In this episode of REACH, we sit down with Laura Vanderkam, a bestselling author, speaker, and one of the most trusted voices in time management and productivity. Laura has spent years studying how high-performing professionals actually spend their time, using real time diaries to uncover the gap between perceived busyness and reality.

She is the author of several acclaimed books, including 168 Hours, and her newest release, Big Time: A Simple Path to Time Abundance, where she explores how even the busiest individuals can create more space, intention, and balance in their lives.

In this conversation, Laura shares practical strategies and mindset shifts around prioritization, productivity, and redefining what it means to “not have enough time.” For Executive Assistants and support professionals managing competing priorities at a high level, this episode offers actionable insights to help you take greater control of your time and operate more effectively.

To learn more about Laura and stay up to date on her new release, visit: https://lauravanderkam.com/

What makes Nicky’s perspective especially valuable is her focus on the realities of the role that aren’t always formally taught. The nuance, the judgment calls, and the moments where there is no clear right answer. In this episode, we explore what it really means to operate in the gray. How to make decisions without a playbook, build trust with your executive, and confidently step into a more strategic, operator mindset.

It’s not too late to join Nicky in person or remotely. The EA Campus Conference is running this week, April 22–24, 2026, at ISH Venues in London and online. Find out more and register here: https://theeacampus.com/conference/

You can also learn more about Nicky and access her resources at https://theeacampus.com/

Happy Administrative Professionals Week! On today’s episode of REACH, we’re joined by Monique Helstrom, former Executive Assistant, Producer, and “Chief of” to Simon Sinek, author of Start with Why. Often described as the “HOW Girl to the WHY Guy,” Monique spent nearly a decade helping build and scale one of the most influential leadership brands in the world, giving her a front-row seat to high-level leadership, communication, and partnership.

Now a keynote speaker and coach, Monique shares practical guidance for Executive Assistants on leading up, communicating with clarity, and stepping into their roles with confidence. We also explore how EAs can embrace AI as a powerful tool to stay relevant and enhance their impact. This episode is packed with actionable insights on communication, connection, and evolving as a strategic partner in today’s workplace.

Resources & Offers:

Podcast Listener Offer Get $100 off The AI-Powered Assistant course. Learn how to think with AI so you can produce stronger work, faster, and position yourself as a strategic partner. https://www.moniquehelstrom.com/ai-powered-assistant Use code: reachpodcast

April Coaching Offer Special Administrative Professionals Month pricing on coaching sessions focused on confidence, communication, career direction, and strategic partnership skills. Book a Discovery Call: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/discoverycallwithmonique

Double Course Bundle (April Only) Get The AI-Powered Assistant and Introduction to Effective Communication together to build both technical skills and communication clarity. Explore the bundle: https://moniquehelstrom.thinkific.com/bundles/administrative-professionals-month-2026

About Monique Monique Helstrom is a recruiter, coach, and speaker specializing in the executive–assistant partnership. A former Executive Assistant to Simon Sinek, she now helps executives hire and work effectively with high-level assistants and supports assistants in building strategic, future-proof careers.

Website: www.MoniqueHelstrom.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniquejhelstrom/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquehelstrom/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrz2UEjZterB-2AdKZuAYxQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoniqueJHelstrom