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!
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34:46
Group Coaching vs DIY: What Will Actually Get You Results?
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!
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9:18
How Teagan Built a Thriving VA Business from Scratch
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!
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33:52
Your Biggest Challenge in Business Won’t Be Your Competition
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!
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10:04
If AI could replace you, it would have already
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!
You started your business for more freedom, so why does it still feel like a job?
Welcome to Virtually Free with Ashlee, the podcast for virtual assistants, service providers and digital entrepreneurs who want to scale their business in a way that aligns with their lifestyle, values, and long-term goals—without burnout or overwhelm.
I’m Ashlee Thomas, a VA coach and business mentor who’s helped over 400 women grow their businesses on their own terms. In this podcast, I’ll share real talk and proven strategies to help you step into the CEO role, ditch the hustle mentality, and create a business that truly supports the life you want to live.
It’s time to work smarter, not harder, and build a business that truly serves you. Hit play and let’s go.
Australia