Virtually Free with Ashlee

Ever wondered what it actually looks like to be fully booked as a VA and balance coaching, family and real life too? In this behind-the-scenes episode, I’m lifting the lid on my week, my schedule, and the decisions I make to keep things sustainable.In this episode, I share:✔️ What “fully booked” really means (and how it looks different for everyone)✔️ How I manage client work, coaching calls, and content creation without burning out✔️ My non-negotiables for work-life balance✔️ The systems that keep me sane✔️ What I don’t do anymore — and why that matters🎉 Ready to build your own fully booked VA business with flexibility and clarity from day one?Our Startup VA challenge is officially live. This is my free day live series where I’ll walk you through the exact steps to set up, launch and find your first clients>> Register here <<Ash

Starting your VA business and feeling a little all over the place? In this episode, I’m breaking down the most common mistakes I see new VAs make — and how to avoid them so you can grow with confidence (and clients!).In this episode, I cover: ✔️ The biggest mindset trap holding you back from starting ✔️ Why undercharging doesn’t just hurt your income, but your confidence ✔️ What to focus on instead of perfection ✔️ The unnecessary tech setups that waste your time ✔️ My honest advice for getting out of your own way ✨ If you’re ready to set up your VA business the right way — without the overwhelm, our FREE Startup VA Challenge is going live very soon (I got a little excited in this weeks ep ;) Over 3 huge days, we’ll walk through what to offer, how to find clients, and how to launch your business with confidence. Stay tuned for those details, in the meantime you can download our FREE VA Starter Kit for a taster. Don't forget to follow me over on IG here and leave a review of this podSee you next weekAsh

Feeling under-qualified? In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact skills Aussie business owners are hiring for — and how you probably already have them.In this episode, I cover:The mindset shift you need around “being skilled enough”The top 10 tasks clients are paying VAs to do right nowReal client stories from women just like you who got hiredFAQs around qualifications, pricing, tech, and what to offerHow to start from where you are — even if you’re doubting yourself.👉 Thinking this might be your next step? Come to my Free VA Info Session in January — where we unpack what a VA does, what’s in demand, and how to start from scratch. Register here https://ashleethomas.com.au/becomingava-337220Connect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

What even is a Virtual Assistant — and could this actually be your next career move? In this episode, I’m going back to basics to explain exactly what a VA does and how you can start without perfection OR the perfect experience.In this episode, I cover:What a VA actually does (and all the tasks that fall under it)The reality of local vs offshore VAs and why being Aussie is your edgeMy first client storyWho this path is perfect for — and who it’s notInvite to join our FREE info session.👉 Thinking this might be your next step? Come to my Free VA Info Session in January — where we unpack what a VA does, what’s in demand, and how to start from scratch.Register hereConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

2025, what a year. From personal breakdowns to big breakthroughs in business, I'm reflecting on the highs, the hard moments, and what’s next for me, my business, and this community in 2026.In this episode, I cover:A raw look at my personal life this year and becoming a single parentBusiness wins (and flops), including our worst launch to dateLaunching the Virtually Free podcast + 3.5K downloads since April!The growth of VA Mastery + the MastermindBig shifts for 2026: new platforms, updated offers, rebranding elementsMy personal priorities for the year ahead.Want personalised and group support to start or scale your VA business in 2026?Learn more about VA Mastery hereLearn more about VA Expansion Mastermind hereConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

I'm breaking down what will actually get you booked out as a VA in 2026 and it’s not about working harder or doing more. We’re diving into the real shifts in the VA industry and how to position yourself powerfully this year as a recap from my most recent workshop. In this episode, I cover:Why “being good at admin” won’t cut it in 2026The power of magnetic messaging and how to craft yoursNiching and how to stand out without boxing yourself inThe rise of hybrid business models and what they can look like for youWhy trust is the new currency and how to build authority through your content What's actually working to attract clients (hint: it’s not just IG)Want personalised and group support to start or scale your VA business in 2026?Learn more about VA Mastery hereLearn more about VA Expansion Mastermind hereConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

