The Whole Assistant Podcast

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- What if small incremental shifts are the secret to creating lasting change? In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I share why the most sustainable breakthroughs often start with tiny, strategic upgrades rather than massive overhauls. I also reveal why consistency (not perfection) is one of the most effective ways to create the life you want. In this episode, you will discover: Why incremental change is more effective (and lasting) than dramatic, all-at-once actions How to set sustainable goals that help you “become”, as well as achieve Practical steps to implement small upgrades in your professional and personal life without the overwhelm ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Snag your free strategic planning session guide. Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send me an email: annie@wholeassistant.com

January 13-15 I’m hosting a free 3-day challenge for executive assistants who want to get organized for their most impactful year, without adding more work to their plate. Join the free challenge here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/challenge ---------------------------------------------- Are you looking for a clear path to creating momentum in 2026? After reflecting on my own journey and the energy I want to bring to our EA community this year, I share intentional strategies to help you clear the clutter, define your vision, build systems that work for you, and increase your visibility, without hustling harder. If you're ready to show up strategically and make a meaningful impact, this episode is for you. In this episode, you will discover: How clarity is your launchpad for creating career leverage. Where to focus your energy when it comes to reducing mental load, increasing ease, and setting yourself up for sustainable success. Strategies for fostering visibility (even if you're an introvert). ---------------------------------------------- Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ---------------------------------------------- Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected:  Snag your free strategic planning session guide. Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn.

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- Working for an executive who thrives in chaos can leave you feeling frustrated and questioning your own abilities. You are not the problem, and you are not responsible for fixing someone else’s patterns. In this “best of 2025” episode, I unpack why some leaders operate in chaos, how to stop taking it personally, and what it looks like to stay grounded when everything around you feels unpredictable. In this episode, you will discover: Why chaos feels normal for some executives How to stop blaming yourself for situations you did not create Ways to stay professional and calm in messy environments How to decide whether a chaotic workplace is the right fit for you   ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- Many assistants slip into the role of “rescuer” without even realizing it. The problem is that rescuing drains your energy and keeps you from operating as a true strategic partner. In this “best of 2025” episode, I break down the shift from rescuer to guide and why this change helps you show up with more confidence, clarity, and impact. In this episode, you will discover: The key differences between rescuing and guiding How to recognize when you are in rescuer mode Simple strategies to protect your energy and step into a more empowered role ---------------------------------------------- Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com  

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- The gatekeeper label is common for executive assistants, but it often keeps EAs operating in a narrow role. Real impact comes from becoming the bridge, someone who supports clarity, connection, and collaboration across the organization. In this “best of 2025” episode, I break down why this shift matters and how it elevates your influence and strengthens your partnership with your executive. In this episode, you will discover: Why the gatekeeper mindset limits communication How acting as a bridge strengthens culture and alignment The ways this shift improves your relationship with your executive and the broader team ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- Executive presence is not reserved for people in the spotlight. It is a skill you can build, and it has a direct impact on how you are perceived and the influence you hold. In this “best of 2025” episode, I break down what executive presence actually looks like and why it matters for executive assistants at every level. You will learn the key behaviors that strengthen trust, elevate credibility, and help you show up with confidence and clarity. In this episode, you will discover: What executive presence is and why it is essential for executive assistants How confidence, clarity, emotional intelligence, and influence shape your impact Practical ways to show up with authority and composure, even if you prefer to stay behind the scenes Simple strategies, from communication to presentation, that help you cultivate executive presence consistently  ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

Grab my Cyber Week Bundle → https://www.wholeassistant.com/bundle ---------------------------------------------- Are you moving through your days at full speed yet still feeling like you are not making meaningful progress?  Many assistants live in a constant state of busy without ever experiencing the relief of being ahead. In this “best of 2025” episode, I break down the five core habits that set exceptionally efficient executive assistants apart.  These habits are practical, repeatable, and designed to help you work with more clarity, ease, and strategic impact. In this episode, you will discover: How to build simple systems that reinforce your productivity instead of draining it What it looks like to prioritize with intention, even when everything feels urgent How to communicate with clarity and confidently articulate your value The time management habits that keep you proactive—and how to know when it is time to ask for support  ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- Happy Thanksgiving! I just want to say THANK YOU for hanging with me here on the podcast.  ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants. Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- Ever find yourself buried in an overflowing inbox, juggling competing priorities, and wondering how you’re supposed to operate strategically when everything feels urgent?  You’re not alone, and this episode is for you. In this conversation, Melissa Peoples and I get real about what assistants are navigating right now.  We dive into your toughest, spiciest questions, from building trust with your exec and staying out of burnout, to holding boundaries, tightening up workflows, and dropping the myth that you have to be “always on” to be effective. Inside this episode, we cover:   How to shift out of “taskmaster mode” and show up more strategically, even when your confidence wavers. Clear ways to handle reorgs, ballooning responsibilities, and leaders who aren’t communicating. How to hold colleagues (and executives) accountable without slipping into people-pleasing or resentment. Simple systems for managing your inbox, workload, and priorities so you can quiet the chaos and operate at your best. If you’re feeling overextended, overlooked, or undervalued, press play.  This conversation brings both clarity and the practical steps to help you stand tall in your role, own your expertise, and embrace your badassery. Connect with Melissa Peoples:Check out Melissa People’s website HERE ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

You’re invited to Empowered Seat, my membership  designed to help you grow, lead, and rise alongside other powerhouse assistants.   Join Here → https://www.wholeassistant.com/empoweredseat ---------------------------------------------- Sometimes the only way forward is to release what no longer fits. During this episode I pull back the curtain and give you an inside look at my own personal journey and transformation over 2025.  You’ll hear raw reflections on grief and joy, what it looks like to rebuild community from the ground up. You’ll also discover how surrendering to the unknown can open the door to deeper peace, richer connection, and the courage to dream bigger than ever before. Let’s dive in. ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com      

Ever left your annual review feeling unseen or unsure how to ask for the raise you deserve? If you’ve ever downplayed your wins or dreaded talking up your wins, this episode is for you. I’m joined by the brilliant Madelyn Mackie, former admin turned CEO and career activator, to talk about how to show up to your review with confidence and strategy. In this episode, we cover: How to communicate your impact without feeling “braggadocious” A simple system for tracking wins and quantifying results  Why ongoing feedback matters more than once-a-year reviews How to prepare and advocate for raises like a pro It’s time to stop minimizing your contributions and start owning your impact. Hit play and let’s get you ready to crush your next review. Connect with Madelyn Mackie Check out Madelyn Mackie’s website HERE Follow Madelyn Mackie on LinkedIn HERE Book your free consult with Madelyn HERE ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com  

In this episode, I share the origins of my brand new membership, The Empowered Seat, and take you behind the scenes on why and how this offer was created for ambitious assistants just like you. I dive into the gaps I’ve seen in professional development for administrative professionals, and show you how this new community is designed to meet you where you are, help you grow, and empower you in the most accessible, strategic way possible. In this episode, you will discover: Why traditional professional development often falls short for busy assistants and how The Empowered Seat addresses those gaps. All about the flexible structure of the membership, including pre-recorded trainings, private podcast access, and real-time group support. How a diverse range of outside industry experts and topics make this community unique and truly valuable. The intentional, affordable pricing (plus tips for getting employer sponsorship!). 👉🏼 Click here to learn more & join Empowered Seat. Claim an extra $50 off your annual membership with code EMPOWEREDAF. Request employer sponsorship using this email template. ----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I pull back the curtain on the ways we tend to give away our power without even realizing it. I dive deep into patterns that limit your agency. You’ll hear real talk about how these patterns can keep you stuck, and actionable strategies you can use right now to break free, step into your enoughness, and show up confidently. In this episode, you will discover: How to notice when you’ve handed over your power Why shifting your source of validation from external to internal changes everything Practical ways to set values-based boundaries and stay in your own emotional lane (without feeling selfish or confrontational) I’m excited to invite you to my brand new networking event “Empower Hour” happening on October 29th at 12:00 MST! Join me for an hour of fun, real connection, and strategies to help you feel more empowered and less alone in your role. Plus, you’ll get an inside look at my brand new membership, The Empowered Seat, launching later this month.  Click here to save your spot. ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

Feeling isolated in your role doesn’t have to be your reality.In this episode, I talk about how building connections (with mentors, coaches, friends, and other executive assistants) can help you thrive at work and feel less isolated. I share my own experiences, discuss the real downsides of going it alone, and give you simple strategies to help you find your people.In this episode, you’ll discover: Why working alone can make things harder and limit your growth How growing your network opens up new opportunities and resources Easy ways to connect with others and build a supportive community Connecting with others isn’t just good for your career—it helps you feel empowered and less alone every day. 📢 I’m excited to invite you to my brand new networking event “Empower Hour” happening on October 29th at 12:00 MDT! Join me for an hour of fun, real connection, and strategies to help you feel more empowered and less alone in your role. Plus, you’ll get an inside look at my brand new membership, The Empowered Seat, launching later this month. Don’t miss out - click here to register and save your spot. ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

