PODCAST · business
The Virtual Business Show
by Lyn Prowse-Bishop
Australia's first and longest continually running podcast for the Virtual Assistant Industry (est 2010) covering topics of interest to VAs, small business owners and the self-employed. We also provide information and interview guests on all things small business. The show is hosted by veteran VA Lyn Prowse-Bishop, owner of Executive Stress Office Support, established Feb 2000.Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.Become a subscriber for exclusive content: Subscribe
Episodes
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Ep 75 - From Community to Combat Zone: The Decline of Facebook for Business
In this episode, I’m sharing what’s been driving me mad about Facebook—especially as a business owner. What started as a space for genuine connection has become a chaotic mess of bots 🤖, trolls, censorship, shadow banning, and algorithmic manipulation. I talk about my own experiences with...
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Ep 74: Offshore Freelancers, Fair Work & The End of the $5 VA Fantasy
For years, businesses have enjoyed the bottom-line benefits of cheap offshore freelancers — but a game-changing Fair Work Commission ruling just flipped the script. In this episode, I break down what really happened when an offshore Filipino freelancer was deemed entitled to workplace protections...
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Ep 73: Corporate Responsibility
Corporate Responsibility, Minus the Jargon 🌱💼 What does corporate responsibility really mean for us — the everyday business owners, solopreneurs, and service providers just trying to do the right thing? No buzzwords, no big budgets, just real talk on how we can give back 🌏✨ Whether it's…
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Ep 72: The Power of Niche Marketing
Are you a new Virtual Assistant—or any business owner—struggling to attract the right clients? In this episode of The Virtual Business Show, I reveal one of the most powerful strategies for success: niching down. Trying to be everything to everyone is a recipe for wasted time, energy, and money....
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Ep 71: Why Join Networks?
Networking isn’t just about connections—it’s a treasure trove of knowledge! From specialised training sessions to insightful webinars, networks offer invaluable resources to expand your skills and stay ahead in your field. 📚💼 Join me as we discuss the power of networking for virtual assistants...
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Ep 70: AI - Friend or Foe? The Impact of AI on Business Integrity and Brand
This episode of the Virtual Business Show looks at the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on content creation and business. It focuses specifically on large language models like ChatGPT. We don't look at the use of AI like robotics in business. We explore the potential benefits of LL...
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Ep 69: Why Are You In Business?
The Power of Trust: Debating Seth Godin's Insights on Revenue and Caring 💬💼 Join us for a thought-provoking discussion as we dissect a quote by Seth Godin that sparked debate in the online world: "If you take a lot of time to ask, 'how will this pay off,' you're probably asking the wrong...
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Ep 68: Personality Differences - Employees v Entrepreneurs
Personality Differences: Entrepreneurs vs. Employees 🧠💼 Join us as we look at groundbreaking research revealing personality differences between employees and entrepreneurs, and explore the importance of understanding these differences. 🌟 🔍 In this episode, we dissect the findings of…
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Ep 67: Location is No Barrier to Virtual Collaboration
Pioneering Virtual Collaboration: A Journey Through Time 🕰️💼 Step into the dynamic world of virtual collaboration where location is no barrier and innovation knows no bounds! 🌐💡 In this episode, we embark on a journey into the past to explore the evolution of virtual assistance, from...
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Ep 66: Benefits of Virtual Assistants
🎧 Improve Efficiency: The Power of Professional VAs vs. Upwork Freelancers and Temps 💼 🚀Ready to elevate your efficiency game? Discover why professional VAs could be the ultimate game changer for your business compared to freelancers on Upwork or temporary workers. 💡💻 In this episode, we...
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Ep 65: Employee or VA?
What is the secret to effective collaboration with Virtual Assistants? 🤝 This eposide of The Virtual Business Show podcast looks at the distinction between an employee and a VA, highlighting the key traits that make VAs independent professionals. Are you inadvertently classifying your VA as an...
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Ep 64: Dead Printer - Now What?
