Task Me Anything

Adam Duffus
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  • Management

Let VA4U bring you all there is to know in the world of Virtual Assistants.  Tips tricks and more how to get the most out of your VA, or help you better understand if a VA is right for you.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 13 With Steve MacFarlane - AI Should Empower Your Team, Not Replace It

    In Episode 13 of Task Me Anything, Adam is joined by Steve MacFarlane, CEO of Syfre, an Australian AI studio helping businesses use artificial intelligence to make their people more valuable, not less necessary. Steve shares his journey from learning to program at 10 to working in digital advertising, building technology startups and eventually founding Syfre. The conversation explores how AI can reduce repetitive work, improve productivity and free teams to focus on relationships, sales and higher-value tasks. Steve also explains why outbound sales and customer service calls still need a human touch, particularly when tone, timing and empathy matter. They discuss the fear of job losses, how leaders can introduce AI without creating uncertainty and why employees should be involved in shaping an organisation’s AI roadmap. From business systems and changing search behaviour to travel planning and horse racing tips, the episode offers a practical look at what AI does well, where it falls short and how businesses can use it responsibly. In this episode: Steve’s journey from childhood programmer to AI founderHow Syfre helps businesses build tailored AI solutionsThe business tasks AI can handle effectivelyWhy outbound sales calls still need a human elementHow AI can improve productivity without replacing peopleThe risks of low-quality, unchecked AI outputHow to prepare teams for AI adoptionWhy employees should help shape an AI roadmapThe rise of AI search and changing customer behaviourWhy context remains essential when using AIWhat we may look back on and laugh about in 2030Approximate Minutes Breakdown 00:00 | Introduction to Steve MacFarlane Adam introduces Steve, Syfre and the episode’s central question: will AI replace jobs or make people more valuable? 01:05 | Rapid-fire questions Coffee, early adoption, tech heroes, preferred AI platforms, business books, meditation and Steve’s biggest professional risk. 03:25 | Buying back 10 hours a week Steve explains which technical tasks he would delegate or automate and why he would spend the recovered time meeting people and developing sales opportunities. 05:05 | What business owners should stop doing manually A discussion about calendar management, email promises, scheduling and combining AI with human support. 06:45 | Why AI should not replace outbound sales calls Steve explains why automated voices can damage trust and why tone, timing and emotional awareness still matter. 09:10 | Steve’s career journey From learning to program at 10 to studying marketing, working in digital advertising and launching a boutique agency. 11:25 | Startups, exits and returning to business ownership Steve discusses building technology products, his involvement with Realty Assist and why traditional employment was not the right long-term fit. 13:20 | How Syfre was created The original product idea, customer feedback and the pivot into bespoke AI consulting and product development. 15:10 | The rise of AI roles inside small businesses Why more businesses are hiring people to build automations, develop internal systems and implement low-code or no-code AI tools. 16:50 | Will AI cause mass job losses? Steve argues that AI is more likely to empower teams and increase output than eliminate the need for human workers. 18:30 | Using AI without turning your brain off The difference between supervising useful AI systems and producing unchecked, low-quality content that creates more work. 19:30 | How leaders should introduce AI to their teams Why cross-department involvement, training and shared ownership are essential when developing an AI roadmap. 20:25 | AI search, personal use and changing behaviour ChatGPT for travel, recipes and research, plus why businesses need to consider their visibility inside AI platforms. 21:20 | What will we laugh about in 2030? Steve shares his predictions about job-loss fears, regulation and how today’s AI debates may be viewed in the future. 21:48 | Closing thoughts A final exchange about horse racing, future predictions and the key lesson that context remains critical when using AI. About Steve MacFarlane Steve MacFarlane is the CEO of Syfre, an Australian AI studio helping businesses use artificial intelligence to improve productivity and make their people more valuable, not less necessary. With more than 20 years of experience across software, product development, digital strategy and entrepreneurship, Steve has built businesses, developed technology products and helped organisations create practical AI solutions. His approach focuses on using AI to remove repetitive work, support better decision-making and empower teams while keeping human judgement, communication and relationships at the centre. About Task Me Anything Task Me Anything explores how ambitious business owners build stronger teams, create better systems and buy back their time with the help of skilled virtual professionals.

