The EA Campus Podcast Ep83: What Entrepreneurs Really Need from Their EA
10 snips
Nov 13, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Andrew Chesnutt, CEO of The Authority Forge and a serial entrepreneur, reveals the secrets to a successful Executive Assistant (EA) partnership. He emphasizes the difference between EAs as order-takers versus strategic partners who anticipate needs. Andrew shares how awareness of neurodiversity enhances communication and the importance of creating organized workflows from founders' chaotic ideas. He also highlights the immense value EAs bring by reducing friction and building trust, ultimately helping entrepreneurs focus on their vision.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Think-Partner Not Task-Taker
- Entrepreneurs need EAs who think with them, not just execute lists.
- Anticipation and keeping the founder in their revenue-driving lane creates disproportionate value.
Build Trust By Anticipating Needs
- Build the relationship slowly and learn the executive's patterns before anticipating.
- Present practical prep (travel details, confirmations, checklists) so the CEO can focus on strategy.
Shauna Became The Standard
- Andrew recounts a standout EA, Shauna, who became shorthand for excellent support.
- Her structured planning let CEOs focus on vision while she managed logistics flawlessly.