Let’s be honest systems can feel like the biggest hurdle when starting your business. Between the CRMs, automation tools, and endless templates, it's easy to feel like you need it all set up before you start. But what if we told you that simplicity is the real secret?

In this episode of Virtually Free, I’m joined by the wonderful Jo Draper - a Creative Mentor and Digital Designer who’s been supporting VAs and self-led creatives to build a backend that makes business feel easier (and more fun). Jo is also a current mastermind client, business bestie, and someone who truly walks the talk when it comes to simplifying tech

Together, we’re diving into the systems conversation - what’s essential, what’s not, and how to stop overthinking your tech setup so you can actually start showing up and serving.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✔️ Why most VAs and service providers overcomplicate their systems

✔️ The common tech mistakes that waste time and money

✔️ What’s essential from day one (and what can wait)

✔️ Jo’s favourite underrated tools for simplifying your business

✔️ A look behind the scenes at Jo’s own growth from working with me in the Expansion Mastermind

About Jo Draper:

Jo is a Creative Mentor and Digital Designer for virtual assistants and self-led creatives who want clarity, confidence, and a business that finally feels like theirs. With over 30 years of experience, Jo brings a refreshing, rule-breaking approach to business - ditching formulas, adding sparkle, and helping others build systems that work.

She’s the creator of The DOTTED Path, a strategic and simple framework for growing your business with purpose. Whether it’s branding, digital tools, or custom systems — Jo helps you connect the dots so things just make sense again.

Learn more and connect with Jo:

Jo’s Website & Resources

Instagram: @dottybydesign

Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram and let us know what your biggest takeaway was (ashleethomas.vacoach) and (jo.draperau)

● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach

● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au

● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants Australia

Virtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.

Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.

New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

What worked online a few years ago? It’s likely out.In this episode, Ishares the real trends worth paying attention to in 2025, and the ones to finally let go of. From content strategy and launch planning to messaging and visibility, this is the update your marketing plan needs.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✔️ What’s in for online marketing in 2025

✔️ The mindset shift behind slow, sustainable launches

✔️ Why community content > polished perfection

✔️ Permission-based selling and what it really looks like

✔️ The trends we’re ditching (and why)

Connect With Ashlee:

Apply for the Expansion Mastermind: VA Expansion Mastermind

Follow on Instagram:ashleethomas.vacoach

Explore other ways to work together: www.ashleethomas.com.au

● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach

● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au

● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants Australia

Virtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.

Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.

New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

Tech overwhelm is real but it doesn’t have to stop you from growing your business. In this episode, I’m walking you through my current tech stack: the no-fluff, easy-to-use tools I recommend for VAs and service providers who want to run a smooth business backend without wasting time (or money) on stuff you don’t need.

If you’ve ever Googled “best tools for VAs” and left more confused than when you started, this is for you.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✔️ My go-to platforms for client onboarding, payments & scheduling

✔️ Free (or low-cost) tools that are beginner-friendly

✔️ The difference between “essential” vs “nice to have” tech

✔️ How to keep your backend systems simple but scalable

✔️ The exact tech stack we recommend inside VA Mastery

CTA Links & Resources:

→ Join VA Mastery (doors open now!) We have a few spots remaining VA Mastery

Learn other ways I can support you here www.ashleethomas.com.au

Follow on IG - www.instagram.com/ashleethomas.vacoach

● Instagram: ashleethomas.vacoach

● Website: www.ashleethomas.com.au

● Join the community: Startup Virtual Assistants Australia

Virtually Free is the go-to podcast for virtual assistants, online service providers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build profitable, flexible businesses that support their lives—not consume them.

Hosted by VA coach and business mentor Ashlee Thomas, each episode is filled with real talk, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you scale sustainably, ditch the hustle mentality, and grow with ease.

New episodes released weekly. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!