yes, bringing in treats! People are much more willing to help out a friend.

Chelsea also shares some of her favourite productivity tools, such as Microsoft To Do, OneNote, Planner, and good old-fashioned handwritten lists. Her story illustrates the importance of adaptability, relationship-building, and being proactive in making your mark as an assistant and elevating the perception of the role.

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In this episode, Catherine Wright shares her varied career journey leading up to her current role as an Executive Assistant to a CEO. She discusses the importance of understanding the business you work for, being a connector between teams, and adding value wherever possible.

Some key pieces of advice Catherine offers:

• Be meticulous about diary management - think through all the details like agenda items, travel/transition time between meetings, focus time, and your executive's well-being
• Remember that your own time management is just as important as your executive's
• Constantly keep learning and building your network
• Don't be afraid to take ownership and be assertive when needed in managing your executive's schedule
• Find ways to add value and make an impact, even with simple things like organizing social events
• Tackle your most dreaded task first thing (eat the frog) to make the rest of your day easier

Catherine also shares some of her favourite tools like OneNote, Asana, and good old-fashioned to-do lists. Her story illustrates how initiative, resilience, and a service-oriented mindset can enable an EA to become a true partner to their executive and make a difference in their organisation.

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Fatiha Zeghir shares her extensive journey as an Executive Assistant (EA), starting in Paris and transitioning through roles at major companies like Procter & Gamble, NRJ Global, SAP, News UK, Penguin Random House, Pearson, and the BBC, before her current role at Vodafone. Her experience highlights the importance of adaptability, communication, and learning from diverse roles and industries. The discussion emphasizes the EA role's significance in crisis management, especially noted during her time at the BBC during the pandemic.

A recurring theme is the challenge of being underutilized or not fully integrated into strategic discussions despite EAs' central role in executives' daily operations. Fatiha and Nicky discuss the importance of EAs establishing boundaries, learning to say "no but," and the need for better remuneration reflective of their contribution.

Fatiha expresses a preference for Gmail and Google Calendar for their synchronization capabilities. She emphasizes using cloud storage and shared documents for efficiency and easy access to the latest information. Fatiha advocates for consistent and logical document naming conventions to streamline work processes.

Sheryl Sandberg's "Lean In" is highlighted as a transformative book, offering insights on navigating a male-dominated corporate world and negotiating effectively.

Fatiha shares her interests outside of work, including her passion for writing, specifically exploring the idea of a dramedy about EAs. She also mentions her involvement with the charity Care for Calais and her love for London's cultural offerings.

The paramount advice for new assistants is learning to assertively set boundaries from the beginning of their career, emphasizing "no, but" as a strategy for managing workload and expectations.

This episode sheds light on the complexities of the EA role and the significant value EAs bring to their organizations and offers practical advice for EAs at all career stages. Fatiha's journey and insights serve as an inspiration and a guide for both seasoned and new EAs navigating their professional paths.

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In this episode of the EA Campus podcast, join Nicky as she welcomes Rebecca Greenhill, a seasoned Executive Assistant (EA) at Cobalt Search. Rebecca's unique career journey has transitioned from dance performance and teaching to retail management and finally into the realm of executive assistance. She shares the rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped her career. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion across different stages of her life.

Discover how Rebecca's early career in retail laid a solid foundation for her skills in management, dealing with diverse personalities, and fostering resilience—skills that later became invaluable in her role as an EA. Rebecca's turning point came from an inspired moment by the film "The Devil Wears Prada," leading her to pursue a career that combines pace, challenge, and the thrill of solving daily puzzles in an office environment.

At Cobalt Search, Rebecca supports the CEO, managing a wide range of tasks, from calendar and email management to handling HR and finance tasks. She emphasises the varied and dynamic nature of her role. The episode delves into the importance of adaptability, the joy of variety in daily tasks, and the significance of building relationships within the business.

Rebecca also touches on her life outside of work, including her involvement in musical theatre and the balance between personal life and professional commitments. The discussion extends to advice for aspiring EAs, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence, the ability to say no to prioritize effectively, and the value of continuous learning and self-improvement.

This conversation not only illuminates the evolving role of executive assistants but also offers valuable insights and advice for those navigating or aspiring to thrive in this career path.

