Seed to Success

Adrienne Donnelly

Welcome to Seed to Success – the podcast where I (Adrienne Donnelly) share my passion for helping women create successful, sustainable, and enjoyable Virtual Assistant businesses. With the support of incredible industry experts and an amazing community, I offer helpful resources, valuable advice, and inspirational stories that equip you with the skills and confidence needed to set up a life-changing virtual assistant business. Learn more about Seed Virtual Assistants via www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au

  1. Inner Circle Member Spotlight: Interview with Mariana Gaona Lopez from Pink Ocean Virtual Solutions

    8월 14일

    Inner Circle Member Spotlight: Interview with Mariana Gaona Lopez from Pink Ocean Virtual Solutions

    If you’ve ever second-guessed your onboarding process (or realised your offboarding process is basically just an email and a wave), you’re not alone. Whether you’ve been in business for five minutes or five years, refining the way you look after your clients from first enquiry to offboarding, makes a massive difference. In this episode, Adrienne Donnelly chats with Inner Circle member and systems queen Mariana Gaona Lopez, founder of Pink Ocean Virtual Solutions. Mariana helps online service providers declutter their digital spaces and streamline the way they deliver their services without the overwhelm. Together, they unpack what a supportive client journey actually looks like, and how it can work for your clients and for you. 🌱 What the client journey really includes, beyond just onboarding 🌱 Why SOPs and offboarding matter more than you think 🌱 Mariana’s go-to tools for automating (without losing the personal touch) 🌱 Ways to tailor your client experience without burning yourself out 🌱 How to spot red flags early and hold strong boundaries with heart This conversation is your gentle nudge to simplify, personalise and own your client journey even if it’s not perfect yet. Start small. Keep it real. You get to do it your way. 🌱 Join the Seed VA community: Website: seedvirtualassistants.com.au Instagram: @seedvirtualassistants Facebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant Community Learn more about the Inner Circle: seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 📲 Connect with Mariana Gaona Lopez and Pink Ocean Virtual Solutions: Website: pinkoceanvs.com.au Instagram: @pinkoceanvs Facebook: Pink Ocean Virtual Solutions LinkedIn: Mariana Gaona Lopez If this episode made you feel a little less alone or gave you something to think about, share it with a fellow business bestie. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s new on Seed to Success. 🌱

    32분
  2. Messaging That Attracts High Value Clients: A Conversation with Tahnée Sanders

    7월 31일

    Messaging That Attracts High Value Clients: A Conversation with Tahnée Sanders

    Ever found yourself trying to explain what you do… and watching the other person’s eyes glaze over? Or maybe you’ve had that gut feeling that your website, socials, or service descriptions aren’t quite saying what you mean or attracting the clients you really want to work with?   If you’ve been second guessing your messaging or wondering why the right clients aren’t knocking, this episode is a supportive, eye-opening guide to getting clear and confident with your words.   In this episode, host Adrienne Donnelly chats with Tahnée Sanders, founder of The Strategy Studio. With a background in journalism, content strategy, and creative direction, Tahnée helps female founders clarify and communicate their value through messaging strategy, copywriting, and AI powered content tools. Together, they dive into the role language plays in attracting aligned clients, setting boundaries, and growing a business that feels truly good.   You’ll hear about:   - Why clear, confident messaging is your most powerful business tool   - How to stop convincing and start connecting with the right clients   - Tips for identifying your dream clients (hint: it’s not just about income)   - Why niching isn’t always about industry and what to focus on instead   - A simple shift from features to benefits that can change everything   There’s no perfect script or one size fits all strategy and that’s the beauty of it. You’re allowed to grow, shift, and refine your messaging as you evolve. The most important part? Let your words sound like you. The more your message reflects your value, the more your dream clients will see it too.   Join the Seed VA community:  Website: seedvirtualassistants.com.au  Instagram: @seedvirtualassistants  Facebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant Community   Learn more about the Inner Circle:  seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle   Connect with Tahnée Saunders and The Strategy Studio:  Website: www.thestrategystudio.com Instagram: @thestrategystudio LinkedIn: Tahnée Sanders   Recommended Reading: Oversubscribed by Daniel Priestley – a brilliant read on building demand for your services and becoming the go-to in your niche. Grab it here: Oversubscribed   This episode is sponsored by Ready to Boss Legal.  Ready to Boss Legal offers practical, easy-to-use legal templates made for online business owners. Use code SEED10 for 10% off. Visit: readytobosslegal.com  If this episode made you feel a little less alone or gave you something to think about, share it with a fellow business bestie. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s new on Seed to Success.

