Booked Out with Bre

74. The 2025 Virtual Assistant Roadmap: Start, Grow & SCALE Your Dream Business!

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm laying out the exact roadmap to build your dream virtual assistant business in 2025! Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, this episode is packed with actionable steps, insider tips, and the mindset shifts you need to succeed.
As a mom who's built a six-figure business (and helped hundreds of other women do the same!), I know the power of the VA industry to create freedom, flexibility, and financial stability. It's about so much more than just being a virtual assistant – it's about saying YES to the life you want!
Here's what I cover in this episode:
Why the demand for specialized VAs is exploding (and how to position yourself as an expert, even if you don't feel like one yet!).
The crucial shift from "employee" to "CEO" mindset that will transform your business.
How to create an irresistible offer that attracts your dream clients.
My proven outreach strategies to open doors and land those first (or next!) clients.
The systems and processes you need to scale your business once you're booked out.
A 7-day fast-start challenge to get you into action immediately!
How I booked my 1st client for 20$ an hour.
Plus, I'm sharing some behind-the-scenes insights from the VA Leadership Academy, where I help women build booked-out businesses with step-by-step guidance and a supportive community.
Ready to make 2025 your year? Tune in and let's build your dream VA business together!
 
Episode Outline:
Introduction: The VA Industry - More Than Just Being a Virtual Assistant (00:01:43)
The Growing Demand for Virtual Assistants and Why Businesses Need YOU (00:02:34)
Specialized vs. General VAs: Why Specialization Leads to Higher Earnings (00:03:43)
Shifting from Employee to CEO: Thinking Bigger and Owning Your Business (00:04:58)
Leading vs. Lagging Activities: The Key to Consistent Business Growth (00:06:03)
Creating an Irresistible Offer: Defining Your Services, Dream Client, and Value Proposition (00:09:12)
Packaging Your Services: Test Projects, Monthly Support Packages, and Pricing (00:10:54)
Practicing Your Pitch: Getting Comfortable Talking About Your Services and Pricing (00:14:08)
Outreach and Networking: Opening Doors and Connecting with Potential Clients (00:14:48)
Building Your Brand: Creating a Lead Magnet to Showcase Your Expertise (00:15:55)
Scaling Your Business: Systems, Optimizations, and Onboarding Processes (00:17:29)
The Client Overflow Problem: When You're Booked Out and Ready to Expand (00:18:40)
The 7-Day Fast Start Challenge: Take Action and Build Momentum (00:20:13)
Day 1: Define Your Services and Dream Client
Day 2: Research and Set Your Pricing
Day 3: Create a Simple Pitch and Outreach Templates
Days 4-7: Implement Daily Outreach (Minimum 10 Touch Points)
The VA Leadership Academy: Step-by-Step Guidance to Book Out Your Business (00:21:05)
Closing Thoughts: Increase Your Output and Get the Results You Want (00:22:19)
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
https://www.instagram.com/heyitsbrecain/
Mom X VA Free Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/momxvaImmediate Access to The IT Factor
https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/47tfmzrtwkww
VA Leadership Academy
https://thecaincollective.thrivecart.com/valeadershipacademy/
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams
 

