In this thought-provoking episode of Beyond the Desk: Admin Advocates, Melissa and Rachel explore the vital importance of diversifying the "feed" of your life. They dive into how intentionally expanding your sources of information—from news and social media to professional connections and industry insights—can transform your perspective and effectiveness. Through engaging conversation, they share practical strategies for seeking out varied voices, embracing unfamiliar viewpoints, and leveraging ...
Jun 25, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode of Beyond the Desk: Admin Advocates, we dive into the powerful concept of relational currency and how it transforms workplace dynamics. Just like a savvy banker, we explore how you can't spend what you haven't deposited, the art of making meaningful withdrawals without depleting your reserves, and why genuine human connection removes the transactional nature of professional relationships. Melissa and Rachel unpack practical strategies for nurturing and growing your relational cap...
Jun 11, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 5
Ready for a heart-to-heart about the professional event we count down to every year? Join us as Melissa and Rachel spill all the tea about our favorite IAAP Summit memories and why this gathering is so much more than just another conference on your calendar. We're diving into those special moments that transformed our careers and perspectives – from spontaneous hallway conversations that turned into lifelong friendships to keynotes that literally changed how we approach our work. Ever notice how...
May 28, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Ready to bust through that invisible ceiling? Join us for "What Does Career Growth Even Look Like for Administrative Professionals?" where we're getting real about the structural barriers that can hold admins back. We'll dig into why it sometimes feels like your career path hits a dead end and share practical ways to create growth opportunities right where you are. Ever feel like your amazing work goes unnoticed because it happens behind the scenes? We've got strategies to boost your visibility ...
May 14, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode, we navigate the nuanced world of AI for administrative professionals—moving beyond right/wrong debates to explore responsible usage within organizational policies. We discuss when your human judgment is irreplaceable and when AI can boost your efficiency, while examining platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and Copilot. Learn why AI prompting is becoming an essential professional skill that requires practice, not just formal training. We explore practical applications from travel pla...
Apr 30, 2025•42 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Ever wonder why we're constantly talking about leadership? In the first episode of Season 2, we chat about how leadership practices transform admin work from "just paying the bills" to a career you're genuinely excited about. We'll dive into why taking yourself seriously as a professional (even when others don't yet) opens doors you might not have seen before. You'll discover how leadership shifts your focus from the daily task list to the meaningful impact behind your work, while still leaving ...
Apr 16, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In this powerful season finale, we are joined by the remarkable Shola Richards—keynote speaker, author, and self-proclaimed "kindness extremist." Shola’s mission is to transform how we treat each other at work, at home, and everywhere in between. In this deeply engaging conversation, we explore his new book, "Civil Unity: The Radical Path to Transform Our Discourse, Our Lives, and Our World," and how civility can act as a healing force in our polarized world. Shola shares practical tools for nav...
Sep 25, 2024•56 min
In episode 10 of the podcast, Rachel and Melissa celebrate a milestone—double digits! As they near the end of season one, the co-hosts reflect on how far they’ve come and what’s in store for the future. With only one more episode before they take a break until April, they tease an exciting season two, which may even include recording in a brand-new space. The anticipation is building for what’s next! In this episode, they’re switching things up with a fun, lighthearted “lightning round.” However...
Sep 11, 2024•40 min
Welcome back! In this Episode, the podcast takes a unique turn as Melissa is joined by her day-to-day partner, Chris Cason. This episode is all about giving you an inside look at how a successful remote partnership works, especially when distance and time zones are in the mix. You’ll hear Melissa and Chris dive deep into the dynamics of their remote working relationship, sharing how they’ve managed to build a strong, strategic partnership despite being in different states—Chris in California and...
Aug 29, 2024•51 min
Welcome back to Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates! In this episode, Melissa Mahoney, CEO of the International Association of Administrative Professionals, and Rachel Suman, CXO of IAAP, recap the unforgettable highlights of Summit 2024. Transitioning from theory to real experiences, they share their personal favorite moments, including the emotional Parade of Nations and the inspiring performance by spoken word artist Lyrical Faith. Melissa and Rachel offer insights into the unique magic of Summit...
Aug 14, 2024•33 min
Welcome to Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates! Join Melissa Mahoney, CEO of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), and Rachel Suman, CXO of IAAP, as they continue their exploration into the top barriers admins face in achieving true partnership with executives. In this second part of their two-part series, they delve deep into barriers 6 through 10, providing listeners with authentic insights, candid conversations, and actionable solutions to overcome these challenges...
Jul 26, 2024•1 hr 3 min
Welcome back to Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates! In this episode, Melissa Mahoney, CEO of the International Association of Administrative Professionals, and Rachel Suman, CXO of IAAP, dive into the vital topic of admin-executive partnerships. Transitioning from theory to actionable advice, they identify and break down the top barriers to successful partnerships. Drawing from their personal experiences and insights from the community, Melissa and Rachel offer real solutions and practical takeaway...
Jul 11, 2024•50 min
Welcome back to Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates! In this episode, Melissa Mahoney, CEO of IAAP, and Rachel Suman, CXO of IAAP, delve deep into two crucial leadership skills that can transform your professional journey. Melissa and Rachel explore the intertwined topics of feedback and self-awareness. These elements are not just leadership competencies; they are the foundations of personal and professional growth. They share their experiences and insights on how feedback and self-awareness have dr...
Jun 26, 2024•50 min
Welcome back! In this episode, Melissa and Rachel tackle IAAP's diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging philosophy, a topic they previously introduced and are now ready to explore in greater depth. You'll hear a thorough discussion on the language and definitions used at IAAP, alongside personal insights from Melissa and Rachel on why inclusion is a top priority for them. The episode delves into the business case for supporting DEI in the workplace, outlining how these principles can drive e...
Jun 10, 2024•38 min
In this episode of "Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates," Melissa Mahoney and Rachel Suman from the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) tackle the pressing issue of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on administrative roles. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into the workplace, Melissa and Rachel explore whether it poses a threat to admin jobs or offers new opportunities for enhancement. The discussion acknowledges the fears surrounding AI but emphasizes the...
May 25, 2024•37 min
Welcome to Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates, your go-to podcast for navigating the complexities of the administrative world and beyond. I'm Melissa Mahoney, CEO of the International Association of Administrative Professionals, joined by Rachel Suman, CXO of IAAP. In this episode, we embark on a transformative journey into the realm of binary thinking and its profound impact on our lives. Join us as we explore the power of embracing complexity, challenging conventional wisdom, and fostering a mind...
May 15, 2024•38 min
Join Melissa Mahoney, CEO, and Rachel Suman, CXO of IAAP, as they launch "Beyond the Desk Admin Advocates," a podcast dedicated to delving into the world of administrative professionals. In this debut episode, Melissa and Rachel set the stage for what's to come by sharing their vision and intentions for the podcast. From embracing authenticity to prioritizing inclusivity, they're committed to creating a space where listeners can find practical solutions, authentic conversations, and real stories...
Apr 24, 2024•34 min