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In this episode of the EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas interviews William Richardson, an executive assistant at United Launch Alliance (ULA), where he shares insights into his career journey and the dynamic nature of his role in the aerospace industry.

William describes his accidental entry into the administrative field, starting from customer service in consumer electronics and evolving into various roles, including consulting and private equity, before landing in the aerospace industry with ULA.

As an Assistant, William likens his role to "air traffic control," focusing on managing information flow and ensuring efficient communication across teams. He highlights the challenges and rewards of working in a fast-paced and innovative environment.
William stresses the importance of seeking professional development opportunities and documenting achievements. He emphasizes asking for development resources and tracking value added to the organization.
William advocates for involvement with the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) for certification, networking, and career advancement. He mentions the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certification and specialities in project management, event planning, and technology applications as beneficial for executive assistants.

For more information on IAAP and the certifications mentioned, visit IAAP.

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In this captivating episode of the EA Campus podcast, host Nicky Christmas sits down with Grazia Maietta for an insightful conversation about her journey as an Executive Assistant (EA) in the dynamic world of technology. Grazia, originally from Italy with a background in foreign languages, delves into her career evolution from a translator and teacher in Italy to an accomplished EA in the UK.

Working currently at Condense, a company specializing in live-streaming events into digital worlds, Grazia shares the intricacies of her role, which uniquely blends EA responsibilities with office management. She provides a fascinating glimpse into Condense’s innovative work in AR, VR, and the Metaverse, underscoring the company's unique ability to stream content from their Bristol-based Metaverse studio to various digital venues.

Grazia talks about the challenges and rewards of her position, including managing the busy schedule of Condense's CEO, Nick Fellingham, and supporting other directors and teams. Her role extends beyond administrative tasks, involving close interaction with engineers and technicians, particularly during live events.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Grazia shares her morning routine and how it prepares her for the day's challenges. She emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, enjoying outdoor lunches by Bristol's waterfront, and her passion for Latin American dances like salsa and bachata.

Nicky and Grazia discuss the importance of being proactive, adaptable, and managing expectations in the EA role, especially in a tech-driven environment like Condense. Grazia offers valuable advice for aspiring EAs, highlighting the significance of continuous learning, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and Discord for professional growth.

1. Notion: An app used for managing projects, documents, and tasks. It offers features like wikis, docs, and templates for organizing work. You can download it for macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. For more information, visit the Notion website.
2. Trello: A web-based tool used for tracking projects and tasks, employing a system of boards and cards to organize and prioritize work.
3. LinkedIn: A professional networking site that Grazia uses for staying updated on industry trends and connecting with other EAs and PAs.
4. Discord: Originally known for its popularity in the gaming community, Discord is also used for professional communities, including executive assistants.
5. Podcasts: Grazia mentioned listening to the "EA How To" and "Leader Assistant" podcasts, as well as podcasts published by Practically Perfect EA.
6. Books: She referred to the book "The Leader Assistant" by Jeremy Borrows.

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In this podcast episode, Emily discusses her transition from college to the hospitality industry, her progression into events planning, and her eventual move into an EA role. She emphasises the importance of organisational skills and the dynamic nature of her job, dealing with various tasks ranging from events planning to managing the CEO's schedule and communications.

Emily shares her experiences of learning on the job, the significance of mentorship, and the evolution of her role from PA to EA. Her passion for her current company, Inicio Group, shines through as she discusses the rewarding nature of her work in social care. She also delves into her personal life, highlighting her interests like running, going to the gym, and her involvement in an ABBA tribute band.

We touch on the challenges of the EA role, such as juggling conflicting priorities and learning to deal with high-pressure situations. Emily provides valuable advice for aspiring assistants, emphasising the importance of learning about their organisation, developing a thick skin, and being proactive in communication and task management.

She also advocates continuous learning and professional development, recommending resources like LinkedIn, networking opportunities, and specific training courses. Emily's story is an inspiring example of how dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn can lead to a successful and fulfilling career as an Executive Assistant.

• Book: The Joy of Work
• Course: The Exceptional PA by Heather Baker

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Episode 34 of the EA Campus Podcast features Laura Escalante, an Executive Assistant at Golden Software, in conversation with host Nicky Christmas. The episode delves into Laura's career journey, highlighting her pivot from a decade in operations and program management within human services to becoming an executive assistant. Laura shares her immigrant background, moving from Lima, Peru, to the US as a teenager and how this experience shaped her work ethic and career choices.

