The EA Campus Podcast

When your Executive is out of the office, your role doesn’t slow down — it shifts gears. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, Nicky Christmas shares practical strategies for managing both sides of the job: supporting your Executive on the road and keeping the office moving in their absence. From setting clear communication rhythms and decision boundaries to running a triage inbox and planning a smooth re-entry, this episode is packed with grounded, tactical advice you can apply straight away. You’ll learn how to: If you’ve ever been told, “Now the boss is travelling you can put your feet up,” this episode will prove just how wrong that is. Show Notes Upcoming Events Lead Virtual Summit – 26 SeptemberCommunity Webinar – 30 SeptemberCalm Under Pressure Masterclass – 10 OctoberChatGPT for Executive Assistants Masterclass – 24 OctoberStrategic Time Management Masterclass – 30 October The EA Campus

In this Q&A, Courtney Salas joins me to unpack what it really takes to succeed as an Executive Assistant in a fast-paced tech startup. From organising constant change to stepping confidently into a strategic partnership, Courtney shares honest stories from life inside a 40-something-person scale-up—where there are no playbooks, just problems to solve and opportunities to grab. You’ll hear how Courtney: Listen if you’re: Curious about moving into tech, keen to elevate your remit beyond the “basics,” or ready to use tools and workflows to free up time for genuinely strategic work. Highlights Tools and Resources: Google CalendarCalendly ChatGPTSlackResources & next steps If you’re working towards a strategic partnership, explore our Strategic Business Partner course and check what’s coming up on The EA Campus events calendar. You’ll find masterclasses, summits, and community sessions designed to support you at every stage. Enjoy the episode, and if it resonates, share it with an EA who’s ready for their next leap. The EA Campus

In this episode, I’m joined by Microsoft Office maestro Shelley Fishel, founder of Tomorrow’s VA. Shelley has spent decades training assistants to get brilliant results with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and now, of course, Microsoft Copilot. We dig into what’s genuinely useful right now, what’s coming next, and how EAs can lead the conversation on AI without losing sight of the fundamentals. Shelley shares how she uses Copilot daily (from redrafting tricky emails to prioritising the inbox and summarising meetings), why core skills like slide masters and brand-safe templates still matter, and how to make the most of lesser-known gems across Microsoft 365. We also talk mindset—staying curious, learning out loud, and saying “yes” then figuring it out—plus the big question: Will AI replace EAs? (Short answer: no. Nuance, judgment, and calendar strategy still need a human.) What you’ll learn: Tools, features & terms mentioned: Perfect for: Executive Assistants who want clear, real-world ways to work smarter with Microsoft 365 and lead on AI - without the hype. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts or on The EA Campus website. The EA Campus

Managing your Executive’s inbox isn’t just about clearing emails - it’s about saving them time, reducing stress, and protecting their reputation. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas shares the essential first conversation you should have with your Executive about email management. We’ll explore: who replieshow oftenstress pointspriority sendersThis isn’t about hitting inbox zero. It’s about building trust, setting boundaries, and showing the strategic value you bring as an Assistant. Tune in and discover how a simple conversation about emails can transform the way you work with your Executive. Events: https://theeacampus.com/events/ The EA Campus

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we explore one of the most overlooked but powerful dynamics in the Executive Assistant role: the ability to be both interested and interesting. Nicky shares personal stories and honest reflections on how curiosity and personality can shape your career path—from missed promotions in roles that felt uninspiring, to thriving in environments where she connected with the work and the people around her. You’ll learn: Plus, don’t miss this week’s freebie: our Elevator Pitch for EAs, a guide to confidently explain your role in any setting. Download it now at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep73 Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/ CONNECT WITH US: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook 🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES: https://theeacampus.com/resources/ https://theeacampus.com/online-course/ The EA Campus

