The Whole Assistant Podcast

By Annie CronerBusiness Education Self-Improvement How To Careers

The Whole Assistant Podcast episodes

September 25, 2025Making the Shift From Rescuer to Guide
If you’ve been carrying the weight of fixing every problem for your executive, you’re not alone.

In this episode, I talk about why assistants so often fall into the role of “rescuer,” and how making the shift to “guide” can help you show up stronger, calmer, and more strategic in your work. I explain the difference between rescuing and guiding, and share simple tips that will help you protect your energy, own your worth, and step into the role of empowered badass.

In this episode, you will discover:
The big differences between being a rescuer and being a guide.
How to spot when you’re in “rescuer” mode and why it’s not helping you or your executive.
Practical strategies to safeguard against “rescuer” energy.

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Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

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Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

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Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
21 min
September 18, 2025Important Conversations: Gender Dynamics and Supporting Female Executives
In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I dive deep into the complex world of gender dynamics within the executive assistant and business leadership space, joined by powerhouse guests Ebony Bellhumer (CEO & former EA/Chief of Staff) and Melissa Peoples (EA coach and advocate).
Drawing on personal stories, lived experience, and client observations, we unpack the nuanced realities of supporting women leaders versus men, why stereotypes persist, how competition and socialization shape workplace relationships.
In this episode, you will discover:
Why so many executive assistants say they’ll “never support a female executive again” (and why we rarely hear the same about men).
How socialization, competition, and internalized expectations shape dynamics between women (and with their teams) at every level.
The hidden impact of the “work wife” label and how redefining your professional identity can unlock more impactful partnerships.
Practical tools and mindset shifts for having courageous conversations, knowing your value, and thriving in any executive partnership.
Ready to challenge your assumptions and find a more empowered way forward? Hit play and let’s get into the real talk!
Connect with us:
Ebony Belhumeur - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebelhumeur/
Melissa Peoples - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissapeoples/
Annie Croner - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-croner/
51 min
September 11, 2025Stop Glorifying Terrible Behavior
Warning! This episode is extra spicy.

I get real about a troubling trend making the rounds: that being mistreated at work somehow makes you better at your job. I break down why this belief is so harmful, share my own story of tough work situations, and explain why true success shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Instead, I’ll show you a healthier, stronger way to build your career, with real confidence and boundaries.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
Why putting up with toxic leaders is not a badge of honor, it’s dangerous.
The difference between real growth and just surviving a bad situation.
How to build your success and self-worth from healthy values, not past pain.

To purchase your copy of Amy Gallo’s book, Getting Along, click here.

Registration for Leveled-Up is officially open! Click here to claim your spot!

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Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

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Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
17 min
August 28, 2025Turbocharging Your Career Through Community
What if your next level of growth is waiting for you in community?

In this episode, I talk about how building a community of fellow executive assistants can transform your career. I share real stories about finding support, cover the downsides of trying to do it all solo, and explain how connecting with others can help you grow.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
The risks of going it alone
How a strong EA community gives you fresh ideas, support, and accountability
Simple ways to find or grow your own support network, both online and offline
Why leaning on a community fast-tracks your personal and professional growth
You’ll walk away empowered to find your people and level up your career—together!

Click here to register for my free hour-long masterclass, 3 Ways to Establish Trust in Your Executive Assistant Role.

Registration for Leveled-Up is officially open! Click here to claim $100 off.

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Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

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Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
14 min
August 21, 2025Taking Your Shot & Playing a Bigger Game
What if avoiding risk is the biggest risk of all?
During this episode, I dive into what it means to truly “take your shot” and play a bigger game. I open up about my own journey (a mix of bold moves and stumbles) while highlighting the hidden costs of playing it safe, especially when it comes to advocating for yourself in your career.
In this episode, you will discover:
Why developing risk tolerance is crucial for both personal and professional growth (and how it’s a skill, not an inborn trait).
The hidden costs of playing it safe.
Practical strategies to prepare you for taking risks.
Whether you’re considering a big ask, a career move, or simply feel stuck, this episode will inspire you to get moving, trust yourself, and play a bigger game.
17 min
August 14, 2025Mastering Mindset Part 2: One Powerful Tool to Level Up Your Mindset
Mindset is a buzzword. Unfortunately nobody’s talking about what it takes to improve it. 🤷🏼‍♀️

In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I share my favorite tool for managing your mindset and building confidence at work. You'll learn how to take control of your thoughts, understand how they affect your actions, and use a simple framework to show up more powerfully and authentically for yourself and your executive.