Laura discusses her transition during the pandemic, which coincided with her becoming a mother, leading her to seek a more fulfilling and sustainable career path. This search led her to establish her own business as a virtual assistant, My Virtual Edge, and eventually to her current role supporting the CEO of Golden Software. She reflects on the challenges of balancing work with motherhood and the importance of being present for her son.

Nicky and Laura also explore the skills Laura developed in her previous roles that aid her in her current position, such as quickly understanding people's needs and effective communication. They discuss the impact of technology on Laura's work, with a particular emphasis on her use of ChatGPT to enhance productivity. Laura advises listeners on building trust with executives, learning new skills, and the importance of being part of a supportive community.

The conversation covers Laura's daily routine, the transition to working remotely, and her methods for managing multiple clients in her virtual assistant business. She emphasizes the importance of consistency and reliability in building trust with executives. She concludes by reflecting on the key skills that have contributed to her success in the Assistant role.

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In this insightful episode of the EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas sits down with Tawnya Convoy, a dynamic executive assistant with a unique career trajectory. Tawnya shares her fascinating journey from being a professional flutist and music teacher to thriving in the world of technology and startups. She delves into her experiences at Apple, her transition during personal life changes, and her growth in various startup environments.

1. Musical Beginnings [00:00:30]: Tawnya discusses her initial career as a professional flutist and music teacher, reflecting on the challenges and fulfilment of being a freelance musician.
2. A Shift to Stability [00:02:00]: She shares her journey towards financial stability, which led her to explore new opportunities, including a role at Apple.
3. Embracing Technology and Retail [00:04:00]: Tawnya talks about her time at Apple, where she discovered her passion for technology, balanced with the demanding nature of retail work.
4. The Startup World [00:06:00]: She describes her experiences in various startups, from her initial office coordinator role to her impactful tenure at FAIR.
5. Current Role at Dozer [00:08:00]: Tawnya delves into her responsibilities at Dozer, supporting the CEO and other executives, and her enjoyment in tackling a variety of tasks.
6. Personal Growth and Routines [00:10:00]: She shares her morning routine, emphasizing the importance of fitness and how it aids in managing her ADHD.
7. Work-Life Balance and Remote Work [00:12:00]: Tawnya speaks about the benefits and challenges of remote work, her approach to setting boundaries, and maintaining a balance between her professional and personal life.
8. Advice for Aspiring EAs [00:14:00]: Offering valuable tips, Tawnya highlights the importance of technology skills and building strong relationships with executives, especially in the startup environment.

Featured Books, Products, Tools, and Technologies:

1. Apple Products:
   • Tawnya shares her experience working at Apple and her fondness for Apple products, which she continues to use both personally and professionally.
   • Link: Apple Official Website
2. Google Calendar:
   • Tawnya emphasizes the importance of Google Calendar in managing her tasks and schedules, highlighting its notification system and color-coding feature.
   • Link: Google Calendar
3. ClickUp:
   • Tawnya mentions using ClickUp for task management and organization, describing it as a vital tool in her workflow.
   • Link: ClickUp
4. Slack:
   • Slack is discussed as a crucial communication tool in Tawnya's work, particularly for its integrations and apps.
   • Link: Slack
5. Atomic Habits by James Clear:
   • Tawnya recommends "Atomic Habits" for personal development and habit formation.
   • Link: Atomic Habits on Amazon
6. Mel Robbins' Inspirational Content:
   • Tawnya expresses her admiration for Mel Robbins and her motivational approach.
   • Link: Mel Robbins' Website

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Welcome to the latest episode of the EA Campus podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Christi Brewer, an accomplished Executive Assistant (EA) to the CEO at Shipt. Christi shared valuable insights into her career journey, overcoming preconceived notions about the Assistant role, leveraging technology in her day-to-day work, and her experience working for a startup.

The episode started with Christi providing an overview of her career path, highlighting her business administration and marketing background. She shared how she initially worked in retail management, ventured into the insurance industry, and eventually found her passion in marketing. However, during the Great Recession in 2009, she faced a round of layoffs that led her to explore new opportunities.

