Tune into Make Space for More as host Melissa Swink interviews brand photographer Julie Gile, who shares her journey from personal tragedy to professional success. Julie discusses the importance of storytelling in brand photography – especially the need for strategy and intentionality in capturing visuals that resonate with clients. 

You’ll learn tips and tricks for working with clients, the difference between headshots and lifestyle branding, and the significance of investing in growth through coaching and team building. Julie also provides valuable insights into preparing for a brand photo shoot and how to use your visuals for effective marketing. 

Key Highlights:

• Brand photography is not just about taking pretty pictures. Intentional brand photos help you tell your unique story and connect with your audience.
• It’s OK to let your personality shine! Lifestyle branding photos capture the real you, helping ideal clients feel like they already know and trust you.
• When your visuals match your business goals, magic happens. Smart visual storytelling can transform your marketing strategy.
• Great brand photos start with understanding what makes your clients tick: What are their dreams, values, and target audience?
• Growing a successful business is a journey. Get tips for investing in professional development and how Julie has surrounded herself with the right team. 
• Want to feel amazing in front of the camera? Tune in for advice about preparing yourself and your mindset for your next photoshoot, so your brand photos will capture the authentic essence of your business.

About Our Guest: 

Meet Julie of Julie M Gile Photography: a brand- and commercial-photographer who’s boosted over 500 businesses by turning visuals into emotional connection. Her studio kicks off with expert strategy and ends with images that feel authentic, alive, and unmistakably human. She builds not just pretty but profitable images that connect your story. Let’s dive in. Julie offers a free 30 min Brand Strategy Session to clarify your brand’s top goals, and give you smart, actionable ways to implement these. Contact Julie here for more information: https://www.juliemgilephotography.com/let-s-connect

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and...]]>Episode Summary

Tune into Make Space for More as host Melissa Swink interviews brand photographer Julie Gile, who shares her journey from personal tragedy to professional success. Julie discusses the importance of storytelling in brand photography – especially the need for strategy and intentionality in capturing visuals that resonate with clients. 

You’ll learn tips and tricks for working with clients, the difference between headshots and lifestyle branding, and the significance of investing in growth through coaching and team building. Julie also provides valuable insights into preparing for a brand photo shoot and how to use your visuals for effective marketing. 

Key Highlights:

• Brand photography is not just about taking pretty pictures. Intentional brand photos help you tell your unique story and connect with your audience.
• It’s OK to let your personality shine! Lifestyle branding photos capture the real you, helping ideal clients feel like they already know and trust you.
• When your visuals match your business goals, magic happens. Smart visual storytelling can transform your marketing strategy.
• Great brand photos start with understanding what makes your clients tick: What are their dreams, values, and target audience?
• Growing a successful business is a journey. Get tips for investing in professional development and how Julie has surrounded herself with the right team. 
• Want to feel amazing in front of the camera? Tune in for advice about preparing yourself and your mindset for your next photoshoot, so your brand photos will capture the authentic essence of your business.

About Our Guest: 

Meet Julie of Julie M Gile Photography: a brand- and commercial-photographer who’s boosted over 500 businesses by turning visuals into emotional connection. Her studio kicks off with expert strategy and ends with images that feel authentic, alive, and unmistakably human. She builds not just pretty but profitable images that connect your story. Let’s dive in. Julie offers a free 30 min Brand Strategy Session to clarify your brand’s top goals, and give you smart, actionable ways to implement these. Contact Julie here for more information: https://www.juliemgilephotography.com/let-s-connect

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink chatted with tax expert Carmine Guida Jr. to explore the intricacies of tax planning and strategy for business owners. You don’t want to miss this conversation about the importance of proactive tax planning, the evolution of Carmine's business, and the impact of recent tax law changes. 

Carmine shared about the need for strong communication between accountants and clients, common misconceptions about tax deductions, and best practices for hiring employees. He also provided valuable insights on audit readiness and the importance of maintaining proper documentation. Stay to the end; you don’t want to miss helpful resources for business owners seeking to enhance their financial strategies.

Key Highlights:

• Discover why waiting until tax season to talk to your accountant might be costing you thousands in missed opportunities.
• Learn how proactive tax planning can transform your business from reactive to strategic when it comes to financial decisions.
• Understand the crucial difference between tax preparation and tax planning - and why it matters for your bottom line.
• Find out why showing more income (not less) might actually be the smart move for your business growth.
• Get the inside scoop on commonly overlooked deductions that could be game-changers for your business.
• Learn how to build a relationship with your accountant that goes beyond annual tax returns to create real financial strategy.

About Our Guest: 

Carmine Guida Jr. is a Partner at Basso & Guida, bringing over 15 years of experience in individual and business tax planning. Known for providing top-level professional advice in a clear and approachable manner, he helps clients navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. Under his leadership, Basso & Guida has been recognized as a Dan’s Papers Hall of Fame winner for Best Accounting Firm on the North and South Fork of Long Island, NY, solidifying its reputation for excellence.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink speaks with Ashly Hartmann, Vice President of R-Value Insulators, about scaling a business in the building trades industry, and the importance of aligning that business with your personal values and lifestyle. 

Tune in to hear a discussion about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the significance of team dynamics, and the necessity of delegating responsibilities. Ashly shares insights on hiring, the role that coaching has played in the business’s growth, and how having support at home can enhance productivity. The conversation also touches on the importance of networking and building relationships in business, as well as the joys of traveling and living life on one's own terms.

Key Highlights:

• Discover why aligning your business with your personal values is essential for sustainable success.
• Learn how strategic delegation and hiring support (both at work and home!) can transform your business from overwhelming to organized.
• Understand why investing in coaching might be the game-changer your business needs to reach the next level.
• Find out how successful entrepreneurs are redefining work-life balance in the construction industry.
• Get the inside scoop on building a team culture that supports both business growth and personal freedom.
• Learn why embracing failure as feedback might be your fastest path to success in the building trades.

About Our Guest: 

Ashly Hartmann, VP of R-Value Insulators serves her family and the building trades industry from her home in Northern Wisconsin. RVI provides building science education to tradespeople and homeowners by delivering efficient solutions that maximize home performance, provide overall comfort, and bring peace of mind. With an entrepreneurial spirit, Ashly continually seeks opportunities to extend the educational reach of RVI to builders and tradespeople eager to understand the science of building. Family and exploration are the cornerstones of Ashly's heart, propelling her on adventures across the globe. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave]]>Episode Summary

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink speaks with Ashly Hartmann, Vice President of R-Value Insulators, about scaling a business in the building trades industry, and the importance of aligning that business with your personal values and lifestyle. 

Tune in to hear a discussion about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the significance of team dynamics, and the necessity of delegating responsibilities. Ashly shares insights on hiring, the role that coaching has played in the business’s growth, and how having support at home can enhance productivity. The conversation also touches on the importance of networking and building relationships in business, as well as the joys of traveling and living life on one's own terms.

Key Highlights:

• Discover why aligning your business with your personal values is essential for sustainable success.
• Learn how strategic delegation and hiring support (both at work and home!) can transform your business from overwhelming to organized.
• Understand why investing in coaching might be the game-changer your business needs to reach the next level.
• Find out how successful entrepreneurs are redefining work-life balance in the construction industry.
• Get the inside scoop on building a team culture that supports both business growth and personal freedom.
• Learn why embracing failure as feedback might be your fastest path to success in the building trades.

About Our Guest: 

Ashly Hartmann, VP of R-Value Insulators serves her family and the building trades industry from her home in Northern Wisconsin. RVI provides building science education to tradespeople and homeowners by delivering efficient solutions that maximize home performance, provide overall comfort, and bring peace of mind. With an entrepreneurial spirit, Ashly continually seeks opportunities to extend the educational reach of RVI to builders and tradespeople eager to understand the science of building. Family and exploration are the cornerstones of Ashly's heart, propelling her on adventures across the globe. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this special episode of “Make Space for More,” host Melissa Swink interviews Lisa Susen-Sullivan, a seasoned real estate broker and multi-passionate entrepreneur. Tune in to hear a frank discussion of Lisa's journey into real estate, the impact of COVID-19 on the housing market, and the emotional aspects of real estate transactions. 

You’ll learn about Lisa’s experiences with outsourcing and delegation in her business, as well as her passion for travel and how she manages her side business. This episode is for you if you want to absorb wisdom about work-life balance, effective communication, and the value of seeking help to grow and scale a business.

Key Highlights:

• Discover why emotional intelligence might be your most valuable asset in building a successful real estate business.
• Learn how strategic outsourcing can transform your business from overwhelming to organized (while actually improving client service!)
• Find out why the most successful real estate professionals are choosing collaboration over competition in today's market.
• Understand how embracing technology and automation can give you the freedom to focus on what truly matters: Building relationships.
• Get the inside scoop on building multiple revenue streams while maintaining work-life balance.
• Learn why setting boundaries with technology might be the key to both better client service and personal peace.

About Our Guest: 

Lisa Susen-Sullivan is the Owner and Broker of Integrity Real Estate Team — a local, independent agency in Wisconsin. She is also President of the Lakeshore Realtors Association (LRA) and the Broker of Choice for Stepping Stone Homes, southwest Wisconsin’s largest new home builder. Colleagues and clients alike have described her as enthusiastic, communicative, and responsive — with a ‘get the job done’ attitude and great sense of humor.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this week’s “Make Space for More,” host Melissa Swink interviews Max Mednik, a serial entrepreneur and COO of Epsilon3. They discussed Max's journey in entrepreneurship, the evolution of his startups, the importance of idea generation and execution, and the challenges faced in growing a business. 

Max shares insights on networking, maintaining relationships, and staying productive as an entrepreneur. He also offers advice to aspiring founders on navigating their growth and decision-making processes. Tune in to learn practical tips from the trenches!

Key Highlights:

• Discover why successful entrepreneurship isn't just about great ideas; it's about systematic execution and validation through real customer willingness to pay.
• Learn how strategic organization and project management can transform your entrepreneurial journey from chaotic to controlled.
• Learn why wearing multiple hats isn't just a startup phase. It's a crucial skill for long-term entrepreneurial success.
• Find out how intentional networking and relationship-building lay the foundation for finding the right co-founders and opportunities.
• Get the inside scoop on how successful entrepreneurs stay productive while juggling multiple ventures and responsibilities.
• Learn why asking specific, targeted questions is your secret weapon for getting the expert guidance you need to grow.

About Our Guest: 

Max Mednik is co-founder and COO of Epsilon3, which makes process and resource management software for many mission-critical industries. He is a serial entrepreneur and software engineer. He has co-founded four startups (three of which still exist today) spanning financial technology, legal technology, and aerospace and defense.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviews Kristen Powers, the executive director of Benevolence Farm, a nonprofit focused on supporting formerly incarcerated women. Kristen shares her journey into nonprofit work, the mission of Benevolence Farm, and the challenges and growth the organization has experienced. 

Tune in to learn about the nonprofit’s approach to community support, innovative reentry programs, and the personal stories that drive their mission. Kristen also discusses her evolving role as an executive director and the tools and strategies she employs to sustain energy and focus within the nonprofit sector.

