This week on Process, we sit down with Shelby Van Zwol, the founder of Chain Social, who went from running a one-woman agency out of her bedroom to leading one of Australia’s most sought-after social media companies — with 22 team members and global clients under her belt.

Shelby opens up about the behind-the-scenes realities of entrepreneurship: what it really takes to scale an agency, the emotional work of letting go to grow, and why having a clear process is her secret weapon.

We talk about:

• The systems she put in place to scale smoothly
• Why paid ads and email still matter more than you think
• Building a standout team culture in a sea of sameness
• The mental shifts required to become a founder, not just a freelancer
• Why top-of-funnel content is non-negotiable in 2025
• And how she’s thinking about equity, PR, and long-term brand building

Whether you're a creative, founder, or side-hustler scaling fast — Shelby’s story is full of golden lessons (and honest moments) that will inspire you to push past your current ceiling.

This episode is sponsored by the Chain Academy. Learn more about their offering and level up this year in time for the peak sales season!

We're working with the Chain Academy to level up for Remy Wellness and loving every minute!

Learn more about Chain Social here: https://chainsocial.com.au/

Follow Shelby Van Zwol on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/shelbyvanzwol/?hl=en

Follow Process the Podcast on Instagram here: instagram.com/processthepodcast

Follow your host Arielle Thomas on Instagram here: instagram.com/arielle.thomas

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See you next Tuesday x

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