73. From Burnout to Booked Out OBM: How Leah Unlocked Her Expertise & Created a Thriving Business!

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm thrilled to introduce you to the incredible Leah Unger – a multi-passionate mom, yoga teacher, and now, a booked-out Online Business Manager (OBM)! Leah's story is a powerful example of how to turn your existing skills and experience into a freedom-based business.
As a former nonprofit executive assistant, Leah had tons of experience, but she felt burned out, isolated, and like something was missing. Then, she found the VA world and realized she could take her skills digital!
Here's what I loved about my chat with Leah:
How she realized she was already an expert on day one! This mindset shift is everything.
The surprising way she used her background in yoga and leadership to build her OBM business.
How embracing the VA community helped her overcome feelings of loneliness in motherhood.
The inspiring way she redefined "hustle" to create a life that feels both productive and joyful.
Her raw and honest advice: Don't follow the money! Leah shares a powerful lesson about choosing alignment over a paycheck, and the amazing results that followed.
How she's now pushing towards 7K months by choosing clients who are a dream to work with.
Her practical tips for busy moms (or anyone!) who want to build a business without sacrificing the things they love.
Plus, Leah shares that she is launching her yoga-related business.
Leah's energy is contagious, and her story is a powerful reminder that you already have what it takes to create a business and life you love. Tune in for a dose of inspiration, practical advice, and a whole lot of realness!
Episode Outline:
Introductions and Welcome Leah to the podcast (00:01:24)
Leah's Journey: From Nonprofit Burnout to Finding the VA World (00:02:33)
The "Aha!" Moment: Realizing Existing Skills Translated to a Virtual Business (00:06:44)
Leveraging Leadership Skills and Experience: Building an OBM Business (00:08:12)
Overcoming Loneliness in Motherhood: The Power of Community (00:11:11)
Awakening and Alive: How Building a Business Transformed Leah's Life (00:13:12)
The VA Industry: Redefining What's Possible for Moms (and Everyone!) (00:14:19)
Tangible Tips: What Helped Leah Succeed and What She'd Do Differently (00:17:11)
The Importance of Staying on Trend and Continuously Improving Your Skills (00:19:04)
Lessons Learned: Choosing Alignment Over Money and the Power of Boundaries (00:21:10)
Don't Follow the Money: A Powerful Lesson in Choosing the Right Clients (00:22:03)
Hustle and Flow: Finding Joy in the Journey of Building a Business (00:27:48)
Leah's Success: Pushing Towards 7K Months with Aligned Clients (00:29:29)
Launching a New Yoga Business: Embracing Multi-Passionate Creativity (00:30:05)
Tips for Busy Moms (and Anyone!): How to Build a Business Without Sacrificing What Matters (00:32:46)
Using Every Moment: Practical Strategies for Building a Business in the "In-Between" Times (00:33:51)
Repositioning Thoughts: Celebrating Successes, Big and Small (00:35:39)
How to Connect with Leah and Learn More About Her OBM and Yoga Services (00:36:27)
Work Hard, Play Hard: Leah's Motto for a Fulfilling Life and Business (00:37:53)
Closing Thoughts and Encouragement to Take Action (00:38:52)
 
Connect with Leah Unger
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/tleahm/
Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-unger-7704a671
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
https://www.instagram.com/heyitsbrecain/
Mom X VA Free Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/momxvaImmediate Access to The IT Factor
https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/47tfmzrtwkww
VA Leadership Academy
https://thecaincollective.thrivecart.com/valeadershipacademy/
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams
 

72. Book Dream Virtual Assistant Clients in 3 Days: My Proven "Mom X VA" Action Plan!

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm getting real about booking those dream virtual assistant clients. Forget the boring job search – I'm sharing the exact steps I took to land a $2k/month client just 3 days after discovering the VA industry.
I know, I know, it sounds crazy! But trust me, it's totally doable. As a mom of three building a "yes life" through my VA business, I'm here to help you redefine what's possible in motherhood, too!
Here’s what I'm dishing out in this episode:
Why values are everything. I'll show you how to attract clients who value your worth (and how to ditch the nickel-and-dimers!)
The mindset shift that'll instantly sabotage your success (hint: it involves negative adjectives).
Why "selling the transformation" is way more powerful than selling tasks.
My 3-day action plan for booking dream clients fast. Seriously, get ready to take action!
The secret weapon for building your VA confidence: virtual coffee chats.
Plus, I'm sharing a sneak peek into the VA Leadership Academy, where you can get all the support, job opportunities, and community you need to book out your business and build the "yes life" of your dreams!
Ready to ditch the job search grind and start attracting clients who are excited to work with you? 
Episode Outline:
Values Attract Values: Setting the Foundation for Dream Virtual Assistant Clients (00:00:00)
Welcome to Mom XVA: Redefining Motherhood Through the Virtual Assistant Industry (00:00:25)
Booking Dream Virtual Assistant Clients: It's More Than Just a Job Search! (00:02:13)
The CEO Mindset: Stepping into Ownership as a Virtual Assistant (00:03:15)
Getting Clear on Your Dream Virtual Assistant Clients: Think Beyond Business! (00:04:25)
Values Matter: Attracting Clients Who Value Your Worth in the Virtual Assistant Industry (00:06:41)
Avoid These Words: Messaging and Positioning for Virtual Assistant Client Attraction (00:08:33)
Transformation, Not Tasks: Speaking to the Heart of Your Dream Virtual Assistant Clients (00:10:59)
Day 1: Study Successful Virtual Assistants and Build Your (Imperfect) Portfolio (00:15:06)
Day 2: Get Visible! Applying to Virtual Assistant Jobs and Reaching Out to Your Network (00:17:11)
Day 3: Virtual Coffee Chats: Mastering Discovery Calls and Building Your Virtual Assistant Confidence (00:20:13)
The 3-Day Action Plan Recap: Booking Dream Virtual Assistant Clients Fast! (00:22:25)
The VA Leadership Academy: Your Family for Building a Booked Out Virtual Assistant Business (00:24:12)
Connect and Celebrate: Go Book Those Dream Virtual Assistant Clients! (00:26:46)
Closing Thoughts and Ways to Connect with Bre (00:27:00)
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
https://www.instagram.com/heyitsbrecain/
Mom X VA Free Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/momxvaImmediate Access to The IT Factor
https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/47tfmzrtwkww
VA Leadership Academy
https://thecaincollective.thrivecart.com/valeadershipacademy/
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams
 