Key Highlights:

• Learn why traditional reentry programs often fall short, and how Benevolence Farm is revolutionizing the approach to supporting formerly incarcerated women.
• Discover how authentic leadership and innovative thinking can transform lives through sustainable community solutions.
• Get an inside look at navigating nonprofit leadership challenges while maintaining mission focus and preventing burnout.
• Find out how strategic planning and systems creation can help mission-driven organizations scale their impact effectively.
• Learn valuable lessons about building and maintaining community support networks that drive meaningful change.

About Our Guest: 

Kristen Powers (she/her/hers), Executive Director of Benevolence Farm, believes that we are more than our worst mistakes. As director of a rural reentry nonprofit, Kristen, who also goes by KP, is honored to work alongside formerly incarcerated women who are creating innovative reentry programs and advocating for systemic change. It is her hope that we can learn to create communities capable of addressing harm and safety together, outside of prisons and jails. Kristen loves the fact that her own life was changed by moving to a farm and now gets to work at one.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink welcomes Karen Widas, a payment solutions expert. They discuss Karen's journey into the credit card processing industry, the complexities of payment solutions for businesses, and the importance of evaluating different payment systems to save costs. 

Tune in to learn various tools and technologies that can enhance business efficiency, including QuickBooks and ChatGPT, plus signs that it’s time to reassess our payment processing methods!

Key Highlights:

• Discover why your current payment processing system might be quietly eating away at your profits, and what to do about it.
• Learn the crucial difference between flat-rate and interchange-plus pricing models, and why choosing the wrong one could cost you thousands.
• Understand how integrating the right payment solution with your existing tools can transform your business efficiency and cash flow.
• Find out how Karen builds trust with her clients through transparency and customized solutions.
• Get the inside scoop on how combining payment solutions with tools like QuickBooks and ChatGPT can streamline your entire operation.
• Learn why a "one-size-fits-all" approach to payment processing could be holding your business back from optimal growth.

About Our Guest: 

Karen Widas is a payment solutions expert who helps manufacturers, distributors and service-based businesses reduce credit card processing fees and streamline operations. Through her company, she delivers secure, transparent, and customized systems that improve cash flow and simplify PCI compliance.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink discusses the intersection of health, productivity, and business growth with guest Kymberly Klimek, PharmD, B.S, a functional medicine pharmacist. They explore how optimizing health can enhance leadership and productivity, the importance of understanding one's body, and the role of functional medicine in addressing chronic health issues. 

Kymberly shares her personal health journey, the significance of testing, and how to create personalized health plans for optimal wellness. The conversation highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health and the potential for healing through lifestyle modifications.

Key Highlights:

• Discover why your unexplained fatigue or brain fog might be holding your business back from its full potential.
• Learn how understanding your body's unique needs can transform your health and your leadership effectiveness.
• Uncover the surprising connection between hormone balance and your ability to show up powerfully in your business.
• Find out why popping supplements without proper testing is like throwing darts blindfolded, and what to do instead.
• Understand how investing in your health is more than self-care – it's a strategic business decision that impacts your bottom line.
• Learn why traditional medicine might be missing the root cause of your health challenges, and how functional medicine takes a different approach.
• Discover practical ways to optimize your energy and focus without sacrificing your busy schedule.
• Get the inside scoop on why "powering through" health issues can actually sabotage your long-term success.

About Our Guest: 

Kymberly Klimek, PharmD, B.S. is a Functional Medicine Pharmacist with advanced training in endocrinology, hormone balance, and root-cause healing. After personally overcoming years of chronic health struggles through functional and lifestyle medicine, she now helps others restore their health by addressing the whole person—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. As an enrolled member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, she integrates both science and indigenous healing perspectives to guide clients toward true, lasting wellness. Visit her website at www.innatehealingandperformance.com

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on...]]>Episode Summary

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink discusses the intersection of health, productivity, and business growth with guest Kymberly Klimek, PharmD, B.S, a functional medicine pharmacist. They explore how optimizing health can enhance leadership and productivity, the importance of understanding one's body, and the role of functional medicine in addressing chronic health issues. 

Kymberly shares her personal health journey, the significance of testing, and how to create personalized health plans for optimal wellness. The conversation highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health and the potential for healing through lifestyle modifications.

Key Highlights:

• Discover why your unexplained fatigue or brain fog might be holding your business back from its full potential.
• Learn how understanding your body's unique needs can transform your health and your leadership effectiveness.
• Uncover the surprising connection between hormone balance and your ability to show up powerfully in your business.
• Find out why popping supplements without proper testing is like throwing darts blindfolded, and what to do instead.
• Understand how investing in your health is more than self-care – it's a strategic business decision that impacts your bottom line.
• Learn why traditional medicine might be missing the root cause of your health challenges, and how functional medicine takes a different approach.
• Discover practical ways to optimize your energy and focus without sacrificing your busy schedule.
• Get the inside scoop on why "powering through" health issues can actually sabotage your long-term success.

About Our Guest: 

Kymberly Klimek, PharmD, B.S. is a Functional Medicine Pharmacist with advanced training in endocrinology, hormone balance, and root-cause healing. After personally overcoming years of chronic health struggles through functional and lifestyle medicine, she now helps others restore their health by addressing the whole person—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. As an enrolled member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, she integrates both science and indigenous healing perspectives to guide clients toward true, lasting wellness. Visit her website at www.innatehealingandperformance.com

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviews Jen Fietz, founder of Stoke RGA, who shares her journey from finance to marketing and the unique approach her company takes in helping manufacturers grow. They discuss the importance of strategic alignment, the challenges of rebranding, and the process of conducting a growth gap analysis. Tune in to discover the importance of specialized expertise in your area of business and the benefits of seeking an outside perspective when navigating business challenges.

Key Highlights:

• Authentic business growth stems from strategic alignment between marketing efforts and core business objectives.
• Manufacturers need more than traditional marketing tactics; they need a comprehensive growth strategy (including a “growth gap analysis”) that considers the entire business ecosystem.
• Gaining an outside perspective can transform your rebranding journey from daunting to strategic.
• Measuring outcomes, not just implementing ideas, is crucial for sustainable business growth.

About Our Guest: 

Jennifer leads Stoke RGA as a founder, growth architect, and fierce advocate for execution that actually delivers outcomes. A proud woman-owned business leader, she brings strategic clarity, financial rigor, and a deep respect for the manufacturing mindset to everything she does. With a background in corporate finance and years of experience advising mid-market manufacturing companies, she’s known for helping leadership teams cut through complexity, align around what matters, and build momentum that lasts. Raised in a family of manufacturers, Jen understands the pressure to perform—and leads with a sharp focus on outcomes, not ideas. At Stoke RGA, she ensures every initiative is built for impact, grounded in execution, and designed to move the needle.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviews Shelby Ashley, a fractional CFO who specializes in helping business owners understand their financials and make informed decisions. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of cash flow management, and the distinct roles of CFOs, accountants, and bookkeepers. 

Tune in to hear Shelby’s insights on when to engage a fractional CFO, the risks of ignoring financial planning, and the significance of building a strong team. The conversation also touches on Shelby's personal journey in starting her business and the resources available for early-stage entrepreneurs. You don’t want to miss these takeaways!

Key Highlights:

• Discover the crucial difference between a CFO, accountant, and bookkeeper – and why you might need all three for your business.
• Learn why understanding your cash flow is about more than just tracking expenses; it’s also about planning for sustainable growth.
• Get the inside scoop on when it's time to bring in a fractional CFO to level up your business strategy.
• Uncover how proper financial planning helps you escape the 24/7 work trap and build a business you actually love.
• Understand the power of financial forecasting in making confident business decisions (goodbye, analysis paralysis!)
• Find out why many business owners hit a growth ceiling, and how the right financial expertise can break through it.
• Learn the strategic approach to building your dream team without breaking the bank.

About Our Guest: 

Shelby Ashley is a Fractional CFO who helps business owners get clear on their numbers so they can make smarter decisions and actually enjoy running their business. She’s all about keeping things simple, paying yourself well, and building a business that doesn’t run you into the ground. Shelby lives in Huntsville, AL but serves clients all over the United States. When she's not buried in spreadsheets, she loves hanging out with her husband and four year old son. Visit her website to get a free consultation and financial assessment at www.optimizedfinancialsolutions.com. Check out Shelby’s podcast here!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviews Shelby Ashley, a fractional CFO who specializes in helping business owners understand their financials and make informed decisions. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of cash flow management, and the distinct roles of CFOs, accountants, and bookkeepers. 

Tune in to hear Shelby’s insights on when to engage a fractional CFO, the risks of ignoring financial planning, and the significance of building a strong team. The conversation also touches on Shelby's personal journey in starting her business and the resources available for early-stage entrepreneurs. You don’t want to miss these takeaways!

Key Highlights:

• Discover the crucial difference between a CFO, accountant, and bookkeeper – and why you might need all three for your business.
• Learn why understanding your cash flow is about more than just tracking expenses; it’s also about planning for sustainable growth.
• Get the inside scoop on when it's time to bring in a fractional CFO to level up your business strategy.
• Uncover how proper financial planning helps you escape the 24/7 work trap and build a business you actually love.
• Understand the power of financial forecasting in making confident business decisions (goodbye, analysis paralysis!)
• Find out why many business owners hit a growth ceiling, and how the right financial expertise can break through it.
• Learn the strategic approach to building your dream team without breaking the bank.

About Our Guest: 

Shelby Ashley is a Fractional CFO who helps business owners get clear on their numbers so they can make smarter decisions and actually enjoy running their business. She’s all about keeping things simple, paying yourself well, and building a business that doesn’t run you into the ground. Shelby lives in Huntsville, AL but serves clients all over the United States. When she's not buried in spreadsheets, she loves hanging out with her husband and four year old son. Visit her website to get a free consultation and financial assessment at www.optimizedfinancialsolutions.com. Check out Shelby’s podcast here!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink is joined by her 10-year-old daughter, Ava, for a lighthearted conversation about business! They discuss the inspiration behind Melissa's virtual assistant company, the services offered, and the evolution of her role over the years. 

Tune in to hear their conversation, which also touches on hiring practices, experiences with team members and clients, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Melissa emphasizes the importance of impact in work and shares valuable lessons learned throughout her journey. You’ll gain a unique perspective of business through the eyes of a fifth grader!

Key Highlights:

• Experience an insightful mother-daughter conversation about entrepreneurship that brings business insights down to earth. Ava brought the questions to this interview!
• Discover how Melissa's business evolved from solo consulting to leading a thriving virtual team (and why that matters!)
• Learn what really makes the perfect client relationship tick (hint: it's not just about the work).
• Enjoy some sweet (and sometimes funny!) mother-daughter moments as they discuss what it's like to run a growing company.
• Find out why making an impact - both for clients and team members - is at the heart of everything Melissa does.
• Hear straight-talk advice about what makes team members succeed or struggle in the virtual assistant world.
• Gain an understanding of how structured workdays and clear boundaries help create a thriving business. Even a 10-year-old gets it!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink shares some exciting news - she's been accepted into the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program! She pulls back the curtain on why this opportunity feels like the perfect next step for her business, and how she's preparing both herself and her team for this intensive journey.

