The Whole Assistant Podcast - podcast cover

The Whole Assistant Podcast

Annie Cronerwww.wholeassistant.com
Welcome to The Whole Assistant Podcast! I’m your host Annie Croner. I’m a former assistant who is passionate about the profession, and a certified coach who is invested in your success. You’ve come to the right place if you want to know what it looks like to stand in your power, and achieve success free from overwhelm & burnout.
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Episodes

How To Have Difficult Conversations

Is there a difficult conversation you've been avoiding? In this episode, I dive deep into the art of having difficult conversations, and share practical strategies for achieving a successful outcome. You will discover: - The significance of cleaning up your thoughts prior to having difficult conversations - Strategies for approaching challenging discussions with curiosity, not defensiveness - The importance of knowing when to pause ---------------------------------------------- Are you ready to ...

Mar 28, 202414 min

Cultivating Trust & Creating Safety Among Your Team with Jennifer Connelly

As an executive assistant, have you ever considered your influence when it comes to fostering trust within your team? In this episode I sit down with my friend and Chief of Staff, Jennifer Connelly , to discuss the crucial topic of building safety and trust in the workplace. We focus on the pivotal role executive assistants play in fostering psychological safety, collaboration, and innovation. In this episode, you will discover: - How to balance accountability with creating an environment where ...

Mar 21, 202421 min

Is Your "Personality" Holding You Back?

Have you ever been disappointed by the result of a working style assessment or personality test? In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I delve into the potential drawbacks of personality assessments and the self-limiting beliefs we mistakenly onboard. In this episode, you will learn: - The benefits and drawbacks of personality assessments and working style tests - How to avoid “compare and despair” in response to assessment results - The power of self-awareness in reshaping your identi...

Mar 14, 202413 min

3 Ways Executive Assistants Drive Cultural Change

Are you aware of how you’re shaping your company's culture? In this episode, I delve into the often underestimated influence that executive assistants have on work environments. I highlight three key ways that executive assistants impact company culture. In this episode, you will discover: - The pivotal role executive assistants play as the bridge between their executive and the rest of the organization - How the organizational knowledge and insights of executive assistants can shape company cul...

Mar 07, 202410 min

EA vs. Chief of Staff - Which is Right for You? (with Maggie Olsen)

Have you ever wondered if a chief of staff role is right for you? In today's episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I'm joined by the founder of Nova Chief of Staff, Maggie Olsen, to dissect and define the roles of executive assistant and chief of staff. In this episode, you will discover: - Key differences between an EA and a chief of staff, tailored to reflect various workplaces - Step-by-step guidance on making the move from EA to chief of staff - How to categorize your current workload to c...

Feb 29, 202430 min

Making Room for “Yes”

Are you tired of constantly saying "yes" to everything and feeling overwhelmed as a result? In this episode, I discuss the powerful concept of making room for "yes" through discovering the power of a strategic "no". In this episode, you will discover: - The importance of getting clear on your priorities both personally and professionally - How to embrace the power of a strategic “no” in order to make room for “yes” - My favorite way to say no that won’t burn bridges To save 20% on your first 3 r...

Feb 22, 202419 min

Are You Focusing on The Black Dot?

The brain’s natural inclination is to focus on the one thing that isn’t going well or that you’d like to change… your black dot. What happens when your black do” eclipses all of the legitimately good things in your life? During this episode I break down this concept, and share strategies for giving equal airtime to both the challenges and the blessings in life. In this episode, you will learn: - The concept of the black dot - The negative impact of superficial positivity and denial when trying t...

Feb 15, 202411 min

What To Do When Your Tank Is Empty

Do you feel like you’re running on empty? In this episode, I break down what to do when you’re feeling depleted and running on empty. I discuss the importance of recognizing the signs of burnout and exhaustion, and how these things can manifest in our relationships and overall well-being. In this episode, you will discover: - How to recognize the early stages of burnout so you can course correct. - Strategies for filling your tank and replenishing your energy. - The importance of recognizing and...

Feb 08, 202412 min

Why Self-Care Sucks

Self-care may sound like a nice idea, but have you ever wondered why it’s so hard to implement? Join us as we explore some common misconceptions around self-care, along with why it can be so challenging. In this episode, you will discover: - The four types of self-care - The challenges and resistance that make self-care difficult - Strategies for overcoming these challenges and the importance of being intentional and self-sufficient when it comes to taking care of yourself If you've been conside...

