Renee Hastings is the President and CEO of Executive Help Now, a virtual assistance service. She and her cohort of managers, specialists, podcast producers, and executive assistants provide administrative support, video podcast production support, and business consulting services to small business owners, content creators, show hosts, and busy executives. Renee’s entrepreneurial journey started in 1996. Against all odds, she holds a degree in Business Management, she’s been a Dale Carnegie Leadership Training Coach, and she’s appeared on NBC’s KCRA News 3 discussing the pandemic, business owners, and virtual assistance. Renee is now a sought-after inspirational speaker, podcast host, successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Small Group Bible Study Coach leading women along their spiritual journey. Leveraging over 15 years of administrative and business experience, Renee and her team give busy executives the ability to: eat more meals at home; take more vacations, and increase their productivity… because life’s too short to schedule your own meetings, book your own travel, find your own guests, produce your own show, and check your own email!

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

• How Renee Hastings transitioned from receptionist to CEO of Executive Help Now.

• The evolution of her virtual assistant business and the tailored packages offered.

• Key strategies for matching virtual assistants with clients to reduce burnout.

• A powerful success story of streamlining business operations for an overwhelmed client.

• The role of trust-building and technology in optimizing VA-client collaborations.

• Practical insights into the benefits of using virtual assistant services to boost efficiency.

In this episode featuring Renee Hastings, President and CEO of Executive Help Now, host Chad Gill delves into Renee's extensive 15+ years in business management and her journey from starting as a receptionist to founding her own virtual assistance business. The conversation highlights the evolution of her company, which began with hiring her first virtual assistant to manage growing workloads and has since developed tailored packages for clients. Renee shares success stories, including how her services transformed a client’s overwhelmed business operations, emphasizing the importance of finding the right match between virtual assistants (VAs) and clients to reduce burnout. The dialogue also covers the critical role of trust and technology in the VA-client relationship, advocating for flexibility and gradual trust-building as essential components of successful collaborations.

Outline:

️Introduction and Background [00:02 - 11:03]

Virtual Assistant Business Growth [11:03 - 20:14]

Client Success Stories and VA Benefits [20:14 - 28:38]

Trust, Technology, and VA Integration [28:38 - 35:20]

Follow Renee Hastings here:

Website: https://executivehelpnow.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/

Renee Speaks Podcast on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ReneeHastings

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/executivehelpnow/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExecutiveHelpNow

X (formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/executivehelpnw

James Benham, the co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge, a multinational tech company he bootstrapped from his college dorm to over 280 employees across three continents. James has been at the forefront of innovation, leading JBKnowledge to develop industry-leading software for the world’s largest insurance companies. He’s also the co-founder of Terra, a cutting-edge claims management software transforming the Property and Casualty insurance space. Beyond his work in tech, James is a bestselling author, host of the popular InsurTech Geek Podcast, and a sought-after speaker who’s taken the stage at over 400 conferences, including TEDx. In his spare time, James pursues many hobbies including flying airplanes, ballroom dancing, playing guitar, singing and geeking out on tech. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • James Benham's journey from bootstrapping JBKnowledge to leading a global tech company • Evolution from general enterprise software to specialized insurance tech solutions • The impact of Terra software in managing workers' compensation for construction groups • Advantages of self-insured groups (SIGs) for cost-saving and incentivizing safety • Key technologies in accident prevention, including AI and safety training tools • Common construction claims and strategies for reducing ladder and fall-related incidents • Challenges in construction, like low tech adoption and policy lapses among subcontractors • How self-insurance options can offer contractors financial benefits and improved coverage In the latest episode of the Get the Intel podcast hosted by Chad Gill, James Benham, co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge, shares his journey from bootstrapping a tech company in a college dorm to leading a successful enterprise with 280 employees across three continents. He discusses his evolution in the software industry, transitioning from building general enterprise solutions to creating specialized products like Terra for the insurance sector, particularly focusing on workers' compensation. James Benham explains the benefits of self-insured groups (SIGs) and the importance of safety training and technology in accident prevention, with insights on common claims in construction and the pivotal role of innovative solutions like AI in enhancing workplace safety. He highlights the challenges faced in the construction industry, such as low technology adoption and policy under coverage, suggesting that contractors investigate self-insurance groups for cost-saving opportunities.

