All Activity

TOPIC: Your Backend Systems Create Magic SPEAKER: Shakila Booker WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Behind every thriving VA business is a foundation of backend systems that work like clockwork. In this session, Shakila Booker shows you how to design operationalworkflows that not only support you but impress your clients from day one. You’ll learn how to: Set up tools and processes for a smoother client journey Streamline onboarding and offboarding with confidence Build systems that help you attract and retain dream clients Turn your backend into a growth engine (without burnout) Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your operations, this session will help you build a business that feels effortless—and magical. Shakila Booker – Owner of SML Assisting and known as Your Business Nanny®, shehelps solopreneurs and event pros scale with strategic support and strong systems.

TOPIC: The Client Magnet Method: Attract and Retain Clients Using Pinterest SPEAKER: Missy Lund WHAT YOU'LLLEARN: Pinterest isn’t just for recipes—it’s a powerful platformwhere service providers can connect with people actively searching for support. In this session, Missy Lund shares a proven framework for using Pinterest to consistently attract and retain your ideal clients. You’ll learn how to: Understand client search behavior on Pinterest Optimize your profile to build instant trust Design pins that drive clicks, inquiries, and conversions Stay visible for repeat work and referrals Whether you’re building your roster or deepening client relationships, this session will show you how to make Pinterest a reliable and results-driven marketing tool. Missy Lund – Pinterest MarketingSpecialist helping e-commerce brands, startups, and service providers grow traffic and visibility with conversion-focused strategies.

TOPIC: How to Create an EASY New Revenue Stream With AI Podcast and Video Editing SPEAKER: Lou Bortone WHATYOU'LL LEARN: Love organizing for clients? Now imagine helping them sound and look amazing, too. In this hands-on session, Lou Bortone shows you how to use simple AI tools to offerpodcast and video editing as a new high-value service—without tech overwhelm or fancy equipment. You’ll learn how to: Use AI to clean up audio and edit video like a pro Repurpose long-form content into social-ready clips Save hours with tools that simplify editing Package and price this as a recurring revenue stream If you can copy-paste, you can offer AI editing—and add a new income stream your clients are already asking for. Lou Bortone – Known as “The Video Godfather,” Lou helps entrepreneurs use video and AI to grow their visibility, authority, and revenue with ease.

TOPIC: Ctrl + AI + Create: Transform Your VA Services with AI-Powered Client Communication SPEAKER: LaKesha Powell WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: What if you could cut your writing time by 75%—while making your emails, proposals, and marketing copy more compelling than ever? In this actionable session, LaKesha Powell reveals her 6-Component AI Framework that’s helped hundreds of service providers transform how they attract, convert, and retain clients. You’ll learn howto: Use AI to amplify your voice (not replace it) Create persuasive client content in minutes, not hours Build proposal and retention email templates that actually convert Position yourself as a premium, go-to VA using AI-enhanced communication If you’re ready to stand out, save time, and deepen client relationships, don’t miss this session. LaKesha Powell – Founder of LuvenSmilez PBC, she’s pioneered AI-assisted content creation, teaching 1,000+ entrepreneurs her signature 6-Component Template method since 2015.

TOPIC: Boundaries by Design: Organizing Your Calendar, Clients, and Time SPEAKER: Jylian Buitendyk WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Healthy boundaries aren’t one-size-fits-all—they’re custom-built to protect your time, energy, and sanity. In this session, Jylian Buitendyk shares how to set flexible yet firm boundaries across three critical areas: your calendar, your client communication, and your business systems. You’ll learn how to: Design a schedule that supports your energy and priorities Set communication boundaries that feel clear—not cold Use systems to automate boundary enforcement (without guilt) Build a personalized “menu” of strategies you can adjust over time Whether you’re overwhelmed by client demands or just need better structure, you’ll walk away with boundary tools that feel good—and actually work. Jylian Buitendyk – Founder of Next Level Organized, she helps freelancers streamline systems, set boundaries, and build balanced, sustainable businesses.