Tune in to hear Melissa's candid thoughts on why she’s investing this time in her personal growth while still running her growing business. You'll learn how she's strategically preparing for 15-20 hours of weekly coursework (yes, you read that right!) while ensuring her clients continue receiving the exceptional support they've come to expect. Plus, she shares her vision for how this program will shape the future of Melissa Swink & Co. and benefit her entire community of clients and followers.

Key Highlights:

• Growth requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Discover why Melissa said "yes" to this transformative opportunity.
• Sometimes the best way to serve your clients better is to invest in yourself first. Learn how this program aligns with Melissa's commitment to continuous improvement.
• Want to know the secret to scaling while studying? It's all about empowering your team and creating rock-solid systems.
• Building relationships with other growth-minded entrepreneurs isn't just about networking; it's about creating a community of future possibilities.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink tackles a challenge many growing businesses face: Effective delegation. Because when delegation isn't working, it's usually not a people problem; it's a process problem. You’ll learn about the foundational systems that transform delegation from a simple task handoff into a strategic business advantage. Melissa explains how proper systems bridge the crucial gap between expectation and execution. Discover practical insights on implementing tools, documenting standard operating procedures (SOPs), and leveraging templates that create clarity and consistency. 

Whether you're struggling with delegation right now or looking to scale your business more effectively in the future, this episode provides actionable strategies to build support systems that enable sustainable growth. Learn how to create an environment where your team feels empowered, tasks are completed independently, and your business can truly scale, all through the power of systematic delegation.

Key Highlights:

• Process gaps, not people problems, are often the hidden barrier to successful delegation - addressing these systematically transforms team performance.
• Effective delegation requires a strategic foundation of tools, templates, and SOPs that bridge the gap between expectation and execution.
• When you build robust systems around delegation, you create a self-sustaining cycle of team empowerment and reduced management overhead.
• Strategic documentation transforms tribal knowledge into scalable processes, enabling faster onboarding and consistent results.
• Implementing the right project management tools creates clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes for both leaders and team members.
• Creating systematic handoff processes ensures your team understands not just the “what” but the crucial “how” and “why” behind tasks and responsibilities.
•  Well-designed templates and SOPs serve as silent team members, working 24/7 to maintain consistency and reduce decision fatigue.
• Building delegation support systems isn't just about task management. It’s about creating a framework for sustainable business growth and scalability. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviews Jay Morth, a professional ballroom dancer and dance studio owner. Jay shares his unique journey into the world of dance, starting from his childhood experiences with his father to his professional career and eventual transition into business ownership. 

Tune into their conversation to hear about mentorship, entrepreneurship challenges, the importance of community, and learning how to balance personal life and business. Melissa and Jay talked about the importance of continuous learning and the value of finding the right support system, too!

Key Highlights:

• Transforming personal challenges into professional passion can lead to unexpected entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Strategic mentorship and industry connections prove valuable in bridging the gap between artistic talent and business acumen.
• Creating a supportive community environment is essential for sustainable business growth and personal fulfillment.
• Implementing effective delegation strategies, including outsourcing key tasks, enables focused business leadership.
• Maintaining a harmonious work-life integration is crucial for long-term entrepreneurial success.
• Investing in continuous professional development keeps both business innovation and personal passion alive.

About Our Guest: 

Jay owns and instructs at Ballroom by Jay, which is a Ballroom Dance Studio in Green Bay WI. He has competed professionally in American Smooth in the Midwest where he and his partner were finalists. Jay offers a complimentary 1st dance lesson. Visit his website at www.ballroombyjay.com

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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You’re in for a treat with this week’s podcast episode! Host Melissa Swink interviewed Shanne Soulier, founder of Big Spirit Inc. They discussed how to grow a business intentionally, the challenges of starting and managing a company, and the importance of building a supportive team. Shanne shared his journey from freelancing to establishing a successful marketing firm, emphasizing the value of relationships, coaching, and effective systems. Listen to learn about the significance that promotional products have on client engagement and the need for a balanced work structure.

Key Highlights:

• Building intentional business growth requires a strategic balance of relationship nurturing and operational excellence.
• Transitioning from solo entrepreneur to team leader becomes seamless when leveraging freelance and part-time talent strategically.
• Investing in targeted coaching and mentorship accelerates business growth by providing structured guidance and accountability.
• Creating effective systems and workflows allows business owners to shift from working in their business to working on their business.
• Implementing a structured weekly schedule optimizes productivity while maintaining quality client relationships.

About Our Guest: 

Driven to help promote the prosperity of his community, Shanne Soulier founded

Big Spirit Inc in 2012, a marketing firm that Brings Visions to Life Through Culturally Conscious Marketing Solutions. At Big Spirit, we help organizations Clarify their vision, Align their goals, and Transform their brand through expert graphic design, promotional products, and multi-media print marketing.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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In this conversation, Tracy Johnson, CEO of InitiativeOne, shares her journey from a nursing career to leading a successful consulting firm. She discusses the evolution of her role, the growth of her team, and the importance of client engagement and community involvement. Tracy emphasizes the significance of finding the right people for the right roles, the value of outsourcing, and the impact of philanthropy on their organization. Tune in for insights into the importance of leadership transformation and the need for continuous learning in your leadership role. 

Key Highlights:

• Discover how strategic role alignment and thoughtful delegation can transform your leadership journey from overwhelmed to empowered.
• Learn why investing in the right partnerships and outsourced solutions becomes a catalyst for sustainable business growth.
• Understand how cultivating meaningful client relationships through active listening creates a powerful ripple effect of word-of-mouth referrals.
• Master the balance between business growth and community impact, and how this dual focus drives sustainable success.
• Explore how creating dedicated spaces for innovation and continuous learning elevates both your team's potential and your organization's impact.

About Our Guest: 

Tracy Johnson conveys complex principles to leaders in practical terms. As a result, leaders are able to implement ideas that effectively diminish drama and distraction and deliver increased results. Working with the InitiativeOne Proprietary Process for nearly 20 years, Tracy understands the leverage points that will push leaders beyond their comfort zone. For anyone who is interested in attending an upcoming ThinkTank, either in-person or virtually, here is the link: https://www.initiativeone.com/events

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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Communication is what keeps your team moving, but too much of it (in the wrong places) can lead to missed messages, burnout, and bottlenecks!

In this week’s episode of Make Space for More, you’ll learn strategies for effective team communication without unnecessary chaos. Melissa Swink will teach you how to keep your team aligned and empowered while avoiding burnout and confusion. 

Tune in to learn about common communication problems and how to avoid them, the principles of effective communication, Melissa’s favorite tools for collaboration, and how to get your team on board with new, more effective communication strategies. You don’t want to miss this one! 

Key Highlights:

• Discover how implementing a structured communication cadence transforms chaotic team interactions into purposeful conversations that drive results.
• Learn why “over-communication” in multiple channels can actually harm productivity, and how to streamline your approach for maximum impact.
• Master the art of asynchronous communication to support your team's focus time while ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
• Explore our tested toolkit of six essential collaboration platforms that have revolutionized how our virtual teams stay connected and aligned.
• Understand the three core principles of effective team communication that will empower your team to take ownership of their roles while staying connected.
• Get actionable strategies for auditing your current communication tools and processes to eliminate redundancy and enhance efficiency.
• Learn how to introduce new communication protocols in a way that generates enthusiasm and buy-in from your entire team.
• Discover the power of strategic check-ins that keep your team aligned without contributing to meeting fatigue or information overload.
• Master the balance between maintaining open lines of communication and protecting your team's focused work time.
• Walk away with a practical framework for creating a communication system that scales as your team grows, without losing the personal touch.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the importance of stepping into “CEO energy”  by eliminating low-value tasks (otherwise known as “$20 tasks”) that drain your energy and hinder your productivity. You’ll get a reality check on what those tasks look like and why you need to focus on high-leverage actions, strategic decision-making, and relationship building. 

Tune in to learn the significance of reassessing responsibilities, automating tasks, and establishing routines to maintain true “CEO energy.” You’ll walk away with a better understanding of where your priorities should be, as well as a list of actionable steps towards delegating and automating tasks to enhance your leadership effectiveness!

Key Highlights:

• Every time you say “yes” to a $20 task, you're saying “no” to a $2,000 idea.
• Master the art of strategic time allocation and learn to protect your energy for high-impact activities that drive business evolution.
• Transform your calendar into a CEO-level powerhouse by prioritizing deep work, strategy sessions, and relationship building.
• Discover the triple-threat approach to task management: Eliminate, automate, and delegate to unlock your leadership potential.
• Create sustainable CEO systems through intentional routines and empowered team dynamics that scale your impact.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the challenges of perfectionism as a business owner and how it can hinder your growth. She shares insights on recognizing perfectionism, its hidden costs, and practical strategies to overcome it. Tune in to learn how collaborating with a virtual assisting team can help you let go of control and focus on progress over perfection!

Key Highlights:

• Discover how perfectionism creates hidden bottlenecks that slow your business growth and impact your bottom line.
• Learn to embrace “strategic delegation” - a powerful approach to maintaining high standards while empowering your team to drive results.
• Uncover practical strategies for transforming perfectionist tendencies into productive leadership habits.
• Explore how implementing strategic checkpoints can replace micromanagement, leading to enhanced team performance and innovation.
• Master the art of leveraging a VA team to create scalable systems that prioritize progress over perfection.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink will show you how virtual assistants (VAs) can help business owners work less while earning more. You’ll learn how to view hiring a VA as an investment (not an expense) through many examples of the types of tasks that VAs can handle for businesses,  including busy work and strategic tasks. You’ll also learn about the distinction between productivity and profitability for business owners, and why you should focus on revenue-generating activities and delegate low-value tasks. Melissa will also teach you about the four key ways that a VA team can directly help you grow your business’s revenue. 

Key Highlights:

• Transform your business growth by viewing VA support as a strategic investment rather than an expense
• Maximize revenue potential by delegating administrative tasks and focusing on high-value activities
• Scale your client capacity through strategic task delegation and streamlined operations
• Accelerate business growth with professional support for consistent marketing and streamlined project execution
• Amplify your business impact by focusing on what you do best while your VA team handles the rest

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

While clearing your email inbox may feel productive, it may not be actively moving the needle in your business. Today’s episode of Make Space of More covers the limitations of striving for “inbox zero” as a CEO. Melissa Swink will help you shift your mindset away from mere productivity to actual profitability, advocating for strategic thinking and more effective time management. 

You’ll learn practical strategies for managing your emails, including the use of automation and delegation, as well as the importance of identifying communication traps and busy work, plus ideas for time blocking and auditing your schedule. Tune in for insights into prioritizing high-level tasks that actually drive business growth!

Key Highlights:

• Break free from the "Inbox Zero" mindset: True business growth comes from strategic leadership, not administrative perfection
• Transform your productivity into profitability: Learn to distinguish between busy work and revenue-generating activities
• Master the art of strategic delegation: Empower your team to handle routine communications while you focus on high-level business development
• Implement smart systems: Leverage automation and time-blocking techniques to create sustainable email management practices
• Embrace CEO-level priorities: Discover how boundary-setting and regular schedule audits can maximize your impact as a business leader

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Tune into this week’s episode of the Make Space for More podcast to learn what to do if you’re constantly putting out fires in your business! You’ll discover how Melissa Swink made the transition from being a reactive business owner to a proactive business owner.