Planned obsolescence is the elephant in the room 🐘, and silent contributor to our throwaway culture. Tech giants design products with a limited lifespan, fuelling our throwaway culture in the relentless pursuit of 'upgrading’.🌏 Did you know Aussies are some of the largest consumers of tech in…
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Ep 63: Mailing Lists and the Spam Act
I'm sure we've all received newsletters in our email we can't remember subscribing to or we tried UNsubscribing to no avail. 📧 This episode covers the Australian Spam Act and Privacy Principles: what you need to know to comply; and touches on the GDPR. You can face serious penalties for failure…
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Ep 62: Can your business survive a recession?
With interest rates on the rise, unemployment looming, and recession whispers growing louder, is your business prepared to weather the storm? Fear not, because we've got a game-changing solution: enter the virtual assistant! 🌟 Whether you're a startup, a small business, or a seasoned…
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Ep 61: 5 Tips for Being Professional
💼 Mastering Professionalism: Top Tips for Success in Business! 🌟Whether you're a seasoned virtual assistant or a business enthusiast, these five top tips will elevate your game and leave a lasting impression on clients and colleagues alike. 💼 From mastering communication etiquette to fostering...
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Ep 60: What's In a Name?
Redefining Roles: Navigating the Era of Virtual Teams! 💡With businesses embracing remote and hybrid setups, the lines between traditional roles are blurring. Freelancers, bots, and AI are all vying for the title of "virtual assistant," leaving us pondering: Should we rebrand ourselves for...
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Ep 59: How do you value employees?
An article I read by an accountant got me thinking because some of the things in the article which referred to employing staff actually reinforced the value a VA can bring to your business.Shannon's insights shed light on the symbiotic relationship between businesses and virtual assistants,...
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Happy birthday little bro
Today is my birthday. It's also my little brother Rod's birthday - yep we shared not just the date but the exact time! So today, on our birthday, we pay tribute to my beloved brother, Rod, who left us too soon but left an everlasting impact on our lives. We honour Rod's memory as a cherished...
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Ep 58: The Real Cost of Staff
Onsite Staff vs. Australian Virtual Assistants 💸There are hidden expenses behind onsite staff - partnering with a professional Australian Virtual Assistant can revolutionise your business finances. Beyond the annual salary and standard on-costs like super and worker's comp, do you truly…
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Ep 57: Are you quoting or working?
💡Tips for valuing your services!Are you valuing your time and expertise? 💰 When a potential client requests a piece of a project as a prerequisite for a quote, it's essential to tread carefully. While it's tempting to showcase your skills and win their favour, be wary of inadvertently giving…
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Ep 56: School Holidays ... Again??!
📚 Balancing Work and Parenting: Tips for Work-from-Home Parents During School Holidays! 🏠👨👩👦👦Calling all work-from-home parents! 📢 School holidays can often feel like a juggling act, leaving you in a tailspin as you try to keep the kids entertained while tackling your workload. 😅 But...
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Ep 55: Warranties - Who's Responsible?
Understanding Consumer Rights: Your Guide to Warranties and Remedies in Australia! 🛍️🔍Warranties and your consumer rights can be a maze of confusion, but fear not – we're here to shed light on this essential aspect of Australian consumer law! 🌟 From manufacturer's warranties to store policies...
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Ep 54: Language Matters
Embracing Our Identity: The Power of Language in the Virtual Assistant Community! 💬🔍Let's explore the significance of language in defining our roles and identities. 🌟 In online forums and discussion groups, it's not uncommon for individuals outside the VA profession to impose their views on…
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Ep 53: Facebook Down!!!
Rethinking Social Media Dependency: Why Your Business Shouldn't Rely Solely on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp! 🚫📱When Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp had a six hour blackout, it sparked a global wave of panic and frustration. 💥 But should businesses be placing all their eggs in the social...
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Ep 52: Ethics and Success
Ethical Shifts in the VA Industry: Embracing Forward-Thinking Perspectives! 🌱🤝Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving virtual assistant industry. 🗣️ In recent years, a new generation of VAs has emerged, characterised by a penchant for instant success and influencer culture.…
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Ep 51: Parasites or Professionals?
The Truth About Remote Work and Productivity! 🏠💼In this engaging episode, we look at the controversial statements made by Harry Triguboff regarding remote work and productivity. 💬 Is allowing employees to work from home akin to being "parasites," as Triguboff suggests? 🤔 And is remote work...