    43분
  3. Systems That Help You Thrive: A Conversation with Marianne Tansley

    7월 17일

    Systems That Help You Thrive: A Conversation with Marianne Tansley

    If you’ve ever felt behind when it comes to systems or second-guessed the value of your admin skills, this episode is for you. In this conversation, we chat with Marianne Tansley, founder of Thrive Admin Services. With decades of experience as an executive assistant and admin expert, Marianne now helps VAs and corporate support professionals build better systems using Microsoft 365, document their processes, and step fully into their value. Together, Adrienne and Marianne unpack what it means to thrive as an admin, why systems don’t have to be scary, and how sharing knowledge helps lift the whole industry. You’ll hear about: 🌱 How Marianne shifted from corporate EA to business owner 🌱 Practical ways to use Microsoft 365 to save time and stay organised 🌱 Why documenting processes can help you grow with confidence 🌱 What it means to “career-proof” yourself as a VA or admin pro 🌱 How to raise the standard for admin work — without burning out If you’ve ever thought “I’m just the admin,” this episode is a reminder that your skills, experience and perspective are not only valuable, they’re essential. Resources and Links: 🌱 Join the Seed VA community: Website: seedvirtualassistants.com.au Instagram: @seedvirtualassistants Facebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant Community Learn more about the Inner Circle: seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 📲 Connect with Marianne Tansley and Thrive Admin Services: Website: www.thriveadmin.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveadminservices Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveadmin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-tansley 🔔This episode is sponsored by Ready to Boss Legal. **Ready to Boss Legal offers easy-to-use online legal templates designed to protect your business without the hassle of expensive fees or complicated contracts. As a listener of Seed to Success, you can get 10% off any template using the code SEED10 at checkout. Visit www.readytobosslegal.com to explore their full range of templates and resources. If this episode reminded you that you're doing more than “just admin,” share it with a fellow business bestie. And hit subscribe so you never miss what’s next on Seed to Success. 🌱

    41분
  4. Legal Protection for VAs and OBMs: A Conversation with Emma Heuston

    7월 3일

    Legal Protection for VAs and OBMs: A Conversation with Emma Heuston

    If the legal side of business feels confusing or overwhelming, this episode is here to help. In this conversation, Adrienne Donnelly chats with Emma Heuston, lawyer, author and founder of Ready to Boss Legal. After 23 years in legal practice, Emma now works exclusively with women in business making contracts, scope protection and IP feel simple, not scary. Together, Adrienne and Emma break down what you actually need to protect your business, your time and your peace of mind. You’ll hear about: 🌱 The must-have contracts every VA and OBM should have🌱 How to protect your scope and intellectual property🌱 What to do when things go wrong (and how to handle it calmly)🌱 Key tips for working with subcontractors🌱 Why legal protection is a smart, confidence-building move If you’ve been putting off the legal stuff, this is your gentle nudge to start. It doesn’t have to be complicated and it can actually feel empowering. Resources and Links: 🌱 Join the Seed VA community: Website: seedvirtualassistants.com.auInstagram: @seedvirtualassistantsFacebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant CommunityLearn more about the Inner Circle: seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 📲 Connect with Emma Heuston: Website: https://readytobosslegal.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/readytobosslegalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/readytobosslegalLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-remote-expert 🔔This episode is sponsored by Ready to Boss Legal. Ready to Boss Legal offers easy-to-use online legal templates designed to protect your business without the hassle of expensive fees or complicated contracts. As a listener of Seed to Success, you can get 10% off any template using the code SEED10 at checkout. Visit www.readytobosslegal.com to explore their full range of templates and resources. If this episode made legal protection feel doable, send it to a business bestie. And hit subscribe so you never miss what’s next on Seed to Success. 🌱

    42분
  5. Inner Circle Member Spotlight: Interview with Sharon Ella from Ella & Co Creative

    6월 19일

    Inner Circle Member Spotlight: Interview with Sharon Ella from Ella & Co Creative