Christi recounted how a recruiter encouraged her to consider an EA role, despite her initial reservations and misconceptions about the position. Taking a leap of faith, she embraced the role and discovered her love for it. Her story resonated with many Assistants, who are often surprised by how fulfilling and rewarding the EA profession can be.

As the EA to the CEO at Shipt, Christi discussed the various aspects of her role. In addition to managing her executive calendar, inbox, and travel arrangements, she described herself as a "people connector," a sounding board, and a problem solver. She emphasised the importance of adaptability and highlighted her ambivert personality, enabling her to connect with leaders while excelling in focused, independent work.

The conversation shifted to the use of technology in Christi's role. She revealed that Shipt primarily relies on Slack for communication, enabling her to stay connected with her executive and the team throughout the day. Christi emphasised the significance of being well-versed in technology tools and adapting to the digital landscape to enhance productivity and collaboration.

The podcast delved into Christi's experience working for a startup. She shared her appreciation for the fast-paced environment at Shipt, a retail tech company. Christi highlighted the dynamic nature of her role, where each day presents new challenges and unique needs. She also emphasised the importance of being proactive, staying agile, and embracing change when working for a startup.

Towards the end of the episode, Christi provided valuable advice for Assistants aspiring to work for startups. She encouraged them to be open-minded, flexible, and willing to take on diverse responsibilities. Christi emphasised continuous learning, adaptability, and building solid relationships with colleagues and executives in a startup setting.

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In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Holly Copsey, a Business Support Specialist at Virtually Priceless. Holly shares her remarkable journey and valuable insights into her 20-year Executive Assistant (EA) career.

Join us as we delve into Holly's journey and learn how she navigated the shifting landscape of the EA profession, particularly during the pandemic. Discover her insights on running a successful VA agency and how she has adapted her services to meet client's evolving needs. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from Holly Copsey, a seasoned EA and business support specialist.

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In the next episode of the EA Campus podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting Shaun Alphonso, Executive Business Partner at Georgian, a renowned venture capital firm specializing in SaaS technology investments. Join host Nicky Christmas as she delves into Shaun's intriguing career path and uncovers the valuable lessons he learned. From working in Starbucks to his stellar EA career, Shaun shares many helpful tips and tricks for Assistants, including time management techniques, technology use, and how he manages communication with his Executives. This is one not to miss. 

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In Episode 29, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Lora Whicher, the Founder of Lora May Virtual PA. Lora's journey in the corporate world as an executive assistant took her through various roles, including a significant stint at Savills real estate agency.

During our conversation, we delved into Lora's career trajectory, exploring her experiences working as a corporate EA and the pivotal moment that led her to start her own virtual assistant business. We discussed the challenges she faced and overcame, especially during the pandemic, and how she managed to successfully establish Lora May Virtual PA.

One of the highlights of our conversation was learning about Lora's ability to adapt and work with different personality types. She shared invaluable insights on navigating various working styles and how she leverages her expertise to provide top-notch support to her clients.

Additionally, Lora shared her effective time-blocking techniques and how she manages her day to ensure productivity and balance. Her expertise in structuring her schedule provides actionable tips and strategies that can benefit all EAs looking to optimize their workflow.

Join us as we dive deep into Lora's journey, from her corporate EA days to becoming a thriving virtual assistant entrepreneur. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of seizing opportunities, even in challenging times.

So, if you're ready to be inspired and gain valuable insights into the world of virtual assistance, grab your favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and get ready for Episode 29 of the EA Campus podcast

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Welcome to the EA Campus podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Hayley Hudson, the Founder of Hudson Admin Support and the VA Lounge. Join us as we delve into Hayley's journey of starting her own virtual assistant business and creating a thriving network for VAs.

In our conversation, we explore the world of virtual assistance and dive into the tech tools and strategies that can empower assistants to excel in their roles. Hayley shares valuable insights on building confidence, understanding your worth, and leveraging technology to streamline administrative tasks.

Whether you're an aspiring virtual assistant or an experienced assistant looking to enhance your skills, this episode is packed with practical tips and advice. Tune in as we unlock the secrets to success in virtual assistance and gain a deeper understanding of the value that assistants bring to the table.

Join us on the EA Campus podcast as we learn from Hayley Hudson and uncover the possibilities that await in the realm of virtual assistance. Get ready to boost your confidence, harness the power of technology, and embrace your worth as an assistant. Don't miss this inspiring and informative episode!