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Ep 50: To Gift or Not to Gift…
Client Gifts: Balancing Personal Choice and Professional Gratitude! 🎁'Tis the season for the perennial question: to gift or not to gift? 🎄🤔 Join us as we explore the delicate balance between personal choice and professional gratitude when it comes to gifting clients. 💼 For many, expressing...
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Ep 48: Gratitude
The Vital Importance of Appreciation Between Clients and VAs! 🙏🌟In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of gratitude in the client-Virtual Assistant relationship. 💼🤝 Gratitude isn't just a fleeting sentiment – it's a daily practice that enriches our lives and strengthens our...
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Ep 47: Audio Transcription
Demystifying Transcription: Skills, Standards, and Selecting the Right Service Provider! 🎙️💻Join us for an insightful episode as we uncover the essential skills and standards required for successful transcription work. 🌟 Contrary to popular belief, typing alone does not make someone a...
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Ep 46: 20 Things I’ve Learned in 20 Years – Pt 2
20 Years as a VA: Lessons Learned - Part 2! 🎉💼Join us for the second part of our special anniversary celebration as we continue to delve into the invaluable lessons learned over 20 years in the virtual assistant industry. 🌟 In this episode, we'll cover insights 11 through 20, sharing wisdom...
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Ep 45: 20 Things I’ve Learned in 20 Years – Pt 1
20 Years as a VA: Lessons Learned - Part 1! 🎉💼Join us for a special anniversary celebration as we kick off a two-part podcast series sharing 20 invaluable lessons learned over 20 years in the virtual assistant industry. 🌟 In this episode, we'll cover the first ten lessons, ranging from...
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Ep 44: Offshore Freelancers: Thoughts for Our Colleagues
Offshore Freelancers: Understanding the VA Role and Beyond! 🌏💼In the third instalment of our Offshore Freelancers series, we shine a spotlight on our offshore colleagues and their journey into the world of virtual assistance. 🚀 From seeking the freedom to work on their own terms to fulfilling...
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Ep 43: Interview: STP and Super
Australian Payroll and Superannuation for VAs: Insights from a Small Business Accounting Specialist! 💼🇦🇺In this exclusive episode tailored for our Australian listeners, we dive into the intricacies of the Australian Single Touch Payroll (STP) system and superannuation guarantee, with special...
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Ep 42: Offshore Freelancers: What Clients Need to Know
Offshore Support: Understanding the Differences and Making Informed Choices! 🌏💼In the latest instalment of our offshore freelancer series, we shift the focus to helping clients navigate the differences between local and offshore support. 💡 From cultural nuances to communication challenges…
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Ep 41: Offshore Freelancers – Why you needn’t worry!
Embracing Offshore Freelancers: Dispelling Myths and Embracing Collaboration! 🌏💼Offshore freelancers have been a part of the business landscape for years, and their presence is only growing stronger. 📈 Yet, despite their contributions and expertise, there still exists a lingering fear...
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Ep 40: Changes
Embracing Change: The Path to Business Success! 🌟Change is an inevitable part of business and life itself, as wisely noted by the Greek philosopher Heraclitus: "The only constant in life is change." 🌊 How we respond to these changes can shape the trajectory of our success or failure in…
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Ep 39: Should Cost of Living Count?
Understanding the Role of Cost of Living in VA Rates! 💼💰The debate over VA rates often includes arguments about the role of cost of living, but how much weight should it truly carry? 💬 In this thought-provoking episode, we dissect the concept of cost of living and its relevance to determining…
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Ep 38: Worth v Value
Elevate Your Worth: Strategies for Success as a Global VA! 🌐💼In an increasingly globalised world, today's virtual assistant must adapt and innovate to attract clients from diverse backgrounds and locations. 💡 One effective strategy? Reassessing your perceived "worth" and focusing on meeting…
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Ep 37: Let’s Talk About Rates Baby
VA Rates: Insights, Considerations, and Pricing Strategies! 💼💰Join us for a candid discussion on one of the most hotly debated topics in the VA industry: rates. 💬 From how to charge to what to charge, the conversation around VA rates is ever-evolving. 🔄 In this podcast episode, we look at a...
