Podcast Episode 6: How to Work With AI Instead of Against It as a VA

Sep 12

Written By Jess

Welcome to another episode of Beyond the Table — the podcast for pet professionals exploring life after grooming. Hosted by River Lee (Step Away From the Table & Savvy Groomer) and Jess Frangos (Groomer Support Services), this episode is all about how grooming virtual assistants (VAs) can embrace AI as a tool for support, not competition.

This episode speaks directly to current and aspiring grooming VAs who may feel nervous about the rise of AI and automation. Jess shares how she leverages AI in her daily work, from communication support to creative workflows, without losing the human connection that makes Groomer VAs so valuable.

Topics Covered:

1. Reframing AI as a Support System

Why you’re not being replaced—you’re being supported
Using AI to simplify or speed up low-energy, repetitive tasks

2. Real-World Ways Groomer VAs Use AI

Proofreading and polishing SMS messages and email copy
Automating client communication workflows without losing personality
Creating ChatGPT channels tailored to individual client tones and regions (Midwest-friendly, etc.)

3. AI + Industry Knowledge = Superpower

Why grooming terminology and service nuance can’t be handled by AI
Where VAs’ real-world grooming background still outshines automation

4. Getting Started with AI as a New VA

Think of AI as a coworker—you’re still the boss
Practice writing prompts and exploring tools like Fathom, Google Docs AI, and Canva’s AI features

5. Ethics, Oversight, and Responsibility

Just because AI can do something doesn’t mean you should let it
How to maintain integrity and protect your supervisor’s brand

6. Creative Uses for AI Support

Brainstorming content when you’re stuck or uninspired
AI-assisted website mockups, placeholder images, and content structure
Balancing speed and personalization when doing visual or copy-based tasks

7. Communication Tools for Clarity

Using apps like Slack and Fathom to create transparency
Why AI helps reduce miscommunication but doesn’t replace trust and soft skills

Key Takeaways:

Grooming VAs can use AI to increase efficiency while staying human-first
AI helps save time, but real grooming knowledge still leads the work
Think of AI as a collaborative tool, not a threat to your job
You still need strong boundaries, ethics, and communication to be successful
This is a career path where your brain and your heart are both in charge

Learn More:

Jess Frangos: Groomer Support Services

River Lee: Step Away From the Table + Savvy Groomer

If you’re a grooming VA wondering how to stay relevant in an AI-driven world, or just curious how to make your job easier with automation, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and learn how to work with AI — without losing your spark.

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