All Episodes

Creative hiring for executive assistants and office managers: learn how to define day-to-day tasks, map soft skills, and find great candidates in unexpected places. We cover transferable skills, small-town recruiting, and why PTA leaders, teachers, and restaurant team leads can shine in admin and EA roles. If job boards are failing you, this will help you think outside the resume.What you’ll learnHow clarity in tasks reveals the right soft skillsWhere to look beyond resumes: PTA, education, and hospitalityWhen “hire for character, train the tech” makes senseCost trade-offs and how to train new hires wellChapters00:00 Intro: creative interviewing and recruiting01:02 Why job clarity matters02:04 Unconventional places to find talent03:32 Leveraging non-traditional candidates05:53 Cost benefits and training06:43 Wrap + how to get helpNeed help? Comment with the role you’re hiring. Connect with Samantha C. Prestidge on LinkedIn or email info@auxosvs.com

In this episode, we diverge from the scheduled content plan to address a critical business principle: simplicity. Spurred by early Christmas setups in stores, I discuss the importance of simplicity in both business and personal life. You'll learn three practical strategies to maintain simplicity: 1) Stop being oversubscribed with information, 2) Get to the root cause of problems, and 3) Embrace the boring but profitable tasks. These steps will help you stay aligned with your business goals and avoid unnecessary complications. Tune in next week for some creative tips on interviewing and recruiting.00:00 Introduction and Content Overview00:39 Holiday Decorations and Business Insights02:22 Embracing Simplicity in Business03:44 Strategy 1: Avoid Being Oversubscribed05:26 Strategy 2: Identify the Root Cause06:56 Strategy 3: Embrace the Boring09:22 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

In this episode, we delve into four essential interview questions designed for the final round of our four-stage hiring process, specifically targeting virtual administrative, executive, and operations assistant roles. The goal is to assess soft skills, character traits, and personality beyond technical competencies. I explain the rationale behind each question and the insights they provide into a candidate’s ability to navigate client relationships, self-reflect, take initiative, and balance confidence with humility. If you're looking to hire an assistant without the hassle of interviewing, visit our website and book a call with us. Learn how to uncover the real potential of your next team member!00:00 Introduction to Interview Questions00:19 Understanding the Interview Process01:10 The Importance of Conversational Interviews01:41 Favorite Interview Questions04:22 Evaluating Initiative and Confidence07:30 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode, we tackle a common piece of advice given to business owners: 'Just hire an assistant.' While it sounds great on the surface, many find that hiring without a clear plan often leads to frustration and wasted resources. Learn why it's essential to understand your business functions and desired involvement before bringing an assistant on board. We share practical insights on how to define your role, identify tasks to delegate, and ensure a seamless integration of a virtual assistant. Need personalized help? Consider a delegation strategy session with us to streamline this process. Visit AUXOSVS.COM/BOOK to schedule a call.00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Common Advice on Hiring Assistants00:27 The Flaws in 'Just Hire an Assistant' Advice01:37 A Better Approach: Defining Your Role and Tasks01:54 Practical Steps for Effective Delegation02:40 Conclusion and Further Assistance

In this episode of Strategy Solutions, Sam explains the importance of delegation for business owners and consultants. By effectively delegating tasks, you can reduce chaos, improve processes, and free up mental space, allowing you to focus on creative and strategic thinking. Sam also offers resources and personalized strategies to help you begin the delegation process and reclaim your role as a confident, visionary CEO.00:00 Introduction: Seeing the Forest for the Trees00:15 Welcome to Strategy Solutions01:37 The Importance of Delegation02:47 Benefits of Delegation04:41 Getting Started with Delegation05:25 Conclusion: Book Your CallBook your call at auxosvs.com/book

In this episode, we delve into what it takes to trust someone enough to hire them as an assistant. We'll explore past discussions on delegation strategy and the essentials for onboarding an assistant. The focus will be on overcoming trust issues—fear of poor performance or exposing personal work details—and what to look for during the hiring process. Key points include establishing initial trust, solidifying it in the first two months by assessing competence and chemistry, and nurturing it through assigning more challenging tasks and observing proactive, adaptive behavior. Join us to learn how to confidently trust your assistant and effectively delegate tasks.00:00 Introduction: Trusting an Assistant00:07 Delegation Strategy and Hiring Essentials00:34 Overcoming the Trust Hang-Up01:09 Building Chemistry and Competence02:15 The Growth Journey to Trust03:38 Challenging Tasks and Proactive Support04:23 Adapting and Innovating for Success05:17 Conclusion: Flourishing Trust with Your Assistant