Feb 01, 202422 min

Deciding on How You See Yourself

Have you inadvertently onboarded others’ opinions of you as truth? In our latest episode, we dive deep into the topic of self-perception and its impact on your success as an assistant. I explore the impact of how you see yourself, and how your self-perception can either empower or hinder your growth. By intentionally deciding how you want to view yourself, you can unlock your true potential and make a greater impact. In this episode, you will discover: - How to break free from fitting into a spe...

Jan 25, 202415 min

How to Leverage Time Constraint to Optimize Productivity

To get the year kicked off right I'l be hosting a free masterclass to help you become a more strategic business parter, Embrace Your EA Badassery: 3 Steps to Developing Your Strategic Partnership . In this episode, I discuss the concept of leveraging time constraint to optimize productivity. I introduce the concept of Parkinson's Law, and explain how setting time constraints around tasks can help you maximize your productive output. In this episode, you will learn: - The importance of setting ti...

Jan 18, 202421 min

A Counterintuitive Equation for Increased Productivity

To get the year kicked off right I'l be hosting a free masterclass the week of 1/15 to help you become a more strategic business parter, Embrace Your EA Badassery: 3 Steps to Developing Your Strategic Partnership . Are you ready to unlock your EA badassery and develop a strategic partnership with your executive? In this episode, you will learn: - The equation for optimal productivity - The importance of allowing your brain time and space to assimilate information - The pitfalls of overworking an...

Jan 11, 202419 min

Multitasking vs Multitracking

To get the year kicked off right I'l be hosting a free masterclass the week of 1/15 to help you become a more strategic business parter, Embrace Your EA Badassery: 3 Steps to Developing Your Strategic Partnership . Are you ready to ditch multitasking and discover a more effective productivity strategy? In this episode, you will learn: - The difference between multitasking and multitracking - The detrimental effects of multitasking on productivity - The benefits of implementing a task management ...

Jan 04, 202418 min

"Best Of" Focus Intolerance

Could focus be the “secret sauce” to showing up more strategically? This week’s “Best of 2023” episode centers around one of my favorite topics… Focus. In this episode, I discuss how we often underestimate the importance of focus as assistants. We tend to believe that we need to juggle multiple tasks and keep everything in our heads, but the truth is, focusing on one task at a time can lead to greater productivity and success. I share insights on how we inadvertently train our brains not to focu...

Dec 28, 202318 min

"Best Of" Helping Your Executive Find Clarity

Are you ready to strategically partner with your executive and help them get clear on their priorities? As assistants, we often support executives who are visionaries, which is fantastic. Unfortunately, this can also mean that they have a tendency to be all over the place, throwing ideas around without a clear focus. During this episode of The Whole Assistant Podcast I provide strategies and tips on how to help your executive pinpoint their priorities, so you both can know where to focus your ti...

Dec 21, 202312 min

"Best Of" Being Solutions Oriented vs Being the Solution

Are you ready to prioritize your time and energy strategically, instead of constantly feeling obligated to do everything for everyone? This episode is part of our “Best of 2023” series, and focuses on a concept that has truly transformed the lives of many of my clients. In this episode, I delve into the power of being solutions oriented without shouldering the burden of being the boots-on-the-ground solution for others. It's a concept that has allowed my clients to let go of things they shouldn'...

Dec 14, 202316 min

"Best Of" How to be an Excellent Assistant

Are you curious how to achieve excellence as an executive assistant? As I was thinking about what to share on the podcast this month, I thought it would be fun and helpful to revisit some of the best episodes from 2023. The concepts I share in these episodes have sparked light bulb moments, and have been game-changers for many of my clients. I believe they will be just as impactful for you! To kick off the series, I'm reposting one of the most loved episodes titled "How to Be an Excellent Assist...

Dec 07, 202330 min

A Holistic View of Your Calendar

What if your calendar was the secret to successfully landing higher on your own priority list? As an assistant, you often prioritize the needs of others, but it's crucial to prioritize your own well-being as well. In this episode, I dive into the importance of leveraging your calendar to make room for what matters most… you! In this episode, you will learn: The significance of honoring your calendar to cultivate self-trust Effective strategies for landing higher on your own priority list How to ...

Nov 30, 20238 min

Returning to Gratitude

In this week's episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, we dive into the power of gratitude and how it can transform your life as an assistant. I share personal stories and insights on creating a gratitude practice that can boost your mood and help you achieve success. If you're feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how standing in your power and embracing gratitude can lead to success as an assistant. Learn simple yet effective strategies to incorporate gratit...