It’s easy to feel like you’re always behind when you're running a business and a household. In this expert of the month episode, I’m joined by Sarah from SHE — EA and systems strategist for service providers, to chat about what it really takes to stay productive, streamline your business, and create capacity without burning out.Sarah shares her personal journey from public sector EA to online business owner, the challenges she’s faced as a mom of two, and the practical systems that have helped her (and her clients) gain back precious time and energy.In this episode we cover:The truth about productivity when you're juggling business and motherhoodWhy time-blocking and calendar planning still works (and how to do it right)Sustainable scheduling when your work hours are limitedHow to reset when the day goes off-track (sick kids, surprise calls—we get it!)Where to start if you’re stuck in catch-up modeThe underrated mindset shifts mums in business need to hearCONNECT WITH SARAH FROM SHE Access your FREE Calendar Makeover Checklist Join the Dubsado 2026 WaitlistRegister for the Jan 2026 Waitlist: Set the Goal. Make the Plan. Do the ThingFollow Sarah on IG www.instagram.com/she.executiveassistantSTAY CONNECTED WITH ASHLEEIf this episode hit home, make sure you: ✅ Follow the show and leave a review on Apple or Spotify ✅ Head to www.ashleethomas.com.au to learn more about my core services and how I can support you in 2026 ✅ Follow me on Instagram @ashleethomas.vacoach

It’s the end of the year, and the pressure to plan “the biggest year yet” is real. But what if your goals weren’t about doing more, but about doing the right things?In this episode, I break down exactly how I‘m planning for a freedom-filled and profitable 2026 — with 25-hour weeks, school holidays off, and a business that’s built around life-first strategy.From goal-setting and data reviews to campaign planning and capacity management — this is a permission slip to do business differently (and sustainably).In this episode, I cover:Why goal-setting starts with your lifestyle, not your income targetThe exact hours I work (and why that’s a non-negotiable)The key data I reviewed from 2025 to guide my 2026 strategyHow I plan campaigns around school holidays and energy levelsWhy community and tracking will be my biggest focus next year.Special Offer – 5 Days of Xmas SaleWe’re wrapping up the year with our BIGGEST sale ever — up to 75% off tools, templates, and trainings for VAs at every stage.🎁 Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up — there’s something for you. All offers expire in 3 days but it is email exclusive. Jump on the NICE LIST here and grab yourself a bargainConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

This time of year can feel like a blur but while everyone else is coasting toward the holidays, you’ve got an opportunity to get clear on what you actually want next year to look like. And no, we’re not talking vague resolutions. This episode will help you start shaping your 2026 business with intention.If you’re waiting for January to figure everything out, you’re already behind. The VAs who move with clarity in Q1? They start thinking now. This episode is pulled straight from the Vision 2026 Workshop I run with my mastermind and coaching clients — and you’ll get a glimpse into how they’re setting themselves up for a powerful start.In this episode, we dive into: Key questions to help you reflect on 2025 and build a grounded 2026 visionWhat your future self would actually want you to focus onReal client stories of VAs who are still making big moves before the year endsHow to tell what belongs in your next season — and what doesn’tWhy vision + structure = sustainable growth (without overthinking) 🎄 The 5 Days of Xmas Sale is live - this episode will help you figure out what to invest in based on where you want to be, not where you’re stuck. Templates, mentoring, strategy, there’s something for everyone.Make sure you’re on my email list you receive the coupon codes attached to each offer released. SIDE NOTE: We have up to 70% off some of my most IN DEMAND resources, trainings & mentoring. The easiest way to do that? Download one of my freebiesVA Starter Kit (Getting started) Pricing Playbook (established VAs)Or simply jump on the Xmas list here https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/w9v3q2