In this episode, you will discover:
What thoughtwork is and why it’s so important for your personal and professional growth.
A step-by-step framework (the model) to shift your mindset and get better results.
Tips for staying calm, separating facts from feelings, and owning your unique value.
Common mindset pitfalls and how to avoid using thoughtwork in ways that hold you back.

If you’re ready to step into your power and level up your career, this episode is for you!

*P.S. Don’t miss out on The Leveled-Up Assistant! My signature group program—designed to help you embrace your badassery and level up as a truly strategic business partner—is opening its doors for a limited time in September 2025.
Join the waitlist now for exclusive discounts, special bonuses, and first dibs on spots in this in-demand program. Click here to get on the list.

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Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

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Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
21 min
August 07, 2025Mastering Mindset Part 1: The 3 Levels of Self-Awareness
Have you ever caught yourself reacting in a way you wish you could change?

In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I break down what “mindset” really means and why it matters. I’ll walk you through the three levels of self-awareness, using real-life examples, and show you how to start shifting your habits, one step at a time.

In this episode, you will discover:
Why mindset matters for assistants
How being kind to yourself can help you change faster
Simple steps to start paying attention to your thoughts and actions so you can grow

Let’s get started on becoming more intentional, confident, and empowered in every part of your life!

🚀 Are you on the hunt for your next role? Check out my new pay-what-you-can course to help you land your dream position.
Click here to enroll.

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Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

----------------------------------------------

Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
11 min
July 31, 2025Powerful Thoughts for Job Seekers
Do you feel like your job search is one big rollercoaster?
In this episode, I share two powerful thoughts that will help you handle rejection, disappointment, and uncertainty.
In this episode, you will discover:
A subtle, yet powerful shift you can make when it comes to the way you think about disappointment
Tips for managing disappointment without getting stuck or ignoring your feelings
Where to find more support and resources for your job search
Give this episode a listen for some much-needed encouragement and practical tools to stay strong and focused during your job hunt!

🚀 Are you on the hunt for your next role? Check out my new pay-what-you-can course to help you land your dream position.
Click here to enroll.

----------------------------------------------

Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

----------------------------------------------

Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
7 min
July 24, 2025Common Job Search Barriers to Success (and How to Overcome Them)
Are you frustrated with your job search?

In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I break down the biggest barriers that people face when looking for a new job From getting clear on what you really want, to creating a resume that stands out, to handling rejection and building your network, you’ll find actionable advice to make your next career move a success.

In this episode, you will discover:
How to get clear on what you truly want so you stop wasting time on jobs that aren’t a fit.
The most common resume mistakes (and what actually works to get noticed).
Why you should approach interviews as a two-way street and how to do it confidently.
How to deal with rejection and ghosting, plus tips to grow your support network and unlock hidden job opportunities.
Ready for a smarter, more successful job search? Let’s get started!

🚀 Are you on the hunt for your next role? Check out my new pay-what-you-can course to help you land your dream position.
Click here to enroll.

----------------------------------------------

Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

----------------------------------------------

Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
14 min
July 10, 2025When Your Executive Has Internalized Chaos
Do you ever take on your executive’s chaos as your responsibility to fix?

In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, I talk honestly about what it’s like to work for an executive who seems to thrive in chaos. I break down why some leaders operate this way, why it’s not on you to fix it, and how you can stop blaming yourself when things feel out of control. If you feel stuck or frustrated in a hectic workplace, this episode will help you feel seen, and give you ideas on how to move forward.

In this episode, you will discover:
Why some executives are drawn to chaos and why it feels normal for them.
How to stop taking chaotic situations personally or thinking it’s all your fault.
Tips for staying professional and calm, even when things around you aren’t.
How to decide if a chaotic work environment is something you want to stick with, and how to make that decision with confidence.

----------------------------------------------

Have burning questions you've been dying to ask? Submit your question to Ask Annie Anything by clicking here.

----------------------------------------------

Are you ready to show up more strategically in your role, and gain clarity on your executive's priorities? Grab my FREE Strategic Planning Session guide and learn how to hold consistent strategic planning sessions with your executive.

This will help you:
- Prepare and execute your strategic planning session
- Enhance trust with your executive & gain clarity around their goals
- Form a more strategic partnership & increase your fulfillment

Grab your free guide here.

----------------------------------------------

Enjoy what you're hearing on the podcast? Please rate and review wherever you're listening.
Stay Connected:
Book your free coaching discovery call.
Visit the website.
Follow me on LinkedIn.
Send Me an Email: [email protected]
12 min

About The Whole Assistant Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to The Whole Assistant Podcast! I’m your host Annie Croner. I’m a former assistant who is passionate about the profession, and a certified coach who is invested in your success. You’ve come to…