 

71. Pivoting with Power: Transforming Setbacks into Success in Your Virtual Assistant Business with Ellen Smith

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm welcoming back Ellen Smith for part two of our conversation. After sharing her incredible story of going from a $20/hour VA to running a 4K month business (with some twists and turns along the way!), we're diving into the nitty-gritty of navigating business pivots.
We're getting real about the hard stuff – the self-doubt, the questioning, and the pressure that comes with making big shifts. Ellen's sharing her experiences and insights, and we're both getting honest about what it really takes to embrace the pivot process and come out stronger on the other side. This isn’t just relevant for Virtual Assistants, its helpful for entrepreneurs in general.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
Why it's so easy to make it mean something about you when your business isn't working, and how to shift that mindset.
Why your strategy is the least important thing about you, and how to cultivate the grit, resilience, and leadership that will make you unstoppable.
Why asking "why?" is the most powerful question you can ask when you're feeling unaligned.
How to sit with uncomfortable feelings and resist the urge to sweep them under the rug.
That it’s okay to make small or big shifts (and how to navigate that decision).
How to use the phrase "or are you going through it"" to give yourself space to figure out what is to come.
How to implement strategies to make the process easier like what is to come, and making it that it is OK.
How the VA industry is one that you want to grow with, not against, and create something special from your life and skills.
The Gap and The Gain and how training your brain can help you look for good and be more successful.
How you should try to look for valuable team in your business, and where to find them.
A story about making something of yourself and then finding your way to being the best of both worlds.
Some people can be on the same track as you, and how that helps everything get better.
This episode is for anyone going through a pivot in their business (or life!) and needs a dose of realness and encouragement. If you're questioning your path, feeling lost, or just need a reminder that you're not alone, tune in now!
 
Episode Outline:
The Power of Resiliency: Keep Going Until You Find Your Strategy (00:00:00)
Welcome Back Ellen Smith for Part Two! (00:01:30)
The Things People Don't Say About Pivoting (00:01:51)
Investing in Your Business: But What Happens When It Doesn't Work? (00:30:11)
Why You Have to Sit With Uncomfortable Feelings (00:33:0)
Don't Make Something Personal (00:19:19)
Being a General to Work What is to Come (00:19:04)
What is Your True Vision? (00:21:24)
It will Always Come Together (00:22:37)
The Hard, Truthful Path to Business (00:23:00)
The Hard Question Is Coming, Be Aware (00:24:04)
Reverse Engineer Time (00:25:00)
Working, Loving, and Growing With a Team (00:25:27)
The Book, 10X Can Do What! (00:27:23)
Learn More About How Your Brain is a Muscle (00:28:52)
The Importance of Community (00:31:17)
All of this Doesn't Change You, or Does It? (00:32:07)
Wrapping Up: Connect with Ellen and Share Your Thoughts (00:38:07)
 
Connect with Ellen:
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thevagrowthcoach/Work with Ellen
https://thesimplycollective.comBook a call with Ellen
https://thesimplycollective.com/growth-accelerator-strategy-session
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
https://www.instagram.com/heyitsbrecain/
Mom X VA Free Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/momxvaImmediate Access to The IT Factor
https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/47tfmzrtwkww
VA Leadership Academy
https://thecaincollective.thrivecart.com/valeadershipacademy/
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams

70. From Doubt to Booked Out: Your Action Plan to Crush It as a Virtual Assistant

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm sharing my best strategies and tips for alchemizing doubt into power and booking out your VA business! If you're new to the Virtual Assistant industry or you're a VA who's not quite where you want to be, this episode is 100% for you.
I’m diving into tangible action steps you can take today to start seeing real results, along with some mindset shifts that will completely transform the way you approach your business. We’re getting real about owning your expertise, letting people know what you're up to, and why taking messy action is always better than overthinking. If you want to know how to book out your VA business but you are letting doubt get in the way - listen up.
 