If you’re feeling pulled in a hundred directions during selling season.. selling, buying, planning, and panicking — you’re not alone. This episode is here to help you slow down and make smarter, more aligned decisions about how you invest in your business moving into 2026! Let's be real, everywhere you look right now, there’s a sale… but not everything you buy is actually going to move your business forward. Whether you’re investing in mentorship, tools, or digital products, this episode will help you filter the noise and make choices that serve the business you want to build in 2026 not the overwhelm you’re feeling right now! In this episode I dive into: The difference between emotional spending and empowered investingWhat I’m personally investing in this seasonHow to know if a product, offer, or support container is the right moveWhy clarity, support, and simplicity beat more “stuff” every timeA smarter way to think about mentorship and digital resources.Our 5 Days of Xmas Sale is just around the corner and there’s something for everyone no matter what stage of business you're in. From mentorship to DIY digital offers, you won’t want to miss it. We kick off on December 1 and there is up to 70% off some of my most IN DEMAND products and services available (crazy I know) but you do need to be on my email list to grab the coupon code when each offer is released. The easiest way to do that? Download one of my freebiesVA Starter Kit (Getting started) Pricing Playbook (established VAs)Or simply jump on the mailing list herehttps://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/w9v3q2PS you can view my website and all the ways I can support you here

Thinking about adding social media management to your VA services — but not sure where to start? Or if it’s even right for you? In this episode, we’re having a real chat about who social media support is actually for, how to do it without burning out, and how to turn it into a profitable, recurring offer.If you’ve been craving more strategic or creative work, this might be your sign.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:What social media management actually involves (and what to skip)The benefits of adding SMM to your VA businessWho this service isn’t forHow to start small and stay profitableThe biggest mistakes I see new SMMs makeIf you’re ready to confidently offer social media as a service, check out the Social Media for Makers course — everything you need to price, package, and deliver a done-for-you offer your clients actually need.🔗 Resources + Links→ Join the Social Media for Makers Course here → Connect with me on Instagram here → Learn more about working together via my site here 

You’ve signed the client, amazing. But now what? If you’re winging your onboarding, second-guessing your communication, or stuck reacting to client demands, this episode is for you. I walk you through how to lead the client relationship from day one, manage expectations clearly, and create systems that help you feel in control. This is the real behind-the-scenes work that makes clients stay, refer you, and respect your boundaries.✨ We cover:The “post-signing panic zone” and how to move past itTangible systems to manage clients like a proWhat to do when expectations get blurryWhy you should lead the relationship (even early on).Everything I share today is already built into the VA Tool Kit — a self-paced system packed with the onboarding docs, trackers, emails, and scripts to help you manage clients with clarity and confidence.🔗 Resources + Links→ Grab the VA Tool Kit here → Connect with me on Instagram here → Learn more about working together via my site here Want help telling your stories and creating testimonials into story led proof? My friend Jo Draper is running two story-first workshops designed to help you turn everyday moments (and client love) into content that sounds like you.📖 Once Upon a VA → find and tell your own stories in a way that builds trust (Tuesday 25 November at 1pm AEST) 💌 Love Notes & Notion → transform testimonials into story-led proof that connects (Tuesday 9 December at 1pm AEST)You’ll get:Two live workshops (or replays if you can’t make it and it also means you can get Jo in your ears whenever you need me)Notion dashboards for story prompts + testimonial systems (to keep everything pretty but also in one place)My Dotty Pages digital journals (with love from me to you when you grab The Dotty Duo - because sometimes you want to doodle on your iPad or tablet instead)If your content’s feeling a little AI-flat or you’re craving more connection in your storytelling, register here https://jodraper.au/the-dotty-duo

If discovery calls have been feeling clunky, awkward, or downright stressful, this one’s for you. In this episode, I walk you through how to lead calls with calm, clarity, and confidence. Because the truth is, you don’t need to be salesy or scripted but you do need a simple structure, clear intention, and a strong post-call process.Whether you’ve done 0 calls or 50, this episode will help you feel more in control and way more likely to book a yes on the back end.Inside this episode, you’ll find:A simple flow to guide the conversation with easeWays to prep before your call (with no overthinking)How to talk about pricing and scope with confidenceCommon mistakes that sabotage your energy (and how to avoid them)The #1 thing most VAs forget to do after the call (and what to do instead)Want to make this easier and have the best chance of converting calls? Our VA Tool Kit includes my complete Discovery Call System from pre-call checklist to follow-up templates and onboarding next steps PLUS all the templates you’ll need to onboard like a pro (think contracts, proposal, welcome guide and more).🔗 Resources + Links→ Grab the VA Tool Kit here → Connect with me on Instagram here → Learn more about working together via my site here 

