Shows
HORROR 101 with Dr. ACEp 136 - THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (1991) 35th Anniversary Special: The Legacy of Hannibal LecterTHE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (1991) d. Jonathan Demme (USA) MANHUNTER (1986) d. Michael Mann (USA) HANNIBAL (2001) d. Ridley Scott (USA) RED DRAGON (2002) d. Brett Ratner (USA) HANNIBAL RISING (2007) d. Peter Webber (USA) This week, we're talking about 1991's The Silence of the Lambs, that rare beast that's both mainstream Oscar-winning success as well as a first-rate horror film. A masterful blend of psychological terror and physical violence, screenwriter Ted Tally's dynamite script (adapted from Thomas Harris' bestselling novel) examines ambitious young FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) and her efforts to track down the serial killer Buffalo Bill – a nickname he...
2026-02-201h 32
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 28: Career Ownership and Visibility for Administrative Professionals with Emer McCarthySend us a textIn this episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears talk about one of the biggest challenges assistants face. Many of us wait for permission before we take action or put ourselves forward. Craig and Jodie explore why this happens, how the role has changed, and what it looks like to move into a more proactive and confident place in your career.They talk honestly about the fear of being seen, the pressure to look busy, and the belief that hard work will speak for itself. They share rea...
2025-12-1029 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 27: The Power of Internal Networking with Kristina WillisSend us a textIn this episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears explore how assistants can build influence and visibility inside their organisations through intentional relationship-building. From bridging departments to boosting confidence, they unpack why internal networking is one of the most underrated career tools for EAs, and how external connections can quietly feed back into your internal success.Listener Question “I keep hearing that internal networking is important, but I have no idea where to start. What does it actually look like in practice for an assistant?”Expert Cont...
2025-10-2226 min
The Admin EdgeHow to Elevate Your Personal BrandDon't let others define your EA or admin brand for you. Take notes from expert Jodie Mears to rewrite your story. Recorded at EA Ignite Spring 2025 and produced by the American Society of Administrative Professionals - ASAP. Learn more and submit a listener question at asaporg.com/podcast.
2025-09-2316 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 26: Beyond Basics Unlocking AI’s True Potential for Admins - Fiona YoungSend us a textIn this bonus episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears are joined by Fiona Young (founder of Carve) to go past “draft my email” and “summarise this deck.” We unpack how assistants can use AI for real, outcomes-focused impact: diagnosing diary inefficiencies, building lightweight automations, sharpening decision-making, and even “vibe-coding” practical tools without being a developer. If you’ve dabbled and now you’re asking “What’s next?”, this one’s for you.Listener Question Danielle (Boston, investment management): “I’ve used AI for basics like emails and slide decks, but I want to s...
2025-09-1142 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 25: How to Influence Without Authority – Communication Skills for Administrative ProfessionalsSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by C&C Search – London’s leading recruitment partner for business support and HR professionals in finance and professional services. Whether you’re hiring, job hunting, or want to elevate your team, follow C&C Search. Because brilliant people deserve brilliant support.In this episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears explore one of the most requested and misunderstood topics in the admin profession:How do you influence outcomes and shape decisions when you don’t have formal authority?From communication skills to confidence, from plan...
2025-07-2419 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 24: Bonus Episode: How to Position Yourself in a Crowded Market With Lucy ChamberlainSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by C&C Search – London’s leading recruitment partner for business support and HR professionals in finance and professional services. Whether you’re hiring, job hunting, or want to elevate your team, follow C&C Search. Because brilliant people deserve brilliant support.In this bonus episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears are joined by Lucy Chamberlain, founder of C&C Search, to explore a question many assistants are grappling with:How do you position yourself in a crowded, cautious job market, without pretending to be som...
2025-06-2032 min
Executive Office InsightsADHD and an assistant career by accident169: Jodie Mears is a strategic C-Suite Executive Assistant, a respected thought leader in the administrative profession, and LinkedIn Top Voice, recognised with the Blue Badge for her industry expertise. With over 20+ years of experience spanning aviation, energy, and digital sectors, she currently supports C-Suite executives at Bentley Systems, combining high-level executive support with operational excellence and strategic business partnerships. As the co-host of "The Crodie Files" podcast and an Advisory Board Member for The PA Show-UK, Jodie is passionate about elevating the administrative profession. Her highly sought-after mentoring and coaching program, which maintains a waitlist into 2025, offers...
2025-04-2340 min
The Future Focused AdminSeason 3 - Ep. 6 | Managing Up: Are Executives Open To It? Chat with Jodie Mears In Episode 6 of Season 3, we’re diving into one of the most nuanced and essential skills for admin professionals today: “Managing Up: Are Executives Open To It?”. Jodie joins us to unpack what managing up really means, how to approach it strategically (and respectfully), and why it’s a must-have skill for every modern admin.
Jodie Mears is a strategic C-Suite Executive Assistant, LinkedIn Top Voice, and respected thought leader in the administrative profession. With over 20 years’ experience across aviation, energy, and digital industries, she now supports executives at Bentley Systems, blending high-level support with strategic business insight....
2025-04-2033 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 23: Navigating Project Management for Administrative Assistants with Kathleen DrumSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by C&C Search - London's leading recruitment partner for business support and HR professionals in finance and professional services. Whether you’re hiring, job hunting, or want to elevate your team, follow C&C Search. Because brilliant people deserve brilliant support.In this insightful episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears explore the often-overlooked reality that Administrative Professionals are inherently project managers. They unpack what project management truly involves, practical strategies to manage projects effectively without overwhelm, and offer tips on lev...
2025-04-0124 min
The EA Campus PodcastEP51: The Future of the EA Profession with Candice Burningham & Jodie MearsIn this episode of The EA Campus Podcast, we sit down with two incredible industry voices, Candice Burningham and Jodie Mears, for an insightful and lively discussion on the evolving role of Executive Assistants. We cover everything from key industry trends, AI and automation, and the future of job titles to some of the more controversial topics shaping the profession today.Is the Executive Assistant role evolving or disappearing?How do we ensure assistants are recognized, compensated, and empowered?Is "Strategic Business Partner" a mindset shift or a new job title?What does the future hold f...
2025-02-2755 min
The Virtually Amazing Assistants PodcastVirtually Amazing Assistants Episode Six with Jodie MearsIn this episode of 'Virtually Amazing Assistants,' host Shelley Fishel, known as the MS Office Maestro, welcomes guest Jodie Mears, a highly successful C-suite executive assistant and LinkedIn Top Voice. Together, they discuss the evolution of Jodie's career, from her beginnings in office administration to becoming a mentor and coach with a thriving program. Jodie shares insights into the importance of visibility, continuous learning, and the strategic role of EAs in business. The conversation highlights personal anecdotes, professional milestones, and actionable tips for assistants everywhere. Tune in for an engaging chat on balancing professional growth and personal life...
2025-01-2125 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 22: Wellness for the Administrative Professionals with Richard TurnerSend us a textBecome our Headline Sponsor! Looking for impactful ways to reach administrative and business support professionals globally? We have exciting sponsorship opportunities available! Get in touch to discuss our affordable and effective packages designed to connect your business with our engaged audience of administrative professionals worldwide.Dive deep into essential wellness strategies that go beyond basic self-care, as Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears explore how administrative professionals can leverage wellness for career growth and organizational impact. Featuring special guest Richard Turner, High Performance Coach and Founder of Employees Health, this...
2025-01-2025 min
Quietly VisibleLeveraging Quiet Leadership for Visibility and ImpactIn this episode of the Quietly Visible podcast, host Carol Stewart speaks with Jodie Mears, a seasoned C-suite Executive Assistant, LinkedIn Top Voice, and co-host of The Crodie Files podcast. Jodie shares her journey as a confident introvert and her strategies for leveraging quiet leadership to create visibility and drive impact in the workplace.
Jodie opens up about her unconventional career path, how she discovered the power of leading from the back, and why she’s passionate about helping others embrace their strengths. From reframing the perception of administrative roles to managing up and building influence, Jodie of...
2025-01-0336 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 21: Bonus Episode: Unlocking the Secrets to Becoming a Chief of Staff with Maggie OlsonSend us a textReady to elevate your career from EA to Chief of Staff? In this bonus episode, we chat with Maggie Olson, founder and CEO of Nova Chief of Staff, to discuss the transition from EA to Chief of Staff roles and provide guidance for administrative professionals seeking career advancement.This episode is essential listening for:● EAs looking to transition into strategic leadership positions● Professionals seeking clarity on the Chief of Staff role● Leaders wanting to understand the distinction between EA and Chief of Staff functions● Anyone...