Follow James Benham here:

Website: jamesbenham.com

James Benham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbenham/

JBKnowledge Website: https://jbknowledge.com/

Terra Website: https://terra.insure/

InsurTech Geek Podcast: https://insurtechgeek.com/

Angel Kirk is a visionary leader and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the CEO and business coaching world. As the CEO of J. Lane Construction, Angel brings a wealth of knowledge in leading and running a construction company, while also coaching businesses globally through her partnership with Jesse Lane Consulting. She’s not only an expert in both the business and technical aspects of construction but also passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

• Structuring processes to address challenges in general contracting businesses.

• Importance of working on the business, not just in it.

• The delayed yet essential nature of process implementation.

• Company culture as a key factor in hiring and retention.

• Open communication and leadership in improving team dynamics.

• Fostering team adaptability to improve operational effectiveness.

• The role of personality assessments and one-on-one meetings for enhanced communication.

• Continuous improvement and problem-solving within construction organizations.

In the latest episode of the Get the Intel podcast, hosted by Chad Gill, guest Angel Kirk, a seasoned CEO and business coach with over 20 years of experience, shares her insights on the construction industry's unique challenges. As the CEO of J. Lane Construction and a partner at Jesse Lane Consulting, Angel emphasizes the importance of structuring processes within general contracting businesses to alleviate common pain points faced by owners who excel in their trades but struggle with business management. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the delayed but necessary nature of process implementation, drawing parallels to nutrition where results take time. Angel also underscores the significance of company culture and the critical role of hiring for cultural fit. She advocates for open communication and a team-oriented approach to continuously improve and address both process and people-related challenges within organizations.

Check out Angel Kirk and J. Lane Construction here:

Website: http://jlane.com

Angel Kirk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theangelkirk/

Tiffany Slowinski, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-owner of three successful franchises alongside her husband, Jake. As a mother of four spirited daughters, Tiffany finds inspiration in both her family life and professional career. With a background as a former Vice President of Sales for a national franchise, Tiffany possesses expertise in optimizing work culture and driving tangible results. Leveraging her Master's degree in Psychology from Columbia University, Tiffany integrates tools like the Culture Index to enhance team dynamics and productivity. She has a unique approach that focuses on cultivating a positive and productive workplace environment, with a particular emphasis on hiring, retaining, and empowering top performers.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
• The value of using the Culture Index to enhance communication and team productivity.
• Why understanding innate traits leads to better job fit and overall team satisfaction.
• The importance of data-driven hiring and the 92% validity rate of the Culture Index survey.
• How to tackle turnover issues and ensure the right people are in the right roles.
• Tiffany's services and how to get remote consultations to improve your team's dynamics.

In this episode, host Chad Gill interviews Tiffany Slowinski, an entrepreneur and co-owner of three franchises, who shares insights on utilizing the Culture Index to enhance team dynamics and productivity. Tiffany, with her background as a former VP of sales and a Master's degree in Psychology from Columbia University, explains how the Culture Index measures innate traits versus occupational behaviors, allowing companies to understand their teams better and optimize workplace culture without necessarily replacing staff.

The conversation highlights the significance of data-driven hiring processes, emphasizing the high validity rate of the Culture Index survey, and the importance of aligning candidate profiles with job needs. Tiffany also addresses the challenges of turnover and the costs associated with hiring misfits, advocating for the right-fit approach to staffing.