TOPIC: No List, No Leverage: How to Build the Asset That Pays You Forever SPEAKER: Kathy Goughenour WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Think of your email list as your business’s ride-or-die. Social followers? They’re flaky. But your list? That’s the crew that sticks with you, buys from you, and fuels your freedom. In this sassy, simple session, Kathy Goughenour will show you how to grow an engaged email list without burning out, breaking the bank, or boring your audience. You’ll learn: Why your list is your #1 business asset (and how to treat it like gold)Easy ways to attract subscribers whoactually want what you offerHow to create leverage so you stop chasing clients and start choosing themIf you’reready to build a business that pays you forever, it all starts with the right list. Kathy Goughenour – Founder of Virtual Expert Training™, Kathy helps women build 6- and 7-figurebusinesses with flexibility, fun, and a touch of sparkle—all from her tiny home in the woods.

TOPIC: Ignite, Attract, Repeat: The Simple Event Strategy to Win & Keep Clients All Year SPEAKER: Heather D. Black WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: In a noisy online world, it takes more than great service to stay top-of-mind. In this session, Heather D. Black reveals how simple, strategic events can help you build trust, attract your ideal clients, and turn one-time projects into lasting partnerships. You’ll learn how to: Use events to showcase yourexpertise and attract right-fit clients Collaborate with others to expand your reach Plan repeatable, manageable events that keep you visible all year Build a system that fuels growth—without burning out Walk away with a clear plan to spark connection, strengthen loyalty, and grow your business with ease. Heather D. Black – Event expert helping founders and speakers implement repeatable systems to host impactful events and scale without wasted effort.

TOPIC: Stand Out from the Crowd: Top Tips for Every Stage of Your VA Journey SPEAKER: Gwen Backhouse WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: What makes a good Virtual Assistant truly great? In this tip-packed session, Gwen Backhouse shares practical insights from real VAs on what it takes to rise above the competition—no matter where you are in your business journey. You’ll learn how to: Communicate with confidence and clarityExpand and showcase in-demand skill setsPrioritize client security and trustMarket yourself without feeling salesyApply proven sales techniques that work Whether you’re just getting started or scaling up, you’ll leave with fresh ideas (some you may not have heard before!) to help you shine in a crowded market.Gwen Backhouse – Award-winning VA and founder of Curlew Secretarial Solutions, with 12+ yearsin the VA industry and 24 years in administration.

TOPIC: The Coffee Shop Test: How to Create Content That Makes Clients Say “She Gets Me!” SPEAKER: Gina Koran WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Tired of throwing content at the wall and hoping something sticks? In this down-to-earth (and highly caffeinated) session, Gina Koran shares how to stop overthinking your content and start connecting with the people who actually want to hire you. You’ll learn how to: Understand your audience beyond surface-level demographics Find and use your authentic voice (quirks welcome!) Create content that feels effortless, not forced Avoid the clickbait trap and write content that builds trust Pass the “coffee shop test” with content that sounds like you Whether you’re writing for yourself or your clients, you’ll walk away with a clearer strategy and content that finally resonates. Gina Koran – Air Force veteran and owner of GinAdmin and The Content Creation Hub, she shares coffee-fueled content strategies for small business owners.

TOPIC: Future-Proof Your VA Business: Master the Skills Clients Actually Want SPEAKER: Doreen DeJesus-Harper WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Clients’ needs are evolving—are your skills keeping up? In this forward-looking session, Doreen DeJesus-Harper shows you how to stay relevant, in-demand, and indispensable in today’s fast-changing online business world. You’ll learn how to: Identify high-demand skills clients are actively seeking Upgrade and showcase your expertise with confidence Anticipate market shifts to stay ahead of the curve Position yourself as a long-term partner—not just a service provider Whether you’re brand new ora seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to strengthen your business and stay booked solid. Doreen DeJesus-Harper – Coach and consultant empowering authors, speakers, and solopreneurs to scale with operational support, multimedia services, and growth-focused partnerships.