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In this episode of EA Campus, we chat with Stephanie Hand, Founder of OnHand Executive Services. Stephanie shares her journey from working as an in-house Assistant to starting her freelance Assistant business. She discusses her experience onboarding a new CEO and provides valuable insights into dealing with workplace bullies. Additionally, Stephanie shares her daily routine and offers advice for assistants starting in the profession. Whether you're an experienced Assistant or just starting out, you'll want to tune in to hear Stephanie's valuable tips and tricks for navigating the world of executive support. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

A-Maze-ing Careers
The world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends often with no particular...
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On this episode of EA Campus, we chat with Katie Parker, Founder of Parker PA Ltd. Katie shares her experience of transitioning from a corporate EA to starting her own virtual assistant business during the pandemic. She provides valuable insights into working with new clients and managing the day-to-day operations of a VA business. Additionally, Katie offers advice for Assistants who want to be more proactive in their careers and shares her decision to move away from working in London. Tune in to hear about Katie's tools and techniques to make her work more effective and efficient. Whether you're an aspiring VA or an experienced  Assistant looking to take your career to the next level, you won't want to miss this insightful conversation.

A-Maze-ing Careers
The world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends often with no particular...
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In this episode of the EA Campus podcast, we chat with Abbie Fernandes, Founder of Swift VA. Abbie shares her journey from being a corporate Assistant to starting her own Virtual Assistant business and how she navigated the challenges of moving to different countries while supporting her husband and young family. She provides insights into the critical skills required for running a successful VA business, including building client relationships and setting boundaries. Tune in to hear Abbie's inspiring story of overcoming challenges and achieving success as a Virtual Assistant.

A-Maze-ing Careers
The world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends often with no particular...
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In this episode of the EA Campus podcast, we sit down with Jamila Benomar, the founder of Your Virtual Pod. Jamila shares her insights on the profession, building confidence in the role, and establishing yourself as an expert in your orgainsation. We discuss the benefits of working as a Virtual Assistant and the challenges of starting the business. Jamila also shares her tips on effectively operating as an Assistant in large corporate organisations.

A-Maze-ing Careers
The world of work is a maze with twists, turns and dead ends often with no particular...
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In this week's episode of The EA Campus podcast, we are delighted to be joined by Pippa Andrade, Founder of PAVA Support. Following a long career as a corporate Assistant in financial services, Pippa took her career in a new direction by starting a VA business. In this episode, we explore her journey and learn how she started her business and the crucial lessons her corporate career taught her. 

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In our next episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we interview Lauren Bordon, Founder of Your Trilingual Support. Lauren shared her journey from linguist to Executive Assistant, working for private HNMI in Mayfair, London and setting up her virtual support business and relocating to Barcelona, Spain. Enjoy the next episode of The EA Campus Podcast. 

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We are thrilled to have two guests with us this week. Claire Houston and Paula Kokare are the Founders of Houston & Ko. This business helps entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses focus on what matters most for their growth by delegating the most tedious and time-draining tasks. Claire and Paula share their insights on what it takes for Assistants to move from a corporate into a freelancing role, what Entrepreneurs and startups are looking for in an Assistant role and how Assistants can define what they can offer and where they add value. 

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We are thrilled to have Purvi Shah as the next guest on The EA Campus Podcast. Purvi is an established Assistant who has worked across many industries, including media, wine & spirits and financial services. We discussed her start in the Assistant sector, what it is like working in a fast-paced news organisation and supporting multiple c-suite level Executives. 

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In the next episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we have a fantastic interview with Tara Sims, Senior Manager of Administrative Services Office Management at Comcast.

Tara is a dynamic, strategic problem solver and executive partner with 15+ years of experience supporting C-suite leaders and other senior-level professionals within Fortune 500 companies. 

In the interview, we discussed Tara's career, how she manages a team of Assistants, how she built her personal brand and can focus on the many tasks her role encompasses. 

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In this episode, we are delighted to have Hayley Herriotts, an Executive Assistant at L’Oréal Luxe. We had a fantastic discussion about her experience working in the luxury beauty industry, working at and getting promoted with one organisation and what that takes for an Assistant to achieve. We talked about juggling work and being a mum, taking time out for yourself and avoiding burnout. We talked about the fast-paced nature of the role, organising incredible events and what it takes to work for a global brand. Enjoy this special episode! 