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Ep 35: The Evolution of the VA Industry
The Evolution of the VA Industry 🌟 Join us as we journey through the evolution of the virtual assistant industry, tracing its roots back to the early 1980s to its present-day diversity and complexity. 💻🚀 In this enlightening podcast episode, we explore how the VA industry has transformed since...
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Ep 34: How I Got Started
Overcoming Fear and Starting Your Business: Lessons from a VA Pioneer! 🌟🚀Join us for an inspiring journey into the world of entrepreneurship as we uncover the story of starting a business in the face of fear and uncertainty. 💼💪 In this episode, we share the courageous journey of launching a…
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Ep 33: The Myth of Work-Life Balance
Striving for Work/Life Integration: Rethinking the Balance for Small Business Owners 🔄🏡💼 Join us as we delve into the evolving concept of work/life balance and explore the notion of work/life integration for small business owners instead. ⚖️ In response to a recent NBN-commissioned study...
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Ep 32: You Are Your Best Marketer
Taking Charge of Your Business Marketing: Harnessing Your Unique Voice and Vision! 📣🌟In the world of business, it's natural to seek support from family and friends in marketing your venture. 🤝💼 However, relying solely on them can sometimes lead to feelings of disappointment or frustration…
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Ep 31: Good Quality Clients Who Pay Your Rate
Attracting Quality Clients: Strategies for Setting Your Rate and Negotiating with Confidence! 💼💰Join us for an insightful discussion on one of the most pressing questions in the VA industry: how to attract quality clients who value your services and are willing to pay your rate without…
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Ep 30: Brand Damage Online
Protecting Your Online Reputation: Lessons from Real-Life Brand Damage! 💻🛡️In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the real-life repercussions of a social media misstep that resulted in serious damage to an online retailer's brand reputation. 💔💼 From sharing a firsthand example to…
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Ep 29: More on Continuing Education
The Power of Continuing Education for VAs: Staying Ahead in a Tech-Driven World! 📚💻In this brief yet insightful follow-up podcast, we shine a spotlight on the importance of continuing education for virtual assistants. 🌟💼 As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, staying abreast of…
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Ep 28: Peaks and Troughs in Business
Business Ebbs and Flows: Strategies for Thriving in the Ups ... and Downs! 📉📈In this episode, we explore the inevitable peaks and troughs that come with running a business and share practical strategies for navigating through the lows. 💼💡 From maintaining resilience and adaptability to…
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Ep 27: Can They Do That??
The Rise of Low-Cost Service Providers: Legalities and Implications for VAs in Australia! 💼💰Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the emergence of low-cost service providers offering services for $5 per hour or less, both offshore and now right here in Australia. 🌏🇦🇺 In this episode,...
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Ep 26: Your Digital Legacy
Planning Your Digital Legacy: The Afterlife of Your Online Presence! 💻⚰️In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked topic of digital legacy and explore what happens to our online presence after we pass away. ⚰️ From social media profiles to blogs and websites, our digital footprint can...
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Ep 25: Do you Brand Your Car?
Beyond the Screen: Cultivating a Positive Real-Life Reputation for Your Business! 🌟👔In this episode, we shift our focus from online reputation to real-life reputation and explore the importance of creating a positive impression for your business beyond the digital realm. 🚗👕 Whether it's...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Australia's first and longest continually running podcast for the Virtual Assistant Industry (est 2010) covering topics of interest to VAs, small business owners and the self-employed. We also provide information and interview guests on all things small business. The show is hosted by veteran VA Lyn Prowse-Bishop, owner of Executive Stress Office Support, established Feb 2000.Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.Become a subscriber for exclusive content: Subscribe
HOSTED BY
Lyn Prowse-Bishop
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Virtual Business Show have?
The Virtual Business Show currently has 71 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Virtual Business Show about?
Australia's first and longest continually running podcast for the Virtual Assistant Industry (est 2010) covering topics of interest to VAs, small business owners and the self-employed. We also provide information and interview guests on all things small business. The show is hosted by veteran VA...
How often does The Virtual Business Show release new episodes?
The Virtual Business Show has 71 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Virtual Business Show?
You can listen to The Virtual Business Show on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Virtual Business Show?
The Virtual Business Show is created and hosted by Lyn Prowse-Bishop.
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