TOPIC: Stop Charging Hourly: Price with Confidence SPEAKER: Debbie Rocket WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Still stuck trading time for money? Many VAs underprice their services, unintentionally capping their income and burning out in the process. In this session, Debbie Rocket shares how to confidently move away from hourly billingand start charging for the value you bring. You’ll learn how to: Shift from hourly rates to premium packages and retainers Price your services strategically (without second-guessing yourself) Attract aligned clients who appreciate your worth Build income stability with recurring revenue Avoid the most common pricing mistakes VAs make If you’re ready to stop undervaluing your work and finally price like a pro, this session will give you the roadmap. Debbie Rocket – Certified OBM® and founder of The ROCKET VA™ Academy, she trains VAs in strategy, systems, and branding to attract dream clients.

TOPIC: How To Be A VA for Podcasters SPEAKER: Dan R. Morris WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: With the podcasting industry booming, podcasters need more than just technical help—they need strategic support from Virtual Assistants who understand the unique demands of the medium. In this session, Dan R. Morris, full-time podcaster andfounder of Podcaster’s Kit, reveals how VAs can support podcast clients in meaningful and profitable ways. You’ll discover: Whatpodcasters actually need help with (beyond editing) How to streamline their workflows and boost consistency Opportunities to expand your VA services in a growing niche Ways to make yourself indispensable to podcasting clients Tips for finding and pitching podcast hosts who need your help If you’re curious about supporting podcasters—or ready to niche down—this session will help you explore how to get started and stand out. Dan R. Morris – Founder of Podcaster’s Kit, BC Stack, and Tracing The Path podcast, Dan has worked full-time online since 2013 alongside his wife, Rachel Marie Martin.

TOPIC: AI-Powered Strategies to Discover Your Next Client SPEAKER: Tawnya Sutherland WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Struggling to find clients? It’s time to work smarter—not harder. In this session, Tawnya will show you how to harness the power of AI to attract, engage, and convert your ideal clients more efficiently than ever. Understand AI in Plain Terms: Learn how AI fits into modern client acquisition strategies.Explore Top Tools & Prompts: Discover AI platforms and prompts (including 200+ ideas) that can help you grow.See ChatGPT in Action: Get a live demo of ChatGPT to see how it can streamline your outreach.Future-ProofYour Business: Learn about upcoming trends and how to stay ahead of the curve.Whether you’re starting from scratch or scaling up, this session will give you practical tools and a tech-forward mindset to discover your next client faster—with AI by your side. Tawnya Sutherland – Industry pioneer and founder of the Virtual Assistant Networking Association (VANA), she has championed virtual assistants with resources, training, and community since 2003.

TOPIC: Client Chemistry 101 – The Questions That Save You Time, Trouble, and Your Sanity SPEAKER: Cathy Baillargeon WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Tired of mismatched clients and awkward consults? In this honest (and slightly entertaining) session, Cathy Baillargeon shares how asking the right questions helped her build a 7-figure VA agency—and how you can do the same. Build Instant Trust: What to say (and avoid) in consults to set expectations and build rapport.Screen for Compatibility: Ask the questions that reveal how clients think, work, and whether they’re a long-term fit.Spot Red Flags Early: Learn the signs of high-drama or short-term clients and how to respond professionally.Shift Your Mindset: Move from “I hope they hire me” to “Are we the right fit?”If you’re ready to save time, protect your sanity, and work with clients who get you—don’t miss this one. Cathy Baillargeon is Founder of Virtual Cathy and Cathy B Academy, she supports business owners with VA services while helping aspiring VAs launch and grow successful businesses.

TOPIC: From First Call to Forever Client – Building Trust That Lasts SPEAKER: Trish Kimble WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Clients may hire you for your skills, but they stay for the experience you deliver. In this session, Trish Kimble shows you how to turna discovery call into a long-term, loyal client relationship that supports lasting income and reputation. Set the Tone from Day One: Create a discovery call and onboarding experience that builds immediate trust.Streamline Client Experience: Implement simple systems that wow clients with consistency and professionalism.Communicate with Confidence: Set clear boundaries and maintain strong, value-driven communication.Think Long-Term: Learn why adaptability and mindset are the keys to staying indispensable—not replaceable.If you’re ready to turn short-term projects into long-term partnerships, this session will show you how. Trish Kimble – Expert in mindset, organization, and adaptability, empowering virtual assistants to attract right-fit clients and achieve sustainable success.