Ever worked with a leader who has never had support before?In this episode, I break down barriers to success when it comes to working with a leader who has never had an executive assistant. I talk about common challenges, and share clear tips on how you can guide your exec, build trust, and showcase your value (without losing your cool or your confidence).In this episode, you will discover: Why some execs struggle to let go of control, and how to handle it. How to guide and educate your leader about what you’re capable of. Simple ways to build trust and foster communication. How to show your value, even when your leader doesn’t “get it” yet. If you want to feel more confident and make a bigger impact with a brand new (and maybe clueless!) executive, this episode will help you get there.----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

Do you ever feel like you’re your own worst critic, always worrying about mistakes or what others think?In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I share why learning to create a sense of safety within yourself is so valuable, especially when things get tough. I talk about my own experiences and challenges this past year, and how having my own back helped me move forward with more confidence and resilience. You’ll hear honest insights on letting go of perfectionism, building true self-trust, and how to stop spinning out over small (or big!) mistakes.In this episode, you’ll discover: Why feeling safe within yourself helps you handle tough emotions and bounce back faster. How self-trust and being your own biggest supporter lets you take more risks and go after what you want. An easy, three-step approach to create your own inner safety, plus real-life examples you can relate to. If you’re ready to start showing up for yourself the way you do for everyone else, this episode is a must-listen! ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

If you’ve been carrying the weight of fixing every problem for your executive, you’re not alone.In this episode, I talk about why assistants so often fall into the role of “rescuer,” and how making the shift to “guide” can help you show up stronger, calmer, and more strategic in your work. I explain the difference between rescuing and guiding, and share simple tips that will help you protect your energy, own your worth, and step into the role of empowered badass.In this episode, you will discover: The big differences between being a rescuer and being a guide. How to spot when you’re in “rescuer” mode and why it’s not helping you or your executive. Practical strategies to safeguard against “rescuer” energy. ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I dive deep into the complex world of gender dynamics within the executive assistant and business leadership space, joined by powerhouse guests Ebony Bellhumer (CEO & former EA/Chief of Staff) and Melissa Peoples (EA coach and advocate). Drawing on personal stories, lived experience, and client observations, we unpack the nuanced realities of supporting women leaders versus men, why stereotypes persist, how competition and socialization shape workplace relationships. In this episode, you will discover: Why so many executive assistants say they’ll “never support a female executive again” (and why we rarely hear the same about men). How socialization, competition, and internalized expectations shape dynamics between women (and with their teams) at every level. The hidden impact of the “work wife” label and how redefining your professional identity can unlock more impactful partnerships. Practical tools and mindset shifts for having courageous conversations, knowing your value, and thriving in any executive partnership. Ready to challenge your assumptions and find a more empowered way forward? Hit play and let’s get into the real talk! Connect with us: Ebony Belhumeur - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebelhumeur/ Melissa Peoples - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissapeoples/  Annie Croner - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-croner/ 

Warning! This episode is extra spicy. I get real about a troubling trend making the rounds: that being mistreated at work somehow makes you better at your job. I break down why this belief is so harmful, share my own story of tough work situations, and explain why true success shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Instead, I’ll show you a healthier, stronger way to build your career, with real confidence and boundaries.In this episode, you’ll discover: Why putting up with toxic leaders is not a badge of honor, it’s dangerous. The difference between real growth and just surviving a bad situation. How to build your success and self-worth from healthy values, not past pain. To purchase your copy of Amy Gallo’s book, Getting Along, click here.Registration for Leveled-Up is officially open! Click here to claim your spot! ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com

What if your next level of growth is waiting for you in community?In this episode, I talk about how building a community of fellow executive assistants can transform your career. I share real stories about finding support, cover the downsides of trying to do it all solo, and explain how connecting with others can help you grow.In this episode, you’ll discover: The risks of going it alone  How a strong EA community gives you fresh ideas, support, and accountability Simple ways to find or grow your own support network, both online and offline Why leaning on a community fast-tracks your personal and professional growth You’ll walk away empowered to find your people and level up your career—together!   Click here to register for my free hour-long masterclass, 3 Ways to Establish Trust in Your Executive Assistant Role.   Registration for Leveled-Up is officially open! Click here to claim $100 off. ----------------------------------------------Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here. ----------------------------------------------Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive. This will help you:- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillmentGrab your free guide here.----------------------------------------------Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Book your free coaching discovery call. Visit the website. Follow me on LinkedIn. Send Me an Email: annie@wholeassistant.com