In this week's Quick Cast, we discuss how to create better clarity and ownership within your team. We'll tackle common issues like unclear job descriptions and undefined processes. Learn the simple, actionable steps to visualize your team's tasks and responsibilities using a process flowchart and swim lanes. This method helps you map out tasks, assign ownership, and ensure accountability. Perfect for small business owners and team leaders looking to improve efficiency and team dynamics.00:00 Introduction to Clarity and Ownership00:08 Identifying the Problem01:06 Creating a Process Flow Chart02:19 Using Swim Lanes for Clarity04:04 Assigning Ownership and Accountability04:48 Addressing Concerns and Encouraging Implementation06:10 Conclusion and Practical Steps

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity Today, we dive deep into the journey and insights of Adriana, an ER nurse turned public speaker and leadership coach. Adriana shares her evolution from a healthcare career to coaching, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, setting boundaries, and integrating personal passions into professional life. We discuss her unique events like Boundaries and Bubbly, the challenge of networking, and practical advice for maintaining work-life balance. Get inspired by Adriana's authentic approach to business growth and her commitment to meaningful connections.00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome00:28 Adriana's Journey: From Nursing to Entrepreneurship01:37 The Evolution of Adriana's Coaching Career03:24 Balancing Nursing and Coaching04:31 The Art of Humor in Public Speaking06:16 The Importance of Feedback and Boundaries16:43 Integrating Fun and Work-Life Balance26:45 Networking Insights and Personal Boundaries27:40 Authenticity in Networking30:00 Balancing Work and Personal Life32:39 Challenges in Leadership and Entrepreneurship38:17 The Importance of Vulnerability49:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Feeling like every task in your business is heavier than it should be? You might not be burned out in the way people typically imagine — but for high achievers, burnout looks different. It shows up as procrastination, losing motivation, brushing off wins, or even resenting small parts of your business.In this QuickCast, I’m breaking down 5 subtle red flags that signal you’re starting to lose motivation in your business — and how to address them before burnout steals your creativity, vision, and momentum.👉 You’ll learn:The everyday frustrations that reveal deeper cracks in your businessWhy “just pushing through” actually stalls growthHow resentment and comparison creep in quietlyWhat to shift so you can get back to enjoying your role as CEOIf you’re starting to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or less excited by your business, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, host Samantha welcomes financial expert Megan Schwan. Megan shares her inspiring journey from being a teen mom to becoming a successful business owner. She discusses the importance of fostering a supportive culture, embracing calculated risks, and using the Profit First method to manage business finances effectively. Megan also highlights her personal experiences, including overcoming challenges like divorce and moving across the country, all while maintaining a growing business and raising four children. Tune in for valuable insights on resilience, business strategy, and financial empowerment.00:00 Introduction and Show Overview00:16 Meet Megan Schwan02:22 Megan's Journey: From Teen Mom to Business Owner05:20 Balancing Family and Business10:31 The Importance of Calculated Risks16:13 Trusting Intuition in Business20:41 The Drive Behind Determination22:15 Major Life Changes and Business Flexibility22:56 The Importance of Grit and Determination24:12 Navigating a Saturated Market30:36 The Concept of Profit First40:09 Implementing Profit First: A Personal Journey44:18 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

In this quickcast, we explore the two primary reasons clients seek consulting help: proactive preparation for growth and being overwhelmed by unsustainable workloads. The discussion emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout and improve business operations. Key points include the necessity of recognizing and changing non-productive behaviors, understanding that hustling harder isn't the solution, and the benefits of maintaining healthy communication and respect with clients. The video also mentions a follow-up episode focusing on effective delegation to prevent becoming a bottleneck in the business.00:00 Introduction: The Two Camps of Clients00:55 Recognizing the Need for Change01:46 The Importance of Setting Boundaries02:38 Overcoming Fear and Ego03:17 Shifting to a CEO Mindset04:33 Building a Stronger Team and Processes05:53 Conclusion: Maintaining Sanity and Growth

