Rewrite The Playbook with Rachael Bonetti

This episode explores one of the biggest shifts happening inside the Executive Assistant profession right now:  Why many highly capable Executive Assistants are already operating strategically, while still undervaluing or under-articulating their contribution. Rachael Bonetti unpacks the growing gap between strategic Executive Assistant capability and strategic visibility, and why Executive Assistant career growth increasingly depends on more than execution, responsiveness and coordination alone. As AI reshapes administrative work and organisations rethink where human value sits, this conversation explores what strategic Executive Assistant skills now look like, how EAs can strengthen their visibility and influence, and why operational effectiveness is becoming one of the most valuable capabilities in modern organisations. Inside the episode: Why the benchmark for high-performing Executive Assistants has shifted The growing gap between strategic contribution and strategic visibility How AI is reshaping the future of Executive Assistant work Why execution alone is no longer enough to stand out The hidden cost of interpreting the EA role too narrowly The difference between transactional support and strategic partnership What strategic Executive Assistants tend to notice that others miss Why many EAs are already operating strategically long before they recognise it themselves This episode is for Executive Assistants who want to strengthen their strategic thinking, increase their visibility and influence, and better understand how to position themselves for long-term career growth in a rapidly changing business environment. If you’re enjoying the show, sharing the episode or leaving a review helps more Executive Assistants find the conversation. Referenced in this episode: Why Strategic Executive Assistants Still Feel Invisible at Work The Strategic EA Reset Learn more about The Elite EA Academy  Connect with, and read more insights from Rachael  LinkedIn Instagram Forbes Australia

How should executive assistant performance actually be measured? Most organisations still assess executive assistant performance through responsiveness, output and how smoothly things run. Those things matter, but they don’t explain where the real leverage of executive support sits. In this episode, Rachael Bonetti introduces The Executive Support Performance Lens™, a framework for measuring executive assistant performance based on how executive support strengthens leadership effectiveness and organisational performance. In this episode we'll explore: Why traditional executive assistant performance metrics fall short The five dimensions of the Executive Support Performance Lens™ How executive assistants enable stronger leadership performance How organisations can rethink executive assistant performance frameworks Resources mentioned Full article and the diagnostic tool on the website The Elite EA Academy In-house training for EAs Connect with, and read more insights from Rachael LinkedIn Instagram Forbes Australia

Personal brand is already shaping your career, whether you engage with it or not. In this episode, Rachael unpacks why capable executive assistants are often categorised as “helpful support” rather than talent, and how that distinction quietly affects trust, opportunity, and protection inside organisations. This isn't  a conversation about visibility or self-promotion. It’s about reputation, judgement, and the narratives that form when value isn’t clearly articulated. Especially in environments under pressure, where decisions about roles, investment, and capability are being made quickly. If you’ve ever felt the gap between the value you know you bring and how you’re being seen, this episode will help you understand why that gap forms and what’s actually at stake. Show notes This is a keynote and in-house training topic Rachael works with regularly, shaped by real conversations with EAs, executives, and leadership teams navigating change in real time. To learn more, visit www.rachaelbonetti.com  Connect with Rachael on socials: LinkedIn Instagram @rachaelbonetti

If your calendar never really settled in 2025, this episode will help you understand why. After spending the year inside organisations training and working closely with executive assistants and executive teams, one pattern kept repeating: constant reprioritisation. Not as a time management issue. Not as a capability gap. But as a signal of deeper capacity strain. In this season-opening episode of Rewrite The Playbook, we name what was actually happening beneath the surface and why so many capable EAs felt stretched, despite doing everything “right”. You’ll hear: Why reprioritisation became so common in 2025 The difference between strategic, reactive, and structural reprioritisation What unsettled calendars reveal about organisational load and decision pressure Why the EA role is becoming more influential as organisations search for stability This is a grounded conversation for EAs who want clearer language for what they were navigating last year and stronger footing as they move into 2026, and it will give you the language to raise it at a leadership level. Show Notes The Elite EA Academy This is where I continue this work with executive assistants who want to better understand the patterns they’re seeing, develop language for their judgement, and stand behind the influence they already have. January intake is open now. 👉 https://www.rachaelbonetti.com/the-elite-ea-academy Subscribe to my newsletter For first access to free community classes and new work. Free audio training: The EA Compass: https://www.rachaelbonetti.com/free-ea-training 👉 https://rachaelbonetti.myflodesk.com/subscribe Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelbonetti/ Follow me and connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-bonetti-4b46561a/  

