The Sam + Jo VA Show

Ep234 The End Of An Era

Well … here it is. Our final ever episode of The Sam + Jo VA Show. 🥹 After 7 years, 234 podcast episodes, 100k downloads, hundreds of hours of recordings, 7 business planners, 3 global online summits, 5 national industry awards, 5 international VA Day celebrations, 2 overseas retreats and countless coaching sessions .... we’re hanging up our headsets and passing the reins to the next generation of leaders in the VA space. This episode is a love letter to the journey - to the people, the lessons, the late nights, the belly laughs, and the “what on earth are we doing?” moments that shaped who we are today. We talk about how it all started, the highlights that still give us goosebumps, and the life-changing decision to step away from something that’s become such a huge part of our identity. Because sometimes growth means letting go. And saying goodbye doesn’t mean it didn’t matter - it means it mattered so much that we’ll never forget it. To everyone who’s listened, learned, laughed, cried, and built a business alongside us - thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You’ve changed our lives in ways we can never put into words. Here’s to the future of the VA industry - it’s bright, it’s bold, and it’s in very good hands. In this episode you’ll learn: The origin story some of you may never have heard.Our biggest “pinch me” moments and proudest achievements.What we’ve learned about business, bravery, and burnout.How we made peace with stepping away from something we love. Thank you for being part of our world. Thanks for all the incredible memories. Thanks for letting us be part of your VA journey. Sam + Jo xo Don't be strangers! Follow our Seea journey here: Instagram Website Facebook

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Ep233 Perimenopause: It's Not Just Mid-Life Hot Flushes (Part 2)

Oct 2101:02:15Tap to summarize

If you haven’t listened to Part 1 (ep#218) yet - go do that first. Trust us. That episode literally saved lives and marriages. One year on, we’re back with an update. In true Sam + Jo style, we’re diving in deep as we compare how differently this mid-life hormonal chaos showed up for Jo this time around. Cos YES! Jo’s officially joined the perimenopause club! (Welcome, Jo. Membership includes night sweats, tears, and a newfound appreciation for magnesium haha). In this episode it's Jo's turn to open up about her journey as someone who wanted to manage it naturally, and how much faster she found answers given the knowledge she was equipped with. And Sam also shares what’s changed since her diagnosis a year ago, and how life looks on the other side of getting help. This episode is for every woman who’s been told to “suck it up”, for every partner struggling to understand, and for everyone who deserves to feel seen, supported, and a little less alone. In this episode you’ll learn: Why perimenopause doesn’t look the same for everyone.What happens when you stop fighting and start listening to your body.How knowledge and honesty can change everything.Why we need to stop whispering about women’s health and start shouting. Sam + Jo xo Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or treatment options

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Ep232 An Interview with Marianne - 2025 NZ VA Of The Year

Oct 701:11:15Tap to summarize

Digital Designer and Online Course Expert Marianne Wullings from Mickie Digital took out the biggest Award at this year’s Seea New Zealand Virtual Assistant Awards - and what a night it was! As well as being crowned VA of the Year for 2025, Marianne also took home Top Performing Team Member and Top Creative VA. Talk about a trifecta of excellence that celebrates her incredible talent, determination, and creativity. Has it all sunk in yet? Not quite! Marianne’s still riding that “is this real life?” wave, and we don’t blame her. Just days after her big wins, Marianne joined us to chat about her journey from uncertainty to clarity, how Launch in 30 Days was a game-changer for her business, the power of niching down, and how she’s learned to build a thriving VA business while managing chronic pain - turning what could’ve been a setback into one of her biggest strengths. In this episode you’ll learn: How Launch in 30 Days helped Marianne completely transform her business.The pivotal moment she found her niche - and why it changed everything.How she’s built a sustainable business model that supports her chronic pain journey.Marianne’s advice for VAs ready to stop second-guessing themselves and start owning their zone of genius. Connect with Marianne from Mickie Digital here and see how she can take your coaching from one-on-one to one-to-many with Kajabi. Sam + Jo xo

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Ep231 When Your VA Team Falls Apart - And How To Handle It Like A Pro

Apr 23, 202501:11:06Tap to summarize

Agency owners (aspiring, newbies and old hats) this one’s for you! In this episode we’re talking about the messy, emotional, not-so-glam side of building a team. You know – the stuff that no one posts about on Insta: When a team member lets you down and leaves you to pick up the pieces.When you’re still doing client work, managing a family and now … dealing with shitty HR issues.When you’re exhausted and wondering, “Is this even worth it?” Running a VA agency isn’t for the faint hearted, but if you go into it with realistic expectations, knowing that your resilience will be tested, and you’re open to growing into a leader your team deserves, then it’s totally worth it! Get comfy while we talk you through the real challenges you’ll face as an agency owner, the mindset shifts you’ll need to make, and the practical ways you can lead with more confidence, boundaries and breathing space. This is your reminder that your journey doesn’t have to be lonely or overwhelming – especially with the right support. Find out more about the Scale It Mastermind here. Download the Free Pre-Scale Checklists here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

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Ep230 Profitable Payroll: What to Package, What to Avoid

Apr 16, 202501:09:40Tap to summarize

Thinking of adding payroll services to your virtual assistant or bookkeeping biz? This episode is your sign to explore it… the smart way. We’re joined by Alick and Vicki from Thankyou Payroll who break down exactly what it takes to build a payroll offering that’s profitable and stress-free (for you and your clients!). What you'll learn: Why payroll can be a powerful recurring revenue stream How to package and price it like a pro What you must know to stay compliant (and protect your client) Where to get trained up if you’re new to the game How to grow this service through referrals and collaboration If you’re looking for a sticky, high-trust service to add to your offering - or you’ve been asked about payroll and not sure what to say - this convo is packed with gold nuggies. Whether you're side-eyeing payroll as your next service or you're already doing it and want to do it better, this one’s for you. Book a call with Vicki to chat about adding payroll services to your business Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. ~ Sam + Jo xo