    Leaving behind a long-term career can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when you’ve spent decades in the same industry. But sometimes, what you’re stepping away from is the very thing that gives you the strength and skills to build something new. In this episode of Seed to Success, host Adrienne Donnelly chats with Sharon Ella, Canva designer, social media manager, and founder of Ella & Co Creative. Sharon is also a much-loved member of the Inner Circle. After over 30 years in banking, she decided to rewrite her story from the ground up. With a self-taught Canva toolkit and a whole lot of determination, Sharon has built a thriving creative business helping service providers show up online with clarity and confidence. This conversation is honest, uplifting and full of the kind of perspective that only comes from starting over and finding your way by doing. Whether you’re wondering what’s next or just want to feel less alone in your business journey, you’ll find something here that lands. You’ll hear about: 🌱 How Sharon went from redundancy to reinvention and found purpose in her pivot 🌱 The surprising way she landed her first dream client and leaned into her niche 🌱 What she’s learned about boundaries, pricing and walking away from the wrong fit 🌱 The power of saying yes to support, community and connection 🌱 Why confidence grows when you act like a business owner, even when imposter feelings show up If you’re in a season of change, second-guessing your path or simply craving more alignment in your work, Sharon’s story is a gentle reminder that it’s never too late to begin again. You get to shape a business that feels like yours, one choice at a time. Resources and Links: 🌱 Come join Adrienne and the Seed VA community: Website: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au Instagram: @seedvirtualassistants Facebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant Community Want to learn more about the Inner Circle? The Inner Circle is a high-touch membership for VAs and OBMs who want to grow with intention, feel supported and stay connected. Learn more: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 📲 Connect with Sharon Ella and Ella & Co Creative: Instagram: @ellaandcocreative Website: www.ellaandcocreative.com.au If this episode made you feel a little more hopeful, or reminded you that you’re not alone, pass it on to a fellow business bestie. And don’t forget to follow the show so you never miss what’s next on Seed to Success. 🌱

    35분
  6. What Is Sustainable Web Design? A Conversation with Sez Gower

    6월 5일

    What Is Sustainable Web Design? A Conversation with Sez Gower

    If you’ve ever wondered how your digital presence affects the planet, or you’ve felt unsure where to start with building a more sustainable website, this episode is for you. In this episode of Seed to Success, host Adrienne Donnelly chats with Sez Gower, eco-conscious web designer and founder of Whale Tail Digital. Sez creates beautiful, accessible and low-impact websites for values-led businesses and organisations that care deeply about people and planet. With more than 20 years of experience in web design and a lifelong passion for environmental sustainability, she brings a refreshingly simple and practical take on designing with intention. Adrienne and Sez unpack what it really means to create a sustainable website, why it matters in today’s digital world, and how you can make small but powerful changes to your site that benefit your business and the environment. If you’ve been looking for ways to align your digital space with the heart of your business, this episode is a great place to start. You’ll hear about: 🌱 What makes a website more sustainable and why it’s something worth caring about🌱 How image sizes, videos and plug-ins impact your site’s performance and carbon load🌱 Simple tips for making your site more accessible and user-friendly🌱 The link between fast-loading websites and better experiences for your audience🌱 Why thoughtful design choices can help your business reflect your values online Resources and Links: 🌱 Come join Adrienne and the Seed VA community:Website: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.auInstagram: @seedvirtualassistantsFacebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant CommunityWant to learn more about the Inner Circle? The Inner Circle is our high-touch membership for VAs and OBMs who want to grow with intention, feel supported and stay connected. Learn more: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 📲 Connect with Sez Gower and Whale Tail Digital:Website: www.whaletaildigital.comInstagram: @whaletaildigital 🧰 Resources mentioned by Sez in this episode: Website Carbon Calculator – measure your website’s carbon footprint Ecograder – evaluate sustainability and performance Digital Beacon – quick insights into site impact TinyJPG – compress image files efficiently WP Rocket – WordPress optimisation tool WebP – next-gen image format for faster loading Green the Web by Sandy Dähnert – a resource hub for sustainable web design inspiration and education If this episode gave you something to think about or helped you see your website in a new light, share it with a fellow business bestie. And don’t forget to follow the show so you never miss what’s next on Seed to Success. 🌱

    41분
  7. Inner Circle Member Spotlight: Interview with Lee Longmire from Lee Longmire & Co

    5월 22일

    Inner Circle Member Spotlight: Interview with Lee Longmire from Lee Longmire & Co