When your Executive’s calendar is bursting at the seams, it’s tempting to feel responsible, like somehow, you should have prevented the chaos. But guilt doesn’t belong in your job description. In this episode, we’re flipping the script on calendar management and giving you the tools to start strategic conversations that lead to real change. We’re diving into: You’ll walk away with 10 practical conversation starters (and yes, there’s a free template!) to help you uncover what’s really driving the diary, and how to make smarter decisions with your Executive, not just for them. 🎧 Plus, this week’s free download includes a script and toolkit you can use straight away: theeacampus.com/podcast/ep72 Whether your Exec thrives on the hustle or is teetering on burnout, this episode will help you start the conversations that matter. Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/ CONNECT WITH US: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook 🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES: https://theeacampus.com/resources/ https://theeacampus.com/online-course/ The EA Campus

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re diving into the real-life juggle of supporting multiple executives—because yes, it’s a lot. But with the right systems, honest conversations, and a bit of forward planning, it can be done without losing your mind (or your lunch break). I’m sharing the strategies that have helped me stay on top of it all, plus we’ve got brilliant insights from Natalie Egan, Senior Executive Assistant & Operations Lead, International Communications at Salesforce. Natalie knows what it takes to manage several high-level stakeholders at once, and she’s generously shared her tried-and-tested approaches with us. We cover: 🎁 Plus, we’re giving away a free Daily Briefing Document to help you manage tasks, priorities, and updates for each of your execs. Download it at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep71 Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/ CONNECT WITH US: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook 🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES: https://theeacampus.com/resources/ https://theeacampus.com/online-course/ The EA Campus

Ever feel like your brain has 47 tabs open – and not a single one is loading properly? In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, I’m sharing 10 real ChatGPT prompts I use every week to streamline my business, clarify my thinking, and save serious time – and I promise, they’re not just for techies. Whether you're writing tricky emails, planning events, building SOPs, or just trying to get your head straight for a 1:1, there’s something in here you’ll want to borrow (and make your own). We’ll talk about how ChatGPT can become your second brain – not to replace your skills as an Assistant, but to amplify them. I’ll show you how to adapt these prompts for your own role or even share them with your Executive to help them work smarter too. Plus, I’ve created a free EA ChatGPT Prompt Sheet to go with this episode – packed with examples you can copy, tweak and try straight away. Grab it at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep70. In this episode: Whether you’re just starting with AI or already dabbling, this is a practical, jargon-free guide to using ChatGPT in a way that makes sense for you as an EA. Learn and master the skills you need to be an incredible Assistant ➔ https://theeacampus.com https://theeacampus.com/newsletter/ CONNECT WITH US: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook 🛠 MORE COURSES AND RESOURCES: https://theeacampus.com/resources/ https://theeacampus.com/online-course/ The EA Campus

As Executive Assistants, we’re no strangers to juggling a hundred things at once, but how often do we stop and ask: Is this a task, or am I actually running a project? In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we are diving into why recognising the difference between tasks and project work matters more than you might think. We’ll talk about how to spot project work in your day-to-day, why the language you use can completely change how others see your role, and how to start framing your contributions in a more strategic way, without adding loads of admin to your plate. You’ll walk away with a simple framework for thinking about your projects (yes, they are projects!) and the confidence to say, “I delivered this” - because you did. EA Insight of the Week: A small shift in language can lead to a big shift in impact. The EA Campus

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas sits down with Gisele Karame-Kemp for a candid and inspiring Day in the Life conversation. Gisele joins us from Sydney, Australia, where she leads a global team of Executive and Administrative Assistants at Atlassian. With a career that’s taken her from the University of Sydney to the private investment world supporting Lachlan Murdoch, and five and a half years as EA to Atlassian’s CEO, Gisele shares the real story behind her career evolution—and what it’s like to go from EA to people manager in a fast-paced tech environment. We talk about: lookGisele brings a refreshing blend of insight, humility, and humour to this conversation—whether you're an EA exploring your next step, or a leader supporting others in their careers, you’ll take so much away from this episode. Resources and links mentioned: Feel Better, Live Morehttps://theeacampus.com/events The EA Campus

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re taking a deep dive into the Eisenhower Matrix — specifically the quadrant that too often gets overlooked: important but not urgent work. As Executive Assistants, it’s easy to get caught in the whirlwind of urgent requests, Slack pings, and last-minute diary dramas. But real strategic impact? That lives in Quadrant 2. Join Nicky Christmas as she explores how EAs can protect time for the work that improves processes, builds trust, and prevents future fires — all without needing a crisis to prioritise it. You’ll learn how to schedule and defend deep work time, link your projects to long-term goals, and frame your accomplishments to reflect the real value you bring. 💡 Related Reading: 👉 Mastering Prioritisation as an Executive Assistant with the Eisenhower Matrix 📅 Upcoming Events Mentioned: 🚀 Innovate Virtual Summit – AI & Automation for Assistants (11th July) 💻 Microsoft Office Essentials and AI Masterclass with Shelley Fishel (25th July) Whether you’re planning ahead, refining your systems, or just trying to make space for the work that really matters, this episode is for you. The EA Campus

Ever wish you had a clear roadmap for working seamlessly with your Executive? In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas guides you through the powerful process of creating an Executive User Guide - a strategic tool that captures everything you need to know about your Executive’s preferences, communication style, and leadership approach. From defining how they like to receive updates to understanding their management style, Nicky breaks down each section with practical tips and real-world examples. You’ll learn how to: Plus, don’t miss the free download to help you get started: the Executive User Guide Template, available at theeacampus.com/podcast/ep66. This episode is a must-listen for any Assistant who wants to build a stronger partnership with their Executive and elevate their impact. Tune in and discover how to take the guesswork out of working together! The EA Campus

In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we sit down with freelance Executive Assistant Kaitlin Bekken for one of our ever-popular Day in the Life conversations. Caitlyn shares her journey into the EA world, how she transitioned into freelancing, and what a typical day looks like supporting multiple clients across industries. From managing inboxes and booking complex travel to using AI tools like ChatGPT and NVO to streamline her workflow, Caitlyn walks us through the systems and mindset that keep her on top of her game. We also dive into the importance of knowing your own working capacity, how to build strong remote relationships with executives, and the career-defining power of problem-solving and tenacity. Whether you’re an in-house EA curious about life as a freelancer, or a virtual assistant looking to refine your own approach, Caitlyn’s insights are full of practical wisdom, humour, and reassurance. In this episode: The EA Campus

Welcome to The EA Campus Podcast with your host, Nicky Christmas. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the different types of meetings your Executive attends and how you can manage them strategically to drive real progress. Here’s what we cover: 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Free Meetings Checklist Template:EA Campus Online CoursesSUMMER30Upcoming Events:Advanced Management MasterclassStrategic Time Management MasterclassAI Virtual SummitMicrosoft & AI Masterclasshttps://theeacampus.com/events/ 🗓️ Stay Connected: The EA Campus

Business travel – glamorous on Instagram, chaotic in real life. In this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, host Nicky Christmas revisits one of her most-requested topics: how to expertly plan and manage business travel for your executive. Originally recorded at her first public speaking event back in 2012 (or maybe 2013 – who’s counting?), this session has been fully updated for 2025 with all the latest tools, AI tricks, and tech tips. Whether your executive is flying long-haul or hopping on a train to a regional office, you’ll learn how to build a bulletproof itinerary that keeps them calm, collected, and exactly where they need to be. From pre-flight prep to worst-case scenario plans, we’re covering it all. Oh, and yes – we still print the itinerary. Even in 2025. In this episode, we cover: beforepurposeactually🎁 Free Download: Grab our customisable Travel Itinerary Template – complete with emergency contact checklist and pre-trip planning questions. The EA Campus

In this solo episode, host Nicky Christmas dives into a topic that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential for Executive Assistants - feedback. Not just collecting it, but organising it, categorising it, and using it to demonstrate your value, influence, and impact. We’ll unpack how to turn everyday praise into a powerful narrative you can use in performance reviews, salary conversations, and even job interviews. If you've ever struggled to explain your contribution, this episode will give you the tools—and the confidence—to make your invisible work visible. Plus, Nicky shares a free downloadable Feedback Categorisation Template to help you get started. 🔗 Download the free template here: https://theeacampus.com/podcast/ep62 🗂️ Show Notes: In this episode, you’ll learn: 💡 EA Tip of the Week: Track praise like you’d track spending. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be captured. 🎁 Resources Mentioned: Download the Feedback Categorisation Template📣 Don’t forget to: https://theeacampus.com The EA Campus

