The Offshore Diaries

Episode 16: Management Accounting to Digital Success: How Shaina Redefined Her Career as a VA

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:57:04 GMT

From helping manage an e-commerce business during the pandemic to becoming a trusted virtual assistant supporting multiple clients, Shaina Ventanilla shares her journey of growth, adaptability, and continuous learning in the VA industry. A Management Accounting graduate who initially questioned whether her experience qualified her as "real" virtual assistant work, Shaina discusses how embracing new opportunities led her to develop skills in lead generation, invoicing, HR, payroll, and business operations for a growing data center infrastructure company serving major organizations.

In this episode, Shaina reflects on the advantages of the virtual assistant career path, the importance of staying open to learning beyond your educational background, and how supportive work environments contribute to long-term success. She also shares valuable insights for aspiring VAs about building confidence, avoiding self-imposed limitations, and continuously upskilling to create new opportunities. Her story is a testament to how curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to grow can transform a career and open doors to exciting professional possibilities.

Connect:

Shaina Ventanilla - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-ventanilla

Episode 15: Building Trust and Growth: A Virtual Assistant’s Guide to Long-Term Client Success

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:56:17 GMT

Aya Almonte’s career is a testament to the power of adaptability, initiative, and continuous learning. Starting her professional journey at just 19 years old as an on-site Executive Assistant supporting multiple businesses, Aya quickly gained experience handling everything from operations and audits to travel arrangements, visa processing, scheduling, and business administration. In this episode, she shares how those early challenges prepared her for the fast-paced world of virtual assistance, where she now serves as a trusted Executive Assistant supporting multiple legal and investigative businesses for an international client.

Aya discusses the realities of managing complex responsibilities, learning unfamiliar industries, and growing into a leadership role while overseeing team operations and supporting business expansion. She highlights the importance of communication, building trust with clients, and maintaining a willingness to learn, even when stepping far outside your comfort zone. Her story offers valuable insights for aspiring virtual assistants, demonstrating how confidence, dedication, and a positive attitude can open doors to long-term career growth and meaningful professional relationships.

Connect:

Aya Almonte - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianne-almonte-0baa5925a

Episode 14: From High School Grad to Executive Assistant: Julian Kurt Dela Cruz’s VA Journey

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:55:52 GMT

At just 22 years old, Julian Kurt De La Cruz has already built an impressive career path, transitioning from the BPO industry into the world of virtual assistance while balancing his college education. In this episode, Julian shares how confidence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn helped him leverage his communication skills into a successful role as an Executive Assistant. From supporting real estate professionals to managing HR processes, SEO initiatives, CRM systems, and administrative operations, Julian demonstrates how continuous growth and curiosity can create opportunities far beyond traditional career expectations.

Julian also discusses the realities of working with international clients, the value of professional environments, and the importance of developing new skills on the job. As a Public Administration student and a key contributor within a growing tech and design agency, he offers valuable insights for aspiring virtual assistants looking to build a sustainable career. His story highlights how embracing challenges, staying adaptable, and investing in personal development can accelerate both professional and personal growth in the evolving remote-work landscape.

Episode 13: Why On-Site VAs are Better for Clients and Employees

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:55:17 GMT

For over two years, Archer Solutions has been building a different kind of virtual assistant company—one that brings remote talent together under one roof. In this episode, General Manager Sammy shares how the company evolved from a small remote team of fewer than ten people into a growing organization of more than 100 employees. Drawing from his experience helping build the company’s systems, processes, and culture from the ground up, Sammy offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to scale a VA agency while maintaining high standards in recruitment, training, and client service.

Sammy also explores the advantages of an office-based VA environment, from stronger collaboration and mentorship to greater accountability and professional growth. He discusses why many experienced freelancers choose to return to a structured workplace, how direct client relationships help VAs succeed, and why leadership, culture, and continuous learning are essential in today’s evolving outsourcing industry. Whether you're a business owner considering offshore support or a VA looking to grow your career, this conversation provides valuable insight into a model that challenges traditional assumptions about remote work.