Follow Tiffany Slowinski here:
Website: https://www.teamsparkadvisors.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyslowinski/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/team_spark_advisors/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamSparkAdvisors

Resources Mentioned:
Culture Index: https://www.cultureindex.com/
Entrepreneurs’ Organization: https://hub.eonetwork.org/

JJ Levenske is the President and Co-Founder of Bleuwave, who brings over 28 years of experience in the construction and business solutions industry. Bleuwave is renowned for its comprehensive facilities-based solutions, combining capital, ecosystem, construction, and facility services to deliver innovative and sustainable projects. JJ is a passionate leader and entrepreneur, with expertise in business administration, project planning, and new business development. He also hosts the podcast MAC & Bleu, covering topics like economic development, leadership, and technology. JJ's goal is to elevate both his company and his community by sharing his valuable insights and experiences.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

• The background and rebranding of Bleuwave from its origins as School Builder.

• Bleuwave's growth strategy and their goal to reach $500 million in revenue.

• The role of technology and data management in Bleuwave's operations, including AI and VR/AR.

• Workforce development initiatives like Bleuwave University and the importance of company culture.

In this episode Chad Gill sits down with JJ Levenske, the president and co-founder of Bleuwave. JJ shares the journey of transitioning from School Builder to Bleuwave and discusses their comprehensive facilities solutions. We delve into their strategic growth plans, including the expansion into MEP services and their ambitious revenue goal of $500 million. JJ highlights the importance of technology and data management in their operations, with exciting plans to integrate AI and VR/AR technologies. Workforce development and company culture are key focuses, with initiatives like Bleuwave University and a strong emphasis on hiring for attitude.

Follow J.J. Levenske here:

Website: https://bleuwave.com/

Podcast https://macandbleu.com/

Bleuwave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bleuwave/

J.J. on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjlevenske/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQRNQbgnEMbXz25w6ZVn7BQ

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bleuwavegeneralcontracting/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bleuwaveconstruction/

Janna Colucci, the CEO and Co-Founder of Bundle, a construction materials procurement platform that enables project teams to run their materials purchasing process at 10x speed while providing 10-20% cost savings on every project. Prior to Bundle, Janna was a vice president at wellness real estate startup, Delos, where she project-managed healthy and sustainable building projects. She has also spent time working in modular construction and was one of the co-creators of Mindful MATERIALS. Janna received her BA from Dartmouth College and her MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

• Janna's journey from environmental studies to co-founding Bundle

• The vision and concept behind Bundle's streamlined procurement process

• How Bundle boosts workflow efficiency and provides significant cost savings

• Managing data for better pricing, forecasting, and documentation

• Facilitating access and communication with regional and national suppliers

In this episode: Chad Gill hosts Janna Colucci, CEO and co-founder of Bundle, a platform that aims to streamline the procurement process for construction materials by offering real-time pricing, lead times, and availability from vendors. Bundle provides significant cost savings on materials and supports both standardized products and custom quotes. The platform also helps builders manage their procurement data, offers direct communication between builders and suppliers, and various payment options.

Follow VAs4Construction here:
Website: https://www.vas4construction.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vas-4-construction/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vas4construction/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560725886770
X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/vasconstruction?s=21

Follow Janna Colucci and Bundle here:
Website: http://www.bundle.build
Book a demo or sign up for an account on Bundle: https://projects.bundle.build/signup/01J2GE306CYEKHZ6Q8S10X1254
Bundle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bundlesolutionsinc/
Janna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwc2021/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bundle.build

In this GSA series, host Chad Gill talks with Nathan Donaldson, founder and CEO of Boost. Nathan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his work in change management and his involvement in the Global Speakers Academy series. The interview focused on implementing changes and KPI's, creating a safe to fail environment, the importance of managing change within organizations, and Nathan's book on change management.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
• Nathan's motivation for writing his book on change management, the three essential habits or mindsets for effective change and the power of small, incremental changes for significant impact.
• How small changes can quickly and effectively spread through organizations.
• The difference between creating a safe to fail environment and a fail-safe environment.
• Insights into Nathan's book 'Unicorns and Rainbows,' and the significance of managing change within organizations.