Learn the importance of establishing leadership rituals and building simple habits that support your growth, as well as effective communication and systems to prevent chaos in your business operations. By focusing on forecasting and planning, you will enhance productivity and growth while reducing stress and missed opportunities. Melissa provides actionable strategies for creating a more organized and efficient work environment, ultimately leading to greater success and satisfaction in your work. 

Key Highlights:

• Replace firefighting with strategy: Create a clear operating framework that puts you back in control
• Schedule non-negotiable CEO time: Weekly planning sessions to review metrics and forecast priorities
• Reclaim your inbox: Use productivity tools to transform email from a distraction to an asset
• Structure team communication: Set defined check-ins and office hours to eliminate constant interruptions
• Prevent fires, don't fight them: Document and automate key workflows before crisis hits
• Track what matters: Build a focused metrics dashboard using tools you'll actually use
• Plan with purpose: Implement a weekly Priority Planner to keep strategic work front and center
• Guard your boundaries: Set clear parameters around availability and response times
• Systemize the routine: Automate repetitive tasks to free up strategic thinking time
• Lead with clarity: Transform team confusion into confident action through clear processes

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Boundaries are an essential part of any client relationship, as a business owner. But many of us struggle to put these into practice! If you’ve ever bent over backwards for a client and still felt like it wasn’t enough, you know how this can play out. 

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the importance of establishing client boundaries to maintain sanity in your business. She goes behind the scenes and shares personal experiences about when boundaries were too loose with clients in her business. Melissa also discusses the essential types of boundaries every business needs and how to enforce these boundaries without damaging client relationships. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of the significance of clear communication, defined scopes of work, and mutual respect in fostering healthy client interactions!

Key Highlights:

• Client boundaries are essential for business sanity as well as a balance between your work and personal life.
• It’s important to recognize when client demands exceed your capacity.
• Loose boundaries can lead to stress and burnout.
• Clear communication methods are one example of boundaries. 
• Scope creep can indicate the need for tighter boundaries.
• Exceptions to the rules can create more work and confusion.
• Setting expectations early in client relationships is important.
• Feedback and revision processes should be clearly defined.
• Reinforcing boundaries can be done without damaging relationships.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Do you ever feel like you’re just spinning your wheels in your business? Perhaps you’re constantly “maxed out,” but you’re just not growing like you feel like you should.  

In today’s episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the concept of the invisible workload that many business owners face. She explores how the mental load you’re carrying, including all the little details that are constantly running through your head, can hinder your daily productivity and long-term growth, and offers practical strategies to alleviate it. 

By understanding the signs of an invisible workload and implementing effective delegation, automation, and communication boundaries, you CAN create a more balanced and fulfilling work life!

Key Highlights:

• Your invisible workload can impact your energy and clarity.
• Keeping track of details in your head adds to your mental load.
• Being the primary problem solver on your team can limit your growth potential.
• As the CEO, you need to step into your strategic leadership role.
• Project management tools can help you empty your brain and delegate.
• Establishing processes and workflows can also help lighten your load.
• Use automations intentionally to relieve manual work from your plate.
• Delegate tasks effectively so you can establish true ownership over them, to others.
• Set communication boundaries to avoid distractions when you’re working.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink shares her personal journey with AI and how it is transforming her business practices. Tune in to learn about her perspective on the uncertainty surrounding AI, her experimentation with various tools, and the ways she is integrating AI into her personal life and business operations. Melissa emphasizes the importance of using AI intentionally to streamline processes, enhance client support, and ultimately drive business growth. She also shares insights on developing tools to help clients leverage AI for their own success.

Key Highlights:

• It’s important to embrace AI with a positive mindset 
• AI can be a powerful tool for streamlining operations and communication 
• Strategic implementation of AI can enhance both personal productivity and client service 
• AI is most effective when used as a starting point, followed by human refinement
• Intentional AI integration creates more time for strategic business growth

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

If your business isn’t growing, and it feels harder than it should, the problem might  not be your strategy, your target market, or your team. The problem might be you!

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses five self-imposed growth roadblocks that entrepreneurs often face. These include doing everything yourself, perfectionism, resisting systems and structure, not re-evaluating pricing strategies, and lacking clarity and vision. In addition to pointing out these roadblocks and describing them in detail, Melissa will help you reflect on your sticking points and consider how you can break free from them. 

Key Highlights:

• Self-imposed limitations often block business growth more than external factors
• Perfectionism and reluctance to delegate are major barriers to scaling 
• Implementing systems creates freedom, not restriction 
• Strategic pricing and regular price evaluation are crucial for growth 
• Clear vision and purpose drive sustainable business expansion

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Are you running your business, or is it running you? In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the importance of designing a CEO schedule that aligns with your personal and professional priorities!

Tune in to learn strategies for creating an ideal work week, including batching tasks for efficiency and blocking time for focused work. You’ll learn how to set up your calendar in a way that supports both business growth and personal well-being.

Key Highlights:

• You can design your ideal workweek by:
• Prioritizing personal and family time first
• Batching similar tasks for efficiency
• Blocking dedicated time for focused work
• Limiting meeting commitments 
• Build a business that can operate without your constant presence 
• Regularly evaluate and adjust your schedule to support sustainable growth.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Tune into this week’s podcast for a can’t-miss workshop with Alex Brzozowski and Melissa Swink! You’ll get into the nuts and bolts of digital organization and its role in team collaboration and productivity. 

Alex and Melissa discuss the common hurdles leaders face when they first start working with teams, especially when it comes to digital organization myths. They also provide actionable strategies for laying a solid foundation for success. Tune in to learn the need for effective systems, clear communication, and the understanding that organization is an ongoing practice rather than a one-time fix. 

If you’re looking for tips around digital organization, effective file management, password management systems, and the strategic use of bookmarks, this episode is for you! You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of digital filing, including the use of cloud storage and password managers, and the significance of naming conventions that resonate with users. 

Key Highlights:

• The average worker spends two hours daily searching for documents, but implementing proper systems can dramatically reduce this waste.
• Digital organization is an ongoing process, not a one-time solution 
• Effective file management relies on:
• Clear naming conventions (alphabetical, numerical, or chronological)
• Strategic use of cloud storage
• Simplified folder structures 
• Secure password management and clear team communication are fundamental to successful collaboration. 
• Organization is a learnable skill that should be tailored to your team's specific needs.

About Our Guest: 

Alex Brzozowski is a digital organizer, productivity specialist, and founder of Be Organizing. She's been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and many more. Her team of Digital Professional Organizers and Productivity Specialists have reduced stress, saved time, and given hundreds of businesses and individuals across the country the peace of mind knowing exactly where their files, photos, emails, notes, tasks, projects, contacts, schedules, calendars, and passwords are (and how to quickly access them!). Visit the Be Organizing website to download your free Digital Declutter Calendar today!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to...]]>Episode Summary

Tune into this week’s podcast for a can’t-miss workshop with Alex Brzozowski and Melissa Swink! You’ll get into the nuts and bolts of digital organization and its role in team collaboration and productivity. 

Alex and Melissa discuss the common hurdles leaders face when they first start working with teams, especially when it comes to digital organization myths. They also provide actionable strategies for laying a solid foundation for success. Tune in to learn the need for effective systems, clear communication, and the understanding that organization is an ongoing practice rather than a one-time fix. 

If you’re looking for tips around digital organization, effective file management, password management systems, and the strategic use of bookmarks, this episode is for you! You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of digital filing, including the use of cloud storage and password managers, and the significance of naming conventions that resonate with users. 

Key Highlights:

• The average worker spends two hours daily searching for documents, but implementing proper systems can dramatically reduce this waste.
• Digital organization is an ongoing process, not a one-time solution 
• Effective file management relies on:
• Clear naming conventions (alphabetical, numerical, or chronological)
• Strategic use of cloud storage
• Simplified folder structures 
• Secure password management and clear team communication are fundamental to successful collaboration. 
• Organization is a learnable skill that should be tailored to your team's specific needs.

About Our Guest: 

Alex Brzozowski is a digital organizer, productivity specialist, and founder of Be Organizing. She's been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and many more. Her team of Digital Professional Organizers and Productivity Specialists have reduced stress, saved time, and given hundreds of businesses and individuals across the country the peace of mind knowing exactly where their files, photos, emails, notes, tasks, projects, contacts, schedules, calendars, and passwords are (and how to quickly access them!). Visit the Be Organizing website to download your free Digital Declutter Calendar today!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Does growth feel harder than it should? The problem might not be your strategy, your team, or your target market. The problem might be you!

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink shares her personal journey from being a solopreneur to leading a team, emphasizing the importance of creating a business model that allows for freedom and flexibility. Melissa also shares the five common roadblocks that business owners experience on their path to growing their businesses. This episode is filled with practical advice and insights for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses in a way that is authentic and sustainable. 

Key Highlights:

• If your business can't function without you, it's not a business, it’s a job.
• It’s important to design your freedom as your business grows.
• There are five common roadblocks to growing a business: 
• Doing everything yourself
• Perfectionism
• Avoiding systems and structure
• Undercharging for your products or services
• Having a lack of vision or clarity

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

If you enjoy learning how to optimize your schedule, today’s podcast is for you! In this episode of Make Space for More, Melissa Swink discusses the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, which theorizes that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. 

You’ll learn about the importance of auditing your business to identify the most impactful clients, services, and marketing strategies. Tune in to discover how to focus on what drives results, eliminate unproductive tasks, and automate processes to enhance your efficiency. You’ll also hear tips from Melissa’s firsthand experience for prioritizing your time effectively, so you can achieve more with less effort.

Key Highlights:

• The Pareto Principle suggests that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts.
• Identifying your top clients can have a significant impact on your revenue.
• Auditing your business helps you to focus on what is actually working.
• Eliminating unproductive tasks can free up valuable time.
• Automation can streamline processes and reduce manual work.
• Time blocking is essential for prioritizing important tasks.
• Learning to say “no” is crucial for maintaining focus.
• Marketing channels should be evaluated for effectiveness.
• Understanding your best-performing products can guide business decisions.
• Regular audits can help you adapt to changing business needs.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Are you busy, or are you truly productive? In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, you’ll learn four strategies for spring cleaning your business. Host Melissa Swink shares signs that your business may need a reset, such as feeling overwhelmed or experiencing clunky processes. 

You’ll learn the four practical steps for spring cleaning: auditing current systems, decluttering subscriptions and tools, streamlining processes, and organizing your digital workspace. Listen now so you can take action and improve efficiency and productivity in your business! 

Key Highlights:

• Spring cleaning isn't just for your home; it applies to your business, too.
• Feeling overwhelmed can be a sign that your business needs a reset.
• Start by conducting an audit of your current systems and processes.
• Declutter subscriptions and tools that are no longer useful.
• Look for free or low-cost alternatives to expensive tools.
• Streamlining processes can significantly improve efficiency.
• Documenting processes can be made easier with collaboration.
• Organizing your digital workspace saves time and improves productivity.
• Take one actionable step to start your business spring cleaning, today.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses strategies for building a high-performing team when you are on a budget. You’ll learn about shifting your mindset about hiring, especially if you feel like you’re not quite ready to take the leap. You’ll also discover the steps to identifying the key needs in your business that you need to fill and how to strategically hire your first team members. Finally, Melissa will close with some tips for managing and motivating your team to ensure business growth and scalability.

