Are you interested in building an agency or multi-VA firm? Today our guest is Kristy Yoder, the founder and CEO of Smart VAs and host of the Master Delegator Podcast. She leads a team of more than 70 VAs and knows a lot about transitioning from a solopreneur virtual assistant to a CEO. Join us as we discuss the strategies and mindset you’ll need to have so you can overcome challenges and make a successful transition to CEO!   Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Kristy Yoder and the topic of transforming a solopreneur business into an agency or a multi-VA firm - Kristy describes her journey, how she started and then pivoted to an agency she runs every day. [5:19] How to release control - Kristy describes the strategies and mindset that help her delegate and release control to other VAs in her agency. [8:52] The “ceiling effect” - how you cap your revenues, energy, and capacity when you try to do everything instead of trusting other people. [9:22] The mindset you need to shift from a VA or freelance solopreneur to a CEO of a team - Kristy encourages solopreneurs and describes how she needs to be clear with her title and role as a CEO, changing from an implementer to a visionary, planner, and strategist. [13:17] How to start thinking like a CEO - the importance of envisioning your goals and plans and how you can wear that leadership cap even if you’re a solopreneur. [14:51] The challenges that must be overcome when pivoting to a CEO model and mindset - Kristy explains her main challenge that she’s still trying to overcome.  [16:51] How you can be your own worst enemy in business - Craig describes the challenges you may face and the importance of self-awareness so you can get out of your own way.   Tips to Help VAs and Freelancers Make a Successful Transition to CEO [19:05] Slow down, but don’t procrastinate - the importance of coming up with a realistic plan for your business and focusing on it. [21:15] How to hire the right people for your agency - Kristy discusses her recruitment process and how her VAs must be in alignment with her core values, possessing the right skills and character. [23:25] The importance of character and hiring people you can trust [24:17] Resources on becoming the leader or CEO in your business - Kristy shares her favorite author and book. [27:11] How to learn more about leveling up your skills at Freelance University   Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Freelance University   Learn more about Kristy Yoder: Website: KristyYoder.com  Smart VAs  Master Delegator Podcast   Connect with Kristy: On Facebook  On Instagram  On YouTube On LinkedIn   Resources and tools: John C. Maxwell’s book, Developing the Leader Within You  iTunes