TOPIC: The #1 Way I Got Clients (and How You Can Too) SPEAKER: Belinda Sandor WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Tired of mismatched clients and awkward consults? In this honest (and slightly entertaining) session, Cathy Baillargeon shares how asking the right questions helped her build a 7-figure VA agency—and how you can do the same. Build Instant Trust: What to say (and avoid) in consults to set expectations and build rapport.Screen for Compatibility: Ask the questions that reveal how clients think, work, and whether they’re a long-term fit.Spot Red Flags Early: Learn the signs of high-drama or short-term clients and how to respond professionally.Shift Your Mindset: Move from “I hope they hire me” to “Are we the right fit?”If you’re ready to save time, protect your sanity,and work with clients who get you—don’t miss this one. Belinda Sandor – VA veteran and founder of The VA Connection®, she’s supported 60,000+ members in launching and growing profitable VA businesses since 2019.

TOPIC: How Communication and Boundaries Help You UplevelYour VA Services and Clients SPEAKER: Tracey D'Averio WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: As your VA business grows, so should yourcommunication and boundaries. In this empowering session, Tracey D’Avieroshares how confident communication helps position you as a trusted professional and attract higher-level clients who value your expertise. You’ll learn: How to speak with confidence to elevate your professional presenceBoundaries that protect your time, energy, and valuePractical ways to attract and retain clients who respect your worthIf you’re ready to move beyond “just a VA” and become a respected service provider, don’t miss this session. Tracey D’Aviero – The Confidence Coach for Virtual Assistants, Tracey helps VAs grow strong businesses with clarity, confidence, and client-attracting strategies.

TOPIC: TBD SPEAKER: Angela Wills WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: TBD

TOPIC: The Confidence Gap: Why Clients Say Yes (Even When You Don’t Feel Ready) SPEAKER: Stephanie Hayes WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: If you’ve ever delayed pitching, raising your rates, or taking that next step because you didn’t feel “ready,” this session will change the way you think about confidence. Stephanie Hayes breaks down the hidden factors that influence client decisions—and why your presence and clarity matter more than any certification or polished resume. You’ll learn: What really makes clients say yes (hint: it’s notperfection)How to project confidence even when you’re second-guessing yourselfSimple mindset shifts that help you show up powerfully and attract aligned clientsIf imposter syndrome has been holding you back, this session will help you move forward anyway—with confidence and clarity. Stephanie Hayes – Owner of Fully Booked VA and head coach of the FBVA Community, Stephanie is a seasoned business strategist who’s spent 20+ years helping entrepreneurs build independent, fulfilling businesses.

TOPIC: Turning Clients Into Long-Term Partners – A Loyalty Toolkit SPEAKER: Lyn Prowse-Bishop WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Skills might get you hired, but it’s the service experience that keeps clients coming back. In this session, Lyn Prowse-Bishop shares the 7 pillars of customer loyalty that turn one-off projects into lastingpartnerships. Build Trust with Proactive Communication: Stay ahead of client needs with clear, consistent updates.Deliver with Reliability: Learn why dependability is the foundation of client retention.Personalize the Experience: Make clients feel seen, heard, and appreciated.Solve Problems Before They Escalate: Handle issues with professionalism and ease.Show Appreciation: Small gestures go a long way in building loyalty.If you’re ready to go beyond task-doer and become a long-term partner your clients can’t live without, this session is for you. Lyn Prowse-Bishop – Founder of eSOS and Australia’s first VA podcaster, Lyn is a global VA advocate, speaker, and industry pioneer.