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Ep229 Loneliness Is Optional, Connection Is A Choice

Mar 25, 202500:40:42Tap to summarize

At times being a virtual assistant can feel like the loneliest place in the world. So many of us work at home in isolation, connecting only at a surface level from behind our keyboards. But it doesn’t have to be this way. ‘Connection’ may have become a bit of a buzz word in recent years, but there’s a good reason for it. Connection is absolutely vital for overall our well-being and longevity not just as business owners – but as human beings! Connection provides us with a sense of belonging and purpose and the emotional support it brings cannot be underestimated. Connection is a choice, but it’s a choice every virtual assistant needs to make – even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone to do so. In this episode you’ll learn: Why virtual assistants are prone to feelings of loneliness and isolation, and how to combat it.How Jo beat loneliness from the outset and what Sam did to ensure no VA had to feel alone again.The big benefit of connecting with fellow VAs that may surprise you.The 2025 events you need in your diary. 2025 International VA Day 2025 VA Bali Retreat 2025 New Zealand Virtual Assistant Awards Virtual Assistant Network NZ Scale It Mastermind (for established virtual assistants) Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

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Ep228 Soft Launch or Self-Sabotage?

Mar 11, 202500:13:22Tap to summarize

Thinking about soft launching your VA biz or side hustle? Think again! Ironically your fear of failure (that’s holding you back from launching for real) has put you on a path that’s doomed to fail. It’s time to take control of your destiny, to take the bull by the horns, to put your fear of failure and judgement aside and to stop allowing assumptions to hold you back. It’s time to take courageous action. 'Cos stepping out of your comfort zone is where you'll truly thrive. In this episode you’ll learn: Why soft launches don’t work.The VA soft launch story that had us SHOOK!Why your fear of failure will become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Find out more about Launch in 30 Days here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

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Ep227 Playdates to Paydays: The SAHM VA Formula

Mar 4, 202500:40:43Tap to summarize

Are you a stay-at-home mum thinking about starting a wee VA side hustle to bring in some extra income? Then this episode is for YOU! Grab a pen and paper, and get ready to learn the exact steps you need to take to create a profitable side hustle while remaining present for your kids. In this episode you’ll learn: How to remain present for your kids while supporting your clients.Our very different SAHM/VA journeys.Why there’s no such thing as a side hustle hourly rate!The best way to figure out your services and hourly rate as a SAHM VA.Why you may only need to find 1 client. Wanna tip your toes in? Check out the 7 Step Formula and Pricing Calculator. Ready to go all in? Launch in 30 Days is exactly what you need. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

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Ep226 This Is Going To Get You In The Sh#t

Feb 18, 202500:42:24Tap to summarize

In business there are oodles of ways to find yourself in the proverbial sh#t – and being in the virtual assistant space means you’re even more likely to fall headfirst. Why? ‘Cos virtual assistants seem hardwired to appease their leads and clients – to the detriment of their own success and mental health. Please don’t feel embarrassed if you’re doing one (or more!) things on our Sh#t List! Remember. We don’t know what we don’t know! The important thing is that now you DO know, it’s your responsibility to take action, make change and learn from the mistake/s that have put you on a path of high client (or team!) turnover, low profits and where you’re asking yourself “is this really worth the hassle?”. In this episode you’ll learn: Why you’re forgetting your non-negotiables and how it’s led to having a business you no longer love.Why all those unbilled phone calls are causing more issues than you realise.Why you’ve got to stop making assumptions about leads and clients.Why it's time to accept the need for having a robust client contract and onboarding process that protects YOU.The client management reminders you didn’t know you needed to hear. Find out more about Scale It Mastermind here. Sub-Contractor, Freelancer or Agency Owner? Your perfect virtual assistant pathway is just minutes away! Take the quiz here. Sam + Jo xo

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Ep225 The Secret to Getting Clients and Team Members to Stick Around

Feb 4, 202501:06:31Tap to summarize

The must-listen-to episode for VAs growing their teams, as well as those looking for ways to foster healthy, long-standing relationships with their clients. Personality profiling has been the single best investment in Jo's VA agency - hands down. The Process Communication Model (PCM) is a globally renowned tool (trusted by companies such as NASA, Pixar, Air NZ) for understanding personality, motivation, and communication, helping build teams, resolve conflicts and enhance relationships. Certified PCM Facilitator and Trainer Teesha Vee joins us in this episode to share how you can learn how to meet the psychological needs of your team members and clients. Hello increased profitability!! In this episode you'll learn: Why equality isn't a guiding principle you want in your biz (yep you read that right)Why you gel with some clients, and others it just feels hard (and what to do about it)The right way to praise your team and have it make them feel valuedThe 100% predictable distress behaviours of you, your team and your clients. Get your personalised PCM profile here Sam + Jo xo

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All episodes

Ep234 The End Of An Era

Ep233 Perimenopause: It's Not Just Mid-Life Hot Flushes (Part 2)

Ep232 An Interview with Marianne - 2025 NZ VA Of The Year

Ep231 When Your VA Team Falls Apart - And How To Handle It Like A Pro

Ep230 Profitable Payroll: What to Package, What to Avoid

Ep229 Loneliness Is Optional, Connection Is A Choice

Ep228 Soft Launch or Self-Sabotage?

Ep227 Playdates to Paydays: The SAHM VA Formula

Ep226 This Is Going To Get You In The Sh#t

Ep225 The Secret to Getting Clients and Team Members to Stick Around