This week, we’re tackling one of the most common challenges Assistants face - getting your Executive to delegate. If your Executive insists on doing everything themselves, avoids handing off tasks, or says they simply don’t have time to show you the ropes, you're not alone. In this episode, I unpack eight key reasons why so many Executives struggle to delegate and what you can do about it. From perfectionism and fear of failure to not knowing where to start, we’ll explore the mindset behind the resistance and give you practical strategies to break through the barrier. You’ll learn how to: Plus, I’ll share tips on how to keep your Executive accountable once they start delegating. 👋 A quick heads-up before we dive in - May is a big month here at The EA Campus! Join us for the Project Management Masterclass with Mary Beth Imbarratto on Friday, 9th May, our Impact Virtual Summit on Friday, 16th May, and the Collaborative Assistant Masterclass on Friday, 30th May. We’d love to see you there! Project Management Masterclass Impact Virtual Summit Collaborative Assistant Masterclass Ready to help your Executive let go and level up? Let’s get into it! The EA Campus

From setting goals and refreshing their profile to drafting content and tracking engagement, Nicky walks you through seven practical steps to help your Executive build a personal brand on LinkedIn - without it taking over your day. Whether you're already ghostwriting posts or just starting to explore what this might look like, this episode is packed with advice, real-world EA insights, and helpful tools to make the process smoother. You don’t need to be a social media manager to add value here. You just need the right plan, the right tools, and the confidence to get started. Plus, don’t miss the bonus segment on what not to do when managing your Exec’s LinkedIn, and a reminder of the exciting events coming up on The EA Campus! 🎧 Listen now and learn: Content Planning & Scheduling: Content Creation & Design: LinkedIn-Specific Tools: Profile Optimisation: The EA Campus

In this special Admin Week episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we’re exploring one of the most important (and often most uncomfortable) topics for Executive Assistants: asking for a training budget. If you've ever felt awkward or unsure about asking for professional development support, this episode is for you. We’re unpacking the mindset shift that turns “asking for permission” into “claiming what’s already available to you” - because training isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. We cover: Plus, to celebrate Admin Week, we're offering 40% off all EA Campus online courses through April—the perfect reason to take that next step. This is your moment. You deserve professional development, and in this episode, we’ll show you how to ask for it with clarity, confidence, and purpose. The EA Campus

In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that sparked a massive response on LinkedIn - KPIs for Executive Assistants. If you've ever struggled to explain your value, felt stuck in performance reviews, or wondered how to track the impact of your work, this is the episode for you. We explain KPIs, why they matter in our role, and how you can start measuring your impact in simple, practical ways without adding to your workload. We also discuss how to use this data in one-to-ones, performance reviews, interviews, and even casual conversations with your Executive (yes, without feeling like you’re bragging!). And a huge thank you to our sponsor, Vimcal EA, for supporting this episode. Their brand-new Executive Calendar Audit feature is a game-changer for Assistants looking to save time and prove their value. Make sure to check out the free upcoming webinar! Links and Resources Mentioned Free KPI Template for Executive Assistants Vimcal EA – Executive Calendar Audit Tool Vimcal EA Webinar – Hosted by CTO Michael Zhao April 18th, 2025Recommended Tools to Track KPIsAsanaClickUpTrelloChatGPTZapierMicrosoft Power AutomateConcurExpensifyNavanGoogle FormsTypeform A word about this week's Podcast Partner - Vimcal EA. Vimcal EA is a powerful scheduling layer that integrates seamlessly with your existing Google or Outlook calendar. No switching platforms, disruptions, or learning curve. Designed specifically for EAs, Vimcal EA doesn’t replace your current system; it enhances it. Once connected, all your existing events sync and you can begin managing your executives’ calendars with more precision, fewer clicks, and way less back-and-forth. The EA Campus