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
The importance of owning what you already know and leveraging your existing skills to launch your Virtual Assistant business.
How to do a brain dump inventory of your skills and experience and translate them into valuable VA services.
The power of giving yourself permission to be the expert and how to show up with confidence, even if it feels unnatural at first.
Why you need to stop hiding and start letting people know what you're up to, and how to leverage social media and networking to spread the word about your VA business.
That you can still find success without using social media.
How to take your passion for your side hussle and find your niche.
Why action is the antidote to doubt, and why it's crucial to get in motion today.
How to craft your Virtual Assistant portfolio, get market feedback, and refine your messaging.
Why mentorship is a game-changer for Virtual Assistant success and how it can help you condense time and avoid costly mistakes.
The importance of getting in the rooms with people who normalize success and how it can shift your mindset and your results.
How to treat booking out your Virtual Assistant business like a job in and of itself and dedicate time each day to take action.
The one mantra you need to adopt if you want to create a thriving Virtual Assistant business.
This episode is a love-and-shove kick in the pants to take action, own your power, and create the VA business of your dreams. If you're ready to ditch the doubt and book out, tune in now!
 
Episode Outline:
From Doubt to Booked Out: This Training is For You (00:02:01)
What to Expect: Action Steps and Empowerment (00:02:32)
Mom X VA: Redefining What's Possible in Motherhood (00:02:57)
Leverage the Skills You Already Have (00:03:52)
Everything Counts: All Experience is Valuable (00:04:54)
Zoom Out: How to Turn Experiences into Tangible Services (00:06:17)
Permission and Owning Your Authority (00:07:31)
Get Out There! (00:08:15)
Confidence Comes from Action (00:09:04)
Messy Action and Market Feedback (00:10:14)
Learning From the Journey (00:11:08)
Trust the Process (00:13:00)
Market Research (00:13:46)
The Study and Process of Delusional Marketing (00:14:11)
It Took a Minute, and That's Okay (00:15:54)
Visceral Responses (00:17:07)
Showing Up in Your Business (00:17:58)
It Comes Down to this (00:18:44)
Trust What is to Come (00:19:57)
Action Steps for YOU (00:23:30)
What To Do Now (00:25:18)
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
Mom X VA Free Facebook CommunityImmediate Access to The IT Factor
VA Leadership Academy
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams

69. Trust Your Gut, Build Your Biz: Abbi from Workwomb on Intuitive Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm so excited to have Abbi on the show today. After meeting her in person, I knew we were destined to be friends and it's clear that her energy is absolutely magnetic and pure and joyful. Abbi's the founder of Workwomb, a brand dedicated to the creation of spaces for female entrepreneurs to connect to their intuition.
We're diving into her amazing story, talking about the beauty that can be found in both the shadow and the shine of motherhood and running a business, the power of trusting your intuition, and the vital importance of togetherness in entrepreneurship. We touch on her journey of somatics, pleasure practices, pleasure work, and how she manifested a connection with her husband. This episode is a permission slip to lean into your intuition, connect with other powerhouse women, and build a business and life that’s filled with joy and authenticity. If you’re ready to tap into your power, create a life you’re obsessed with, and surround yourself with women who get you, this is the episode for you!
 
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
The importance of creating what you wish you had and how that’s been a driving force in Abbi's business.
How to “wave your freak flag” and build a business rooted in authenticity and personal values.
How the conversation surrounding feminine and masculine business models has taken shape throughout Abbi's life.
The power of intuitive practices and how to implement them into your entrepreneurial journey.
How to prioritize joy, pleasure, and intuition in your business (and your life!).
The concept of the Desired list and how to bring the power of wanting into your own journey.
How easy and abundant a journey filled with your desires can be.
The importance of community and "togetherness" in entrepreneurship and why we're not meant to do it alone.
The power of intention and how to harness that power in all areas of your life.
A conversation on somatics, trauma, and how to heal with these practices.
A personal story of how she manifested a connection with her husband.
Why you need to invest in support and what can be unlocked from this.
 