Nov 23, 20239 min

A Gentle Reminder for the Holidays

In this episode, I delve into the mixed emotions that often come with going home for the holidays. We all love the holiday season and cherish family time, but sometimes we can find ourselves easily triggered by our loved ones. I offer gentle reminders and practical tips to help you navigate these situations with grace and intention. Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Visit My Website: www.wholeassistant.com Follow Me On Lin...

Nov 16, 20236 min

Letting Go in 2023

This episode is personal. I pull the curtain back and share three things I’ve let go of in 2023. From parting ways with a familiar role to a surprising twist in my workout routines, and a bold decision concerning our community, there are pivotal shifts that promise valuable insights. Join me as I unveil these transitions, share the lessons they've delivered, and offer a fresh perspective on personal and professional growth. Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review whereve...

Nov 09, 202311 min

Money & Happiness

Is it time to brush up your mindset around money? In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I delve into the intricate relationship between money and happiness, with a particular emphasis on the significance of financial independence for women. I challenge the beliefs that hold people back from asking for more money, and discuss the misconception that wealth equals an obsession with money. I also differentiate between earning money and having money; and delve into what it looks like to be ...

Nov 02, 202320 min

Building Better Habits

Are you interested in creating good habits that will make your work life easier? In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I explore three pivotal habits that can transform your work life, and are focused on increasing your productivity and effectiveness. Additionally, I offer practical tips to help you integrate these habits into your daily routine. If you're eager to improve your work life and unlock transformative results, this episode is for you. In this episode, you will learn: - The ...

Oct 26, 202319 min

Thinking Better Thoughts

Are you operating from scarcity, constantly chasing undefined benchmarks? What would happen if you shifted your focus towards abundance and curiosity? In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I delve into two common thought patterns that often hold us back: perfectionism and thinking something isn’t fair. I share how both of these ways of thinking can show up for us in our roles, as well as the detrimental long-term cost. This episode underscores the importance of shifting from scarcity a...

Oct 19, 202316 min

How to Feel Better

How do you deal with undesirable emotions in the workplace? In this episode of The Whole Assistant Podcast, I dive into three common emotions that executive assistants often face: overwhelm, feeling unappreciated, and lack of confidence. I share practical tips and strategies on how to feel better and move past these undesirable emotions. In this episode, you will learn: Practical strategies for managing overwhelm as an executive assistant. How to stop feeling unappreciated or undervalued and beg...

Oct 12, 202317 min

Asking Better Questions

What if a few subtle shifts could improve how you approach your day? It all starts with asking better questions. Welcome to the Whole Assistant Podcast! In today's episode, we're kicking off our October theme of "better" by exploring the art of asking more effective questions. During this episode I’ll share 3 questions that improved my productivity while simultaneously reducing stress. Asking myself these questions has completely transformed how I work. In this episode, you will learn: The impor...

Oct 05, 202315 min

Asking For Help

In this episode, you will learn: How to know when to be resourceful vs when to ask for help How to ask for help effectively and overcome the fear of sounding inadequate The importance of being solutions-oriented when asking for help Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening. Stay Connected: Join the Whole Assistant Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WholeAssistant Visit My Website: www.wholeassistant.com Follow Me On LinkedIn: https:/...

Sep 28, 202316 min

The Modern Day Assistant with Lucy Brazier

Are you curious about how to advocate for yourself and create positive change in your workplace? In this episode of The Whole Assistant podcast, host Annie Croner interviews Lucy Brazier, CEO of Marcham Publishing. Lucy shares her journey from publishing to advocating for executive assistants worldwide. As the creator of Executive Support Magazine, Lucy discusses the importance of recognizing and leveraging assistants in the business world. She also highlights her mission to advocate for assista...

Sep 21, 202351 min

Stress Reduction - Part 2

Have you ever found yourself unknowingly carrying the stress of others in your role as an assistant? In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, we dive deep into part 2 on our topic of stress reduction strategies. I shed light on the essential practice of distinguishing between personal stress and the stress we may inadvertently take on from those we support and work with. I share why it's crucial not to attempt to fix someone else's emotional state and instead focus on managing our own. Ad...

Sep 14, 202317 min

Stress Reduction - Part 1

Are you interested in discovering simple hacks that will decrease stress? In this podcast episode I share straightforward strategies that will reduce stress. In this episode, you will learn: The importance of stress reduction when it comes to preventing burnout and making intentional decisions Four practical stress reduction strategies One secret - yet powerful - stress reduction strategy you might not be thinking about Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever yo...

Sep 07, 202315 min
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