TOPIC: From Clicks to Clients – How to Attract and Retain Your Ideal Clients on Fiverr SPEAKER: Kinshasia Johnson WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Want to turn your Fiverr traffic into loyal, long-term clients? In this sponsor session, Kinshasia Johnson—Fiverr Top Rated Seller and 8-year veteran—shares real-world strategies to help you stand out, get booked, and keep clients coming back. Optimize Your Profile: Position your Fiverr services to attract high-quality clients.Convert Clicks into Clients: Use proven methods to turn visibility into paying work.Boost Client Loyalty: Apply simple retention techniques to encourage repeat business.Think Like a Partner, Not Just a Freelancer: Learn the mindset and practices that set you apart.This insider session goes beyond landing one-off gigs—it’s about building sustainable freelance success on Fiverr withclients who return again and again. Kinshasia Johnson – Virtual Executive Assistant, Fiverr Top Rated Seller, and mentor guiding freelancers to attract clients, optimize profiles, and build sustainable businesses.

TOPIC: Boost Your Growth – Build Your Virtual Dream Teamof Subcontractors SPEAKER: Tammy Durden WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Ready to grow beyond a one-person business? In this session, Tammy Durden shares how to scale your online service business by building your dream team of virtual subcontractors—and even laying the foundation for your own agency. Know When You’re Ready: Signs it’s time to start building a team. Find the Right People: Where to look for reliable, skilled subcontractors. Vetting & Onboarding: Tips to screen candidates and bring them on smoothly. Create a Solid Team Culture: Set expectations, delegate effectively, and lead with confidence. If you’ve been thinking about expanding but aren’t sure how to start, this session will show you how to grow smarter—not just bigger. Tammy Durden – Award-winning business coach with 17+ years helping women design lifestyle-friendly businesses that thrive without sacrificing life balance.

TOPIC: Marketing Copy Made Easy and Fast with AI SPEAKER: Lisa Millar WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Want to write great copy in half the time—without losing your voice? In this hands-on session, Lisa Millar shows you how to use ChatGPT to create high-quality marketing content for both you and your clients, faster and easier than ever. Write Smarter, Not Harder: Build outlines, polish rough drafts, and edit with ease.Repurpose Content Like a Pro: Turn blog posts into social media,emails, and more.SEO Without the Stress: Use simple keyword strategies to boost visibility.Get Instant Results: Take home ready-to-use prompts that save timeand wow your clients.If you want to speed up your writing process while keeping your content sharp, this is one session you don’t want to miss. Lisa Millar – With 20+ years supporting small businesses and an MBA, she helps entrepreneurs fulfill their business dreams.

TOPIC: Six-Figure Scaling – Solo vs. Agency Models 101 SPEAKER: Laura Briggs WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Looking to scale your VA business but not sure which path to take? In this session, Laura Briggs breaks down the two most common growth models—solo vs. agency—and helps you decide which one fits your goals, work style, and vision. Understand the Options: Explore the pros and cons of staying solo vs. building an agency. Match Your Model to Your Mindset: Choose a growth path that aligns with your personality and goals. Streamline for Success: Learn how to systematize your business no matter which model you choose. Take Action with Confidence: Walk away with practical tips and best practices from someone who’s done both. If you’re ready to grow but want clarity on how, this session will point you in the right direction. Laura Briggs – Author of five books, including Six Figure Freelancer, and 3-time TEDx speaker, freelancing since 2012.

TOPIC: Summit Wrap-Up: One Last Sip Before Your #VAVS Hangover SPEAKER: Tawnya Sutherland WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: After three action-packed days of learning, networking, and aha moments… you might be feeling a little #VAVS Hangover. So grab your drink of choice—coffee, tea, mimosa, or something stronger—and join host Tawnya Sutherland for our final live session to wrapup the Summit and map out what’s next. During this casual (but helpful!) wrap-up, you’ll: Reflect on your favorite sessions and biggest takeaways Get answers to any lingering questions Hear tips on putting your new knowledge into action Learn how to stay connected with our VANA community Discover your next steps to keep building momentum (Plus a few surprises… you know us!) Whether you made every session or only caught a few, this is your chance to come full circle and leave feeling focused and inspired. Let’s shake off that VAVS hangover and head into October with a solid plan. See you there! Tawnya Sutherland is a pioneering force in the virtual assistance industry, having founded Virtual Assistant Networking Association (VANA) to support and empower VAs since 2003.