In this episode of The Admin Avenues Podcast, I sit down with Samantha Cox, globally experienced executive support professional, Founder of Samantha Cox International, and former EA to Sir Richard Branson during her tenure on Necker Island.

Sam takes us inside the whirlwind world of supporting one of the most dynamic leaders on the planet, sharing the lessons she learned, the strategies she used to stay centred, and how those experiences shaped her career in high-stakes executive and VIP support.

We explore her transition from executive assistant to leading VIP guest experiences at global brands like Hard Rock Hotels and Seminole Gaming, her leap into entrepreneurship, and the exciting projects she’s working on now - including her upcoming book!

You’ll also get a sneak peek of her keynote for the Admin Avenues Conference, Calm in the Chaos: Thriving in High-Stakes Executive & VIP Support, and the mindset shifts she hopes every attendee will take away.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• What it’s really like to work alongside Sir Richard Branson
• How to stay calm when everything around you is moving at lightning speed
• Misconceptions about working with high-net-worth individuals and celebrities
• The highs and lows of working as an Executive Assistant to one of the most recognised leaders in the world
• Why Sam launched Samantha Cox International and the services she provides
• A sneak peek into her book and what she hopes readers will gain
• Practical advice for admins aspiring to work in high-profile, high-pressure roles

This episode is packed with fascinating stories, career insights, and practical tips for thriving in the most demanding support roles - all delivered with Sam’s trademark warmth and candour.

Connect with Sam via LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthalcox

To find out more about Samantha Cox International or to connect with Sam for speaking, training or coaching click here: https://scinternational.com.au

In this episode, Candice sits down with Rachael Bonetti, a former C-suite EA turned coach, speaker, speaker, corporate trainer, mentor and advocate for admin professionals. Known for her honest, deep insights, and passion for changing the narrative, Rachael shares her journey from burnout to breakthrough, and why now is the moment for EAs to step up, stand out, and rewrite the rules.

With decades of experience supporting global CEOs, Rachael now helps admin professionals thrive with boundaries, confidence, and clarity. From her own experience walking away from burnout to building a purpose-led business, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck or striving for more.

In This Episode:

• Rachael’s career journey from high-pressure EA roles to purpose-driven entrepreneur
• Her personal story of burnout - and how it transformed her definition of success
• What needs to shift in how the admin profession is supported and recognised
• How admins can transition from reactive to strategic partners (if they want to!)
• Practical advice on setting boundaries without guilt
• What “sustainable success” looks like in today’s admin landscape
• Rachael’s tips for admin professionals at a career crossroads

Rachael shares powerful messages for every admin professional wondering what’s next, and why your potential is bigger than your job title.

The Admin Avenues Conference:

Rachael gives us a taste of her upcoming keynote “The Next-Gen EA”, which she’ll be presenting at the Admin Avenues Conference on Monday 20 October in Sydney. She breaks down:

• Why the profession is at a defining fork in the road
• The shifts shaping the next decade of executive support
• How EAs can position themselves as high-impact, strategic leaders

More details on the conference here:https://www.eventcreate.com/e/adminavenuesconference

AIOP Awards Gala:

We also chat about the return of the national AIOP Awards and why it’s time to celebrate admin excellence on a grand stage once again. If you haven’t nominated yet - get cracking here:https://www.cognitoforms.com/AustralianInstituteOfOfficeProfessionals/_2025AustralianInstituteOfOfficeProfessionalsAwards

Connect with Rachael Bonetti:

• Website & courses: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-bonetti-4b46561a
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachaelbonetti
• Podcast: Re-Write The Playbook https://open.spotify.com/show/28iQoCzbdDveiwHqRPipo9 (available on all platforms)

In this episode of The Admin Avenues Podcast, I sit down with Heather Batchelor FAIOP, a true stalwart of the admin profession with an incredible 40-year career - to talk about leadership, legacy, and breathing new life into one of Australia’s oldest professional associations, the Australian Institute of Office Professionals (AIOP).

Heather opens up about her journey from her first admin role to becoming National President of AIOP during one of its most challenging chapters. She shares the bold decisions, difficult changes, and strategic partnerships that helped turn things around, and why collaboration across the admin profession is key to its future.

This conversation is full of insights, history, and inspiration for anyone passionate about elevating our profession.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Heather’s 40-year admin journey and the milestones that shaped her career
• Why she said “yes” to leading AIOP when it was at a crossroads
• The most challenging and rewarding changes made to ensure AIOP’s survival
• The vision and strategy behind the AIOP rebrand
• How collaboration with organisations like Admin Avenues has strengthened the profession
• Heather’s hopes for the future of AIOP and advice for future admin leaders

If you care about legacy, leadership, and making an impact in your profession, you’ll love this episode.

Listen now and be inspired to lead change in your own corner of the admin world.

To learn more about AIOP - click here: https://aiop.com.au

To find out more about the AIOP Awards - click here:https://www.eventcreate.com/e/the-2025-aiop-awards-gala-dinner

To nominate an Australian admin for the 2025 AIOP awards - click here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/AustralianInstituteOfOfficeProfessionals/_2025AustralianInstituteOfOfficeProfessionalsAwards

To see the AIOP video of the Brisbane event (proudly shot by our sponsors of this AIOP event Tempus Media) - click here: https://aiop.com.au/resources/AIOP-Website%20Members%20Video.mp4

You can connect with Heather on her LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-batchelor-faiop-77002b35/