  2. Jul 30

    Episode 12 with Luke Hill on Leadership, Growth and Playing the Long Game

    In Episode 12 of Task Me Anything, Adam speaks with Luke Hill, Chief Operating Officer at AAMC, about his journey from panel beater to the C-suite. Luke shares what he has learned from leading a team of 250 people, including the importance of humility, trust, clear communication and giving credit to the people doing the work. They also discuss customer experience following a vehicle accident, building a long-term career, staying authentic, learning from mentors and resisting the pressure to achieve success overnight. The episode finishes with a look at AAMC’s technology transformation and the challenge of choosing systems that can support the business as it grows. In this episode:  Luke’s journey from panel beater to Chief Operating Officer  Why leadership is not about taking the credit  Moving from technical expertise into people leadership  What customer experience looks like after a vehicle accident  Managing trust across a team of 250 people  Handling frustration and difficult workplace conversations  How young professionals can build a successful long-term career  Why authenticity matters in leadership  The danger of trying to go from zero to hero too quickly  Centralising business data and choosing the right technology  Luke’s goals for the next five years Episode Chapters 00:45 | Rapid-fire questions Coffee or tea, boardroom or frontline, leadership heroes, business books and Luke’s non-negotiable daily habit. 02:35 | Getting 10 hours back each week Luke explains why he would spend less time reviewing reports and more time connecting with teams throughout the business. 04:05 | Luke’s biggest leadership lesson Why leaders should remain humble, recognise their teams and give credit to the people responsible for the ideas and hard work. 05:15 | Leadership beyond technical expertise Luke reflects on moving from Tasmania to Melbourne and learning that collaboration and team ownership were essential to success. 06:25 | From football ambitions to panel beating Luke discusses his early career plans, his interest in vehicle assessing and why he completed a panel-beating apprenticeship. 08:05 | What AAMC does An explanation of outsourced vehicle assessing, repair management and how AAMC supports insurers through its supply chain. 09:25 | What good customer experience looks like Timeliness, empathy, communication and repair quality following a vehicle accident. 11:00 | Managing and trusting 250 people How long-term employees, management processes, reporting and regular coaching help maintain trust across a large organisation. 12:30 | Handling frustration as a leader Why difficult conversations should be clear and respectful, and why leaders need to manage anger professionally. 13:20 | Advice for building a successful career Luke shares the importance of passion, values, authenticity, mentors and treating people well. 14:45 | You cannot go from zero to hero overnight Why young professionals need to develop skills, listen, learn and become comfortable with uncomfortable situations. 15:45 | Centralising data and technology The challenge of bringing multiple systems together and choosing technology that supports the organisation’s long-term strategy. 17:00 | What the next five years could hold Luke discusses continuing his leadership journey, staying open to future opportunities and taking one step at a time. 17:40 | Closing thoughts Adam reflects on Luke’s work ethic, friendship and impressive career journey. About Luke Hill Luke Hill is the Chief Operating Officer at AAMC, with nearly 20 years of experience in accident management and vehicle assessing. Starting his career as a panel beater, Luke worked his way through assessing and management roles before moving into senior leadership. Today, he leads national teams, drives operational improvement and focuses on creating better outcomes for clients, customers and employees through clear communication, strong relationships and practical leadership. About Task Me Anything Task Me Anything explores how ambitious business owners build stronger teams, create better systems and buy back their time with the help of skilled virtual professionals.

