#84 - Half My Brain, Half My Heart with Lauren Petraglia

Referrals Done Right

In this episode, host Scott Grates sits down with Lauren Petraglia, a former healthcare worker turned powerhouse online business manager and virtual assistant agency owner. Lauren shares her journey of leaving the government healthcare sector to build a thriving remote business rooted in empathy, efficiency, and aligned values. From escaping burnout to building a team that helps others reclaim their time, Lauren dives deep into what it means to be the strategic and emotional right-hand person for entrepreneurs. Get ready to learn how building your dream business starts with knowing when to ask for help—and who to trust with your vision.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Lauren transitioned from a rigid government job to launching her own virtual business during the pandemic.
• The difference between a virtual assistant (VA) and an online business manager (OBM)—and why both might be the secret to scaling.
• Why alignment in values and trust are key when outsourcing and building lasting client relationships.
• The powerful role of referrals and how to become "half someone’s brain and half their heart."
• Lauren’s practical take on staying top of mind and building a brand rooted in real connection—not curated perfection.

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Episode Markers:
(0:00) - Introduction
(1:00) - Who is Lauren Petraglia
(3:05) - Abundance Mindset
(3:55) - Inspiration to Start Business
(5:30) - Online Business Managers
(8:10) - Visionaries & Integrators
(10:30) - Alignment with Clients
(12:45) - Discovering Values
(15:15) - Marketing & Personal Brand
(17:30) - Referrals
(22:00) - Give to Get
(25:20) - Staying Top of Mind & Social Media
(29:15) - What Problem Do You Solve?
(32:00) - First Hire
(36:35) - Connecting with Lauren
(37:15) - Rapid Fire Questions
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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right Book Pre Sales - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Insurance Agency Optimization - https://www.agencyoptimization.com
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@scott.grates
Lauren Petraglia's Links:
Website - https://bit.ly/LNProduction
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lauren_lnproduction
Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-petraglia-lnproduction-va