80. From $6-Figure Corporate to Thriving VA: Tonya Smith's Inspiring Journey to Leaving Her 9-to-5

Episode Title: From $6-Figure Corporate to Thriving VA: Tonya Smith's Inspiring Journey to Leaving Her 9-to-5

Podcast Description:

In this episode of Booked Out with Bre, I'm SO excited to introduce you to the incredible Tonya Smith! This session from VA Fest 2025 is pure fire. Tonya went from a nearly six-figure corporate project management job, feeling stressed and missing out on time with her kids, to leaving her 9-to-5 and building a thriving virtual assistant business in just a matter of months. And guess what? Her official last day was just last week!

Tonya Smith's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of believing in yourself even when life throws you curveballs. She shares how a pivotal moment involving the book "You Are a Badass" and finding a supportive community changed everything for her.

Here’s what you’ll hear from Tonya Smith:

• Her journey from a high-paying but demanding corporate role to taking a pay cut to pursue her VA dream.

• The mindset shifts that were crucial for her success (spoiler: it's all about believing you won't fail!).

• How she built confidence and skills by taking action, even when her portfolio wasn't "perfect."

• The incredible client wins she's had, including a $1000/week retainer client!

• Her powerful message about breaking generational curses and creating financial wealth for her family.

• Actionable takeaways for anyone wanting to start or grow their VA business, including the importance of starting before you're ready and staying consistent through doubt.

• How she found her first clients by passionately talking about what she does.

Tonya Smith's energy is absolutely contagious, and her story is a powerful reminder that you can create the life and business you desire. If you're ready to leave your 9-to-5, build something of your own, and step into your power, this episode is for you. Let's go!

Episode Outline:

• Welcome to VA Fest 2025 Session 2 with Tonya Smith (00:00:11)

• Introducing Tonya Smith: From Corporate to Leaving Her 9-to-5 in Months (01:08)

• Tonya Smith's Background: Entrepreneur at Heart, Corporate Project Manager, Mom of 3 (02:19)

• The Turning Point: Realizing She Was Meant for More Than the Corporate Grind (03:16)

• The Power of "You Are a Badass" & Finding a Supportive Community (03:58)

• Making the Leap: Leaving a Nearly Six-Figure Job & Taking a Pay Cut (05:09)

• Key Mindset Shifts: Believing You Won't Fail & Consistency (05:55)

• Taking Action: Building a Portfolio & Gaining Confidence (08:01)

• Client Success: Landing a $1000/Week Retainer Client (09:38)

• Breaking Generational Curses & Creating Financial Wealth (11:12)

• Tonya Smith's Actionable Takeaways for Aspiring VAs: (14:05)

  • Start Before You're Ready (14:12)

  • Confidence Comes from Doing (14:24)

  • Clarity Comes with Action (14:35)

  • Delegate Before You Burn Out (15:12)

  • Build Your Brand Authentically (16:11)

  • Stay Consistent Through Doubt (17:07)

• Q&A: When Tonya Smith Knew She Could Leave Her 9-to-5 (19:37)