  3. Jul 15

    Episode 11 - From Auctioneer to Business Owner with Christian Hamilton

    In this episode of Task Me Anything, Adam sits down with Christian Hamilton, Director of Ray White Wilston and Ray White Surfers Paradise, and one of Australia’s leading auctioneers. Christian shares his journey from entering real estate at just 19 years old to becoming Australian Novice Auctioneer of the Year, leading auctions for Harcourts Australia and eventually taking ownership of two major Ray White businesses. They discuss why the traditional selling-principal model can restrict business growth, the importance of treating agents like clients and what it takes to create an environment where great people can thrive. Christian also explains why business owners need to step away from day-to-day sales, invest more time into recruitment and leadership, and surround their teams with the right coaching, support and systems. The conversation finishes with Christian sharing how VA4U helped him bring Haruna into the finance side of his business, proving that virtual assistants can contribute far beyond basic administrative tasks. In This Episode Christian’s rapid rise through the real estate industryThe auction that took an unexpected turnWhat Christian would do with an extra 10 hours each weekWhy selling principals can struggle to grow their agenciesTreating real estate agents like the business’s clientsThe coaching and leadership agents genuinely needBecoming Australian Novice Auctioneer of the Year at 21Calling auctions across Queensland, New South Wales and VictoriaLeaving a successful corporate career to become a business ownerTaking ownership of Ray White Surfers ParadiseBuilding an environment that helps agents go further, fasterOutsourcing finance and reconciliation work to a qualified virtual team memberWhy remote employees should be treated like every other member of the team Episode Chapters 00:00 – Meet Christian Hamilton Christian’s background as an auctioneer, trainer and real estate business owner. 01:00 – Rapid-Fire Questions Mentors, business books, daily habits and Christian’s biggest career risk. 03:10 – The Strangest Auction Experience An elderly bidder, an unexpected collapse and a very awkward auction result. 05:00 – Buying Back 10 Hours a Week Why Christian would spend less time behind a laptop and more time with his team. 06:10 – The Problem With Selling Principals Why trying to lead an agency while maintaining a large personal sales business can limit growth. 09:00 – Falling Into Real Estate How a sharp suit, a Mercedes and a large commission cheque sparked Christian’s interest in the industry. 11:10 – Becoming an Auctioneer at 21 How mentorship, professional development and genuine enthusiasm helped Christian stand out. 14:10 – Leading Auctions Across Australia Christian’s experience training agents and calling auctions across multiple states during COVID. 16:00 – Leaving Corporate to Build a Business Why Christian wanted to stop going wide and start making a deeper impact on a smaller group of agents. 18:00 – Taking On Ray White Surfers Paradise The opportunity, pressure and legacy attached to one of Ray White’s most recognised businesses. 19:30 – More Than Just Administration How Haruna supports Christian’s finance department through reconciliations, reporting and cash-flow management. About Christian Hamilton Christian Hamilton is a Director of Ray White Wilston and Ray White Surfers Paradise. His career has included roles as a sales associate, award-winning auctioneer, national head of auctions, academy trainer and business owner. Today, Christian focuses on building high-performing real estate businesses where agents receive the leadership, coaching and support they need to succeed. About Task Me Anything Task Me Anything explores how ambitious business owners build stronger teams, create better systems and buy back their time with the help of skilled virtual professionals.

  4. 09/17/2025

    Episode 10 Recruiting with Heart & Tech: Katie Cotton on Building the Future of Real Estate

    In this energising episode, we sit down with Katie Cotton, a powerhouse in real estate recruitment and tech innovation. From her early days in roles ranging from Tupperware sales to law enforcement, Katie shares her unique path into real estate and how it led to founding Recruit RE — a purpose-built platform reshaping how agencies hire and grow their teams. Katie opens up about her leadership journey, her passion for people, and the creation of tools that empower both agents and businesses. With a refreshing take on VAs, tech development, and what makes a great real estate hire, this episode is packed with insight and personality — including hilarious icebreakers, heartfelt reflections, and one very unlucky cow named Dan. Whether you're an agency owner, recruiter, or agent looking to thrive in 2025 and beyond, Katie’s vision for smarter, values-driven recruitment will leave you inspired. 🧭 Episode Breakdown 00:00 – 02:00 | Intro & Icebreakers Meet Katie Cotton, visionary behind Recruit REHorse-mothering adventures & wild Google searches (yes, cows have best friends… maybe?)Fun questions: Napoleon in real estate? Duck-sized horses?02:01 – 06:00 | Real Estate Career & Philosophy Katie’s unconventional path into real estateWhy “earning your stripes” is outdated adviceHiring for personality over skills — and why energy trumps experienceReal estate is teachable; passion isn't06:01 – 10:00 | The Recruit RE Vision Recruit Re explained: Think “SEEK for real estate”Smart-matching tech, Career Passport, and CPD trackingBuilt for the industry, by someone who understands itA practical tool, not just another recruiter platform10:01 – 14:00 | Tech Meets People: Building with VAs & Developers Katie’s VA team and global dev squadCommunication struggles, joke misfires, and mutual trustLessons from managing app builds and understanding integrationsWhy VAs don’t replace, but free up talent for higher-value work14:01 – 18:00 | Future Plans & Closing Thoughts What's live now on Recruit RE (Career Passport)What’s launching next: employer/jobseeker functionalityThe mission: empowerment, accessibility, and human connectionWhere to find Recruit RE & why perfection isn’t the goal — progress is🎧 Available Now – 18 minutes of fresh insights, laughs, and real estate wisdom. Visit recruitre.com.au to learn more and sign up for early access.