2024-11-2842 min
EA & PA Chataway with LindsayS1 E26 EA/PA Chataway with Jodie Mears, EA at CohesiveSHOW NOTES Lindsay Taylor, co-Founder & Director of learning and development specialist Your Excellency Limited shares inspirational learning for the EA, PA and Administrative Professional in her podcast featuring top guests and stars in the Administrative Professional community. This podcast features Jodie Mears who is an Executive Assistant at Cohesive in London. Jodie has been in an administrative role for over 20 years. She is passionate about empowering EAs and PAs across the world and does this through sharing her knowledge, career mentoring and podcast hosting with The Crodie Files. Time: ...
2024-11-1244 min
Present PotentialMy Passion to Lead and AssistIn this episode of Present Potential, I’m thrilled to welcome Jodie Mears, a highly motivated and strategic Executive Assistant with over 20 years of experience supporting business goals.
Jodie brings her passion for working with positive, visionary teams and a proven ability to stay one step ahead in every project. As the co-host of "The Crodie Files" podcast and an Advisory Board Member for The PA Show, Jodie is dedicated to helping others NETWORK, LEARN, and GROW.
Join us as Jodie shares her journey, her approach to operational excellence, and valuable insights into the administrative pro...
2024-09-2335 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEp:20 Bonus Episode: Mastering Tech, AI, Networks & Communities - Insights from Becky KaapuniSend us a textThe Crodie Files meet with special guest Becky Kaapuni, Senior EA to the CEO at Salesforce AI and founder of EA Social Club, to share valuable insights for administrative and business support professionals looking to adapt to the fast-paced evolution of their roles. Becky, Craig & Jodie discussed this listener question:Listener question: “Hi Crodie: The pace at which our role is moving is too fast for me to keep up and get on with my day job. Any tips for navigating this, specifically technology? What do I need...
2024-09-0334 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 19: The Future of Learning & Development with Fiona YoungSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears are joined by Fiona Young- founder of Carve. Stay tuned till the end as they discuss traditional learning, emerging technologies, and the importance of continuous professional development for administrative assistants.Listener que...
2024-07-1024 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 18:Administrative Assistants: Leveraging Learning for Career Advancement with Vonetta WatsonSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this insightful episode Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears along with guest contributor Vonetta Watson delve into the crucial topic of how administrative assistants can leverage learning and development opportunities for career growth.Listener questionHi Crodie: I've...
2024-06-1932 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEp:17 Bonus Episode: Confidence Visibility and Growth- Insights from Zoe HillSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!From Invisible to Invincible- The Crodie Files meet with special guest Zoe Hill former Chief of Staff and founder of Premier Admin Services to share valuable insights for administrative and business support professionals looking to take their careers to the next level.
2024-05-2919 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP 16 The Power of Personal Branding for Administrative Professionals with David CoslettSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears dive into the power of personal branding for administrative professionals. They discuss the importance of assistants developing a strong personal brand, provide guidelines on how to do so effectively and share compelling rea...
2024-05-1528 min
The Whole Assistant PodcastThe Power of Networking with Craig Bryson & Jodie MearsHave you ever felt that networking events were more intimidating than beneficial?In this episode of the Whole Assistant Podcast, we demystify the scary world of networking with our special guests Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears as they unravel the secrets to making authentic, meaningful connections that go beyond the exchange of business cards.In this episode, you will discover:- How to overcome the discomfort of networking events and use them as a springboard for career advancement- Strategies to build strong relationships with external stakeholders- The importance of internal...
2024-04-2538 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP15: Mastering Common Administrative Assistant Hurdles: Strategies & Solutions with Abigail BarnesSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! In this episode, Craig and Jodie discuss five common hurdles that administrative assistants face and provide strategies to overcome them with our expert contributor- Abigail Barnes adding her insightful wisdom to our listener question.You will learn proven strategies for improving communication, organization, tech skills, time management and implementing fe...
2024-04-1733 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEp:14 Bonus Episode: Are courses for a Chief of Staff Role really worth it? with Annie CronerSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Learning & Development for a Chief of Staff RoleJoin us in another bonus episode where we join forces to answer our listener question with the amazing Annie Croner, CEO & Founder of Whole Assistant and EA Trainer & Coach. ...
2024-04-1014 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP13: Navigating Office Protocol for Administrative Assistants with Joan BurgeSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Are your office conversations hitting the mark or missing the connection? Discover how to bring back the charm of telephone manners in an era where inboxes and instant messaging rule. Craig and Jodie unpack the subtleties of office communication and invite you on a journey to rekindle the personal to...
