Virtually Free with Ashlee

If you've been questioning whether it's still worth becoming a Virtual Assistant in 2026, you're not alone.
With AI tools becoming more powerful and more businesses exploring offshore hiring options, many aspiring VAs are wondering if there's still room for them in the market.
In this episode, I'm unpacking what's actually happening in the industry right now—without the fear-mongering or unrealistic promises. We'll talk about why businesses still need support, what clients are really paying for, and where beginner VAs can create value in a changing market.
In This Episode We Cover:
• Why AI isn't replacing Virtual Assistants anytime soon
• The real reason business owners hire support (hint: it's not just for tasks)
• How offshore hiring impacts the VA industry and what it means for beginners
• The difference between competing on price versus competing on value
• Three service areas businesses are still actively looking for support with
• How beginner VAs can position themselves for success in today's market
Whether you're considering starting a VA business or you've been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the "right time," this episode will help you see the opportunities that still exist and where to focus your energy moving forward.
Resource mentioned: Free VA Starter Kit
Ready to start your VA business with clarity and confidence? Download my free VA Starter Kit and get the tools and guidance to help you take your first steps.
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Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear that there is still plenty of opportunity in the VA industry.

What does it actually look like to take radical responsibility in your business… and your life?
In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by Business Strategist Angela Henderson to unpack what it really means to lead yourself through challenging seasons — whether that’s in business, relationships, or life behind the scenes.
We dive into the realities of navigating heavy seasons, making aligned decisions (even when they’re hard), and the truth about growth that most people avoid.
This episode is honest, grounded, and full of perspective shifts — especially if you’re in a season that feels messy, uncertain, or a little heavier than usual.
In this episode we cover:
What “radical responsibility” actually looks like in real life (not just in theory)
How to navigate challenging personal seasons while still running a business
The difference between scaling, alignment, and what you actually want
Boundaries, ownership, and where your responsibility begins and ends in business
Why sustainable growth often looks “boring” — and why that’s a good thing

About Ange:
Angela Henderson is a Business Strategist, Speaker, and Founder of The Healing Centre of Australia.
With over 15 years of experience, she has supported thousands of women globally to grow sustainable, profitable businesses while strengthening leadership and resilience.
Her work combines strategic business growth with a holistic approach — focusing on alignment across health, wealth, relationships, and business to create long-term, sustainable success.
Loved this conversation? Come and connect with us:
→ Follow Angela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelahendersonconsulting/
→ Explore Angela’s work: https://www.angelahenderson.com.au/
→ Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
→ Learn more about working together: www.ashleethomas.com.au

What happens when the business you once loved… just doesn’t feel that exciting anymore?
In this honest episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at a season I’ve been navigating — feeling flat, unmotivated, and not as connected to the growth side of my business.
After 9 years of genuinely loving what I do, this felt unfamiliar… and uncomfortable.
But here’s the truth no one really talks about:
Not every season in business is going to feel exciting.
Sometimes it feels heavy.
Sometimes it feels boring.
And sometimes… it just feels like a job.
In this episode, I’m unpacking what this has looked like for me, how I’ve been moving through it, and the difference between a season you need to ride out vs a business you’ve outgrown.
If you’ve been questioning your motivation, your energy, or wondering if something’s “wrong” — this one is for you.
In this episode we cover:
Why your business won’t always feel exciting (and why that’s normal)
The difference between boredom, burnout, and misalignment
How to navigate heavy seasons without making reactive decisions
What it looks like to lead your business without relying on motivation
Why the most sustainable businesses are often the “boring” ones

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you 💛
Come and connect with me over on Instagram or explore how we can work together:
→ Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach
→ Learn more about my programs + offers:

“I’ll just figure it out myself…”
Sounds responsible, right?
But in this episode, I’m breaking down why this mindset is actually keeping so many VAs stuck in cycles of overwhelm, inconsistency, and second guessing.
Because while free content, podcasts, and DIY learning can absolutely help… there comes a point where consuming more information isn’t the thing moving your business forward anymore.
I’m sharing the hidden cost of trying to piece everything together alone, the patterns I see constantly with VAs in this phase, and why support, structure, and strategy often become the missing piece.
If you’ve been spinning your wheels wondering why things still feel harder than they should… this episode is for you.
In the episode I cover:
The hidden downside of the “I’ll figure it out myself” mindset
Why consuming more content isn’t always the answer
The difference between being busy vs making real progress
How second guessing keeps you stuck in inconsistent action
What actually helped one client move forward faster
Why structure and support matter more than “doing more”

If you’re done piecing things together alone and ready for more clarity, structure, and direction in your business…
Join the LEVEL UP waitlist
This is where we focus on refining your business, creating more predictable income, and helping you grow without the constant overwhelm.
Plus, waitlist members will get first access + exclusive bonuses when doors open.

You’ve got clients. You’re working. You’re busy. So why does it still feel like you’re not getting ahead?
In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the biggest traps I see virtual assistants fall into — staying “busy” without actually building a business.
If you’ve been feeling stretched or stuck in inconsistent income, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and what actually needs to change.
In the episode I cover:
Why being busy doesn’t equal growth or profitability
The difference between filling your time vs building a business
The hidden reasons your income still feels inconsistent
How reactive work is keeping you stuck in the same cycle
The real problem (hint: it’s not a lack of clients)
What actually creates stability, clarity, and growth

AND If you’re ready to move out of the busy cycle and start running your VA business with structure and intention…
Join the LEVEL UP waitlist now
This is where we focus on moving beyond the messy middle and building a business that works long term.
Be the first to hear when doors open + access waitlist-only bonuses for founding members.
ASH