  5. 08/07/2025

    Episode 9: From Showgrounds to Sold Signs: Alexander Shean’s Real Estate Journey

    On this episode of Task Me Anything, we’re joined by Alexander Shean, co-owner of Ray White Ascot and a standout figure in Brisbane real estate. From his early days working the traveling show circuit with his family to leading a high-performing real estate office, Alexander’s journey is anything but typical—and that’s exactly what makes it inspiring. Alexander opens up about the people skills he developed as a sideshow spruiker, how he transitioned into real estate, and the lessons he’s learned since stepping into business ownership. He also shares how virtual assistants (VAs) have streamlined his agency’s operations and created space for deeper client relationships, better data practices, and more productive teams. This candid conversation blends personal storytelling with practical takeaways—perfect for agents, business owners, or anyone navigating growth in a service-driven industry. 🗂️ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – 02:00 | Introduction & Icebreakers Meet Alexander Shean: real estate principal, bungee jumper, and leaderBungee vs. skydiving: which was scarier and why02:01 – 06:00 | Life in the Showgrounds Growing up in a multi-generation traveling show familyFrom dodgems to spruiking: learning crowd engagement earlyHow show life taught him sales, presence, and energy06:01 – 09:00 | Starting in Real Estate A career pivot from hospitality to real estate in AscotFollowing in his father’s footstepsLoyalty to Ray White: culture, training, and opportunity09:01 – 13:00 | Leadership & Business Ownership Stepping into co-ownership in 2022The mindset shift from agent to team leaderSupporting a team of 40+ across sales and property management13:01 – 16:00 | Unlocking Scale Through Virtual Assistants Why previous VA experiences didn’t work—and what changedTraining, structure, and daily inclusion as keys to successVA integration stories from both the sales and PM teams16:01 – 19:00 | The Power of Data & Process Creating ideal weeks for VAs and agentsBuilding databases for long-term growthUsing tools like NurtureCloud and leveraging AI to stay ahead19:01 – 22:00 | Crystal Ball: Market Predictions & Olympic Buzz The outlook for Brisbane’s blue-chip suburbsAnticipated growth leading into the 2032 OlympicsThe evolving real estate landscape in Hamilton, Ascot & Clayfield📌 Key Takeaways Communication skills are built in the trenches—sometimes on the carnival stageLeadership is about shifting focus from personal success to team successVAs can be transformative with the right onboarding and inclusionData, systems, and culture are foundational to scalable growthBrisbane property is on a steady rise—with major movement expected pre-Olympics🎧 Tune into this episode of Task Me Anything to discover how Alexander Shean is building a legacy in real estate, one system, one sale, and one team win at a time.

  6. 06/18/2025

    Episode 8: From Planner to People Powerhouse: How Candace Jarrett Built Her Recruitment Empire

    🎧 Episode Synopsis: In this inspiring 16-minute episode, we meet Candace Jarrett, founder of niche recruitment firm Niche People, who shares her unconventional journey from town planning to building a thriving recruitment business—all while juggling life as a mother of three. With practical insights into entrepreneurship, the power of outsourcing, and the underestimated value of town planning, Candace gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how she scaled her business with the help of a virtual assistant and leaned into her network to become a leader in her field. 📌 Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – 02:30 | Quickfire Icebreakers Candace answers lighthearted questions—from her love of coffee and red wine to her late-night work habits and dream holidays. 02:31 – 05:00 | Career Origins Candace shares how a call from a recruiter and her strong industry network inspired her to leap into recruitment after a successful 20-year career in urban planning. 05:01 – 07:30 | Business Growth & The Role of a VA She discusses how hiring a virtual assistant transformed her operations, freeing up time for family and business growth. 07:31 – 10:00 | Life Balance & Outsourcing Wisdom Candace reflects on the importance of support systems, her past ventures, and lessons learned about not doing everything alone. 10:01 – 12:00 | Recruitment Realities She dives into the complexities of quality hiring, why headhunting matters, and how her VA, Dexter, contributes to sourcing top talent. 12:01 – 14:00 | Town Planning Advocacy Candace makes a case for town planning as a valuable and underappreciated career path—ideal for students exploring property-related industries. 14:01 – 16:00 | Final Advice & Closing Thoughts She offers powerful advice for small business owners: outsource smartly, value your time, and focus on what drives growth. 🎯 Why Listen: If you’re a business owner, aspiring recruiter, or curious about how to pivot careers successfully, Candace’s story will leave you motivated and equipped with actionable insights.