2024-03-2730 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEp:12 Bonus Episode: Personal Branding & Generative AI Tips for Administrative Assistants with Amelia Sordell & Amy LesterSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Elevate and Automate | Personal Branding & AI for Assistants Join us for this memorable, interactive episode recorded LIVE at The PA Show London!This was the first time The PA Show had a podcast for administrative professionals exhibiting and...
2024-03-1342 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEp:11 Bonus Episode: Find out what we are planning next and our end of year round up 2023Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Welcome to our first Bonus Episode of The Crodie Files PodcastWe have had so many "Hi Crodie..." questions (more than we know what to do with) sent in by you - our amazing community and listeners, we will be producing bonus episodes of The Cro...
2024-01-3107 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP10:Our secrets on work-life balance without compromising productivity or family timeSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears reveal their secrets of achieving that elusive work-life balance, specifically crafted for the everyday heroes – Administrative Assistants. We're laying all cards on the table, discussing the changes in work culture triggered by the pandemic, the s...
2023-12-2024 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP9:The Administrative Assistant's guide to using new tech.Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Ready to supercharge your administrative skills with the latest tech? You're in the right place! We're taking you through the dynamic world of new technology and how it applies to administrative professionals like us. We're talking about the value of lifelong learning and continuous profes...
2023-12-0624 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP8:Is it time to move on? The Administrative Assistant's Guide to Job Searching with Flow HancoxSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! Ever wondered when the right time might be to call it a day and explore fresh opportunities beyond your current job? You're not alone. We're diving headfirst into a robust discussion on recognizing the right moment to move on and the art of navigating the choppy wat...
2023-11-2229 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP7: What are the typical tasks of an Administrative Assistant? with Shelley FishelSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode of The Crodie Files, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears discuss the typical tasks of an administrative assistant, emphasising the need to go beyond these tasks and take initiative to add value to the role. They cover good communication skills, proactive work and...
2023-11-0933 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP6:The Future of Administrative Assistants Role: AI The Buzz Word Discussion with Dave PhilpSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears discuss the evolving role of Executive Assistants in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), including Chat GPT. They address the concerns around potential job redundancy, the future of the Assistant's role and stress the imp...
2023-10-2629 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP5: What to ask when working with an Executive? with Suzy SandersSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! In this episode of The Crodie Files, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears delve into the complexities of building effective relationships with executives. They discuss key questions to ask, share personal experiences, and offer valuable insights on how to establish trust and understand an executive's priorities.
2023-09-2629 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP4: What Does an Executive Assistant Do on the First Day with Laura SmithSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! In this episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears provide essential tips for Administrative Assistants starting a new job. They emphasize preparation, authentic networking, and self-confidence. Seasoned Executive Assistant Erica Picton shares her insights in response to our listener question, and Laura Smith- The Energy Coach off...
2023-09-1324 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP3:How to Ace your Interview with Steve HutsonSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this exciting episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears delve into acing job interviews. They'll share personal stories and offer tips to help you nail the interview and land your dream job. Be authentic, prepare by researching the company, and maintain a tidy background for onl...
2023-08-3025 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP2: How Do You Become An Executive Assistant?Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this podcast episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears chat about the path to becoming an executive assistant. They highlight crucial skills like organisation, communication, and great customer service. Learning and networking are also key points that are addressed. They share their experiences, emphasising the evolving rol...
2023-08-1526 min
The Crodie Files Podcast - For Administrative Assistants and Business Support ProfessionalsEP1:What do Administrative Assistants Do? with Amy LesterSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Welcome to the first podcast of Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears: our amazing executive assistants. In this episode, we learn one of the most valuable lessons which is to be prepared and proactive. We also embrace adaptability and diverse skills for unexpected career growth, just like Cra...
2023-08-0128 min
The West End Frame Show: Theatre News, Reviews & ChatBONUS (ft. Christina Bianco & Jodie Steele): The Rise and Fall of Little Voice tour & But I'm a Cheerleader at the TurbineWe're kicking off the week with a bonus episode of The West End Frame Show! Christina Bianco & Jodie Steele join us to discuss their latest projects. Christina Bianco is preparing to play LV in a brand new touring production of The Rise and Fall of Little Voice. From Judy Garland to Shirley Bassey, Marilyn Monroe to Billie Holliday, in the show Christina vividly brings to life performances from the great chanteuses in Jim Cartwright’s tender and life-affirming play. Renowned for her musical impressions, Christina tours the world with her acclaimed one woman shows and is we...
2022-03-1435 min