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In this episode, we have a fantastic conversation with Aisha Everett-Khalif, Business Manager at CUNA Mutual Group. Aisha shares her journey from Assistant to Business Manager. We talk about her intentional morning routine, how she manages her time and the challenges of an in-depth role. We discussed her DEI work and the importance of bringing your authentic self to work.

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In this episode, we are delighted to have Rebecca Steifle, an Assistant with over 27 years of experience in executive administration, organizational management, sales and corporate governance. In the interview, we discussed Becca's career in banking, how she moved into an Assistant role, and how she builds relationships with her Executives and manages expectations. We discussed the Assistant network at ReWa and the need for Assistants to collaborate and share best practices. 

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we interview Hilary Fung, EA at Slack. Hilary is a knowledgeable, meticulous Assistant who understands how to create impact in the Assistant role. Hilary talked about her experiences working at Slack and shared some great tips for using Slack effectively. We discussed working for multiple Executives, building relationships and being thoughtful about the Assistant career. 

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On this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we have Fiona Hurst, Executive Assistant to the Chief Legal Officer at SThree. Before her current role, Fiona worked at Airbnb in their Paris office. It was indeed a rollercoaster ride, and we spent a lot of time talking about her experiences working at a unicorn start-up right at the beginning of its rise.

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On this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we are excited to welcome our guest Ethan Bull, Founder of ProAssisting and co-founder of The 29-Hour Workday.

Ethan started his career as an Assistant in the entertainment industry before supporting senior-level Executives in the fast-paced world of advertising. Ethan and his family moved out of New York City, and with his wife, they formed ProAssisting, a high-level remote Assistant business. Ethan shared his thoughts on what it takes to work as a top performing Assistant, why it is crucial to develop a high-touch hospitality mindset, what it was like working in the entertainment industry and how Assistants can set expectations with demanding Executives. We covered a wide range of topics, so I hope you enjoy this episode of the EA Campus Podcast.

After Hours Entrepreneur: Your Guide to Profitable, 6-Figure Years
Quit your job. Make more money.
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Our next episode is with Puichi Hau, EA at Our Future Health. Puichi is a highly competent, resourceful and discrete solution provider often relied on to fix things. She is always the 'go-to' person for colleagues, friends, and family. Puichi takes us through her career, which has covered many industries and sectors. She shares her thoughts on falling out of love with the role, finding her ideal job, mentoring and managing other Assistants and career paths for the industry. 

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In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by Roxanne Smith, PA, at DeepMind. Roxanne is a thoughtful and determined Assistant who brings such a depth of knowledge to any conversation about the Assistant role. Roxanne is ten years into her Assistant career and is building an impressive range of skills that make her stand out in our industry. In this episode, we talk about her return to work after starting a family, how she works within a team of Assistants, managing the challenges that come with the role and what she hopes to see in the future for the Assistant industry.

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On this episode, we are joined by Fiona Shea, EA to the Group Chief Executive at Legal and General. Fiona has over twenty years of experience working with senior board-level Executives. Her knowledge shines through in this interview. We discuss the partnership with her current Executive and her techniques for remembering every request. Fiona shares her experience working at Enron in its last days and moving between industries as an Assistant.

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We are delighted to be joined by Jessie Pearson, PA, to CFO and Director of Strategy & Corporate Development at Workspace Group. A London-based real estate business. We talked across a broad range of subjects in this discussion, including Jessie’s start as a receptionist and how that helped her in her Assistant career; we spoke of her need to take short-term contracts while dealing with very personal challenges at home and how that shaped her outlook on life and her career. And we talked about how she structures her day and the value she has brought to acquisition projects in her organisation. 

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Janice is the Executive Assistant to the CEO and Founder of Luno. Janice has over 14 years of experience working in Australia and London, and she currently supports her Executive remotely from her home in Melbourne. Janice is incredibly passionate about the Assistant role and has a huge amount of knowledge which I'm so pleased she has shared with our listeners.

We discuss how she manages her day while working remotely, the development of her leadership skills and how she manages a team of Assistants. We talk about her day and why it is important to communicate what Assistants do daily. We discussed the importance of asking for what you want and building your confidence through networking and finding your voice.