Episode Outline:
What Comes From Practicing Togetherness (00:00:00)
Welcoming Abbi to Booked Out With Bre (00:01:13)
Meet Abbi: Founder of Workwomb, Mom, and Storyteller (00:01:51)
The Beauty in Grit, Tenacity, and Resilience (00:02:14)
All Things Pleasure and Somatics (00:03:15)
Waving Your Freak Flag: Building a Business on Authenticity (00:04:19)
What Comes From the Realization of That Book, Essentialism (00:05:33)
Navigating Somatics and Trauma (00:06:18)
How Yoga Has Always Been Her Passion (00:06:40)
The Power of Creating What You Wish You Had (00:10:52)
Creating a Somatic Biz Experience (00:11:05)
A Crowding Out (00:12:25)
Trusting Your Intuition and Actioning on It (00:15:42)
The Difference Between Feminine and Masculine and How to Use it for Business (00:16:55)
Manifesting An Ideal Spicy Relationship and Life (00:19:20)
Working with Clients, How to Build a Brand, and More (00:27:59)
The Long Term Value of Your Team (00:29:05)
Make Money with Your Team (00:30:31)
Reaching your Zone and Creating a Vision (00:31:39)
How She Manifested Her Husband (00:34:03)
Making Magic and Reaching For More (00:37:52)
Wrapping Up: Connect with Abbi (00:41:56)
 
Connect with Abbi:
InstagramWebsiteThe Workwomb PodcastBiz on the Beach, Somatic Biz Retreat in MexicoThe Elevated Circle, biz mastermindFree 30-min consult
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
Mom X VA Free Facebook CommunityImmediate Access to The IT Factor
VA Leadership Academy
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams

68. Convert Guests into Clients: The Conversion Podcast Blueprint with Josh Thomas

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm digging into an amazing strategy with Josh Thomas, a genius when it comes to sales, team building and creating amazing marketing processes. I was so excited when I saw his genius strategy in a Facebook group that I had to have him share it here. I'm having Josh on to talk all about his Conversion Podcast strategy - a unique method that's all about building the right relationships to grow your business.
We're diving deep into how to create a podcast that not only provides value but also strategically converts guests into clients. Josh is sharing his years of experience building sales teams and marketing systems, and he's dropping some serious truth bombs about why people are tired of just more information and are craving tangible outcomes. 
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
Why being a "good dude" trumps being a "good salesperson" when it comes to building authentic connections and closing deals.
Why you should focus on getting the right people in front of you, not just more people.
The power of offering done-for-you services and why people are craving outcomes over more information.
What a "Conversion Podcast" is and how it's all about building relationships with your guests.
How to hack and optimize your podcast to maximize relationships, revenue, and results.
Why you should be more focused on the experience of the guest, rather than how many people may or may not be listening.
How to structure your podcast to make the most of your (and your guest's) time.
Practical tips for conducting engaging interviews in just 12 minutes.
How to identify the problems your guests have and position yourself as the solution.
The two psychological triggers that are at play when you create a great podcast experience: solving their pain and reciprocity.
The power of connecting and truly SEEING other entrepreneurs and how it can lead to long-term business success.
Josh’s tips for starting lean and not worrying about fancy equipment.
This episode is packed with practical strategies and mindset shifts that will transform the way you approach podcasting and business in general. 
 
Episode Outline:
Setting the Stage: The Importance of Being a "Good Dude" (00:00:00)
Welcome Josh Thomas to Booked Out with Bre (00:01:27)
Meet Josh: Building Sales Teams and Systems for 16 Years (00:05:05)
The Shift: From Information to Outcomes (00:05:20)
What is a Conversion Podcast? (00:07:40)
Focus on the Guest, Not the Audience: A Mindset Shift (00:14:01)
Structure of the Show: Efficiency and Deliberateness (00:18:49)
The Importance of the Ignition Question (00:22:19)
Crafting a Script for a 12-Minute Interview (00:21:14)
Using a Sponsor Offer to Highlight Your Solution (00:28:11)
Building Connection and Rapport: Shine the Spotlight on Your Guest (00:29:45)
The Key to Making a Sale: Do They Want to Solve The Problem? (00:25:24)
How to Turn the Podcast Interview Into A Sales Opportunity (00:31:39)
The Power of Reciprocity, but Without Expectation (00:32:11)
Being An Ally and Connecting With Others (00:35:41)
Getting Started Lean and Maximizing Your Resources (00:37:47)
Recording Platforms and Microphones (00:48:52)
The Power of Repurposing Your Episodes (00:41:45)
Resources: Descript for Editing (00:54:25)
Working with Josh: Getting Started with a Conversion Podcast (00:43:06)
Work with Josh:Learn to Consistently attract perfect-fit premium clients and referral partners using a simple 12-Minute Conversion Podcast:https://conversationalfunnels.com/podcourse
 