What exactly is Biz Rizz?  It’s your ability to build powerful relationships in a professional setting. It’s executive presence with a rebrand. And if you’ve never thought about how others experience you at work, you might be missing out on career-changing opportunities. In this episode, we’re breaking down Biz Rizz—business charisma that opens doors—so you can command a room, influence outcomes, and be seen as someone who belongs at the table without waiting for an invite. This episode is for you if you’re: Wondering why some people naturally attract promotions, trust, and career-defining opportunities Feeling stuck behind the scenes, waiting for recognition that never comes Ready to show up with the kind of presence that makes people listen and respect your voice Tune in to learn five practical ways to cultivate Biz Rizz starting today. No fluff. No awkward networking hacks. Just real, strategic moves to elevate how you show up at work. Episode Highlights: Why Biz Rizz matters more than ever, especially if you started your career post-pandemic The Barbie Movie lesson that changes the game for behind-the-scenes professionals The truth about executive presence and why some people get ahead faster How to hold attention, hold space, and influence outcomes Five core moves to develop Biz Rizz in your career Loved this episode? Rate and review to help others find it Share it with your network—someone you know needs to hear this Subscribe so you never miss a powerful insight Links & Resources: Work with me  The Elite EA Academy  Follow me for more tips on Instagram @rachaelbonetti And on LinkedIn

Thinking about stepping up into a new role within your organisation? Internal opportunities can be a powerful way to accelerate your career—but only if you’re set up for success. Beware the fake title, the silent trap and the false promise! In this episode, we break down: The real risks of internal promotions and secondments that nobody talks about How to spot red flags before you say yes Why some ‘career opportunities’ are just old roles with a fresh coat of paint How to navigate the politics and protect your position The one move that ensures you're never left stranded If career progression and next-level confidence are on your radar this year, don’t miss this episode—it could save you from a misstep and help you make the most of your next move. Listen now and if you found it helpful, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Connect with Rachael Bonetti 🔗 Website: www.rachaelbonetti.com 📲 Instagram: @rachaelbonetti 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachaelbonetti

In this episode, we dive into the delicate balance of building a visible personal brand while being an employee—without putting your career at risk. We’re in an era where having a digital footprint is almost a requirement, yet the internet never forgets. So, how do you create a compelling and authentic online presence that opens doors rather than closes them? This Episode Explores: Why having an online personal brand matters and how it can set you apart in a competitive job market The risks of oversharing and how to avoid the fine line between authenticity and sharing too much What employers, hiring managers, and industry leaders look for when they search for you online The power of perception and how your online presence shapes how others view your judgment, discretion, and professionalism How to audit your digital footprint to ensure your online profile aligns with your career goals Practical strategies to craft a strong, career-safe public profile that enhances your credibility and keeps you front of mind for the right opportunities Why This Episode is Important Your online brand is your calling card. It is your legacy, your online handshake, and your chance to be known for the right reasons. Whether you are looking to secure your next promotion, land a dream role, or position yourself as a thought leader, you need to be intentional about how you show up online. Tune in to learn how to leverage your personal brand with confidence, without raising red flags at work. If this episode resonates, tag me in your first LinkedIn post—I would love to support you. Like freebies? If you leave a review and send me a screenshot at hello@rachaelbonetti.com, I will send you a special freebie: the five books that transformed my career and business mindset. Connect with me Find me on Linkedin here or on IG @RachaelBonetti And visit my website to see how we can work together, learn more about me

Welcome Back: New Name, New Energy! In this raw and honest relaunch episode, Rachael shares the story behind stepping into disruption as her theme for 2025 and how questioning “Who the hell does she think she is?” almost stopped her from building a business and pursuing bigger ambitions. If you’ve ever held yourself back because of self-doubt or fear of what others might think, this episode will resonate. Rachael opens up about: Why sameness is killing creativity and what it takes to break free.  The mindset shifts that helped her stop playing small and start making bold moves. How to let go of perfection and lean into messy but intentional action. Why your gut instinct is your most under-utilised compass for your career. How to thrive by staying true to yourself, even when it feels risky. This episode is a rallying cry to stop shrinking, embrace evolution, and rewrite the rules for yourself—whether you’re looking to thrive in your career, show up differently at work, or take a leap into something new - maybe even your own business.  Links mentioned in this episode: Follow Rachael on Instagram @rachaelbonetti Follow and connect with Rachael on LinkedIn Explore Rachael’s Work  Join the waitlist to hear more about her forthcoming training

Your work isn't who you are it's what you do ,and that's what we  dive into in this bite size episode on the concept of labels and how they shape our professional identities. Too often, we define ourselves by our roles—entrepreneur, trainer, project manager, designer, CEO, executive assistant—without realising the limitations these labels impose. Inspired by recent observations in her business and reflecting on her own corporate career experience, Rachael explores how these labels can box us in, restrict our growth, and prevent us from exploring new opportunities.  You'll hear insights and actionable advice on: Labels and Identity: Understanding the difference between what we do and who we are. Breaking the Box: How labels can limit our growth and exploration of new opportunities. Mindset Shift: The importance of maintaining an open mind and being willing to step out of comfort zones. Potential Over Labels: Recognising and unlocking potential beyond the labels assigned to us. Career Satisfaction and Burnout: How detaching from labels can lead to greater career satisfaction and prevent burnout. Talent mapping and succession planning behind closed doors: what it takes to progress at work and be regarded as talent. Join us as we challenge the labels, embrace our true potential, and unlock new possibilities in our careers and lives.  What might unfold for you if you thought about your potential a little differently? Connect with Rachael Explore the website to partner, explore her courses, corporate training and consulting and private mentoring. Join the newsletter  Follow along on IG and LinkedIn Read her articles in Forbes Australia  Read her insights on her website Book Rachael for keynotes and talks 

In this bite-sized solo episode, we delve into a story about a pivotal moment on TikTok and the reflections it spurred. From celebrating admin professionals to facing unexpected backlash with a post that was on the cusp of going viral, this episode navigates authenticity, social media dynamics, and the cost of online engagement. Tune in for insights on staying true to yourself amidst the noise of the digital world.  We explore Authenticity vs. Algorithm: The clash between authenticity and the allure of social media growth Navigating Trolls: The effects of online negativity and the surprising insights it can bring about societal biases. Online Well-being: The impact of social media on mental health and the importance of curating a digital space that supports authenticity and positivity. Empowerment in Admin Work: Explore the significance of admin/executive assistant roles and the power of lived experience in understanding their value. Takeaways and Action Steps: Hear practical tips for enhancing your online experience, from muting negativity to mindful engagement. Recommended Resource: Book Recommendation: Stolen Focus by Johann Harri Free Meditation: Enjoy a meditation to help you block out the noise, be in the present moment and allow your body, mind and nervous system to soften. You can access this in the Secret Freebie Vault, a space that's usually reserved exclusively for newsletter subscribers. Want in on the newsletter so you never miss the good stuff? Sign up here    Connect with Rachael Instagram LinkedIn Website Join the weekly newsletter

In the first episode of season four I'm joined by the incredible and inspiring Lou Kelle for a soulful conversation on all things self discovery, authetic living and the liberation of living our truth. Lou has dedicated the last nine years to teaching yoga full-time in Melbourne, Australia, while also co-facilitating international yoga teacher training programs in Thailand and hosting transformative retreats in Bali, Thailand, and Australia. As a certified life coach, Lou's passion lies in combining yoga and self-development to create healing spaces where participants can shift limiting beliefs and create inspired lives. Conversation Highlights: The path to courage and willingness to follow the heart and pursue a life of freedom. Lou's journey and the experiences that have shaped her into a beacon of hope and freedom for others. Lou shares what excites her the most in her business and life, highlighting the fulfillment she finds in helping others transform and thrive. Lou discusses her journey of discovering high sensitivity and how it has influenced her life and work. And we talk about the importance of holding space for oneself AND others, particularly in roles like Executive Assistants and other in-service professions, to prevent burnout. If you like what you hear, please get in touch to let us know, or even better, rate, review, follow or subscribe so conversations like these get into as many ears as possible. Please share this episode if someone you know might benefit from it. Show Notes: Connect with Lou: Coaching Retreats Instagram   And connect with Rachael: Instagram Website hello@rachaelbonetti  LinkedIn

In a world where answers seem just a click away, it's easy to feel off balance when faced with uncertainty. In this bite sized episode, we explore the power of leaning into the unknown. Discover how great leaders navigate change with grace, and why embracing ambiguity can lead to powerful self-discovery. Learn why radical self-trust and self-compassion can revolutionise your approach to life and work. Find out how letting go of the need for all the answers can lead to surprising and fulfilling outcomes. You’ll hear tips and insights on: The lessons leaders can teach us about navigating ambiguity How tuning in to our instincts helps us to move forward Why paralysis by analysis is hurting our creativity, productivity and growth The common problems executive assistant clients face in their careers relating to ambiguity The advice that created ultimate freedom for Rachael in her  career and life If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review or rating. Your feedback means the world to us! See you in a fortnight for more inspiring insights. Connect with Rachael LinkedIn Instagram  Explore the website and subscribe to the newsletter If you're an assistant and you'd love to step into a growth mindset, feel empowered or do things differently, join us inside The Elite EA Academy. Offered as public intakes or on-demand for full teams, this course has supported assistants all over the world unlock their full potential.  

Tune in to Episode 9 to hear from Tina Paterson, a corporate culture pioneer, remote working expert and author of the book Effective Remote Teams.  Tina shares her experience with burnout and how it made her determined to find a better way work, a quest that sent her on a mission to discover the tangible and practical strategies and tools that enable genuine work-life balance. She shares her insights into the new frontier that is remote working - not a passing hangover from the pandemic, but a way of working with tremendous benefits for employees and organisations alike that’s here to stay, and why the culture of always being 'on' is the fastrack to burnout. You'll hear why we should value outcomes over hours and understand how leaders can embrace remote working and retain high performance without sacrificing their culture and connection.    SHOW NOTES Connect with Tina Paterson LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-paterson/ Website https://tina-paterson.com   Connect with Rachael LinkedIn  Instagram @rachaelbonetti Website  www.rachaelbonetti.com Email Hello@rachaelbonetti.com