Key Highlights:

• Building a team is crucial for scaling a business.
• Missed opportunities are a hidden cost of doing everything yourself.
• Hiring is an investment, not an expense.
• You're not going to feel ready to hire.
• New to hiring? Choose just one area to start!
• When hiring, ask for recommendations from your network.
• When interviewing, pay attention to their level of professionalism.
• When training, set clear expectations for your team. 
• Use communication tools for clarity.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

What if you could be more productive while working fewer hours, this summer?

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses strategies for preparing your business to operate on a reduced schedule during the summer months! She emphasizes the importance of setting intentions and boundaries, batching work, clarifying meeting strategies, and leveraging team support to maintain productivity while enjoying a lighter work schedule. The episode provides actionable tips for business owners looking to balance work and personal life during the summer months.

Key Highlights:

• 36% of U.S. workers are less productive during the summer months.
• To make your summer workload lighter, setting clear intentions for your schedule is crucial.
• Batching work can help lighten your load.
• It’s important to prioritize critical meetings and communications. Utilize tools like Loom and Voxer for efficient communication.
• Having a team or assistant can ease your workload.
• Be proactive in blocking time for personal commitments.
• Enjoying a lighter schedule can lead to greater overall satisfaction!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink shares her top five business books that have significantly influenced her approach to entrepreneurship. Each book offers unique insights into the importance of leveraging expertise, financial management, and a relaxed mindset toward success. Melissa encourages continuous learning and provides actionable takeaways from each book, making this episode a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses!

Key Highlights:

• Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. Reading books that are tactical and actionable can drive results in your business.
• Here are the five books Melissa recommends: 
• “Who Not How” by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy
• “10X is Easier Than 2X” by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy
• “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz
• “We Should All be Millionaires” by Rachel Rodgers
• “Chillpreneur” by Denise Duffield-Thomas

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviews Angie Huffman, owner of Big Horn Advertising. Angie shares her journey of evolving her business, transitioning from recreation management to marketing, and the importance of leveraging technology and AI. 

Tune in to learn about Angie’s challenges and opportunities, the development of a comprehensive marketing toolkit, and the shift to a membership-based revenue model. Angie emphasizes the significance of building a strong team and the intentionality behind her growth strategies, ultimately providing valuable insights for small business owners looking to scale authentically!

Key Highlights:

• Angie's journey reflects the importance of evolving with intention.
• AI can significantly enhance business processes and customer interactions.
• Building a strong team is crucial for scaling a business effectively.
• Membership-based revenue models can provide stability and growth.
• Leveraging technology can streamline operations and improve efficiency.
• It's essential to adapt and pivot based on audience needs.
• Growth often requires patience and a solid foundation.

About Our Guest: 

Angie Huffman is the owner of Big Horn Advertising, specializing in print and online marketing for small-town and Plain Community businesses. With a background in technology and entrepreneurship, she helps business owners simplify marketing, increase visibility, and connect with their ideal customers. Through The Big Horn Directory, social media spotlights, and targeted advertising, Angie provides practical, results-driven marketing solutions. 

Offer: Website Rebuild, $297 setup

Contact Angie by text message at 641-732-7333

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink chats with a special guest, Jenni Schubring. They discuss the transformative power of understanding and leveraging your personal strengths in both business and life. 

Melissa and Jenni talk about the CliftonStrengths assessment, the importance of coaching, and how recognizing one's strengths can lead to greater self-awareness and fulfillment. The conversation also touches on the significance of setting boundaries, embracing one's role in teams, and shifting the focus from weaknesses to strengths.

Tune in to learn how authenticity can lead to success, the value of collaboration, and the significance of building a culture of strengths awareness within your entire team!

Key Highlights:

• Cultivating self-awareness is vital for personal growth. Understanding your strengths can transform your life and improve collaboration within teams.
• Coaching can deepen your understanding of personal and team strengths and expedite growth, helping you align your work with your passions.
• Setting boundaries and saying “no” when necessary are powerful acts of self-care that maintain harmony and alignment with your personal passions.
• Embracing individual roles, collaborating effectively, and building trust are essential practices for utilizing team strengths.
• Effective communication and regular check-ins foster a culture of strengths awareness and improves personal relationships.

About Our Guest: 

Jenni Schubring is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, speaker, and owner of Embrace Your Story Coaching. Along with her 1:1 coaching, she works with teams, speaks at conferences, and utilizes CliftonStrengths in staff trainings. Jenni lives in Green Bay with her husband of 25 years and is still getting used to having only one of her four children living under her roof.

Offer link: https://embraceyourstory.as.me/virtualstrengths

CODE: MSwink25 for $25 off

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please...]]>Episode Summary

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink chats with a special guest, Jenni Schubring. They discuss the transformative power of understanding and leveraging your personal strengths in both business and life. 

Melissa and Jenni talk about the CliftonStrengths assessment, the importance of coaching, and how recognizing one's strengths can lead to greater self-awareness and fulfillment. The conversation also touches on the significance of setting boundaries, embracing one's role in teams, and shifting the focus from weaknesses to strengths.

Tune in to learn how authenticity can lead to success, the value of collaboration, and the significance of building a culture of strengths awareness within your entire team!

Key Highlights:

• Cultivating self-awareness is vital for personal growth. Understanding your strengths can transform your life and improve collaboration within teams.
• Coaching can deepen your understanding of personal and team strengths and expedite growth, helping you align your work with your passions.
• Setting boundaries and saying “no” when necessary are powerful acts of self-care that maintain harmony and alignment with your personal passions.
• Embracing individual roles, collaborating effectively, and building trust are essential practices for utilizing team strengths.
• Effective communication and regular check-ins foster a culture of strengths awareness and improves personal relationships.

About Our Guest: 

Jenni Schubring is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, speaker, and owner of Embrace Your Story Coaching. Along with her 1:1 coaching, she works with teams, speaks at conferences, and utilizes CliftonStrengths in staff trainings. Jenni lives in Green Bay with her husband of 25 years and is still getting used to having only one of her four children living under her roof.

Offer link: https://embraceyourstory.as.me/virtualstrengths

CODE: MSwink25 for $25 off

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink and Senior VA Sara Sutton discuss the essential building blocks of working with virtual assistants (VAs). They discuss the professional commitment of VAs, what to expect when you first start to work with a VA,  and the importance of taking time to develop a solid rhythm. 

Tune in to learn about the importance of feedback, the onboarding process, and the need for clear communication to ensure a successful partnership. They also address the challenges and red flags that may arise and how to navigate them. 

Key Highlights:

• Most VAs are committed professionals, not just side hustlers.
• Building a strong relationship with your VA takes time, and the onboarding process is crucial for success.
• Not every VA-client relationship will be a perfect fit.
• Communication and feedback are key to a successful partnership with your VA.
• Most VAs are managing multiple clients - and this is a good thing, for you!
• Confidentiality is paramount in VA-client relationships.
• What to do if you experience red flags with your VA.

About Our Guest: 

Sara Sutton lives in San Antonio, TX, with her husband, five children, and their dog, Sasha. Her family enjoys traveling, camping, and hiking together. In her free time, she enjoys running and reading. With over 10 years of experience as a virtual assistant, Sara has worked with clients across a wide range of industries. She is passionate about handling tasks, both big and small, that allow her clients to focus on what truly matters in their personal and professional lives.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Episode Summary

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink and guest Marissa Rether (Senior VA on the Melissa Swink & Co. team) discuss the importance of building trust with virtual assistants and the challenges of letting go of control in your business. They explore the mindset shifts necessary for effective delegation, the significance of clear communication and expectations, and actionable steps to foster a successful working relationship when you’re working with a virtual team. Tune in to learn why trust leads to freedom, allowing business owners to focus on growth and scaling their operations!

Key Highlights:

• Building trust with your virtual assistant is crucial for success.
• Letting go of control can be intimidating but is necessary for growth.
• Clear expectations help set the foundation for a successful working relationship.
• Communication should be frequent and proactive to avoid misunderstandings.
• Delegating tasks you dislike can free up mental energy and time.
• Feedback is essential for improving the working relationship with your VA.
• Establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs) can ease the delegation process.
• Trusting your team allows you to focus on higher-level tasks.
• Successful delegation leads to business scalability and reduced burnout.

About Our Guest: 

Marissa Rether holds a BA in psychology and has spent the past decade supporting entrepreneurs and building businesses—first as a Professional Organizer and now as a Virtual Assistant. Her passion lies in system strategy, and whether she is integrating a tech stack or supporting a course launch from behind the scenes, she is always seeking opportunities to improve efficiency.

In her free time, she can usually be found on her 80-acre homestead in Northern Ontario, Canada. She enjoys reading, hiking, and, most importantly, spending quality time with her family.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the seven signs that hint at the fact that you might not be ready to work with a virtual assistant or build a team. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal readiness, overcoming cashflow challenges, prioritizing relationships, and establishing clear goals. The conversation also touches on the need for organization and trust in hiring processes, providing you with actionable insights to prepare for successful team building!

Key Highlights:

• Building a team can make your business more enjoyable and manageable.
• There are stages to hiring; you don't have to jump in fully.
• You need to be ready to embrace a new role in your business.
• Trust issues with delegation can stem from past experiences that need to be addressed.
• Start where you are and take steps to prepare for hiring.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink discusses five common goals that virtual assistants can help leaders achieve. These goals include increasing revenue, achieving work-life balance, learning new skills, improving health and wellness, and building work relationships. Each goal is explored in-depth, with practical examples of how virtual assistants can provide support, streamline tasks, and ultimately help you reach each goal.

Key Highlights:

• Reverse-engineer your goals by working backward to see how you can get support to reach each of them. 
• Virtual assistants can help you make more money, improve your work/life balance, learn new skills, improve your health, and deepen professional relationships. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the importance of creating “white space” for business owners. This is defined as time to think strategically and innovate, outside of work time and meetings. She shares insights from her own experience and evolution as a business owner, emphasizing the need for delegation and how she uses her team’s support to free up time for higher-level thinking. Melissa also provides examples of tasks that can be handed off to others to enhance productivity and reduce bottlenecks in business operations.

Key Highlights:

• According to HBR, CEOs spend 72% of their time in meetings.
• Creating white space is essential for strategic thinking.
• Delegating tasks can free up time for innovation.
• Hiring a senior team can alleviate bottlenecks.
• Regularly auditing your calendar can reveal time wasters.
• It's important to let go of tasks that don't serve you.
• Effective delegation leads to better team performance.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Whether you’re working solo in your business or have a sizeable team, do you know exactly what needs to get done every day? Or do you find yourself letting responsibilities slip through the cracks because you’re struggling to keep track of it all? 

A project management tool should be your best friend as a business owner. In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the importance of using project management tools to organize your business and personal life. She shares practical examples of how project management tools can streamline client tasks, track leads, manage repeatable processes, and even organize personal responsibilities. Tune in for practical tips and plenty of “ah ha” moments to help you better organize and prioritize your business! 