Connect with Josh:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtliterally
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
Mom X VA Free Facebook CommunityImmediate Access to The IT Factor
VA Leadership Academy
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams

67. Alisa Divine on the Power of Story: Lessons for Business Owners on Authenticity, Community & Legacy

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm having an inspiring conversation with my incredible friend, Alisa Divine – a true powerhouse of a woman who's an author, publisher, and coach. This episode is a beautiful example of the magic that happens when you put yourself in rooms with other amazing women who are building big, bold lives. We're diving deep into Alisa's story, which is a testament to the power of resilience, divine synchronicities, and turning pain into purpose.
We're exploring Alisa's journey from being a stay-at-home mom navigating an abusive relationship to becoming a successful author and publisher, all while helping other women share their stories. We’re also unpacking the power of mentorship, the importance of community, and how to finally get that book out of your head and into the hands of people waiting to read it. While the "Virtual Assistant" industry is not the central focus, the valuable lessons on confidence, networking, and using your story as a powerful tool for business are applicable for all entrepreneurs, and particularly for business owners looking to grow their impact and business.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
How Alisa Divine turned her personal challenges and pain into power and used it to create a platform for other women.
The incredible story of how Alisa went from photography to becoming a published author and publishing company partner.
How being in a supportive community of empowered women was crucial to overcoming a difficult past.
The power of divine synchronicities and how to recognize them on your own entrepreneurial journey.
How you can alchemize your pain into power and create a thriving business.
The importance of putting yourself in rooms that inspire you and give you a sense of belonging.
How to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome when it comes to sharing your story.
The multiple ways you can approach writing a book and why it doesn't have to be as overwhelming as it seems.
Practical steps for getting started on your book today, including the “write drunk and edit sober” technique.
Why your personal story is valuable, powerful, and can change the lives of the people who are waiting to hear it.
How being authentic and sharing your experience creates impact, community, and builds your legacy.
How you can leverage your book as a lead magnet and as a way to reach more people and establish yourself as an authority.
This episode is for anyone who is ready to step into their power, own their story, and leave a lasting impact on the world. If you've ever dreamed of writing a book, tune in, you'll be so inspired by this conversation with Alisa Divine!
Episode Outline:
The Power of Community and Inspiring Women (00:00:00)
Welcome Alisa Divine to Booked Out With Bre (00:01:13)
Meet Alisa Divine: Author, Publisher, and Coach (00:02:13)
Alisa's Story: From Stay-at-Home Mom to Entrepreneur (00:02:33)
Finding Her Power: A Path Through An Abusive Relationship (00:04:28)
A Shift in Direction: From Photography to Storytelling (00:06:10)
Divine Synchronicity: A Publishing Partnership is Formed (00:07:39)
The Calling: Empowering Women Through Writing and Publishing (00:08:26)
The Power of Alchemizing Pain Into Purpose (00:10:21)
Navigating an Abusive Marriage and Finding Freedom Through Business (00:11:14)
The Importance of Support, Community, and Empowered Women (00:17:13)
Expanding Your Life: Surrounding Yourself With Big Dreamers (00:18:08)
The Power of Belief: Deciding You Belong in Powerful Rooms (00:18:41)
Alisa Divine’s Mission: Making Book Writing Accessible (00:20:30)
The Process of Writing a Book: Debunking the Myths (00:21:17)
Multiple Ways to Write a Book (00:22:11)
The “Write Drunk and Edit Sober” Philosophy (00:26:16)
Starting Your Book: Embrace the Emotional Parts of Your Story (00:29:20)
Alisa's Mission: Making Book Writing Accessible (00:30:03)
The Power of Storytelling as a Tool for Education (00:30:38)
Parting Words of Wisdom From Alisa Divine For Aspiring Authors (00:31:10)
The Importance of Confidence in Sharing Your Story (00:31:19)
Why You are the Expert in Your Own Experience (00:32:52)
Taking Action: Where to Start With Writing Your Book (00:34:13)
Connecting With Alisa Divine to Share Your Story (00:34:57)
Wrapping Up: Let's Connect and Spread the Booked Out Mission (00:36:08)
 
Connect with Alisa:
Work with Alisa: https://stan.store/AlisaDivineFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/alisa.divine
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
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If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams

66. Show, Don't Tell: How to Navigate Skepticism from Loved Ones to Build Your Thriving Business

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm diving into a topic that many of us struggle with - navigating big dreams and goals when your partner is skeptical. As a mom and a Virtual Assistant business owner, I know firsthand the challenge of pursuing big visions when the people closest to us just don't "get it." I’m getting real about why asking for permission might be the very thing holding you back from your dreams and what to do about it.
I'm sharing my personal story of going after my goals while my husband was saying, "What in the world are you doing?!" From direct sales to building my own thriving VA business, I’ve learned that you don't need permission to chase your dreams, you need to own your power and take action. This isn't about marriage advice; it's about empowering you to make the moves you know you need to make and how to navigate it when your partner might not be totally on board.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
Why traditional gender roles and the need for stability can cause partners to be skeptical of your dreams and your business journey.
The neuroscience behind why your brain (and your partner's!) prefers the "safety" of the status quo, even when it's not serving you.
How I navigated my husband's skepticism when I started my business.
Why asking for permission can be a huge power drain and what to do instead.
The power of "showing instead of telling" to overcome skepticism and prove your vision is possible.
Why it's crucial to hold onto your vision and why you can’t let other people’s limitations become your reality.
How to build a business and grow your confidence while still maintaining your family equilibrium.
How to maximize your time and accomplish big goals, especially when you’re a busy mom juggling work, kids, family and everything else in between.
The importance of intentionality and consistency and how focusing on daily non-negotiables can lead to massive success in your Virtual Assistant business
The importance of vulnerability and open and honest communication to maintain a strong relationship with your partner while pursuing big dreams.
A reminder that it's your life and your journey – and you get to decide how you show up, what you go after, and what you choose to do, regardless of your partner’s opinions.
This episode is a permission slip to do your thing, go after what’s in your heart, and bet on yourself. If you've ever felt like your partner doesn't understand your vision, tune in now, because you are not alone!
 
Episode Outline:
Building Something Massive: My Vision From Day One (00:00:00)
Navigating Big Goals with a Skeptical Partner (00:01:37)
A Disclaimer: This Is Not Marriage Advice (00:02:16)
The Push for Autonomy: Starting My Entrepreneurial Journey After Corporate (00:02:55)
Joining a Direct Sales Company: Taking the First Step (00:04:36)
The Skeptical Partner: Navigating Conflicting Perspectives (00:04:56)
Why Your Partner Might Not Be Supportive: Stability, Safety, and the Provider Role (00:08:16)
The Neuroscience of Change: Why Our Brains Prefer the Status Quo (00:09:13)
Making the Moves: Investing in My Virtual Assistant Business Without Permission (00:10:15)
The Choice: Choosing to Follow My Heart and Pursue My Vision (00:12:16)
Putting My Head Down and Doing the Work: Building in the Margins (00:12:59)
Showing Instead of Telling: Sharing My Success with My Husband (00:13:40)
Your Husband Isn't Your Daddy: You Don't Need Permission, You Need Support (00:15:16)
The Power of Awareness: Understanding Your Partner's Perspective (00:15:53)
What If You Were To Just Do It? (00:16:18)
The Power of Single-Minded Focus and Healthy Delusion (00:17:14)
The Show, Don't Tell Methodology: Proving Your Vision (00:17:54)
Navigating a Business Build With a Skeptical Partner (00:18:12)
The Importance of Intentionality and Utilizing Pockets of Time (00:19:37)
Building Your Non-Negotiables: Daily Actions for Success (00:20:17)
The Power of Laying the Foundations For Future Success (00:21:42)
Stop Treating Your Husband Like a Daddy: Own Your Autonomy (00:22:12)
The Power of Results and Proof of Concept (00:22:41)
From Skeptic to Fan: My Husband's Transformation (00:22:53)
Vulnerable Conversations: Navigating Conflicting Perspectives (00:23:26)
Your Takeaways: Reflections, Triggers, and Experiences (00:24:07)
A Reminder: It's Your Life, Go Get It (00:24:51)
Wrapping Up: Let's Connect and Spread the Booked Out Mission (00:25:17)
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
Mom X VA Free Facebook CommunityImmediate Access to The IT Factor
VA Leadership Academy
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams

65. From VA to Networking Queen: How to Scale Your Virtual Assistant Business With Authenticity and In-Person Connections with Ellen Smith

