Advertise on podcast: Exceptional Admins | A Podcast for Assistants

What happens when you spend two decades observing how executives and administrative professionals actually work? That question sits at the heart of my new book, The Proximity Advantage: Seeing More, Learning More, Becoming More in Executive Operations. For this conversation, I handed the questions over to a friend and let her interview me about the ideas behind the book—where they came from, what I’ve learned from more than 7,500 conversations with administrative professionals and 400+ one-on-one conversations with leaders, and why I believe proximity may be one of the most overlooked career advantages in executive operations. We talk about what administrative professionals are exposed to simply because of where they sit, what leaders have taught me about the profession, and why building a fulfilling and impactful career doesn’t always require adding something more. Sometimes, the opportunity is learning how to better leverage what’s already in play. If you’re an executive assistant, administrative professional, or someone building a career in executive operations, I hope this conversation gives you a glimpse into the thinking behind the book—and encourages you to consider what your own proximity may already be teaching you. Learn more about The Proximity Advantage and get your copy: https://amzn.to/45WKnkt

SUMMARY: A love letter to the admin profession. INTENTION: Recap the last 5-years and spark excitement for what's ahead. EXCERPT: "You're amazing!" Hilani RESOURCES: LinkedIn Post - ea Merch Building Your Personal Brand Course (Code: 30_MYBRAND - exp: 12/31/25) NEWSLETTER: Never miss what's happening: Subscribe Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Outreach: LinkedIn Community Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that highlights the good, the bad, and the dirty from headhunting over the last 8 years. INTENTION: To offer the listener a behind the scene look of what it's like running EA. EXCERPT: "Did she show up drunk to work?" Hilani NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check-In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that dives deep into the topic of cognitive (over)load. INTENTION: To offer the listener expertise, via our guest Dr. Heather Collins, Ph.D, insights and options for understanding and minimizing cognitive overload. EXCERPT: "There is no evidence that says there's a limit to our brain capacity." Heather NEWSLETTER: Receive our bi-monthly 60-second Industry check-in Newsletter Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that highlights the importance of career planning, setting yourself apart, and confirming how you want to show up. INTENTION: To offer the listener inspiration through an update story with a prior guest career update. EXCERPT: "No may mean, not right now." Porchae NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check-In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An insightful episode that was sparked by four independent conversations about how to elevate the way HR sees admin employees. INTENTION: Over the last 45-days, four different admins reached out to talk about (essentially) the same thing. Be seen by HR as more than an admin. EXCERPT: "It's about expansion, not growth" Hilani RESOURCES: Professional Development Workbook Assessments WTF Episode Doing a Career Audit Episode Personal Branding Episode Lynda.com NEWSLETTER: Subscribe Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Outreach: LinkedIn Community Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that highlights the importance of confidence, influence, and impact. INTENTION: To offer the listener inspiration so they too can grow their confidence, influence and impact. EXCERPT: "I encourage you to step in and lean into your worth and impact." Chelsea NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check-In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that discloses great tips on creating a trajectory in your career. INTENTION: The host and guest cover career evolution strategies to help you do the same with your career. EXCERPT: "Having some form of tolerance with risk is helpful." Beth NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check-In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that delivers valuable insights into the work style of an admin with ADHD. INTENTION: To put a spotlight on ADHD and working in an admin role, while sharing ideas on how to thrive. EXCERPT: "How I show up daily, my attitude, my reactions, and my responses to situations matter." Erikah MENTIONED: ea University  Tactical to Strategic (Mary's Episode) The Collective (DeeDee Episode) Mayo Clinic Resource: ADHD NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check-In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An insightful episode that sheds light on best practices to help you with your job search. INTENTION: To offer unconventional tips that help you experience traction with your job search (whether actively or passively looking). EXCERPT: "Enthusiasm is compelling when connecting with an employer." Hilani RESOURCES: Professional Development Workbook Assessments WTF Episode Doing a Career Audit Episode Personal Branding Episode NEWSLETTER: Subscribe Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Outreach: LinkedIn Community Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that showcases how Christian faith can have a positive effect on your role, career, and life pursuits. INTENTION: The host and guest picked their top 4 scriptures, so they could discuss how each ties to living more purpose at work and in life. EXCERPT: "1 Peter 5:5-6 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time." Mallory MENTIONED: 1 Peter 4:10 Colossians 3:23-24 Proverbs 17:22 2 Timothy 2:23-24 (Titus 3:9-11) 2 Peter 1:5-6 Luke 16:10 Joshua 1:9 1 Peter 5:5-7 Luke 12:25 Songs: Quiet + Lead Me On YouVersion Bible App The Bible Recap NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check-In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Free, self-development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that gives powerful insights into creating career momentum. This is done through taking risks, being comfortable with the uncomfortable, and how the gift (power) of networking is a regular activity you should include in your career strategy plan. INTENTION: To offer unique insights from someone who's embraced taking risks and experienced the power of networking. EXCERPT: "Taking a moment to reflect, I'm not the worst at this, I'm really good. " Becky MENTIONED: Assessments (Learn Your Risk Tolerance and more) Helper's High Exceptional Admins Jobs EA Social Club NEWSLETTER: Receive our Friday 60-second Industry Check In Emails Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Free, self development on your own time HERE ea Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that highlights the importance of building your personal brand to build confidence and propel forward in your career. INTENTION: Shed light on the power of building your personal brand. EXCERPT: "Think about your key strengths and write them out on a big piece of paper." Carissa MENTIONED: Admin and influence blog. NEWSLETTER: Subscribe Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Start Development Today, on Your Own Time, for Free HERE Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lasting human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.

SUMMARY: An insightful episode that sheds light on why you should do a career audit and a support tool to help you propel in your career. INTENTION: To offer the listener candor on an important topic that needs airtime and direction. EXCERPT: "Finding clarity is key." Hilani NEWSLETTER: Subscribe Here DISCOVER: Do Career Audit Website: Exceptional Admins Outreach: LinkedIn Community Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page DEVELOPMENT: Check out our workbooks, assessments, and guides.

SUMMARY: An engaging conversation that highlights the importance of having inspirational people in your circle, how important adaptability is to thrive (and survive), and learning never stops. INTENTION: Hearing from someone who's faced challenges, yet overcame them, helps inspire others to keep going. EXCERPT: "So much about your career is about being open to learning and excited about developing." Madison MENTIONED: Friendship episode #113 Helping you Emotionally Win the Day episode #116 Triple B: Be Bright, Be Brief, Be Gone NEWSLETTER: Subscribe Here DISCOVER: Website: Exceptional Admins Community: LinkedIn Reading: Book Page Social: Instagram Be a Guest on the Show: Form Bottom of Page OFFERINGS: Start Development Today, on Your Own Time, for Free HERE Courses: ea School - Course Topics: Resume + Build Your Personal Brand SPONSOR: The Receptionist for iPad Automate what should be automated and let humans do what they do best - create that lastly human connection. Achieve higher efficiency by adding 'The Receptionist for iPad’ system to your visitor check-in process -visit TheReceptionist.com/YourFrontDeskPartner As an added bonus, the first month of software is free as an Exceptional Admins community listener. Join the ranks of those who are revolutionizing processes while maintaining a stellar first impression.