Key Highlights:

• Project management tools help entrepreneurs organize both business and personal tasks.
• Prioritization is key to managing an overwhelming to-do list.
• Using a project management tool can prevent tasks from falling through the cracks.
• Templates in project management can streamline repeatable processes.
• Project management tools can help track client tasks and projects efficiently.
• Using a project management tool can enhance team collaboration, especially when your team is remote.
• Setting reminders for personal tasks can reduce stress and improve efficiency.
• Choosing a user-friendly project management tool is essential for consistent use.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses three key strategies for scaling a service-based business with the help of a virtual assistant (VA). Each of these concepts can be modified if your business sells products. Melissa walks through how to invest strategically in a team, how to turn services into products, ways to replicate successful systems, and how to reach the goal of doubling your revenue. Tune in for actionable insights for business owners looking to grow and scale their organizations.

Key Highlights:

• Investing in a team is crucial for scalability.
• Turning services into products can create passive income.
• A virtual assistant can handle tech and marketing tasks.
• Standardizing processes helps replicate success.
• Documenting standard operating procedures is essential.
• A VA can assist in hiring and onboarding new team members.
• Increasing prices can lead to higher revenue.
• Outreach to potential clients can be streamlined with a VA.
• Creating a course can diversify income streams.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

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The only way you’re going to make 2025 a better year for your business is if you take an honest look at 2024, assess where you excelled and where you struggled, and identify specific, actionable ways to improve in 2025. This week’s episode will help you do all three of these areas! Tune in to hear practical, tangible steps you can take to declutter your business and reset for 2025.

Key Highlights:

This is a replay of a popular masterclass that Melissa Swink offers.

Tune in if you are serious about making real progress in the year ahead.

Learn the five areas that will help you improve your efficiency and become more profitable in your business.

Get an action plan to help you confidently tackle all your big goals for 2025.

Workbook from workshop: 5 Steps to Declutter Your Business and Reset for 2025 - Worksheet Fill.pdf

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more!

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the importance of delegation and outsourcing for a business. She also shares her favorite December tradition, the “12 Days of Christmas,” which is a social media series that highlights popular tasks that are delegated to a virtual team. 

Tune in to reflect on your time management pitfalls from the last year, including the non-revenue-generating tasks that may have hindered your success. Plus, you’ll get a comprehensive list of tasks you can delegate in the year ahead! 

Key Highlights:

• Delegation is essential for business growth and efficiency.
• Doing non-revenue-generating tasks can dilute your business results.
• How you spend your time in the year ahead will dictate your level of success.  

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the transformative power of automation, AI, and smart systems. She shares practical strategies to save time and enhance efficiency in all areas of a business’ operations, including sales processes, client onboarding, team training, and accounting. By leveraging technology, business owners can streamline their operations, improve client experiences, and ultimately grow their businesses without the burden of manual tasks.

Key Highlights:

• Automation can significantly reduce manual work in your business. It's important to identify repeatable processes, first, and then lean into automation to fuel growth. 
• You can streamline your sales process through online bookings and pre-qualifying steps. 
• Client onboarding should be systemized to provide a consistent and positive experience.
• Using a single tool for multiple functions can save time and money.
• Team training can be simplified with organized resources and checklists.
• Accounting automation can eliminate the need for manual invoicing.
• Investing in systems is often more cost-effective than outsourcing tasks.
• No time? Virtual assistants can help identify and set up automation systems for you.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink speaks with Mika Sagindyk, co-founder of Tackle, about the importance of time management and conducting calendar audits. They discuss how Tackle evolved from a simple calendar exporting tool to a comprehensive platform that helps users visualize their time usage. 

Learn about the significance of aligning time spent with organizational goals, the role of executive assistants in managing time effectively, and actionable strategies for improving productivity. You’ll learn how to reflect on your time management practices and consider how Tackle could enhance your efficiency.

Key Highlights:

• Understanding where time is spent is crucial for achieving goals.
• A lean team can lead to greater impact and efficiency.
• Calendar audits help identify time allocation and priorities.
• Executive assistants play a key role in time management.
• Setting time-based goals can enhance accountability.
• Reflection on time usage can lead to better decision-making.
• Creating a system for categorizing tasks can streamline processes.

About Our Guest: 

Mika Sagindyk is a co-founder of Tackle and works with top executives and leaders to run calendar audit on autopilot. She has extensive experience in the technology industry and has previously built a team at AWS. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, you’ll learn the #1 way to save precious time as a business owner. Just remove it from your to-do list in the first place! Tune in to listen as Melissa Swink discusses removing unnecessary tasks from your to-do list and provides four specific areas to evaluate. Simplifying your business operations will allow for greater efficiency and alignment in the year ahead. 

Key Highlights:

• Removing tasks from your to-do list is the best way to save time.
• Evaluate your revenue streams for profitability and enjoyment.
• Consider discontinuing services that no longer serve you.
• Networking groups may need reevaluation as your business evolves.
• Team dynamics are crucial; ensure everyone on your team is a good fit.
• Trust your intuition when making these tough decisions.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink interviewed Heather Herdman, PhD, RN, co-owner of Sweet Willow, an herbal shop and café. Heather shared her journey from nursing to herbalism and entrepreneurship, describing how she and her friends saved a beloved local shop from closing. Learn about the evolution of Sweet Willow, Heather’s thoughtful decision to bring on a business partner, and the importance of community engagement. When it comes to bringing on a business partner, Heather talked about knowing what you want in a partnership and the benefits of having a supportive team. 

Key Highlights:

• The decision to buy Sweet Willow was spontaneous but driven by passion.
• Sweet Willow has evolved to include food offerings alongside herbal products.
• Bringing on a business partner was a strategic decision for sustainability.
• It's important to have clear conversations about roles and responsibilities in a partnership. You need to know what you want before seeking a partner.
• The integration of a new partner can be smooth if they are already familiar with the business.

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Heather Herdman is a clinical herbalist, as well as an advanced practice nurse. Her passion is working with individuals to support them in finding their way toward heath and wellness, using a herb and food-based approach whenever possible. She believes that we each have an innate understanding of what makes us feel and function best, if we learn to listen to ourselves. As a researcher, she combines her knowledge of clinical trial data and traditional ways of knowing to support clients in wellness, and offers integrative options when clients are in the midst of Western medical treatment for a variety of conditions.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

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Are you ready to take your business to the next level? You’ll feel inspired and equipped after listening to this podcast episode!

Host Melissa Swink interviewed Alina Stansu, founder of The Orange Notebook, about authentic strategies for growing and scaling a business. They discussed Alina’s journey of starting a business during the pandemic, effective lead generation techniques, the importance of building genuine connections, and the lessons she has learned about outsourcing. Alina also spoke about the significance of understanding one's identity in relation to business and shared insights on navigating challenges while maintaining authenticity.

Key Highlights:

• Effective lead generation requires a balance of inbound and outbound strategies.
• Building genuine connections is key to fruitful networking. Your sales outreach should focus on relationship-building.
• Understanding your identity is crucial for business success.
• Investing in your business is important, but do your due diligence, especially when it comes to outsourcing.
• The right support can save time and energy in business growth.
• Authenticity in leadership fosters a strong team culture.

About Our Guest: 

Alina Stancu is the founder of The Orange Notebook as well as a Brand Identity Expert & Strategic Advisor. Alina’s background in storytelling means she’ll always find a way to illustrate difficult concepts with a story. With a passion for mindset, self-development and mental health she’s able to spot patterns and explain a client’s actions through a psychological framework that usually allays fears and brings peace. She is committed to caretake their vision of becoming the business leader they wish to become. Alina has over a decade of content and PR expertise, a degree in Marketing, Advertising and PR and has previously set up the entire PR department for a cybersecurity startup in the UK.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink shares key takeaways from a recent calendar audit workshop. This led to some surprising insights regarding her role as CEO, and how she SHOULD be spending her time. She also reflects on the benefits of delegating more tasks to her executive assistant, as she strives for better time management and business growth, such as having her EA attend workshops like this one.

Key Highlights:

• Delegating learning opportunities to executive assistants.
• Executive assistants can help distill key takeaways from courses and other professional development opportunities, provide valuable outside perspectives, and put together action plans. 
• Team involvement in learning can reduce individual workload.

About Our Guest: 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

If you are a visionary, “big ideas” type of person, and/or you’ve always wished you didn’t have to get bogged down in all the operational details of running your business - this episode is for you!

Join Melissa Swink as she discusses the importance of getting support for your business operations, especially if you want to grow. She highlights three key areas a virtual team can help with, ultimately allowing business owners to focus on their visionary roles. Tune in for practical examples and insights into effectively integrating virtual assistants into your business operations for improved efficiency and scalability.

Key Highlights:

• Streamlining your business operations is key to growth.
• Virtual assistants can manage your operations so you can get out of the details and stop being the bottleneck. 
• Area 1: Manage, streamline, and execute on repeatable processes. 
• Area 2: Manage vendors, team, and projects. 
• Area 3: Be the first line of communication and answer FAQs.
• You can get operations help without hiring a full-time person.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink discusses three practical strategies for preparing your business for the holiday season. She emphasizes the importance of setting clear intentions, planning for time off, ensuring operational coverage, and determining your top priorities to finish the year strong. Tune in to learn how to navigate the busy holiday season with balance and joy!

Key Highlights:

• It’s important to prepare your business early for the holiday season.
• Set clear intentions for the final months of the year.
• Plan for time off and ensure operational coverage.
• Ask your team and clients about holiday availability.
• Pick a few top priorities for the end of the year.
• Maintain consistent marketing efforts during the holiday season, but make sure content is easily digestible content for your audience.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink discusses the integration of AI tools in her business operations, focusing on how they can enhance efficiency. She shares the most common tools her team is using, including the ways she is creating this podcast with AI support. 

Key Highlights:

• AI tools can enhance efficiency in your business. 
• Systems and automation are essential for scaling.
• AI should complement human input, not replace it.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode of the Make Space for More podcast, host Melissa Swink discusses effective strategies for growing and scaling your business through three specific conversation types. Tune in to hear her personal experiences with these conversations and how they have positively impacted her business.

Key Highlights:

• Networking is crucial for generating leads and referrals. 
• Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth referrals.
• Engage in conversations with industry peers for mutual benefit.
• Reconnecting with past clients can lead to new opportunities.
• Regular conversations with coaches can provide valuable insights.
• Be open to learning from business owners at different stages.
• Collaboration and cross-promotion can enhance visibility.
• Invest time in building relationships with others.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this very special episode of the Make Space for More podcast, Melissa Swink interviews Jamie G. Smith, a renowned business & lifestyle elevation strategist, speaker, and content creator! The pair discuss strategies for overcoming burnout and achieving authentic business growth. Tune in to learn about the importance of energy management, the impact of past experiences on present success, and the necessity of letting go of control to rise higher. Jamie shares her journey of empowering high-achieving women and offers insights into maintaining consistent energy and productivity. Stay to the end for a special announcement bout an upcoming masterclass focused on energy management.

Key Highlights:

• Energy management is crucial for achieving more with less stress.
• Letting go of control can lead to greater freedom and success.
• Creating a supportive team is essential for scaling a business.
• Morning practices can set the tone for a productive day.
• Women empowering women can create a ripple effect of success.
• Decision fatigue can hinder productivity and creativity.
• It's important to embrace vulnerability and learn from mistakes.
• Coaching can provide valuable insights and accountability. 

About Our Guest: 

Jamie G. Smith empowers industry leaders to rise above doubts & limitations & gain the competitive edge through next level Authority, Strategies & Powerful Collaborations. As a renowned business & lifestyle elevation strategist, speaker, & content creator Jamie is the founder of L.U.X.E. Everyday. LUXE stands for L.ead a U.nique e.X.traordinary E.xistence Everyday. Jamie has a gift to share, a free PDF to help you enhance your EDGE! Embrace your own fresh Daily E.D.G.E. routine while you ignite both your personal and professional life by implementing and taking powerful action!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Tune into this week’s episode of the Make Space for More podcast as Melissa Swink discusses the essential factors influencing the cost of hiring virtual assistants (VAs). Learn how to frame your new hire as an investment in the long-term growth of your business rather than just an expense. Areas influencing the VA’s rates include experience level, skill set, professionalism, location, and whether you’re hiring an individual or a team of VAs. Melissa also shares strategies for maximizing return on investment and managing costs effectively when working with VAs.

Key Highlights:

• The cost of a virtual assistant can range from $15 to $50 per hour, or more depending on the expertise and skills required.
• Hiring a VA should be viewed as an investment in business growth.
• Experience and specialized skill sets are key factors that influence the cost of a VA.
• Professionalism and self-investment are indicators of a good VA.
• Location affects the pricing of virtual assistant services.
• Working with a team of VAs offers more flexibility and backup support.
• Consider the ROI when hiring a virtual assistant.
• Start with small tasks and gradually increase responsibilities.
• Clear communication about budget and expectations is crucial.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

The average employee spends 10 hours and 47 minutes on emails every single week! How would you like to claim back some of that time? 

In this episode, Melissa Swink discusses how a virtual assistant (VA) can help manage your inbox. She shares strategies for setting up access to your email, segmenting messages, unsubscribing from newsletters, filing non-response emails, creating templated responses, and having your VA respond on your behalf. She also provides tips for quality checks, such as daily summaries and documented procedures. Delegating inbox management can save time and allow you to focus on more important tasks in your business. 

Key Highlights:

• Delegating inbox management to a virtual assistant can save you time and allow you to focus on more important tasks.
• Segment messages by creating specific inboxes for different types of emails, such as accounting, customer service, and sales inquiries.
• Unsubscribe from email newsletters that you don't read to declutter your inbox.
• File non-response emails or informational emails in folders to keep your inbox organized.
• Create templated responses for common requests or frequently asked questions to save time in responding to emails.
• Train your VA to become an extension of you by understanding your approach and communicating on your behalf.
• Implement quality checks, such as daily summaries of inbox activity and documented procedures, to ensure smooth inbox management.
• Delegating inbox management can be a gradual process, starting with basic tasks and progressing to more customized responses.
• Handing over control of your inbox can be daunting, but it can provide relief and allow you to use your time more effectively.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

We’re pleased to welcome Kristie M. Holmes, Owner of The HR Dept, to this week’s episode of Make Space for More!

Melissa interviews Kristie about the steps business owners should take when hiring employees. They discussed the importance of job descriptions, screening candidates, and the onboarding process. Kristie emphasizes the need for transparency in the hiring process and recommends involving trusted colleagues during interviews. She also highlights the importance of having standard operating procedures, plus her recommendations around performance reviews, and much MUCH more. 

Key Highlights:

• Melissa’s team is made up of independent contractors, so she wanted to bring on an HR expert to educate her listeners around proper hiring policies and processes. 
• Creating a clear and detailed job description is essential for hiring your first employee.
• Screening candidates should involve multiple interviews and checking references to ensure a good fit.
• Transparency in the hiring process, including discussing pay upfront, is important for attracting and retaining employees.
• Having standard operating procedures in place can help with training and ensure consistency in processes.
• Regular feedback and communication with employees is crucial for their development and success. Conduct performance reviews at least once a year, ideally every six months. 
• Schedule weekly check-ins with new hires for the first 30 to 60 days
• Use the “build, break, build sandwich” technique for giving critical feedback
• Document all necessary paperwork, including employee handbooks, with legal requirements
• Consult with government agencies, insurance agents, and attorneys for guidance
• Consider using payroll systems to ensure accurate and timely payment of employees

About Our Guest: 

The HR Dept is led by Kristie Holmes who has nearly 20 years of recruiting and Human Resources experience across a variety of industries. Ms. Holmes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Memphis, as well as a Masters in Business Administration (Human Resources) from Bethel University. Her knowledge and vast skillset allow The HR Dept to offer a wide array of services designed specifically for the benefit of small businesses. Ms. Holmes believes focusing on relationship building and a personal touch achieves the best results.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can...]]>Episode Summary

We’re pleased to welcome Kristie M. Holmes, Owner of The HR Dept, to this week’s episode of Make Space for More!

Melissa interviews Kristie about the steps business owners should take when hiring employees. They discussed the importance of job descriptions, screening candidates, and the onboarding process. Kristie emphasizes the need for transparency in the hiring process and recommends involving trusted colleagues during interviews. She also highlights the importance of having standard operating procedures, plus her recommendations around performance reviews, and much MUCH more. 

Key Highlights:

• Melissa’s team is made up of independent contractors, so she wanted to bring on an HR expert to educate her listeners around proper hiring policies and processes. 
• Creating a clear and detailed job description is essential for hiring your first employee.
• Screening candidates should involve multiple interviews and checking references to ensure a good fit.
• Transparency in the hiring process, including discussing pay upfront, is important for attracting and retaining employees.
• Having standard operating procedures in place can help with training and ensure consistency in processes.
• Regular feedback and communication with employees is crucial for their development and success. Conduct performance reviews at least once a year, ideally every six months. 
• Schedule weekly check-ins with new hires for the first 30 to 60 days
• Use the “build, break, build sandwich” technique for giving critical feedback
• Document all necessary paperwork, including employee handbooks, with legal requirements
• Consult with government agencies, insurance agents, and attorneys for guidance
• Consider using payroll systems to ensure accurate and timely payment of employees

About Our Guest: 

The HR Dept is led by Kristie Holmes who has nearly 20 years of recruiting and Human Resources experience across a variety of industries. Ms. Holmes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Memphis, as well as a Masters in Business Administration (Human Resources) from Bethel University. Her knowledge and vast skillset allow The HR Dept to offer a wide array of services designed specifically for the benefit of small businesses. Ms. Holmes believes focusing on relationship building and a personal touch achieves the best results.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Let’s talk about something that can be a little controversial: Is it a good idea for business owners to outsource their social media? 

In today’s podcast episode, Melissa Swink discusses whether or not to outsource social media. She explores the different opinions on this topic and provides insights for business owners considering this big step. Melissa underscores the importance of authenticity and the need for a collaborative relationship with your chosen service provider. She also discusses setting realistic goals and expectations for outsourcing social media, such as what you can expect for ROI. Tune in to hear both sides of this discussion!

Key Highlights:

• There are differing opinions on whether or not to outsource social media, so it's important to consider what works best for your business.
• Authenticity is key in social media content, whether you do it yourself or outsource it.
• When outsourcing social media, look for a service provider that offers a collaborative relationship and open communication.
• Set realistic goals and expectations around ROI, and consider starting small and gradually expanding.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

In this episode, Melissa Swink discusses the concept of “inbox zero” and how her perspective has evolved over the years. She shares tactics for achieving “inbox zero” on a daily basis, while cautioning that this might not be the best goal for every business owner. Tune in for a nuanced perspective on inbox management, as well as some tips for having an assistant help manage your emails.  

Key Highlights:

• “Inbox zero” is the concept of achieving zero emails in your inbox, every day. 
• This can be achieved by reducing the overall email volume, redirecting messages to others on your team, and spending focused time in your emails each day. 
• Learn the importance of organization and responsiveness in managing email.
• Every business owner should decide if “inbox zero” is a reasonable or smart goal. 
• CEOs should prioritize big picture goals and initiatives that drive growth and success in their businesses.
• Email management is crucial for productivity, but it should not overshadow more important tasks and responsibilities.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

What happens when your clients love one of your services… but you no longer do? 

In today’s podcast episode, Melissa Swink discusses what to do when you fall out of love with your business, or perhaps just one of your products/services. She explores the topic of burnout and identifies several areas of your business that could be dragging you down and preventing you from loving your work. This could include clientele, partnerships and collaborations, products and services, roles and responsibilities, and team members or vendors. Listen to learn what steps you can take to cut out what’s not working, with the ultimate goal of realigning your business to work for you and bring you joy and fulfillment!

Key Highlights:

• 34% of business owners and entrepreneurs report experiencing burnout. 
• Learn how to identify what's not working in your business.
• Take steps to resolve each issue, whether it's having a conversation with a client, discontinuing a service, or reviewing roles and responsibilities.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

On today’s special episode of Make Space for More, Melissa chats with Alex Brzozowski, founder of Be Organizing. Alex shares her journey of building a digital organizing business, how she provides her services remotely, and how she scaled her services by building a team. Alex also provides insight into how she developed internal systems and processes, including a central hub for information and a sales process script, to streamline operations and maintain consistency. Stay to the end to learn about a free offer from Be Organizing, to help you better organize your business! 

Key Highlights:

• Alex began as a solopreneur and evolved her business over time to include team members and fully remote services. 
• Today, the team at Be Organizing focuses on creating customized solutions that work for each client.
• They have developed internal systems and processes, including a central hub for information and a sales process script, to streamline operations and maintain consistency.
• Be Organizing offers a free digital declutter calendar and consultations to help individuals and businesses get started on their organizing journey.

About Our Guest: 

Alex Brzozowski is a digital organizer, productivity specialist, and founder of Be Organizing. She's been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and many more. Her team of Digital Professional Organizers and Productivity Specialists have reduced stress, saved time, and given hundreds of businesses and individuals across the country the peace of mind knowing exactly where their files, photos, emails, notes, tasks, projects, contacts, schedules, calendars, and passwords are (and how to quickly access them!). Visit the Be Organizing website to download your free Digital Declutter Calendar today!

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Have you ever wished you could get a behind-the-scenes look at another business’ balance sheet? 

In today’s podcast episode, you’re going to get a breakdown of expenses! Melissa Swink shares how much it costs to run her virtual assistant services company, Melissa Swink & Co. She discusses the labor costs, merchant fees, and various software expenses, plus client and team gifts, bonuses, and business insurance. Gain insights into the investments required to scale a business and apply what you learn to your own operations!

Key Highlights:

• Running a virtual assistant company involves a range of expenses, including labor costs, merchant fees, and software expenses.
• Understanding the costs involved in scaling a business can help entrepreneurs make informed decisions.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

We’ve all heard the comment, “Well that could have been an email” in relation to meetings. But it’s really the truth! As we grow our businesses and add team members, our time spent communicating with them is going to increase. But meetings can be expensive, and it’s important to take a quality-over-quantity approach. 

In this episode of the podcast, Melissa Swink discusses team communications and how to cut back on the time spent in meetings. She provides communication tools to improve efficiency, tips on reevaluating the necessity of meetings, and how to use tools like Voxer and Loom to reduce the need for real-time meetings. She also shares strategies for making meetings more efficient. Listen now!