Episode 12: Inside Archers Contact Solution: How In-Office VAs Boost Performance

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:54:20 GMT

Gene Bohensky, CEO of Archer's Contact Solutions, shares the remarkable story of how a single virtual assistant hire evolved into a thriving outsourcing company serving businesses across the United States. Drawing from nearly a decade of experience working with Filipino talent, Gene discusses the challenges he encountered managing remote teams, the lessons learned about reliability and consistency, and the decision to establish a physical office in the Philippines to create stronger support systems for both clients and virtual assistants. Through Archer's Contact Solutions, Gene has built a company focused on long-term partnerships, professional development, and delivering dependable results for growing businesses.

In this episode, Gene explores the evolving landscape of the virtual assistant industry, highlighting the importance of training, adaptability, and proactive problem-solving in today's remote workforce. He explains how Archer's Contact Solutions helps bridge the gap between clients and virtual assistants through careful assessments, ongoing mentorship, and tailored matching based on both skills and personality. Gene also shares his perspective on the future of outsourcing, the growing demand for skilled remote professionals, and why the Philippines continues to be a global leader in providing talented, dedicated support for businesses looking to scale.

Connect:

Gene Bohensky - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenebohensky

Episode 11: From Homelessness to Hope: Kidney Transplant Survivor Launches Libre Academy

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:35:17 GMT

Patrick Visto’s journey into digital marketing began under extraordinary circumstances. After experiencing homelessness and struggling to find direction early in life, he discovered digital skills that ultimately transformed his future. Years later, after building a successful career, Patrick faced another life-altering challenge when he was diagnosed with advanced kidney disease. Following multiple health crises and a life-saving kidney transplant donated by his wife, he emerged with a renewed purpose: helping others access opportunities that could change their lives just as digital marketing changed his.

In this episode, Patrick shares the inspiring story behind Libre Academy, a free learning platform designed to help Filipinos develop valuable digital marketing and automation skills without financial barriers. He discusses his vision of creating a community where aspiring virtual assistants and digital professionals can learn, grow, and access better opportunities without exploitation or gatekeeping. Through his personal experiences, Patrick offers powerful insights on resilience, self-education, and the life-changing impact of acquiring skills that create real value in today's digital economy.

Connect:

Patrick Visto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickvisto

Episode 10: Lessons from a Veteran VA: Sheila So on 15 Years in the Industry

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:34:43 GMT

For 15 years, Sheila So has been at the forefront of the Philippines’ virtual assistant industry, building a career that evolved from SEO writing and content creation to social media management, website copywriting, and team leadership. In this episode of Offshore Diaries, Sheila shares her journey from aspiring journalist to seasoned remote professional, revealing how a single skill became the foundation for a thriving career. She discusses the value of specialization, the importance of understanding your strengths, and how continuously building on existing skills can open unexpected opportunities in the global remote workforce.

Sheila also offers an honest look at the realities of the VA industry, tackling topics such as unrealistic client expectations, the rise of unqualified “agency” models, misleading certifications, and the challenges facing newcomers entering a highly competitive market. Drawing from years of firsthand experience, she explains why success isn’t about chasing quick money or trendy job titles, but about developing real expertise, solving real business problems, and treating remote work as a serious profession. Whether you’re an aspiring VA, freelancer, or business owner building a remote team, this conversation delivers practical insights on creating sustainable success in the evolving world of offshore talent.

Episode 9: Overcoming Fear - Transitioning from BPO to the VA World

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:34:06 GMT

In this episode of The Offshore Diaries, Paulo Santos sits down with MJ Lim, a rising virtual assistant who made the leap from nearly four years in the Philippine BPO industry into the world of remote work. MJ shares an unfiltered look at life inside traditional call centers—from rigid scripts and demanding workplace cultures to the challenges of career growth, compensation, and work-life balance. Through a candid conversation, she explains what pushed her to seek a different path and why so many professionals are exploring opportunities beyond the conventional corporate structure.

MJ also opens up about the realities of transitioning into the VA industry for the first time, including the fears, misconceptions, and risks that come with leaving a stable job behind. Together, they discuss job security, remote work culture, personal responsibility, and the courage required to bet on yourself. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a move from the BPO world into virtual assistance, freelancing, or remote employment, while highlighting the importance of adaptability, resilience, and building a career that aligns with your long-term goals.

Episode 8: From VA to CEO - Hire Local or Outsource Abroad?

