What’s it really like to be an Online Business Manager? Meet Ramona Hooper—a former corporate professional turned powerhouse OBM—whose story is a true testament to resilience, reinvention, and building a business that works for your life.

In this week’s episode of The OBM Show (also available as a video), Ramona shares her incredible journey from job loss and family crisis to creating a thriving OBM business that supports her family, her schedule, and her sanity.

🎥 Prefer video? Watch Ramona’s full story here.

From Crisis to Calling

When the pandemic hit in 2020, Ramona and her husband were both unexpectedly laid off from their long-standing corporate jobs. As if that weren’t enough, her husband then suffered a stroke and ongoing heart complications that meant he couldn’t return to work.

Suddenly, Ramona was juggling virtual schooling, full-time caregiving, and financial uncertainty. But through it all, she found a new path—first as a Virtual Assistant, and later as an Online Business Manager.

“I realized I was already doing OBM-level work as a VA—but without the title or the rates,” she explains. That moment of clarity became a turning point.

From VA to OBM Powerhouse

Once Ramona claimed the OBM title, everything changed. She quickly built a thriving business that allowed her to work just 20 hours a week—while replacing her corporate salary in just four months.

Her secret? Smart systems, savvy outreach, and a deep understanding of how to serve high-level clients.

In this interview, Ramona breaks down:

  • How she landed her first OBM clients using a genius local outreach strategy during the pandemic

  • The checklist method she uses to learn new tech tools (and quiet imposter syndrome)

  • Her step-by-step process for running lucrative OBM VIP Days

  • The biggest lessons she’s learned about client management, boundaries, and success

Why OBM Work Works for Her Life

For Ramona, the OBM path didn’t just offer income—it gave her freedom. Flexibility to care for her family. Space to be present for her son. The ability to rebuild on her own terms.

“Now my son gets the best of me, not the rest of me.”

Ramona’s story is proof that your circumstances don’t define your potential. With the right support and strategy, you can create a business that supports your life—no matter where you’re starting from.

Key Takeaways from Ramona’s Journey

Crisis Can Spark Opportunity: Ramona’s OBM journey began at her lowest point—and led her to a career that truly supports her family and future.

Own Your Value: Once she recognized the true scope of her work, Ramona raised her rates, shifted her title, and stepped fully into the role of OBM.

Strategy = Sustainability: From her outreach approach to her client systems, Ramona shares practical tools that help her stay focused, confident, and profitable.

Ready to Step Into Your OBM Era?

If Ramona’s story lit a fire in you, here’s what to do next:

1️⃣ Download the Free OBM Starter Kit: Get started with actionable resources to launch your OBM career. Download for free here.
2️⃣ Learn More About OBM Accreditation: Elevate your skills, gain credibility, and stand out as an Accredited OBM: obmaccreditation.com
3️⃣ Subscribe to The OBM Show: Weekly episodes packed with real-world stories and actionable strategies to grow your career. Spotify | Apple | Amazon

Ramona’s story is a powerful reminder: You don’t need perfect circumstances to create a career you love—you just need to start.