Key Highlights:

• Reevaluate the necessity of meetings and consider using communication tools like Slack, Asana, Voxer, and Loom to reduce the need for real-time meetings.
• Prepare for meetings by creating an agenda and posing brainstorming questions ahead of time.
• Evaluate who needs to be present in meetings and structure the agenda to minimize unnecessary attendance.
• Facilitate effective discussions by staying on task, managing side conversations, and focusing on the meeting agenda.
• Limit the duration of meetings to allow for transition time and follow-up tasks.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Could your business’ marketing use a refresh? You’ll get some fresh ideas and perspectives in this week’s podcast episode!

Tune in to hear Melissa Swink chat with Leslie Capps of Wild Woman Marketing about the fundamentals of storytelling in marketing. They discussed the importance of having a solid and effective marketing strategy, the power of storytelling in connecting with clients, and the role of emotion and values in storytelling. They also explore effective calls to action and common marketing mistakes to avoid. Stay to the end to hear ideas for alternative marketing channels such as books, journals, events, and even wine clubs!

Key Highlights:

• Having a solid and effective marketing strategy is crucial for growing and scaling a business.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting with clients and conveying messages.
• Explore collaborations and alternative marketing channels for greater impact.

About Our Guest: 

Leslie is an international best-selling author and master of strategic storytelling. She shows entrepreneurs how to skyrocket their client attraction through powerful messaging. Once you've nailed your story, marketing becomes your oyster, ensuring you excel no matter the method.

Leslie offers a free Strategic Story Session to help you transform your business narrative into your most powerful asset. Listeners can book a free 60-minute Session with Leslie, the Strategic Story Sculptor, and discover how to craft compelling stories that captivate and convert.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a remote executive assistant for your business? Today’s episode peels back the curtain and shows you exactly how Melissa Swink is filling this role for Melissa Swink & Co.! You’ll learn how to create a job description and outline responsibilities. A remote executive assistant can provide administrative and operational support, accounting assistance, inside sales support, email management, schedule management, gift-giving, invoicing, proposal drafting, payment tracking, and following up with prospects and clients. Melissa also walks through her hiring and interview process and how to find the right person for the role.

Key Highlights:

• An executive assistant can provide valuable administrative and operational support.
• When hiring an executive assistant, it is important to find someone who is a good fit for the role and the company's culture.
• Tips and tricks for creating a job description and interviewing candidates. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

When you’re ready to make the leap from solopreneurship to hiring your first team members, it’s crucial to have solid systems in place. Organization and communication are absolutely essential for remote effective team management. Tune in to hear Melissa Swink’s top three must-have team management tools! 

Key Highlights:

• Transitioning from working solo to leading a team requires a mental shift and intentional leadership, communication, and delegation.
• Google Workspace is a must-have tool for managing teams, providing a professional email platform, shared drives, and collaboration tools.
• Asana is a project management tool that keeps everyone on the same page, assigns tasks, and ensures projects are completed in a timely manner.
• LastPass is a secure login credential storage system that allows for easy sharing of login information with team members.
• Using these tools can enhance efficiency, organization, and collaboration within a team.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

If you’ve ever had a bad experience with a business coach or if you’re considering hiring one for your business - this episode is for you! Tune in as Melissa Swink discusses the importance of hiring a business coach. A great coach will help you gain a fresh perspective, identify blind spots, learn with accountability, navigate new challenges, and fast-track your success. The right coach is a valuable investment that can provide a measurable ROI! In this episode, Melissa provides three practical tips to help you choose the best business coaching program for you. 

Key Highlights:

• Hiring a business coach can help you see things from a fresh perspective, identify blind spots, and provide guidance on areas that might be holding you back. 
• Your coach should have experience and a proven track record of success.
• It is important to find a coach whose values and priorities align with yours.
• Evaluating the coaching program's “container” - including coaching style, implementation support, and progress tracking - is crucial in selecting the right coaching program for you. 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Are you struggling to keep up with everything on your to-do list? Do you ever get to the end of a workday and wonder what you actually accomplished? 

In this podcast episode, Melissa Swink discusses the six hidden time-wasting activities that can dilute your results and keep you from reaching your goals. After defining each of the six time-waters, Melissa talks about the importance of spending time on impactful work that creates results. Tune in to learn how you can save time and increase your productivity! 

Key Highlights:

• Spending time on impactful work is crucial for achieving business goals.
• Identify and eliminate busy work that can be streamlined, automated, or delegated.
• Minimize time spent on the six time-wasting activities.
• Focus on quality over quantity when it comes to your work hours. 

About Our Guest: 

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

If you’ve ever experienced the “feast or famine” cycle in business, you know how painful it can be. Many business owners struggle to find a balance between consistent sales efforts and handling new business as it comes in, which leads to big swings in revenue and profitability. 

In today’s podcast, Melissa Swink discusses the “feast or famine” cycle, its impact on sales and growth, and six strategies to combat it with the help of a virtual team. She shares personal experiences and examples of how to leverage help from a virtual team to maintain consistency and increase sales. Virtual assistants can smooth out your sales cycle and help you experience steady, consistent growth through tracking leads, list building, outreach campaigns, new product launches, creating marketing content, and email funnels and campaigns. Don’t miss this week’s tactical tips! 

Key Highlights:

• Understanding the feast and famine cycle in business 
• How this up-and-down cycle hinders sales and business growth
• How leveraging help from others helps maintain consistency and increase sales
• Tactical strategies for how a virtual team can help a business with tracking leads, list building, outreach campaigns, new product launches, creating marketing content, and email funnels and campaigns

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

How would you like to cut your work week in half? It’s possible - with the power of time blocking your schedule.

In this episode, Melissa Swink shares a quick guide to leveraging time blocking to increase your productivity as a CEO. She discusses three easy-to-implement strategies for time-blocking your weekly calendar, including scheduling email checks, consolidating availability for meetings, and reserving time for needle movers. She also shares how she shifted her own schedule to massively increase efficiency. Tune in to learn the importance of structuring your day to achieve the results you want, while maintaining balance and focus!

Key Highlights:

• Time blocking can significantly increase productivity and efficiency in a work week.
• Scheduling email checks and consolidating availability for meetings are key strategies for effective time blocking.
• Reserving time for “needle movers” and prioritizing tasks is essential for achieving business growth and maintaining work-life balance.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

While many entrepreneurs can accept the idea of needing team members in order to grow and scale their businesses, most are leery about the onboarding process. In this episode of “Make Space for More,” Melissa Swink dives deep into how to onboard and cross-train team members effectively. 

Melissa first addresses the anxiety and overwhelm that many entrepreneurs feel when it comes to onboarding and training, and then shares her best practices. She also discusses her team's tools to manage their virtual team members and emphasizes the importance of cross-training. Listen now to become equipped and empowered to onboard virtual team members!

Key Highlights:

• Onboarding and cross-training team members can be overwhelming, but it is essential for business growth.
• Having the right documentation, such as independent contractor agreements and non-disclosure agreements, is important when working with new team members.
• Providing the necessary tools and access, such as shared drives and software logins, is crucial for team members to perform their tasks effectively.
• Conducting a team orientation and regular check-ins with team members help ensure clarity and open communication.
• Using project management tools, communication platforms, and time-tracking software can streamline team management and collaboration.
• Cross-training team members by creating standard operating procedures and using tools like Loom can save time and facilitate task handoff.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Are you ready to hire team members to grow and scale your business, but don’t know where to start? Today’s episode of “Make Space for More” provides your blueprint!

In this episode, Melissa Swink discusses her best practices for hiring a team. She first shares her personal experience of how hiring a team has led to increased 20x revenue and 5x profitability, all while maintaining a weekly work schedule of 20-25 hours. She then provides a step-by-step guide for hiring team members, including how to create a job description, how to find quality candidates, and how to conduct interviews. Melissa addresses the importance of references and trusting your gut, and provides encouragement for business owners to take the first step right away. 

Key Highlights:

• Building a team is a critical step in growing and scaling a business.
• Hiring a team can lead to increased revenue and profitability without working more hours.
• Creating a clear and concise job description is essential for attracting the right candidates.
• Seeking out quality candidates through social media groups, networking, and direct outreach is more effective than waiting for applicants.
• Conducting interviews, checking references, and trusting your gut are important steps in the hiring process.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

How are you going to grow your business to its first $100,000 or $1,000,000? The answer is by building a team. In this episode, Melissa Swink breaks the news that a one-person operation is not scalable and limits your ability to make more money. 

Learn the steps to calculate what your time is worth and the return on investment you can expect by hiring help. Melissa provides examples of tasks that can be delegated, such as social media management, invoicing, bookkeeping, and website updates. For business owners who just don’t know where to start, Melissa shares three task categories you can outsource immediately. Tune in to learn what those are and how you can take your next step forward to being a true CEO!

Key Highlights:

• A one-person operation is not scalable and limits the ability to make more money.
• Consider what your time is worth and the return on investment you can expect by hiring help.
• Delegate tasks that you struggle with, dislike, or have been on the back burner.
• Hire based on skill sets and the needs of your business.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Melissa highlights the negative impact of manual work on business owner productivity and teaches how to use tools and resources to streamline and automate repetitive tasks. Work smarter - not harder! Listen to hear examples of how apps, software, checklists, templates, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) can be used to simplify and automate business processes, setting you up for successful delegation down the line. Don’t miss this episode if you want to learn how to buy back hours of your time by identifying repeatable processes and making them more efficient!

Key Highlights:

• Manual work reduces your ability to make an impact on your business. 
• Simplifying and automating business processes can save time and increase efficiency.
• Tools like apps, software, checklists, templates, and SOPs can be used to streamline and automate tasks.
• Making a list of repeatable processes and finding ways to simplify and automate them is a crucial step in growing and scaling a business.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Key Highlights:

• Decluttering your business is essential for growth and alignment.
• Trust your gut and consider what is draining your time and energy.
• Say no or change direction when something is not aligned.
• Gracefully transition out of relationships or services that are no longer serving you.
• Focus on your highest priorities and eliminate or delegate the rest.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Key Highlights:

• Redesigning your role as CEO is crucial for business growth and scalability.
• Identify your personal non-negotiables to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
• Sort and prioritize tasks into categories: generates new business soon, generates new business eventually, business management, and other miscellaneous tasks.
• Structure your calendar with your highest priority tasks in mind, then designate times for email and meetings, and leave open space for miscellaneous work time.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are really valuable and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review.

Key Highlights:

• Business owners need to overcome financial fears and invest in growth tools like software and essential team members.
• Implementing a centralized project management system enhances team productivity and ensures alignment on deliverables.
• Learn how Melissa uses the Profit First system for effective cash flow management, enabling reinvestment in team growth.
• Documentation of processes and using tools like Loom aids in consistent training and efficient task delegation.
• Strategic financial planning, including setting aside funds for taxes and expenses, supports sustained business expansion.

About Melissa:

Melissa Swink, Founder & CEO of Melissa Swink & Co., has a team of virtual assistants who provide administrative and marketing support for small businesses and non-profits.

Since 2012, Melissa and her team have helped more than 100 businesses grow through the services they offer, and she is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs create profitable, scalable businesses they love.

Her work is all about doing what works (and eliminating what doesn’t) and driving real, measurable results. Visit www.melissaswink.com to learn more! 

Thanks for listening!

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