    If you've ever second-guessed yourself in a client conversation or walked away from an email thread thinking “I should’ve said that differently”, this episode is for you. In this episode of Seed to Success, host Adrienne Donnelly sits down with Seed Inner Circle member Lee Longmire from Lee Longmire & Co, The Message Curator, to talk about what it really looks like to speak up with clarity, confidence and strength as a service provider. Lee is a digital communication specialist who helps women in business stop people-pleasing, get clear on their messaging, and start communicating like the business owners they are. This episode explores the tricky moments that so many VAs, OBMs and freelancers face. Think scope creep, blurred boundaries, or simply struggling to find the right words when something doesn’t feel quite right. Lee offers thoughtful, practical insights to help you communicate with more confidence and ease, while staying true to your values. You’ll hear about: 🌱 Why scope creep is often a messaging issue, not just a boundary one 🌱 How to step out of the employee mindset and show up as a business owner 🌱 The subtle language shifts that help you sound more confident and less apologetic 🌱 What it means to lead client conversations with clarity and professionalism 🌱 The importance of community, curiosity and knowing when to say “that’s not in my wheelhouse, but I’m willing to learn” Whether you're early in your VA journey or have been in business for years, this conversation is a reminder that your voice matters, and that boundaries don’t have to come at the cost of kindness. Resources and Links: 🌱 Come join Adrienne and the Seed VA community: Website: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au Instagram: @seedvirtualassistants Facebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant Community Want to learn more about the Inner Circle? The Inner Circle is our high-touch membership for VAs and OBMs who want to grow with intention, feel supported and stay connected. It includes monthly masterclasses, expert guidance and a genuinely helpful community. Learn more: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 📲 Connect with Lee Longmire: Website: www.leelongmireco.com.au Instagram: @leelongmireco 🔔 This episode is sponsored by the Virtual Assistant Lead Network. You can preview available client opportunities at www.valeadnetwork.com.au Use code FRIENDSOFSEED for 30% off your first month or year as a new member (all caps, one word) If this episode gave you something to think about or helped you feel more confident in how you communicate with clients, send it to a fellow business bestie. And don’t forget to follow the show so you never miss what’s next on Seed to Success. 🌱

    38분
  8. Ask Adrienne Anything - Your Questions Answered

    5월 8일

    Ask Adrienne Anything - Your Questions Answered

    Ever wished you could ask a fellow VA or OBM how they really do it? This episode is your chance to listen in as Adrienne answers real questions submitted by members of the Seed community, covering everything from setting boundaries with clients to building confidence when you're just starting out. In this episode, Adrienne shares grounded, practical advice drawn from nearly a decade of experience running her own VA business and mentoring others. Whether you're brand new to the industry or feeling ready to grow, you'll find support, strategy and honest encouragement in this heartfelt conversation. You’ll hear about: 🌱 How to manage client expectations and avoid scope creep 🌱 When (and how) to raise your prices or shift away from hourly rates 🌱 What to do if you don’t have testimonials yet 🌱 Habits to build now if you want to grow into a CEO role 🌱 How to future-proof your business so you can take time off 🌱 The most important advice Adrienne’s received about running a sustainable business This episode is packed with real talk and kind, thoughtful insights to help you feel more confident and supported at every stage of your journey. Resources and Links: 🌱 Come join Adrienne and the Seed VA community: Website: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au Instagram: @seedvirtualassistants Facebook Group: Seed VA – Australian Virtual Assistant Community Want to learn more about the Inner Circle? The Inner Circle is a membership for VAs and OBMs who want to grow with intention, feel supported and stay connected. It’s packed with monthly masterclasses, expert guidance and a like-minded community who truly get it. Find out more here: www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle 🔔 This episode is sponsored by the Virtual Assistant Lead Network. You can preview available client opportunities at www.valeadnetwork.com.au Use code FRIENDSOFSEED for 30% off your first month or year as a new member (all caps, one word) If this episode gave you a few aha moments or helped you feel less alone, share it with a business bestie who’d love it too. And don’t forget to follow the show so you never miss what’s coming next on Seed to Success. 🌱

    28분

소개

Welcome to Seed to Success – the podcast where I (Adrienne Donnelly) share my passion for helping women create successful, sustainable, and enjoyable Virtual Assistant businesses. With the support of incredible industry experts and an amazing community, I offer helpful resources, valuable advice, and inspirational stories that equip you with the skills and confidence needed to set up a life-changing virtual assistant business. Learn more about Seed Virtual Assistants via www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au