Meet Mikayla Strong

We were lucky to catch up with Mikayla Strong recently and have shared our conversation below.

Mikayla, thank you so much for joining us today and appreciate you talking about a sensitive topic. It’s unfortunately relevant to so many in the community as layoffs have been on the rise recently, and so we’d appreciate hearing your story and how you overcame being let go?

In June 2023, I faced a layoff from my corporate consulting role—a transition I saw coming but still felt deeply. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I chose to view it as a rare opportunity to venture into something new. During this period, I discovered an ad for a virtual assistant (VA) training program. After a few days of consideration, I decided to go all in and enroll. My mindset was simple: at the very least, I’d be investing in myself and gaining new skills.

Within just 21 days of launching my VA business, I had signed on seven clients. It was both thrilling and motivating and by the end of two months, I was managing nine clients independently. In December 2023, I took the next big step by founding Catalyst Consulting. Today, I lead a team of 15 skilled contractors, each dedicated to helping clients grow.

Looking back, that layoff was ultimately a pivotal moment that sparked my entrepreneurial journey. By approaching that challenge with an open mindset, I uncovered new opportunities and built something truly remarkable. My success is rooted in taking calculated risks, committing to continuous learning, and focusing on delivering exceptional value to our clients.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m the CEO and Founder of Catalyst Consulting, a full-service virtual assistant agency that’s all about empowering female entrepreneurs. Catalyst was born out of a passion for helping women business owners thrive by allowing them to focus on their strengths and strategic vision, while we take care of the daily operational tasks. We provide customized support across areas like project management, social media management, podcast management, copywriting, graphic design, customer support, and more. Each service is tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients, making Catalyst more than just a VA agency—it’s a trusted partner in their growth.

What I find most exciting about Catalyst is the chance to foster a genuine community of ambitious, supportive women who share a drive for success. As we help clients reclaim time, boost productivity, and scale their businesses, we’re not just supporting them operationally; we’re empowering them to build their dreams.

Alongside Catalyst, I’m also the Co-Founder of Virtual Talent Network (VTN), an online directory that complements our mission by providing a space for businesses to connect directly with top-tier remote assistance. While Catalyst offers a team-based, full-service approach, VTN serves as a platform where businesses can find and hire vetted virtual professionals directly, based on their specific needs. It’s designed for those who may need just a single skill set or want to build a custom remote team over time. VTN takes the guesswork out of finding quality remote talent and allows businesses to easily search for, connect with, and hire professionals they can count on.

Together, Catalyst Consulting and VTN embody my vision of empowering entrepreneurs with the right support to drive their businesses forward. Catalyst is here to provide comprehensive, full-service solutions, while VTN offers the flexibility for entrepreneurs to find exactly the remote expertise they need. Both platforms are built on values of quality, community, and empowerment, creating resources that enable women in business to thrive and scale confidently.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey as an entrepreneur, I’d say three qualities have been instrumental: problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a “figure-it-out” mindset.

Problem-Solving Skills: In business, challenges are common, and developing a knack for finding solutions is key. Whether it’s client concerns or operational hurdles, I approach each issue as an opportunity to think critically. For those just starting out, embrace challenges head-on, whether in real situations or through practice exercises. Treat each obstacle as a way to sharpen your problem-solving skills.

Attention to Detail: Quality and precision are non-negotiable in our field. An eye for detail minimizes errors and builds reliability. I suggest creating checklists, utilizing project management tools, and regularly reviewing your work to fine-tune your attention to detail. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers can provide valuable insights into areas where you may improve.

Willingness to Figure Things Out: The journey of entrepreneurship is full of unknowns, and a proactive approach to learning is essential. A growth mindset can help you view obstacles as learning opportunities. Engage with mentors, tap into resources, and surround yourself with like-minded people. This creates a supportive environment that boosts both confidence and knowledge.

Embrace each of these qualities, stay curious, and prioritize excellence. You’ll be well-prepared to navigate the exciting and sometimes unpredictable world of business.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Absolutely! I’m always interested in connecting with other female entrepreneurs who want to make a positive impact in their fields. At Catalyst Consulting and Virtual Talent Network, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive growth, expand our reach, and innovate together.

If you’re interested in exploring partnerships, developing joint projects, or simply sharing ideas, I’d love to connect!
• Email: support@catalystvirtualconsulting.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catalystvirtualconsulting
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catalystvirtualconsulting/

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Haley Anspach Photography

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