Join us for an insightful episode of 'Strategy Solutions and Sanity' featuring Nikki, The Sales Maven! Nikki shares her fascinating journey from working in a male-dominated tech industry to becoming a renowned sales expert. Discover how she navigated her way using neurolinguistic programming (NLP) to enhance her communication skills and build meaningful client relationships. Learn actionable sales strategies, the importance of asking the right questions, and how to manage sales conversations effectively. Perfect for business owners and sales professionals looking to improve their sales tactics and build stronger client relationships. Don't miss Nikki's exclusive offer of a free training on sealing the deal with effective questions!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:59 Nikki's Journey to Becoming the Sales Maven02:31 Understanding Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)06:24 The Importance of Flexibility in Sales07:31 Building Relationships and Rapport in Sales20:19 The Selling Staircase Framework27:44 Rant on Referral Partners and Sales Process28:59 The Importance of Giving Price Ranges30:21 Personal Experience with a Sales Process32:56 The Value of Flexibility in Sales34:44 Using AI Note Takers for Sales Conversations36:19 Overcoming Shyness in Business40:13 Finding Inspiration from Others45:31 Adapting Coaching Styles to Client Needs52:39 The Power of Asking Questions in Sales55:01 Special Offer for Listeners-Free Gift: salesmaven.com/sanity

In this quick episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, Sam, a business and team strategist, outlines how delegating high-impact tasks to virtual assistants (VAs) who leverage AI can significantly enhance your sales process. The episode covers five strategies: filtering high-quality leads, providing follow-up support, preparing for sales calls, turning sales conversations into marketing content, and improving the client experience. These strategies aim to help business owners and small teams offload critical yet time-consuming tasks, ensuring they can focus on building relationships and driving sales growth. Sam emphasizes the importance of combining AI's efficiency with a VA's human judgment to maximize sales effectiveness.00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Wearing Too Many Hats00:15 The Power of Delegation: Leveraging Virtual Assistants00:55 Combining AI and VAs for Sales Success02:31 Five Strategies to Boost Sales with AI-Powered VAs02:36 Strategy 1: Filtering High-Quality Leads03:59 Strategy 2: Follow-Up Support to Avoid Dropping the Ball05:01 Strategy 3: Sales Prep for Sharp Client Interactions05:50 Strategy 4: Turning Sales Conversations into Marketing Content06:48 Strategy 5: Enhancing Client Experience for Repeat Business07:25 Conclusion: Elevate Your Sales Game with AI and VAs

Catch this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity as we dive into the messy and often overlooked aspects of growing a business. Our special guest, Sarah Gonnella from Full Sail Partners, shares her journey and insights into effective leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how embracing technology can simplify business processes. Sarah discusses practical strategies for building a collaborative and fun company culture while maintaining high standards of excellence. Learn how to reframe challenges, leverage AI for better efficiency, and the crucial steps for meaningful automation. Whether you're struggling with sales, trying to improve client satisfaction, or looking to enhance your leadership skills, this episode is packed with valuable advice and actionable insights.00:00 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:36 Introducing Our Guest: Sarah Gonnella01:20 Sarah's Professional Journey and Personal Insights02:57 Embracing Challenges and Personal Growth05:10 The Importance of Reflection and Self-Awareness07:05 Leadership Lessons and Overcoming Mistakes16:59 Navigating Sales and Embracing Vulnerability21:33 Balancing Logic and Emotional Intelligence27:23 The Role of KPIs and Unintended Consequences28:02 Balancing Utilization and Collaboration28:57 Setting Clear Goals and KPIs29:47 Learning from Mistakes in Management30:56 The Importance of Guardrails in Management36:09 Building a Fun and Productive Work Environment37:32 The Role of Branding in Business Success39:34 Effective Onboarding and Training49:44 Embracing AI and Automation

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, business strategist Sam Cordero Prestidge explains why open door policies often fail to achieve their intended purpose. Despite being a well-intentioned concept aimed at creating an accessible and supportive environment, these policies fall short because employees may hesitate to seek help due to a desire to appear competent. Sam highlights the importance of leaders actively reaching out to their team members to offer support, building trust, and ensuring that their employees feel seen and understood. She shares personal experiences to emphasize the need for proactive leadership and offers actionable strategies for fostering better communication and support within teams.00:00 Introduction to Open Door Policies00:25 The Concept and Its Shortcomings02:32 Real-World Examples and Challenges