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm so excited to introduce you to Ellen Smith, a powerhouse Virtual Assistant who's proof that anything is possible when you combine grit, resilience, and a whole lot of heart! Ellen's story is an absolute testament to what you can achieve by saying "yes" to the VA industry. From filling a budget gap to creating multiple thriving businesses, she's navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship with such grace and determination, and I’m so excited for you to hear her story.
We're diving deep into her journey from starting out as a Virtual Assistant to now helping other VAs book out their businesses through the power of in-person networking. We're exploring how you can build a fully booked business and land dream clients without relying solely on social media. This episode is for all you VAs (and aspiring VAs!) who are looking for a different approach to booking clients and scaling your business.CONNECT WITH ELLENWORK WITH ELLENBOOK A CALL WITH ELLEN
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
Ellen's journey from direct sales to a thriving Virtual Assistant business and beyond.
How she went from a "no" to fully booked in just weeks as a Virtual Assistant.
The power of listening to your intuition and why it’s important to know when to shift gears in your Virtual Assistant business.
How to tap into the power of in-person networking to book dream Virtual Assistant clients without relying on social media.
Why belief and confidence are the cornerstones of success in your Virtual Assistant business (and any business, really!)
How Ellen's background in direct sales has helped her build a strong foundation for her Virtual Assistant career.
Practical tips for overcoming the fear of putting yourself out there and how to confidently pitch yourself to potential clients in person.
The difference in client experience and connection when clients are booked through in-person networking vs. online applications.
How setting the intention to connect can help you create real opportunities for your Virtual Assistant business.
How to make networking work even with young kids at home.
Why you CAN and SHOULD pursue a career as a Virtual Assistant and how you can surprise yourself with the possibilities.
How Ellen now helps Virtual Assistants create a 3 month strategy plan to book their dream clients via networking.
This episode is full of actionable strategies, mindset shifts, and so much inspiration! If you're a Virtual Assistant ready to scale, someone who’s burnt out on social media marketing, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on client acquisition, then you will not want to miss this episode.
 
Episode Outline:
The Power of Mindset: Consistency and Reaching Your Goals (00:00:00)
Welcome to Booked Out with Bre: Introducing a Special Guest (00:00:26)
Meet Ellen: From Direct Sales to Thriving Virtual Assistant (00:01:34)
Ellen's Story: Discovering the Virtual Assistant Industry (00:02:34)
Early Success: From $0 to $4K in Six Weeks (00:04:16)
Navigating Shifts and Finding Alignment in Your Virtual Assistant Business (00:05:11)
A New Direction: Niching Down and Focusing on Networking (00:07:36)
The Power of In-Person Connections and Referrals for Virtual Assistants (00:08:20)
The Social Media Alternative: Booking Clients Without Being Online 24/7 (00:08:20)
Building Relationships and Expanding Your Network for Virtual Assistant Success (00:09:06)
Overcoming the Fear of In-Person Pitching as a Virtual Assistant (00:10:21)
Confidence and Belief: The Pillars of a Successful Virtual Assistant Business (00:11:10)
Consistency and Grit: Lessons from Direct Sales that Apply to Your Virtual Assistant Business (00:12:37)
Networking to Book Clients: The Power of In-Person Connections (00:14:47)
The Client Experience: Referrals vs. Traditional Outreach (00:15:12)
The Power of Connection: Creating Stronger Client Relationships (00:15:56)
Ellen's Networking Framework: Intention and Preparation (00:18:05)
Practical Networking Tips: Making Connections with Intention (00:18:32)
The Neuroscience of Connection: Setting Expectations for Success (00:20:40)
Networking for Moms: Making It Work With Kids (00:21:20)
Online Networking Events: A Great Alternative for Busy Moms (00:22:07)
Is the Virtual Assistant Industry for You? Ellen's Take (00:23:28)
The Beauty of Starting as a Virtual Assistant: Endless Possibilities (00:25:12)
Ellen's Journey: Saying "Yes" to Opportunities (00:26:11)
Who is Ellen's Networking for? (00:26:51)
How Ellen Helps Virtual Assistants Book Out Their Businesses With Networking (00:27:57)
Action Steps and Next Steps: How to Connect with Ellen (00:29:09)
 
Ways to Work with Me: 
Follow Me on Instagram 
Mom X VA Free Facebook CommunityImmediate Access to The IT Factor
VA Leadership Academy
If you enjoyed this episode, I would love it so much if you left a rating and review! This helps us reach more women looking to become a virtual assistant, book out their business, and scale beyond their wildest dreams