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:32:42 GMT

Tya Bolton, founder and CEO of EBS Universal, a global award-winning agency specializing in community engagement, event production, and consulting. With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial experience and a career that began in virtual business management long before remote work became mainstream, Tya shares her remarkable journey from corporate leadership to building a thriving international company. Her story highlights the power of adaptability, resilience, and creating opportunities through innovative business solutions.

Tya also offers a unique perspective as a business owner exploring offshore talent for the first time. Drawing from her own experience leading remote teams, she discusses the realities of virtual work, the importance of trust and accountability, and the challenges of finding the right support for a growing business. The conversation explores how offshore professionals can help companies scale, the value of specialized virtual talent, and why business leaders should look beyond cost when building high-performing remote teams. This episode delivers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, virtual professionals, and anyone interested in the future of global workforce collaboration.

Connect:

Tya Bolton, MBA - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyabolton

Episode 7: How to Pay Taxes as a Filipino Virtual Assistant

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:32:20 GMT

Jeser Javier, tax educator, accountant, and CPA reviewer joins the podcast to break down one of the most important—and often misunderstood—topics for Filipino freelancers and virtual assistants: taxation. Drawing from his experience teaching accounting and taxation, working with multinational corporations, and assisting clients with tax compliance, Jeser explains why freelancers are legally required to pay taxes, when tax obligations begin, and the practical benefits of maintaining proper tax records. He also discusses common misconceptions in the freelance community and offers guidance for those who are unsure where to start.

The conversation explores tax registration, filing requirements, audits, penalties for non-compliance, and the options available to freelancers looking to minimize their tax burden legally. Jeser shares valuable insights on business registration, the 8% tax option, Barangay Micro Business Enterprise (BMBE) incentives, and how tax compliance can help freelancers secure loans, visas, and other financial opportunities. He also highlights recent tax developments affecting digital workers and offers practical advice on financial planning, investments, and long-term wealth management for remote professionals.

Connect:

Jeser Javier, CPA, CTT, MICB, RCA, CAT, MMA, MSA, (Cand) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeser-javier-cpa-ctt-micb-rca-cat-mma-msa-cand-bb854a103

Episode 6: Bringing Filipino VAs to the U.S. | What Employers MUST Know

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:31:56 GMT

Alka Bahal of OGC Solutions shares nearly three decades of experience as a corporate immigration attorney, offering valuable insights into the complex intersection of global talent, employment law, and U.S. immigration policy. Drawing from her work helping multinational companies and U.S. employers navigate immigration regulations, Bahal explains the realities of bringing international employees to the United States, the visa pathways available to businesses, and the legal obligations that come with hiring foreign talent.

The conversation explores the practical risks and rewards of relocating remote workers, including the challenges surrounding J-1 exchange visitor programs, employment-based visas, wage requirements, compliance responsibilities, and the impact of today's evolving immigration landscape. Bahal also discusses how recent policy changes have affected visa processing, employer accountability, and long-term pathways to permanent residency. For business leaders considering international workforce strategies, this episode provides a clear, informative look at the legal and operational considerations behind global talent mobility.

Connect:

Alka Bahal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alkabahal

Episode 5: Working with Indian and Filipino VAs

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:59:46 GMT

Bhargavi Sahu shares her unique perspective as a first-generation Indian American who has built her career working across diverse teams and cultures. Currently working in sales for a health tech startup in New York City, Bhargavi reflects on her experience collaborating with remote professionals from the Philippines, India, South Africa, and beyond. Drawing from her background in project management and technology consulting, she discusses how global teams bring different strengths, communication styles, and problem-solving approaches that can enrich organizations and drive better business outcomes.

Bhargavi also explores the realities of managing and collaborating with offshore talent, challenging common misconceptions about remote workers and highlighting the value they bring through initiative, expertise, and adaptability. From cultural differences and communication styles to the role of emotional intelligence in building successful remote teams, she offers thoughtful insights into what makes international collaboration work. This conversation provides a valuable look at the opportunities and challenges of today's global workforce and why cultural understanding is becoming an increasingly important skill for modern businesses.