In today’s episode of Virtually Free, we’re joined by the powerhouse behind Virtual Hustle, Karene Hustle, to talk all things transition — from the early days as a VA to stepping fully into the role of Online Business Manager.Karene walks us through her personal story of burnout, rebuilding, and finding her niche, as well as:What it really means to be an OBM (and how it differs from being a VA)Why niching doesn’t have to happen overnightThe mindset shifts that helped her level upLessons in boundaries, client fit, and staying in your laneHow to work with creatives without losing your mindThe confidence piece that no one talks about enoughWhether you're a VA feeling ready for more, or simply curious about what the next step could look like, this episode is full of real talk, practical wisdom, and encouragement to trust your path — even if it takes time to unfold.Here’s how to connect with Karene: Instagram: Virtualhustle_Connect with me:Join the FREE Startup VA CommunityView programs and my offers on the website here If you loved this episode:Don’t forget to leave a 5-star review — it really helps the show grow!Follow along on InstagramScreenshot the episode, tag us both, and let us know your biggest takeaway!

Thinking about investing in a VA program but not sure what’s right for you? In this episode, I’m breaking down the key differences between going it alone with a DIY course vs joining a group coaching program. If you’re serious about starting and growing your VA business — this will help you make the decision that actually gets you results.In This Episode, I Cover:The real pros and cons of DIY coursesWhat often really stops people from finishing a self-paced programThe value of coaching, feedback, and accountability when you're just getting startedWhy group coaching can save you time, energy, and overwhelmHow to choose the right path based on your goals and how you workWhy I created VA Mastery as a group coaching program (and who it’s for). Ready to Stop Winging It and Build Your Business with Support?If you're listening to this and thinking, “Yep, I’ve been trying to do this alone and it’s just not working” — then group coaching might be exactly what you need.VA Mastery is my six-month group coaching program giving you the tools, trainings, support & community to build a thriving and booked-out VA business — without the stress and second-guessing.Inside VA Mastery, You’ll Get:A clear step-by-step roadmap — no more guessing what to do nextWeekly coaching calls, real-time feedback, and ongoing supportTemplates, tools and workflows to help you work smarter (not harder)A private community of ambitious, supportive VAs growing right alongside you.You don't need more random info. You need structure, strategy, and someone in your corner. Bonuses expire for this live round very soon! Enrol here so you don’t miss out https://www.ashleethomas.site/courses/vamasteryConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

In this episode, I sit down with VA Mastery client Teagan, who went from 17 years in the same job to building her own fully booked virtual assistant business. We unpack her journey, the mindset blocks she had to overcome, and the real strategy that helped her land dream clients early on. This is the behind-the-scenes story you need to hear if you're thinking of starting but holding yourself back.✨ In This Episode, We Cover:How Teagan transitioned from corporate to self-employed VAWhat fears came up (and how she moved through them)The strategy she used to land her first client before even launchingWhy your biggest challenge won’t be competition — it’ll be self-doubtHer honest experience inside the VA Mastery programThe importance of community, financial clarity, and not waiting for perfectionWhat she’d do differently if she had to start all over again.🚀 Thinking About Starting Your Own VA Business?If you’re inspired by Teagan’s story and you’re sitting on the idea of starting your own virtual assistant business, this is your sign to stop waiting.You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start. Inside VA Mastery, I walk you through every step of launching, growing and booking out your VA business — with the structure, strategy and support you need to actually follow through.💼 What is VA Mastery?VA Mastery is my six-month group coaching program giving you the tools, trainings, support & community to build a thriving and booked-out VA business — without the guesswork.You’ll get:A step-by-step roadmap so you always know your next moveProven templates, trainings and real-time supportWeekly coaching calls, feedback and guidanceA private community of driven VAs growing right alongside you.If you're ready to stop playing small and finally go all-in on your VA business, VA Mastery is for you. Doors are open. Enrol here https://www.ashleethomas.site/courses/vamasteryConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

Think your biggest obstacle is other VAs or a saturated market? In this episode, I’m sharing the real reason so many aspiring VAs stay stuck… imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and fear of getting it wrong. I’m walking you through why these mindset blocks are normal, how to move through them, and why having real support (like VA Mastery) changes everything. ✨ In This Episode, I Cover:Why your biggest challenge won’t be competitors — it’s what’s going on inside your headWhat imposter syndrome actually means (and why it’s a sign you’re on the right path)Common mindset blocks that keep new VAs stuck — and how to shift themWhy clarity doesn’t come from more thinking — it comes from actionSimple mindset tools that help you take action even when doubt creeps inHow coaching and community (like what we do inside VA Mastery) gives you the structure and support to keep going.Our VA Mastery program is open for new students!Thisis my six-month group coaching program that gives you the tools, trainings, support & community to build a thriving and booked-out VA business — without the burnout or the guesswork.Inside, I’ll help you:Nail your offers and confidently show up onlineSet up systems that save you hours and reduce stressCreate consistent action through live coaching, feedback, and accountabilityStay motivated with a community of VAs who get itJoin us now https://www.ashleethomas.site/courses/vamasteryConnect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

Think AI has made starting a VA business pointless? Think again. In this episode, I break down why AI isn’t replacing Virtual Assistants and how you can use it to become even more valuable to your clients. Whether you’re just getting started or scared you’ve “missed the boat,” this one will shift your mindset and show you what’s really possible.✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why AI isn’t the end of the VA industry and what it’s actually replacingThe key difference between tasks and strategy (and why businesses still need humans)How to start positioning yourself with AI instead of competing against itReal stats on where the VA and freelance industry is headedWhy now is still the right time to launch your VA businessReady to Stop Sitting on the Idea and Actually Start?If you’ve been in research mode, telling yourself it’s too late, too crowded, or too risky.. this is your sign to take real action. Join me inside the Booked Out Bootcamp, your first step toward building a real sustainable and fully booked virtual assistant business. You’ll walk away with clarity on your services, your first steps, and how to position yourself as a VA clients actually want to hire, even in an AI-driven world.Sign up here https://www.ashleethomas.site/f/bookedoutvachallenge2025Connect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

This episode is your permission slip to not rely on social media and start leveraging something way more powerful — your personal network.I’m sharing the real way my students are landing clients (often their first and fastest ones) — and guess what? It’s not through viral reels or perfectly curated content.Inside this episode, we’ll cover:The Instagram Illusion that’s keeping you stuckReal-life student wins using their network (no pitching required!)The mindset blocks that stop most VAs from showing up4 simple ways to tap into your circle without being spammyWhy silence is actually costing you visibility and momentumHow to talk about what you do — naturally and confidentlyReady to learn the foundations and strategy to set up, launch and find high quality clients without solely being reliant on socials?Join the Booked Out VA Challenge - a 3 day experience breaking down the foundations and strategy to become booked out in 2026! Here’s the link to save your seat https://www.ashleethomas.site/f/bookedoutvachallenge2025Connect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

Welcome back to Virtually Free Today! In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of how I signed my very first virtual assistant client in 2018 — while juggling a toddler, zero fancy systems, and no expert title in sight.Spoiler alert: it wasn’t about being perfectly ready — it was about courage and connection.You'll hear the full story of how one connection on LinkedIn turned into a $3K project (and eventually a long-term retainer), all because I chose to show up and share authentically.If you've been sitting in "learning mode" thinking you need a website, a full-time schedule, or years of experience to land your first client… this episode is your wake-up call. I am living living proof that starting messy and being brave is often the fastest path to growth.In this episode I also dive into:Why mindset is the real game-changer for VA successHow trust and transparency outweighed lack of experienceWhat happened after that first project wrapped up (hint: more clients!)Why you don’t need 10+ clients to hit a full-time incomeReady to stop researching and finally start signing clients?Join the FREE 3-Day Booked Out Bootcamp where you'll learn how to set up your VA business and sign clients by the new year. Be the first to register before it goes public here https://www.ashleethomas.site/f/bookedoutvachallenge2025Connect with Ashlee:● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach ● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au ● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants AustraliaMore about Virtually Free with AshleeVirtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!