In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, host Samantha speaks with the dynamic Jesse Hernandez about navigating the complexities of business, leadership, and personal development. Jesse shares his rich journey from starting as an apprentice in the construction industry to becoming a renowned consultant who emphasizes human-centric operational strategies. He provides insights into his approach to overcoming failure, optimizing work execution, and scaling improvements while keeping a focus on emotional intelligence and servant leadership. Discover how Jesse's adventurous, non-conformist approach—paired with a robust understanding of business metrics—helps him maintain sanity and achieve remarkable success in his ventures. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to balance ambition with human-centric leadership. Plus, don’t miss the exciting announcement about an upcoming workshop with both Samantha and Jesse on people-centered operations for managers!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:36 Meet Jessie Hernandez00:46 Jessie's Career Journey02:29 Emotional Intelligence and People-Centered Leadership03:08 Challenges and Insights on Serving Others06:46 Scaling and Business Strategies12:06 Pricing Strategies and Client Engagement21:20 Execution and Experimentation in Business21:47 Personal Reflections and Non-Conformity24:22 Balancing Risks and Rewards25:10 Overcoming Personal Struggles25:38 Investing in Personal Growth27:33 The Importance of Context and Perspective28:21 Navigating Business Challenges29:25 The Value of a Good Assistant34:44 Challenging the Status Quo45:59 Experimenting and Evaluating48:47 Upcoming Workshop Announcement

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, business strategist Sam discusses the common pitfalls and solutions related to delegation in business. She emphasizes that true delegation should provide relief, freeing up both time and mental space. Sam identifies three warning signs indicating ineffective delegation and offers four key points to determine whether the problem lies with the assistant or the delegator. By addressing these issues, entrepreneurs can leverage their assistants more effectively, fostering a more strategic and productive work environment.00:00 Introduction to Effective Delegation01:19 Understanding the Relief of Delegation01:55 Warning Signs of Ineffective Delegation03:34 Is It a You Problem or a Them Problem?03:56 Four Signs of Delegation Issues04:42 Building Context and Setting Expectations06:07 Realistic Expectations for Delegation06:52 Conclusion and Self-Reflection

How do you lead when you feel like an outsider? What if your superpower isn’t technical skill, but the ability to bring people together?In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, & Sanity, I sit down with Jennifer Lacy—facilitator, coach, people collector, and culture builder in the construction industry. We talk about what it really takes to navigate resistance, lead change, and step into your value (even when you feel like an imposter).Jen shares what it was like coming into construction with zero technical background, how her roots in teaching made her a stronger facilitator, and why facilitation is an underrated leadership superpower. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, questioned your seat at the table, or struggled to engage the “hard-to-reach” people on your team—this one’s for you.What We Talk About:Why facilitation is one of the most underrated skills in leadershipHow Jen overcame imposter syndrome (even with 20+ years of experience!)What to do when team members resist changeHow to build a personal advisory board (and why it matters)The power of asking curious questions that shift the roomWhat “collisions” really mean—and how they shape your leadership legacyHow to show up fully without expecting anything in return

Feeling disorganized, overwhelmed, or like your team just isn't performing the way it should?In this AMA Quickcast, I’m breaking down the first thing I audit when a business owner comes to me feeling maxed out — whether they’re solo or leading a team of 50. This isn’t a full operational overhaul. It’s a laser-focused check on one critical issue: goal-task alignment.If you're constantly busy but not making real progress, this is where I’d start. Because more often than not, the problem isn’t a lack of effort — it’s misaligned execution.🎯 In this episode, I cover:The real definition of productive (and why “busy” isn’t it)What goal-task alignment looks like in practiceWhy this is the fastest way to identify performance gapsHow to run a mini audit on your own calendar, inbox, and task listWhat misalignment symptoms really point toWhether you’re the only one running the show or leading a growing team, this quickcast will help you start untangling the overwhelm and focus your energy on what actually moves the needle.📩 Got a question for a future AMA? Connect with me on LinkedIn: Samantha Cordero Prestidge Or email: info@auxosvs.com

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, host Sam shares her two essential rules and one habit for effective networking. She emphasizes the importance of mutual value and enjoying the company of networking partners to avoid burnout and ensure that time spent on networking is worthwhile. Sam also discusses how she organizes and categorizes her connections in HubSpot to keep her networking strategies practical, fun, and profitable. She encourages listeners to share their own networking strategies and offers to answer questions on business and team strategy.00:00 Introduction to Networking Strategies00:41 The Networking Burnout Experience01:50 Reassessing Networking Groups02:14 Rule #1: The Two-Way Street04:55 Rule #2: Enjoy the Conversation06:03 The Habit: Ranking Your Network07:16 Conclusion and Contact Information