  7. 05/28/2025

    Episode 7: Ryan Murphy & the Power of Two: Scaling Real Estate with VAs

    🎧 Episode Synopsis: In this high-energy and humor-filled episode of Task Me Anything, host Adam Duffus chats with Ryan Murphy—a rising real estate star from Logan—and his dynamic virtual assistant duo, Wendy and Alan, joining from the Philippines. Ryan pulls back the curtain on how leveraging not one, but two highly skilled VAs has elevated his business operations, allowing him to stay laser-focused on what he does best: selling homes and connecting with clients. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how VAs streamline prospecting, admin, and client communication, as well as gain insight into how Ryan's authenticity and structure have helped him become a trusted name in his market. With lively banter, fast-paced Q&A, and practical takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for agents ready to scale smart. 🗂️ Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – 01:00 Introduction: Meet Ryan Murphy, the mullet-wearing real estate agent from Logan, and his VAs, Wendy and Alan.01:01 – 03:30 Quickfire questions & banter: Favorite pump-up tracks, dream VA task (spoiler: it's cooking), and off-the-clock hobbies.03:31 – 06:00 The VA Impact: Ryan explains how having two VAs allows him to delegate effectively, focus on high-impact tasks, and scale his listings pipeline.06:01 – 08:00 Workflow in Action: Wendy breaks down how structure and preparation set Ryan apart, and how clear delegation makes their teamwork seamless and productive.08:01 – 10:30 Cold Calling Confidence: Wendy shares what she loves about calling, her approach to gauging interest, and how this consistency fuels results.10:31 – 11:30 Secrets to Success: Ryan opens up about being authentic, building trust in the Logan market, and why being relatable beats being polished.11:31 – 12:00 Final laughs & golf rivalry: Wrapping up with a lighthearted exchange on golf, dreams of green jackets, and a cheeky twist on who’s giving advice to whom.💡 Perfect For: Real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and business owners exploring how virtual assistants can drive real productivity, reduce operational strain, and support genuine growth.

  8. 05/14/2025

    Episode 6: From Reception to Real Estate Elite — Steph Marshall’s Journey with VA Power

    In this inspiring episode of Task Me Anything, Adam Duffus welcomes real estate standout Steph Marshall from Harcourts Property Centre. Ranked in the top 1% of Harcourts agents internationally, Steph shares her journey from humble beginnings to building a powerhouse business supported by a dynamic virtual assistant team. Steph opens up about her personal challenges, her strategies for growth, and how smart delegation — particularly through VA support — has transformed her business and life. This conversation is packed with honest insights about real estate, resilience, and the power of playing to your strengths. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 — Introduction Adam introduces Steph Marshall, highlighting her remarkable achievements and her strategic use of VAs. 01:00 — Getting to Know Steph Quickfire questions reveal Steph’s guilty pleasures, work habits, favorite property features, and what she would outsource if she could. 03:00 — Steph’s Career Journey Steph shares her story of starting at reception, moving through various roles, her time in London, and how she ultimately built her confidence to succeed in real estate. 05:30 — Overcoming Challenges in Sales Steph discusses her initial reluctance toward prospecting and cold calling, and how persistence — and some creative outreach — landed her first listing. 07:00 — Recent Successes and Business Growth Reflecting on her record months, Steph talks about how consistent relationship-building and repeat business have driven her success. 08:30 — How VAs Have Changed Her Business Steph explains the crucial role her two VAs, Marco and Nora, play in maintaining a clean, powerful database and enabling her to focus on her strengths — without burning out. 10:30 — Looking Ahead Steph shares her plans to grow her team and her goal of becoming a $1.2 million agent, emphasizing consistent effort, focus, and energy management. 11:30 — Closing Thoughts Adam and Steph wrap up with mutual appreciation and excitement for what’s ahead in Steph’s career.

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Information

  • Creator
    Adam Duffus
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Task Me Anything
  • Show Website
    Task Me Anything