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Rosy and I recorded the podcast just a few months before she decided to leave Etsy to travel and spend time with her family, but we are really grateful to be able to share the conversation with you today. 

During the conversation, we discussed how she started her career as an Assistnat, having previously worked in the theatre. We discussed how she worked with her Executive and managed their time effectively. We talked about how important it is to have a strong network of Assistants within an organisation and their power when working together. We talked about technology and Rosy’s love of Google Calendar! And how much she enjoys managing new Assistants and seeing her team grow in confidence.

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Abigail Jones, EA at Meta, always brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to these talks, and she doesn’t disappoint today. We discussed her career, her passions outside of her work, how she likes to work in partnership with her Executive, the strengths she brings to the Assistant role and how she protects her boundaries. 

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We are delighted to be joined by Emma Kate Bos, Executive Assistant to the CEO at APA Group, Australia's largest natural gas infrastructure business. 

Emma is a highly skilled EA with vast business support, events, project management, and operations knowledge. In our interview, we discussed Emma Kate's choice to be an Assistant, her love of managing other Assistants and Administrators, building a relationship with a first-time CEO, working strategically, listening to her gut and making decisions. 

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Tina is an incredibly focused and strategic force, and she offers a tremendous amount of value to our listeners today. I loved talking with her and hearing about her health journey and how that has contributed to increased confidence. Her move to Berlin and why she changed her career focus from marketing and communications to supporting the CEO and C-Suite at Babbel.

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We are delighted to be joined by Renee Viens, Partner Executive Assistant at Underscore VC. Renee lives in Boston, Massachusetts and has been an EA for over 20 years in various industries supporting all levels of the c-suite. 

We discuss Renee’s new Underscore VC role and the recruitment process. We talk about her incredible network and ability to pull people together. We talk about her achievements in her role, events she has organised and her ability to perform calendar management Jenga frequently. 

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In the second episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by Suzie Ellams, EA, to the Co-CEO & CTO of OSTTRA. Suzie has been an Assistant for twenty years working at Elle Magazine, Burberry and now OSTTRA, a start-up Fintech company. In our conversation, Suzie shares tips on starting working in fashion and publishing.

Her decision to take a career break to start her family and how she now handles boundaries and prioritises her time. Suzie and Nicky talk about the importance of transferable skills for Assistants, and Suzie tells us about starting her new role during the pandemic and working in a hybrid environment. And of course, if her experience working at a fashion magazine was anything like the film The Devil Wears Prada!

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As a strategic Assistant, Emily Housley is the CEO's partner in getting things done. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, she shares how she operates with a positive sense of urgency, a high level of proactiveness, and a solution-focused mindset to transform ideas into action. 

Although Emily has been working in the role for only a few years she is an absolute powerhouse. She comes with tremendous knowledge and expertise working in a fast-paced environment for a growing start-up. 

During our conversation, we discuss Emily's extra steps to secure her role at Crisp and the unexpected outcome. Why pressure is a privilege and how she maintains high standards in her work. We talk about her morning routine and how that sets her up for success. She shares how she communicates with her Executive and prioritises his day so that they can work together successfully. 

Show Notes - https://www.theeacampus.com/podcast/ep1-emily-housley
The EA Campus - https://www.theeacampus.com/

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Welcome to our new podcast. It’s called The EA Campus Podcast, and each week Nicky Christmas, Founder of Practically Perfect PA and The EA Campus, will talk to Executive Assistants, Personal Assistants and Administrative professionals that she knows, admires, and always has wanted to meet and talk to to about their careers, how they started as Assistants, what a typical day looks like, how they work with their Executives and add value in their organisations. They will share their thoughts on the industry and how they’ve built their successful careers.

Back in the day, we used to run a regular interview with Assistants about their day in the life, and then we stopped, and everyone missed it, so we are back doing something similar as a podcast! 

So we hope you can join Nicky each week as we have an in-depth conversation with career-driven Assistants and get a glimpse into their work and lives. And, of course, look out for those nuggets of information that will help you move your career forward or help you with a challenge that you might have in the role. 

And, of course, like everything we do here at Practically Perfect PA and the EA Campus, we hope you tune in and feel part of our community. Feel free to download and subscribe to The EA Campus podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and wherever else you can get your podcasts!