Connect:

Bhargavi Sahu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhargavisahu

Episode 4: From BPO to VA Agency

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:46:22 GMT

Junezel Barobaro shares her inspiring journey from the BPO industry to becoming an Operations Manager in the virtual assistant space. Drawing from more than a decade of leadership experience, she reflects on the challenges of transitioning into remote work during the pandemic, starting over as a cold caller, and steadily working her way up through determination, adaptability, and continuous learning. Her story offers a candid look at the realities of building a career in the fast-growing VA industry while balancing family responsibilities and professional growth.

Junezel also provides valuable insights into the differences between traditional BPO roles and virtual assistant work, the importance of flexibility and resourcefulness, and the opportunities available through agency-supported employment. Representing Archer’s VA agency, she discusses how structured training, mentorship, and community support help aspiring VAs succeed. Whether you're considering a career in virtual assistance or looking to grow within the industry, this conversation delivers practical advice on resilience, professional development, and what it truly means to build a sustainable career in remote work.

Connect:

Junezel Barobaro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/junezeldb

Episode 3: Filipino VAs - Learn to Sell or Find a New Job

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:30:51 GMT

Chris Borgese, founder and lead instructor of Yes Master Class, joins the podcast to share decades of experience in sales, business development, and communication training. Drawing from his early days on Wall Street, where success depended on persistence, persuasion, and relationship-building, Chris discusses the realities of professional selling and challenges the common misconception that sales is simply about convincing people to buy. Instead, he explains how effective communication, trust, and value creation are at the heart of every successful business interaction.

Chris also explores the growing opportunities for Filipino virtual assistants and remote professionals to develop high-income sales skills in an evolving global workforce. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape customer service and support roles, he explains why human communication, active listening, confidence, and relationship-building remain irreplaceable. Through Yes Master Class, Chris is helping professionals strengthen these skills, empowering them to create more value for employers, pursue commission-based opportunities, and build stronger careers in sales, business development, and client engagement.

Connect:

Chris Borgese - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherborgese

Episode 2: How It All Began

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:18:21 GMT

In this special episode of The Offshore Diaries, Malissa Strauch and Paolo Santos turn the microphone on themselves to share the story behind the podcast and the conversations that inspired it. Drawing from decades of experience working with offshore teams, virtual assistants, and remote professionals, they explore how the modern VA industry has evolved and why there is a growing need for more honest, transparent dialogue between clients, agencies, and the people doing the work. Their discussion examines the cultural differences, communication challenges, and misconceptions that often shape offshore working relationships, while reflecting on their own journey from mentor and student to podcast co-hosts.

The episode also dives into the realities of the global remote-work economy, touching on topics such as career growth, workplace expectations, compensation, regulation, and the future of the VA industry. Through candid conversations about Reddit communities, personal experiences, and the perspectives of both clients and offshore professionals, Melissa and Paolo lay the foundation for a series dedicated to bridging gaps in understanding and creating a platform where every voice in the offshore ecosystem can be heard. Whether you're a business owner, agency leader, virtual assistant, or simply curious about the world of offshore work, this episode offers an insightful introduction to the conversations ahead.

Connect:

Malissa Strauch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwstrauch

Paulo Santos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulovsantos

Episode 1: Let's lay the foundation

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:08:03 GMT

In the debut episode of The Offshore Diaries, business leaders Gene Behensky of Archers Contact Solutions and Teo Vagno-Ariputra of Stealth Agents pull back the curtain on the realities of building and scaling offshore teams. Drawing from decades of experience working with talent in the Philippines, they share how their companies evolved from simple outsourcing solutions into full-service organizations supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and growing enterprises around the world. From hiring and training strategies to cultural integration and client relationships, they offer an inside look at what it really takes to build successful offshore operations.

The conversation goes beyond the typical virtual assistant narrative, exploring the challenges, misconceptions, and opportunities shaping the offshore staffing industry today. Gene and Teo discuss everything from cultural differences and workforce development to the risks of independent hiring, employee retention, agency growth, and the entrepreneurial realities behind running offshore staffing businesses. Packed with firsthand stories, practical lessons, and candid insights, this episode provides valuable perspective for business owners, agency leaders, and anyone interested in the future of global remote work.

Connect:

LinkedIn:

Paulo Santos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulovsantos

Teo Vanyo Adiputra - https://www.linkedin.com/in/teo-vanyo-adiputra-960a10138

Gene Bohensky - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenebohensky