Riding Tandem

#76 Planting Roots and Brewing Beer: Choosing the Right Place to Start - Dessie Redmond Full Fledged Brewing

Tandem Works — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I sit down with Dessie Redmond, co-owner of Full Fledged Brewing Co., for a conversation that’s equal parts business insight and real-life storytelling. We talk about her journey from a career in urban planning to co-founding a brewery in Council Bluffs, Iowa—and why she and her husband chose that specific city to chase their dream.

We dive into what it takes to start a business in a new place, how community support played a critical role in their growth, and the ways they had to pivot during the pandemic. Dessie opens up about the lessons she’s learned around entrepreneurship, working alongside her partner, and how to balance a full-time job while growing a business on the side.

We also talk candidly about the myths of business ownership, the strategic (and very real) importance of things like ceiling height and distribution laws, and how staying open to change helped them thrive.

This conversation is for anyone who's ever considered building something from scratch, especially if you’ve wondered what it really takes to choose the right place, the right people, and the right time.

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Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

02:53 The Journey to Brewing

06:01 Establishing the Brewery

08:59 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

12:04 Community and Support

15:06 The Impact of the Pandemic

18:01 Innovation and Growth

21:03 Future Aspirations

27:09 Engaging the Community: Innovative Public Engagement Strategies

28:00 Adapting to Change: The Evolution of Brewery Offerings

29:57 Navigating Business Challenges: Lessons from the Brewery

34:22 Planning for Growth: Capital and Layout Considerations

40:23 Balancing Act: Managing Time and Responsibilities

44:45 Working Together: The Dynamics of a Business Partnership

47:20 Misconceptions of Entrepreneurship: The Reality of Business Ownership

Related Episodes:

#3 Nailing an RFP, scope creep and sticky details - a candid chat with client Nicole Lindquist (PT 1)

#4 Taking on big projects when you don't know it all, and how we created the Iowa West Foundation Imagine Hours -with Nicole Lindquist (Pt 2)

#9 Taking an idea from paper to reality, making tough decisions and creating a values driven business with Alysia Hess, Founder of The Occasional Collective

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Dessie Redmond:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fullfledgedbrewingcompany
Website - https://fullfledgedbeer.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fullfledgedbeer/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#75 The Grind: Ideas, Discipline, and the Cost of Doing What You Love

Tandem Works — Wed, 21 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In Part 2 of this candid conversation, Vivian Kvam and Casey Putney go deeper into the real work of entrepreneurship—the chaos of ideas, the discipline it takes to bring just one of them to life, and what it means to price your time and energy in a way that honors both your worth and your capacity.

They unpack “shiny object syndrome,” how freedom without structure can lead to burnout, and the tension between creating from passion vs. building a sustainable business. Vivian and Casey both share the mental tug-of-war behind pricing services, the lessons they've learned from failure, and why the real growth in entrepreneurship is often internal.

Whether you're just starting out or deep in the grind, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering, "Am I doing this right?"

Catch Part 1 if you missed it: “The Leap...”

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Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Navigating Entrepreneurial Ideas and Shiny Object Syndrome

06:11 The Rule of Five for Entrepreneurs

12:15 Prioritizing Ideas in Entrepreneurship

16:01 The Balance of Discipline and Freedom

20:25 The Importance of Execution Over Ideas

26:10 Understanding Timing in Entrepreneurship

32:44 The Unique Perspective of Entrepreneurs

37:35 Understanding Market Needs and Pricing Strategies

40:03 The Challenge of Pricing Services

43:33 Value-Based Pricing and Its Implications

44:28 The Importance of Charging for Your Time

47:23 Establishing Boundaries Through Transactions

50:19 Creative Solutions for Pricing and Value

53:33 Iterating Pricing Models

56:26 The Experimentation of Entrepreneurship

01:01:19 Navigating Client Conversations and Expectations

01:04:56 Finding Balance in Pricing Strategies

01:11:41 The Realities of Entrepreneurship

Related Episodes:

The Leap, What no one tells you before you leave the 9–5 - Casey Putney Part 1

#71 The Secret to Selling More: Focus on the Outcome - Mindset Shift #3

#64 How to Build a Century-Strong Business Legacy - John Albert

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Casey Putney:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/casey.putney.3
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyputney/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

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Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#74 The Leap, What no one tells you before you leave the 9–5 - Casey Putney Part 1

Tandem Works — Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this candid conversation, Vivian Kvam sits down with Casey Putney to explore what it really feels like to step away from the stability of a 9–5 and into the unknown world of entrepreneurship. From leadership in the military and corporate life to the deeply personal reasons that sparked their transitions, Vivian and Casey open up about the fears, self-doubt, and internal conflict that come with leaving the safety net behind.

They reflect on the emotional toll of starting something new, the disconnect between passion and running a business, and how both their definitions of success have evolved over time—from chasing titles and income to valuing purpose, freedom, and flexibility.

Whether you’re thinking about a leap, in the middle of one, or just need to know you’re not alone, this episode is for you.

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Exploring the Journey of Entrepreneurship

05:46 Identifying Leadership as a Passion

12:03 The Turning Point: Leaving Corporate America

18:01 The Reality of Entrepreneurship vs. Passion

31:50 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey

39:03 Facing Doubts and Fears

47:14 The Evolution of Purpose in Entrepreneurship

54:56 Defining Success Beyond Income

01:07:57 The Value of Freedom in Entrepreneurship

Related Episodes:

#6 Success after a massive layoff late in a career and starting a podcast recording studio - a candid conversation with Todd Studer

#8 Love your Mondays, leaving a miserable job & healthy business partnership tips - With Machaela Clark, co-owner of Tandem Works

#12 From corporate globetrotter to entrepreneurship: Neal Eilers' journey, building a successful business around his passion

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Casey Putney:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/casey.putney.3
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyputney/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#73 Ditch Vanity Metrics—Measure What Actually Matters- Marketing Mindset Shift #5

Tandem Works — Wed, 07 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this solo episode, I’m diving into a topic that comes up all the time with entrepreneurs and creatives: vanity metrics. It’s so easy to get caught up in likes, follows, and views—but those numbers don’t always tell the real story of how your business is doing. I’m breaking down the difference between what looks good and what actually moves the needle. I’ll walk you through how to shift your focus to meaningful metrics—like leads, conversions, client retention, and revenue—and how to build a simple scorecard to track what matters. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working hard but not seeing results, this episode is for you.

Here’s what I cover:

Why surface-level metrics can be distracting (and even misleading)
The truth about engagement—it’s not just public likes and comments
How to separate busy work from work that actually drives results
A simple way to build your own business scorecard
Why revenue isn’t something to shy away from—it’s a core business metric
How to make sure your tracking evolves with your goals

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Mindset Shifts

01:22 Understanding Vanity Metrics

05:39 The Lie of Vanity Metrics

11:22 Tracking What Actually Moves the Needle

17:59 Building Your Business Scorecard

21:51 Conclusion and Call to Action

Related Episodes:

#67 The Secret to Effortless Marketing? It’s Something You Already Do - Marketing Mindset Shift #1

#68 The Power of ‘Less is More’ in Marketing- Marketing Mindset Shift #2

#71 The Secret to Selling More: Focus on the Outcome - Mindset Shift #3

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#72 - Why Your Logo Doesn’t Matter as Much as You Think - Marketing Mindset Shift #4

Tandem Works — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:11:38 -0500

Your logo, colors, and website do NOT make people buy from you.

In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian Kvam gets real about one of the biggest myths holding entrepreneurs back with their marketing: the idea that you need perfect branding before you start marketing or making money. Spoiler alert—you don’t.

Vivian Kvam shares personal stories (including how she landed a major client before Tandem Works even had a logo or a bank account) and challenges listeners to rethink what’s truly driving sales: trust, connection, and authenticity.

✨ Here’s what you’ll learn:
✔ Why people buy from people, not brands
✔ How obsessing over branding could be slowing your growth
✔ Action steps to stop hiding and start showing up now

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Mindset Shifts

02:22 The Importance of Authenticity Over Branding

07:22 Real-Life Examples of Success Without Perfect Branding

12:06 The Myth of Perfect Branding

17:37 Actionable Steps to Show Up Authentically

24:32 Recap and Next Steps

Related Episodes:

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

#67 The Secret to Effortless Marketing? It’s Something You Already Do - Marketing Mindset Shift #1

#68 The Power of ‘Less is More’ in Marketing- Marketing Mindset Shift #2

#71 The Secret to Selling More: Focus on the Outcome - Marketing Mindset Shift #3

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#71 The Secret to Selling More: Focus on the Outcome - Mindset Shift #3

Tandem Works — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Marketing isn’t about your product—it’s about the transformation your customers experience.

In this episode of Riding Tandem, we dive into Marketing Mindset Shift #3, where we debunk the myth that people buy based on features alone. Instead, they’re drawn to stories of transformation and success.

I’ll walk you through:
✔️ Why listing features won’t get you sales
✔️ How top brands like Apple and Martha Stewart master storytelling
✔️ A simple Transformation Story Formula to revamp your messaging

💡 Challenge: Take one piece of your marketing (website, social post, sales page) and rewrite it to focus on a client transformation. DM me your before-and-after—I'd love to see your shift!

🔗 Book a 1:1 strategy session with Vivian: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

📌 Next Episode: Stop Hiding Behind Your Branding!

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Mindset Shifts

01:01 The Power of Customer Transformation

09:04 Crafting Compelling Transformation Stories

15:37 Implementing Transformation in Marketing

23:13 Challenge and Recap

Related Episodes:

#68 The Power of ‘Less is More’ in Marketing- Marketing Mindset Shift #2

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

#67 The Secret to Effortless Marketing? It’s Something You Already Do - Marketing Mindset Shift #1

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#70 Starting a Business at 10: Chloe’s Journey from Pebbles to Profit

Tandem Works — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Starting a business at 10 years old? For Chloe Gollehon, it wasn’t just a dream—it was a reality. Now, at 14, she runs Chloe’s Crafts, creating stunning pebble art that tells a story.

In this episode of Riding Tandem, host Vivian Kvam sits down with Chloe to explore her journey as a young entrepreneur—balancing school, creativity, and business. She shares how a family trip to Lake Michigan sparked her passion for pebble art, the highs and lows of selling at craft fairs, and the emotional connections behind each piece she creates. Chloe also opens up about the challenges of time management, the surprises of being a business owner, and the importance of trusting others while still maintaining her creative vision.

This conversation is an inspiring reminder that passion, perseverance, and a little bit of courage can take you far—no matter your age.

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to Chloe Galahan

03:00 The Birth of a Creative Business

06:00 Challenges and Growth in Entrepreneurship

09:02 Artistic Process and Customer Engagement

11:57 Navigating the Business Side of Creativity

14:53 The Emotional Connection in Art

18:01 Support Systems and Community

20:58 Future Aspirations and Lessons Learned

26:58 Outsourcing and Collaboration in Creativity

30:55 The Journey of a Young Entrepreneur

34:11 The Importance of Trust in Business

37:34 Encouragement for Aspiring Creatives

40:14 Future Aspirations and Flexibility

41:44 Misconceptions About Business Ownership

42:56 Fun and Snacks at Craft Fairs

43:32 Inspiration Through Music and Art

44:21 Embracing Change and Opportunities

45:20 The Unique Journey of Young Entrepreneurs

47:55 The Role of Art in Making a Difference

49:10 Promoting Chloe's Crafts and Community Engagement

Related Episodes:

#48 Building a Subscription Box Business - Jennifer Lea's Entry Envy Journey

#56 How to Turn a Passion For Crafting Leather Goods into a Profitable Business - Maisey Haines

#60 From Polishing Rocks to Boutique Boss: Jayme Busch's Unique Boutique Story

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Chloe Gollehon:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ChloeofChloesCraft
Website - ChloesCraft.bigcartel.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chloes_.craft/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#69 Comparison, Confidence, and Career Growth with Lapora Lindsey

Tandem Works — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:29:56 -0600

In this episode, Vivian welcomes LaPora Lindsey to talk about the power of embracing your value—whether you're an entrepreneur, an employee, or both! LaPora shares her journey of starting and restarting a business while navigating the challenges of military spouse life and frequent moves. She also dives into the ACT Framework (Awareness, Communication, Transparency) and how it can help both individuals and leaders foster a culture of ownership and accountability.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ Value Over Title: Your worth isn't tied to a job title—it's about the impact you make.
✔️ The ACT Framework: Awareness, Communication, and Transparency are key to workplace success.
✔️ Healthy Comparison: Learn from others without letting it drain your confidence.
✔️ Goal-Setting for Success: The 12-Week Year method to stay focused and adaptable.
✔️ The Power of Relationships: Success isn’t just about skills—it's about connection and collaboration.

Mentioned in This Episode:
📖 Bottom of the Food Chain - https://www.amazon.com/Bottom-Food-Chain-Perspective-Career/dp/B0B5H866GH

📩 Get LaPora’s exclusive resources & updates – Join Her Email List

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Navigating Media Misrepresentation

03:01 Introduction to LaPora Lindsey

06:04 The Dual Role of Employment and Entrepreneurship

08:51 Understanding Value in the Workplace

12:05 The Journey of Writing a Book

15:05 Building Relationships in Organizations

18:03 Fostering Value and Engagement

20:55 The ACT Framework for Leadership

26:30 Understanding Personality Assessments

28:40 Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness

30:31 Navigating Business Challenges and Relationships

33:23 The Role of Comparison in Business Growth

36:06 Intentionality in Overcoming Comparison

40:50 Fostering Healthy Competition and Curiosity

45:44 Valuing the Present in Business Growth

49:58 The Power of Reflection and Journaling

52:26 Goal Setting Philosophy and Techniques

58:15 Misconceptions of Business Ownership and Personal Insights

01:06:25 The Importance of Empathy in Business

Related Episodes:

Fear #18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance

#6 Success after a massive layoff late in a career and starting a podcast recording studio - a candid conversation with Todd Studer

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

LaPora Lindsey:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thelaporalindsey
Website - www.laporalindsey.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lapora-lindsey/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#68 The Power of ‘Less is More’ in Marketing- Marketing Mindset Shift #2

Tandem Works — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian dives deep into one of the eight marketing mindset shifts for entrepreneurs—letting go of the “shoulds.” Feeling overwhelmed by endless marketing advice? Vivian’s got you covered. In today’s conversation, she shares how she and Michaela learned that you don’t need to be on every platform. Instead, focus on what’s working for your business, leverage your strengths, and align your marketing efforts with your goals.

Key Points:

The Overwhelm of “Shoulds”: Learn how the pressure to be everywhere can actually hurt your business.
The Instagram Example: Vivian explains why TandemWorks decided to stop chasing Instagram for its results and focus on channels that truly matter.
The Three-Part Funnel: Attract, Engage, Connect – a simple framework for creating impactful marketing strategies.
Personal Reflection & Action: Reflect on which marketing activities you should let go of and what truly resonates with you.

👉 If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Tag me on Facebook or LinkedIn, or shoot me an email. Let’s keep the conversation going!

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Mindset Shifts

03:20 Overcoming Marketing Overwhelm

12:49 The Three-Step Marketing Funnel

17:08 Aligning Marketing with Goals and Resources

22:24 Simplifying Marketing for Success

Related Episodes:

#54 Connecting Through Stories For Business and Non-Profits with Jeremiah Tittle and Vivian Kvam

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

#67 The Secret to Effortless Marketing? It’s Something You Already Do - Marketing Mindset Shift #1

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#67 The Secret to Effortless Marketing? It’s Something You Already Do - Marketing Mindset Shift #1

Tandem Works — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Welcome to the first episode of our Marketing Mindset Shifts for Entrepreneurs series! If you've ever thought, “I’m not a marketer”, think again. In today’s episode, Vivian Kvam is flipping that belief on its head. You’re already a marketing expert—you just don’t know it yet!

Marketing isn’t about complicated strategies, algorithms, or fancy ads. At its core, marketing is storytelling, and you tell stories every day—whether it’s recommending a restaurant, convincing your kids to eat veggies, or sharing your latest great find with a friend.

By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with:
✅ A new perspective on marketing that makes it feel natural and effortless
✅ Real-life examples of how you’re already using marketing skills in your daily life
✅ A FREE resource to help you uncover your most powerful business stories!

📌 Grab your free download here: thetandemworks.com/promptyourstory.

Next Episode:
We’ll tackle Marketing Mindset Shift #2, another powerful shift that will change how you approach marketing. Don’t miss it!

👉 If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Tag me on Facebook or LinkedIn, or shoot me an email. Let’s keep the conversation going!

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Mindset Shifts

01:19 Reframing Marketing as Storytelling

05:39 Recognizing Your Natural Marketing Skills

12:44 Finding and Crafting Your Business Stories

16:05 Conclusion and Next Steps

Related Episodes:

#54 Connecting Through Stories For Business and Non-Profits with Jeremiah Tittle and Vivian Kvam

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

#26 Mastering the Art of Brainstorming: Fueling Small Business Growth

#18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#66 Pitching with Purpose: How to Share Your Business Story with Impact - Christi Kmecik Written Hugs Designs

Tandem Works — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

How do you refine your business pitch, build partnerships, and scale your business without losing your mission? In this episode, we welcome back Christi Kmecik, founder of Written Hugs Designs, to dive into her entrepreneurial journey—what’s changed, what’s working, and how she’s using storytelling to scale impact.

We discuss navigating pitch competitions, the power of product testing, vendor challenges, and balancing creativity with business strategy. Plus, Christi shares how her one-to-one giveback program is bringing meaningful connections to those who need it most. Whether you're a new entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiration, and encouragement.

Tune in to hear:
✅ How Christi refined her pitch through competitions and coaching
✅ The power of product testing before scaling
✅ Why tracking data can transform your business decisions
✅ The realities of working with vendors and big retailers
✅ How Christi’s cards are helping nonprofits and families in need

🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show!

Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

02:59 The Mission Behind Written Hugs Designs

06:05 Growth and Confidence in Entrepreneurship

08:59 Pitch Competitions: Insights and Experiences

11:49 The Importance of Structure in Pitches

14:59 Navigating Challenges in Pitching

17:51 Feedback and Its Impact on Business

20:21 The Power of Connection Through Cards

31:10 The Importance of Customer-Centric Storytelling

33:49 Navigating Pitch Competitions and Effective Communication

35:02 Product Presentation and Messaging Challenges

41:06 Overcoming Roadblocks in Product Distribution

42:02 Building Trustworthy Vendor Relationships

44:59 Testing Products and Market Fit

50:05 Expanding Product Lines and Consumer Insights

56:00 Evaluating Vendor Events and Consumer Behavior

59:48 Building Connections and Email Lists

01:01:07 Diversifying Revenue Streams

01:05:13 The Importance of Focus in Business

01:06:39 Understanding Customer Acquisition

01:12:06 Implementing a One-to-One Give Back Program

01:18:32 Future Partnerships and Community Impact

Related Episodes:

# 33 How to get product into big-box stores: the inspiring journey of Christi Kmecik

#35 Unleash Your Pitching Potential and Presentation Skills: Expert Advice from Kelsey Stupfell and Niki Ferguson

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com
Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.
Book a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Vivian here: https://550683.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrct

Christi Kmecik:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Writtenhugsdesigns/
Website - www.writtenhugsdesigns.com
Instagram - http://instagram.com/writtenhugsdesigns
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christi-kmecik-11395b271/
Linktree - https://linktr.ee/Written.Hugs.Designs?fbclid=PAY2xjawIN4l1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpvaZmkLyxAupgFdGbOfmqp6UhWdIBqkbHUPyvWXAcCeR8jDq7RM4s64mIw_aem_As_i3bk0Rpw0hvka1vkdcA

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

FREE RESOURCES

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#65 From Airwaves to Insurance: Dylan Yeomans on Podcasting, Networking, and Authentic Connections

Tandem Works — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

In this conversation, Dylan Yeomans shares his journey from radio broadcasting to the insurance industry and the importance of networking in building authentic connections. He discusses the UIA Trusted Partners podcast, which serves as a platform for networking and community engagement, emphasizing the value of genuine interactions over scripted conversations. Dylan also provides insights into creating a successful podcast and the significance of content creation in attracting business. In this conversation, Vivian Kvam and Dylan Yeomans explore the nuances of networking through podcasting, emphasizing the importance of preparation, intentionality in guest selection, and the value of building genuine relationships. They discuss unique networking strategies and delve into insights about the insurance industry, highlighting the shift from transactional interactions to meaningful connections. In this engaging conversation, Dylan Yeomans shares insights into the insurance industry, discussing the importance of profitability for insurance providers and the necessity of open communication with clients regarding claims and pricing. He emphasizes the need for agents to guide clients through the complexities of insurance coverage and pricing, while also addressing common misconceptions about business ownership. The discussion also touches on personal interests, including cooking and gaming, and concludes with a heartfelt reminder of the impact of kindness in everyday interactions.

Crossover - Hear Vivian on the UIW Trusted Partners Podcast

Book a 1:1 Session with Vivian or Machaela
https://thetandemworks.com/11-mentoring

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:07 The Art of Networking

06:04 Transitioning from Radio to Networking

08:53 The Importance of Authentic Connections

12:04 The UIA Trusted Partners Podcast

14:58 Building Community Through Podcasting

18:00 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters

26:39 The Importance of Preparation in Networking Podcasts

30:24 Intentionality in Guest Selection

36:02 Building Relationships Through Podcasting

40:51 Unique Networking Strategies

49:52 Insights on the Insurance Industry

52:40 Navigating the Insurance Landscape

01:04:01 Overcoming Pricing Conversations

01:09:56 Personal Insights and Misconceptions

01:13:03 Making a Positive Impact

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Dylan Yeomans:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/uiagencies/
Website - https://www.uiagencies.com/
Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/0Jmky91Lyszy2DmfQdHM6e

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#64 How to Build a Century-Strong Business Legacy - John Albert

Tandem Works — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 12:26:14 -0600

In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian Kvam sits down with John Albert, a third-generation business owner with deep roots in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. From managing a family business that started in 1927 to navigating the challenges of COVID-19 and eventually transitioning ownership through the successful sale of his company, John shares his remarkable journey of adaptation, leadership, and resilience.

John dives into how to build a century-strong business legacy, adapt and lead through business challenges, and make tough decisions with confidence. He also shares how to use mentorship to propel your business forward, balance tradition and innovation, and pivot effectively during times of crisis. Listeners will gain valuable insights on creating a lasting impact as a business owner and navigating the emotional side of entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories about growth, pivots, and building a meaningful legacy.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to SCORE and Business Mentorship

06:06 The Evolution of Albert's Cleaners

12:01 Navigating Business Challenges and COVID-19

17:59 Generational Business Transition and Legacy

27:06 The Journey Begins: From Passion to Business

32:32 Acquisitions and Growth: Expanding the Business

38:42 Innovative Marketing: Creative Strategies for Success

47:32 Overcoming Procrastination: Tackling the Tough Tasks

53:13 Community Impact Through Businessf

01:07:59 The Future of Entrepreneurship

Related Episodes:

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

John Albert:

Website -SCORE.org/eastcentraliowa
Email - john.albert@scorevolunteer.org

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Score mentors - https://www.score.org/find-mentor

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#63 Behind the Scenes: How We Built Our Marketing Roadmap Process

Tandem Works — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Vivian Kvam and Machaela Clark dive into why it’s so important to have a solid marketing strategy—especially as a new year kicks off. They chat about how businesses can map out clear plans for marketing and communication, share how their consulting services have evolved, and stress the importance of truly understanding client needs.

The episode covers how their strategy sessions are structured, from identifying roadblocks to setting goals and exploring tools that can help bring those plans to life. Vivian and Machaela also discuss the value of leadership being on the same page with organizational goals, surprising takeaways from roadmap sessions, and what defining success really looks like.

They touch on how business coaching fits into marketing strategies, describe the types of clients who get the most out of roadmap sessions, and explain why follow-up support is key. Plus, they break down common mistakes in marketing strategies and share tips for businesses that might not be ready for a full-blown roadmap just yet. It’s all about building connections, fostering collaboration, and setting businesses up for success!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

05:52 The Evolution of the Tandem Works Marketing & Communications Roadmap

12:02 The Structure of Strategy Sessions

18:10 Tools and Resources for Implementation

24:33 The Importance of Leadership Alignment

30:48 Defining Success and Simplifying Metrics

36:38 The Value of Follow-Up and Ongoing Support

42:30 First Steps for Organizations Not Ready for Roadmaps

Related Episodes:

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Machaela Clark:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/machaela-clark-52984110/
Email Machaela - mclark@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success

Tandem Works — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian Kvam shares actionable insights from a recent workshop she led with SCORE mentors in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by marketing or unsure where to start, this episode is for you. She uncovers a high-level view of eight mindset shifts for marketing every entrepreneur needs to make for successful marketing.

🚀 Plus, Vivian announces an exciting offer: free 30-minute one-on-one brainstorming sessions to help you tackle your marketing roadblocks and clarify your next steps.

Resources Mentioned:

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

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Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Introduction to SCORE and Marketing Mindset

06:14 Eight Mindset Shifts for Marketing Success

22:30 Understanding Marketing and Sales as a Connection

Related Episodes:

# 55 How to Say No Without Guilt- Tips from Decision Master Kirsten Parker

#10 How to use storytelling to create social media content that engages your audience.

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#61 How to Master Your Business Finances and Cultivate Confidence with the CFO Mindset- With Becky Edwards

Tandem Works — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Vivian Kvam chats with Becky Edwards, a CFO mindset coach, about something that every business needs but so many avoid talking about—money. Becky takes us through her journey from a corporate career to launching her own business, sharing insights on building confidence with finances and why it’s so crucial for entrepreneurs to take control of their numbers.

Vivian and Becky dive into the challenges of keeping up with bookkeeping, cash flow, and the power of setting clear expectations in business. Becky also highlights the importance of having a supportive community and understanding what financial tasks you can manage in-house. If you’re interested in leveling up your financial game, Becky also shares details on her one-on-one coaching and self-paced courses designed to help business owners get confident with their finances. Tune in for tips on creating a financial plan that aligns with your business goals and empowers you to truly own your business journey!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

02:33 The Importance of Community in Business

05:20 Transitioning to CFO Mindset Coaching

14:44 Challenges in Transitioning to Self-Employment

25:26 Understanding the CFO Mindset

39:13 What to Keep in-House: Bookkeeping Insights

49:28 The Role of CPAs in Business

54:49 Communication and Expectations in Business Relationships

59:50 The Importance of Regular Bookkeeping

01:06:52 Understanding Cash Flow and Its Impact

01:12:35 Mindset Shifts for Business Success

01:16:39 Engaging with Becky: Services and Offerings

01:24:39 The Accidental Business Owner's Journey

01:30:48 Personal Growth Through Business Ownership

Related Episodes:

#16- Feel Good Money Mindset - A Chat with Megan Hale on Taking Control of Your Business & Life

#17 This is not sexy, but it's your key to success

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Becky Edwards:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecfomindset
Website - https://www.becky-edwards.com
E-Book - https://www.becky-edwards.com/shop/p/moneyinmotion

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#60 From Polishing Rocks to Boutique Boss: Jayme Busch's Unique Boutique Story

Tandem Works — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0500

Want to know what it's like running a boutique in a small town? Catch our latest episode with boutique owner, Jayme Busch! She talks about building a business in rural Iowa, overcoming inventory challenges, and staying authentic. In this episode, host Vivian Kvam chats with Jayme Busch, owner of Unique Boutique in Neola, Iowa. Jayme shares her entrepreneurial journey from selling polished rocks as a child to running a thriving boutique business in a small rural town. She opens up about navigating challenges like flood damage, juggling multiple roles as a business owner, mother, and coach, and her experiences in the MLM world. Jayme offers valuable insights on building community, evolving as a business owner, and staying true to oneself through all the ups and downs.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 From Polishing Rocks to Boutique Owner

03:00 The Evolution of Unique Boutique

06:00 Navigating Challenges in Business

08:56 Building Community and Support

11:57 The Journey to a Physical Storefront

15:04 Lessons from MLMs and Retail

18:12 Finding Your Niche in Fashion

21:00 The Importance of Slow Growth

23:57 Market Insights and Inventory Management

27:09 Balancing Life and Business

30:11 Future Aspirations and Goals

46:05 Life on the Farm: Balancing Family and Work

50:16 Navigating a Full Schedule: A Day in the Life

53:22 Building a Community: The Boutique Experience

58:16 Flexibility in Business: Adapting to Customer Needs

01:03:01 Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from Adversity

01:14:43 Misconceptions of Boutique Ownership: The Reality Behind the Glamour

01:20:15 The Importance of Authenticity: Staying True to Yourself

01:27:03 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Growth

Related Episodes:

#9 Taking an idea from paper to reality, making tough decisions and creating a values driven business with Alysia Hess, Founder of The Occasional Collective

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

#13 Uncharted adventures: Neal Eilers' journey to opening a storefront

List and link the title here

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Jayme Busch:

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/3QVr3yPL5xs2k4xb/?mibextid=NSMWBT
Website - www.shopubiowa.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#59 How to Bend But Not Break - Use Creativity to Solve Any Problem with Paul Pape

Tandem Works — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Paul Pape is a designer and fabricator of custom collectibles who can make things that no one can find. He has a background in theater design and has worked in various mediums such as sculpture, woodworking, leatherworking, 3D design, fabrication, jewelry, and metal craft. Paul's journey started in theater, where he learned to do a lot of different things. He then transitioned into creating custom collectibles and has worked with well-known clients such as Disney, Universal, and The Tonight Show. Paul's approach is to solve creative problems and navigate through challenges, and he values relationships and the ability to make memories tangible. In this conversation, Paul Pape discusses the importance of letting go of ego, working with others, and staying positive. He emphasizes the value of consistency and the fact that people are always watching, even if they don't actively engage. Paul also talks about the balance between knowledge and imagination, encouraging creativity, and the need for a creative outlet. He shares his future goals of continuing his consultancy work and speaking engagements. Paul advises business owners to focus on helping others and making a positive impact.

A few key topics we covered

- Paul's journey from scenic design in theater to custom collectible design

- Lessons learned from working with clients like Disney and Nickelodeon

- The importance of imagination and creativity in problem-solving

- Balancing artistry and business in a freelance career

- The realities of working with big brands and managing relationships

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

05:00 From Theater Design to Custom Collectibles

13:17 Solving Creative Problems and Making Memories Tangible

23:11 Working with Well-Known Clients

30:51 Navigating Relationships and Checking Ego

33:45 Letting Go of Ego and Staying Positive

42:15 The Balance Between Knowledge and Imagination

44:08 The Value of Consistency and Working with Others

56:26 Helping Others and Making a Positive Impact

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Paul Pape:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/paulpapedesigns/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpape
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/paulpapedesigns/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/paulpapedesigns
X - https://twitter.com/paulpapedesigns

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

How to figure out how much to charge video

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#58 A Non-Technical Founder’s Journey to Leading a Tech Nonprofit with Dillon De Rozairo

Tandem Works — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this engaging episode of 'Riding Tandem,' host Vivian Kvam sits down with Dillon De Rozairo from Nebraska Innovation Labs. Dillon shares his journey as a non-developer in a tech-driven world, the inspiration behind the nonprofit model at Nebraska Innovation Labs, and how they're revolutionizing software and app development for startups.

Key Topics Discussed:

- The rise and benefits of digital business cards

- Nebraska Innovation Labs' mission to provide affordable tech solutions for startups

- Dillon’s personal journey from a non-technical founder to leading a tech nonprofit

- The importance of market validation and creating mockups before full-scale development

- The reality of entrepreneurship: balancing passion, hard work, and consistency

- How age and background should not be barriers to starting a business

- Insights on work-life balance and managing multiple ventures effectively

SHOW NOTES:

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:00 Digital Business Cards

05:26 Overview of Nebraska Innovation Labs

09:34 Finding and Retaining Talent

26:36 Importance of Market Validation and Mocking Up Ideas

31:35 Building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

36:00 The Problem-Solving Mindset

41:37 Misconceptions About Starting a Business

44:46 Consistency and Hard Work

48:19 Teaching Entrepreneurship

51:58 Organization and Time Management

58:10 The Reality of Owning a Business

01:00:32 Embracing Uncertainty and Trying New Things

01:06:17 The Positive Impact of Business Ownership

Related Episodes:

#47- Venture Capital and Startup Burnout - with Kaylee Williams

#3 Nailing an RFP, scope creep and sticky details - a candid chat with client Nicole Lindquist (PT 1)

#4 Taking on big projects when you don't know it all, and how we created the Iowa West Foundation Imagine Hours -with Nicole Lindquist (Pt 2)

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Dillion De Rozairo:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nebraskainnovationlabs
Website - https://www.neinnovationlabs.org/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dillonderozairo/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#57 What you didn’t know about email marketing and being an entrepreneur - Josh Kropkof

Tandem Works — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian Kvam chats with Josh Kropkof, CEO and co-founder of The Email Agency. Josh dives into the importance of email marketing, busting common myths and emphasizing the power of building relationships and adding personality to your emails.

Josh shares his journey of starting an email marketing business, the ups and downs he faced, and why email marketing is a must for any business. He talks about his focus on e-commerce and the blend of copy and design needed for success. Plus, Josh gives practical tips for managing overwhelm and staying focused, like his mental desk exercise for prioritizing tasks.

Tune in for valuable insights on growing your business through email marketing, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of continuous learning and seeking advice.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

05:12 What is Email Marketing?

10:03 The Value of Email Marketing

16:00 Overcoming Hesitations and Starting Email Marketing

25:58 Email Marketing for E-commerce Success

33:19 Building Relationships through Email

36:24 The Unique Combination of Copy and Design in E-commerce Email Marketing

38:35 From Childhood Entrepreneurship to Starting a Business

52:22 The Challenges and Commitment of Building a Business

59:54 Selling: A Key Aspect of Business Success

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Josh Kropkof:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheEmailAgency
Website - https://www.theemailagency.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kropkof/
Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-email-revolution/id1621652210

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

https://newsletter.theemailagency.com/email-revolution

https://www.emailprofitscheatsheet.com/email-cheat-sheet

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#56 How to Turn a Passion For Crafting Leather Goods into a Profitable Business - Maisey Haines

Tandem Works — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Riding Tandem, I sit down with Maisey Haines, the creative force behind Haines Cattle and Leather. Maisey shares her inspiring journey from learning to sew at a young age to building a successful leather goods business. We delve into the challenges she faced, especially during the pandemic, and how she navigated through them with resilience and creativity. Maisey also discusses the importance of customer feedback, sustainability in leather crafting, her tips for selling at events, and her marketing strategies using social media. Tune in for a conversation filled with valuable insights and heartfelt stories.

SHOW NOTES:

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

08:36 Testing for Durability and Functionality

29:35 Navigating Difficult Customers and Cultivating Patience

41:49 The Importance of Education and Understanding in Using Animal Products

49:17 Involving the Audience: Marketing Strategies and Social Media

59:16 Navigating the Challenges of Running a Business

01:09:48 Building Relationships and Supporting Other Businesses

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Maisey Haines

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hainesleather
Website - https://hainesleather.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hainesleather/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

# 55 How to Say No Without Guilt- Tips from Decision Master Kirsten Parker

Tandem Works — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Dive into a riveting conversation with Kirsten Parker, host of the Decision Masters podcast, as she returns to discuss the art of decision-making. This episode delves into the challenges of saying no, understanding personal agency, and overcoming misconceptions about selfishness. Kirsten shares practical strategies, relatable stories, and actionable tips to help you make decisions that align with your values and vision. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone striving for better decision-making in your daily life, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

09:14 The Power of Saying No

25:18 Understanding Your Values and Vision

33:05 Different Types of No's

35:53 Asking Questions to Clarify Requests

38:08 The Challenge of Saying Yes

44:24 Strategies for Saying No

50:39 The Importance of Starting

55:49 Misconceptions About Owning a Business

59:35 Prioritizing Success and Well-being

Related Episodes:

#19 Making confident decisions with Kirsten Parker: How to hear yourself and stop overthinking

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Kirsten Parker:

Website - http://kirstenparker.com
Free Guide - http://kirstenparker.com/sayno
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@TheDecisionCoach
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/KPCoaching
Podcast - Decision Masters https://www.kirstenparker.com/decision-masters-podcast

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Download Kirsten's Free Guide: Learn practical strategies for saying no and making empowered decisions. Visit http://kirstenparker.com/sayno to get started.

Subscribe to Kirsten's Newsletter: Stay updated with actionable tips and wisdom on decision-making. Sign up on http://kirstenparker.com

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#54 Connecting Through Stories For Business and Non-Profits with Jeremiah Tittle and Vivian Kvam

Tandem Works — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this special crossover episode, Riding Tandem and Next Chapter Podcasts bring together two dynamic hosts: Jeremiah Tittle, CEO of Next Chapter Podcasts and host of Your Next Chapter, and Vivian Kvam, host of Riding Tandem.

Jeremiah and Vivian share their experiences, challenges, and successes in leveraging storytelling to reshape worlds and inspire change. From the evolution of podcasts to the integration of technology and AI, this episode is packed with valuable insights for business owners, nonprofit leaders, and creative minds alike.

Discover the power of internal and external storytelling, the importance of staying curious, and how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital communication. Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or just starting out, this episode is sure to ignite your passion and provide practical tips for designing the life and business you want.

Unpacking This Episode Min-By-Min

09:12 Jeremiah's Background and the Genesis of 'Your Next Chapter'

26:21 Crafting Mission Statements and Core Values

35:16 The Power of Storytelling in Nonprofit Organizations

53:07 Collaborating with Experts: Seeking Help in Storytelling

Related Episodes:

#1 Core values, why they matter and how to create them

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Jeremiah Tittle:

Website - https://www.nextchapterpodcasts.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wwwjt/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ncpodcasts/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#53 Health, Business, and Family: A Conversation with Dr. Nate and Melissa Wiechmann

Tandem Works — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 05:10:00 -0500

In this episode of Riding Tandem, I sat down with Dr. Nate Wiechmann and his wife/business partner, Melissa. They share their inspiring journey of building their clinic, overcoming reputation challenges, and navigating personal crises, including the premature birth of their daughter during the pandemic. Learn how they embraced technology, leveraged social media, and relied on community support to thrive. This episode is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of partnership.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

01:55 Starting Their Clinic
05:00 Expanding to a Second Location
07:32 Overcoming Reputation Hurdles
09:59 Using Social Media for Marketing
14:28 Overcoming Hesitation and Authenticity on Social Media
28:33 Advice for Business Owners in Crisis
36:32 Showing Vulnerability and Finding Support
40:28 Myths and Differentiation in Chiropractic Care
51:43 Productivity Hacks and Tools
56:57 Tips for Business Owners in Healthcare
01:01:49 Inspiration and Misconceptions
01:10:32 Making the World a Better Place

Related Episodes:

#30 From Imagination to Sweet Reality: How Amber and Jeremy Turned Their Ice Cream Shop Dream into Cup & Cone

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Dr. Nate Wiechmann & Melissa Wiechmann

Facebook - Facebook.com/pcsfchiropractic
Website - www.pcsfchiropractic.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pcsfchiro/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#52 How to Turn Dietary Challenges into a Thriving Business: The O'CookieOs Story

Tandem Works — Wed, 15 May 2024 06:55:00 -0500

Join host Vivian Kvam in an enriching conversation with Nicole Bartlett and Vincent Rissell, the founders of O'CookieOs. Discover how they turned a family challenge into a flourishing (accidental) business, creating a gluten-free cookie-donut hybrid that's as delicious as it is innovative. Nicole and Vincent discuss the importance of viewing failures as essential learning experiences that are pivotal in shaping their entrepreneurial path and share some real-life “horror” stories from the kitchen. Listen to their journey from kitchen experiments to a thriving business and their aspirations for the future.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

01:01 An accidental business

03:07 Challenges of Gluten-Free Baking

04:06 Experimenting with Different Flours

05:15 The Birth of OcookieOs

06:13 Transitioning to a Business

07:11 Validation and Feedback

08:23 The Role of Kitchen Council

09:16 The Long-Term Vision for OcookieOs

19:29 Navigating the Leap into Business

25:37 Importance of Feedback and Adaptation

34:29 Expanding Product Lines and Target Audiences

35:28 Family Involvement in the Business

38:47 Impact of Business on the Family

41:49 Scaling and Maintaining the Homemade Feel

43:44 New Flavors and Recipe Development

50:39 Misconceptions About Owning a Business

51:56 Advice for Business Owners

58:45 Making the World a Better Place as Business Owners

01:00:59 How to Get O'Cookios and Wholesale Opportunities

Related Episodes:

#34 Donuts, Determination, and Destiny - with Elizabeth Pooley & Jack Pooley, Square Donuts

#30 From Imagination to Sweet Reality: How Amber and Jeremy built their dream ice cream and

coffee shop Cup & Cone

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Nichole Bartlett & Vincent Rissell

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#51 Celebrating Milestones: 25 Questions with Vivian and Michaela

Tandem Works — Thu, 02 May 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In their milestone 50th episode (technically the 51st), Vivian and Michaela dive into an engaging Q&A session where they answer 25 questions that reveal more about their personal lives and the inner workings of their business. They explore the origins of their entrepreneurial journey, critical moments that shaped their careers, and how they balance the demands of work with their personal lives. The duo discusses the skills they’re honing, influential books, and the challenges they encountered while launching their business. Favorite guilty pleasures in terms of snacks also make the list. Further into the conversation, they delve into their strategies for overcoming setbacks and failures, their hobbies outside of work, and productivity tactics like adhering to a morning routine and utilizing planners. Vivian and Michaela also reflect on unexpected lessons from their business venture, what keeps them driven during challenging periods, and the joys found in daily routines. They ponder alternative career paths, future aspirations, and their personal definitions of success. The discussion also covers their favorite relaxation methods, indispensable technology, top TV picks, party preferences, pet peeves, and aspects of leadership. They wrap up with some of the unusual questions they’ve been asked, emphasizing the value of curiosity and meaningful inquiry.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode:

00:00 Introduction and Episode Celebration
08:12 Skills Improvement and Book Influences
25:48 Habits for Productivity
32:24 Favorite Parts of Daily Routines and Small Things
46:28 Defining Success
53:07 Nostalgic TV Shows: Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman and Dawson's Creek
01:03:08 Strange Questions and Assumptions

Related Episodes:

#29 Thriving Together: The Dynamic Duo of ADHD and Non-ADHD Business Partners - with Machaela Clark

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Machaela Clark:

Email Machaela - mclark@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#50 How Anytime Tees Navigated the Leap from Home Business to a 4,200 Square Foot Facility - With Rachel Nagunst

Tandem Works — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Join me for an engaging conversation with Rachel, the owner of Anytime Tees, a custom apparel company that has grown from a home-based business to a 4,200 square foot facility. This episode of Riding Tandem is all about the journey of scaling a business, the challenges of expansion, and the power of delegation and trust in a team.

Rachel shares her unique story of starting and growing her business, offering valuable insights into the importance of strategic planning and understanding when to take risks. We discuss the concept of "closing the gap" – a methodical approach to scaling up that focuses on balancing current resources with future needs. Rachel also delves into the pivotal role of her team in the growth of Anytime Tees and how empowering her employees has been instrumental in the company's success.

If you find value in these stories, leave a review at https://ratethispodcast.com/ridingtandem

Have thoughts or questions about this episode? Reach out to me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com – your insights are always welcome.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

01:16 Starting Anytime Tees and Custom Apparel

04:34 Making the Decision to Scale and Grow

06:21 Navigating the Transition from Home-Based to Retail Location

08:14 Balancing Risk and Growth

09:48 Building the Business through Strong Relationships

13:43 Insights for Building a Business on Relational Equity

29:39 Challenges Faced During the Pandemic

31:57 Diversifying Products During the Pandemic

35:16 Benefits of Printed Swag for Businesses

41:13 Challenges of Naming a Business

45:34 Misconceptions About Owning a Business

47:11 Applying Advice to Business

52:05 Excitement for the Future

Related Episodes:

#45- Building Strong Teams and Systems to Scale A Successful Food Business - Alejandra Valdez, Viva Fit Kitchen

#12 From corporate globetrotter to entrepreneurship: Neal Eilers' journey, building a successful business around his passion

#13 Uncharted adventures: Neal Eilers' journey to opening a storefront

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Rachel Nagust:

Facebook -www.facebook.anytimeteescom/
Website -https://anytimetees.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/anytimetees

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

#49 Scaling and Powering Through Challenges with Josh Kallsen of PowerTech

Tandem Works — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 04:10:00 -0500

In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian Kvam sits down for a candid chat with Josh Kallsen, the go-getting president of PowerTech. They dive into Josh's journey through the construction world, starting from the life lessons he picked up from his grandfather, to his ambitious moves in buying and growing PowerTech. The heart of their conversation beats around PowerTech's Power to Give initiative, a brilliant example of how businesses can deeply impact their communities.

Josh and Vivian chew over everything from the thrills and spills of taking risks in business, finding the perfect business partner groove, to the joys and jolts of running a business. They take a look at how seeing things from different angles and thinking on your feet are key, especially when you're doubling your business size practically overnight.

They don't shy away from the tough stuff either, like how crucial it is to keep your cash flow healthy and your financial foundation solid during rapid expansion. The chat also shines a light on the Power to Give initiative, putting a spotlight on how giving back can be a powerful part of any business's journey.

They also dig into the real deal about building legacies, busting some common myths about owning a business. Josh wraps it up with some straight talk about making mistakes and the big role business owners play in making the world a brighter place. This episode is not just a peek into the life of a successful entrepreneur; it's like a roadmap for anyone out there with big business dreams.

Don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories and business strategies!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments with this survey.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

Chapters

01:00 Josh's Journey and Early Inspiration

03:19 PowerTech's Power to Give Initiative

03:48 Starting PowerTech and Taking Risks

10:02 Passion for Running a Business

15:18 Combining Forces with Cody

35:45 Transitioning to Gas Pipeline Services

37:25 Alignment with Cody and Partner Dynamics

38:24 The Importance of Different Perspectives

39:03 Scaling PowerTech Overnight

40:03 PowerTech's Growth and Acquisition

41:03 Rapid Expansion During COVID-19

42:12 Challenges of Scaling and Resourcefulness

43:10 Figuring Things Out as You Go

44:18 The Importance of Cash Flow and Financial Stability

46:13 The Power to Give Initiative

49:49 Creating a Framework for Giving Back

55:23 The Impact of Regular Giving

58:10 Building Buy-In and Commitment to Giving Back

01:00:03 Building Legacies and Making a Difference

01:04:22 Leaving a Lasting Impact

01:08:57 The Misconception of Business Ownership

01:09:35 Advice on Making Mistakes

01:10:33 Business Owners' Role in Making the World Better

Related Episodes:

#23 Brad Arrowsmith: Building a legacy towing operation

#37 How to Build a Strong Financial Foundation And Prepare To Borrow For Your Business - Jamel Hamilton

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Josh Kallsen, PowerTech

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PowerTechTeam/
Website - https://powertechteam.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kallsen-8357b6151/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#48 Building a Subscription Box Business - Jennifer Lea's Entry Envy Journey

Tandem Works — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of "Riding Tandem," Vivian Kvam engages in a deeply inspiring conversation with Jennifer Lea, the innovative founder of Entry Envy. Jennifer's journey from the structured world of law firm management to the creative realm of entrepreneurship is not just a career change; it's a life transformation fueled by passion, resilience, and a desire to bring joy and functionality to homes everywhere.

Discover how Jennifer turned a challenging period in her life into a thriving business. She shares her experiences of remodeling her home and life post-divorce, leading to the birth of Entry Envy. This story isn't just about creating a successful business; it's about empowering women, embracing fear, and learning the art of balancing work with personal joy.

Jennifer delves into the importance of community building, investing in personal development, and the unique approach she took in overcoming her fears. Her insightful anecdotes and practical advice are a treasure trove for anyone looking to start their entrepreneurial journey or infuse their current one with renewed energy and perspective.

As we explore Jennifer’s strategies for business growth and her commitment to empowering women in trades, this episode is a celebration of the transformative power of entrepreneurship. It's a reminder of the impact we can have when we channel our passions into our work and the difference we can make in our communities.

Learn more about Entry Envy and follow Jennifer's journey:

If this conversation inspired you, please consider leaving a review for "Riding Tandem." Your feedback not only supports our show but also helps other listeners find us and be inspired too. Head over to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and share your thoughts.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

01:30 Genesis of Entree Envy

03:10 Passion for Getting Women into the Trades

08:14 Epiphany and Idea Generation

10:02 Taking Action and Building the Company

13:10 The Importance of Taking Action Quickly

15:02 Strategic Thinking and Planning

18:02 The Challenges and Stages of Building a Company

19:19 The Value of Coaching and Mentorship

23:09 The Role of Coaches in Different Seasons

27:12 The Importance of Building a Network

30:25 Productivity Tools and Processes

35:09 Mindset Shifts and Overcoming Scarcity Mentality

38:47 Choosing Words and Setting Intentions

44:12 Encouraging Women in the Trades and Entrepreneurship

44:42 Creating a Supportive Work Environment

46:08 Different Demographics in the Workplace

47:35 Scaling the Company and Changing Industries

49:52 Incorporating Women into Male-Dominated Industries

50:56 Addressing the Needs of Women in the Workplace

52:22 Shaping the Future and Creating Change

53:24 Delivering Joy and Core Values

55:38 Misconceptions About Owning a Business

56:09 Advice for Business Owners

56:46 Inspiring Books and Resources

58:02 Favorite Go-To Beverage

58:56 Misconceptions About Jennifer

59:48 Making the World a Better Place

Related Episodes:

#1 Core values, why they matter and how to create them

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Jennifer Lea

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/entryenvysigns
Website - https://entryenvy.com
LinkTree - https://linktr.ee/Entry_envy

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#47- Venture Capital and Startup Burnout - with Kaylee Williams

Tandem Works — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Vivian Kvam for an enriching dialogue with Kaylee Williams, an entrepreneur and business strategist for early-stage startup companies. She is the Investment Director for InnoVenture Iowa, a $30 million co-investment fund allocated primarily for Seed and Series A financing.

Kaylee candidly shares her remarkable journey from studying English to thriving in the tech industry. On this episode we delve into the nuances of bootstrapping versus venture capital, gaining insights into the benefits and challenges of each approach. Kayleigh also offers practical advice on navigating burnout, prioritizing personal well-being, and fostering diverse, inclusive environments. Discover actionable strategies for overcoming obstacles and embracing joy in both life and work. Tune in for an uplifting discussion that celebrates resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

03:00 Professional Best and Personal Best

06:01 Journey from English to Tech

12:04 Bootstrapping vs. Venture Capital

16:17 Misconceptions and Hesitations about Venture Capital

24:21 Resources for Learning about Venture Capital

27:28 Importance of Mentors

32:30 Dealing with Burnout

38:50 Recognizing Signs of Burnout

39:46 Neglecting Personal Life

40:16 Wrapping Up Identity with Job

41:15 Recognizing and Mitigating Burnout

42:16 Learning to Ask for Help

46:31 Consistency in Self-Care

49:00 Focus on Sales

50:29 Viewing Business as a Funnel

53:30 Misconception about Owning a Business

54:01 Advice to 18-Year-Old Self

55:42 Inspiring Song, Book, or Podcast

59:42 Empowering People Who Don't Look Like You

01:03:08 Making the World a Better Place

#35 Unleash Your Pitching Potential and Presentation Skills: Expert Advice from Kelsey Stupfell and Niki Ferguson
#16- Feel Good Money Mindset - A Chat with Megan Hale on Taking Control of Your Business & Life
#15 - Tiffaney Floretine - Focus is everything

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Kaylee Williams

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleewilliams/
Website -www.innoventureiowa.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#46 Embracing Joy: A Conversation with Lisa Even on Finding Happiness in Life and Work

Tandem Works — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 05:05:00 -0600

Join Lisa Even and Vivian Kvam in a heartfelt conversation about finding joy in both life and work. Lisa shares her transformative framework for prioritizing joy, shedding light on the impact of burnout and offering practical tips for infusing daily life with happiness. As they delve into Lisa's journey of writing and publishing her book, they explore overcoming obstacles and embracing the unique path to joy. Together, they celebrate the power of changing perspectives and expanding circles of influence, all while discussing the promotion and reception of Lisa's book. With a focus on connection, impact, and joy, this episode promises to inspire listeners to pursue their passions, overcome challenges, and make a positive difference in the world as business owners. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that reminds us to embrace joy, resilience, and the beauty of our entrepreneurial journeys.

Buy The Book - https://www.lisaeven.com/author

Attend Riding Tides - https://www.lisaeven.com/risingtides

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

02:22 Joy is Your Job
05:03 The Impact of Burnout
06:00 The Pac-Man Analogy
09:08 Finding Joy in Different Ways
11:54 The Framework for Joy
15:02 Overcoming Barriers to Joy
18:39 Creating a Joy Calendar
20:11 The Importance of Joy in Business
25:49 Writing and Publishing a Book
32:50 Promoting the Book
33:40 Highlights and Challenges of the Journey
34:39 The Rewarding Experience of Changing Perspectives
35:32 Positive Reception of the Book
36:01 Expanding Circles of Influence
37:10 Promoting and Selling the Book
38:06 Rising Tide Events
39:02 The Impact of Rising Tide Events
40:13 Upcoming Podcast on Connection, Impact, and Joy
41:29 Book Recommendation: The Measure
42:38 Misconception About Owning a Business
43:31 Work Hard and Play Hard
45:43 Inspiring Song, Book, or Podcast
46:51 Excitement for the Future
48:24 Making the World a Better Place as Business Owners

Related Episodes:

#27 Happy, Healthy Leaders and Organizations: A Conversation with Dr. Jennifer Churchill

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Lisa Even

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lisaeven11
Website - https://www.lisaeven.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/even.lisa/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

https://www.lisaeven.com/freejoy

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#45- Building Strong Teams and Systems to Scale A Successful Food Business - Alejandra Valdez, Viva Fit Kitchen

Tandem Works — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:10:22 -0600

Tune in to hear an inspired conversation with Alejandra Valdez, the visionary behind Viva Fit Kitchen. Discover her journey to scalable success through smart business systems and how her network, Embolden, fuels collaboration. Alejandra is an entrepreneur and change-maker on a mission to create a more equitable world.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

Explore the transformative power of entrepreneurship for personal growth. Learn to build lasting connections in business. Get inspired to turn your food passion into a thriving venture. Find out how a food business can drive positive change and equity.

00:02:23 - Corporate Experience

00:07:20 - Health Journey

00:09:45 - Impact of Healthy Eating

00:13:26 - Building Teams and Systems

00:15:01 - Delegating the Unexpected

00:17:45 - Collaborating on System Creation

00:19:02 - Documenting Systems

00:22:47 - Involvement in Other Ventures

00:26:49 - Creating an Inclusive Community

00:27:42 - Events and Networking

00:29:11 - Creating Change

00:30:22 - Intentional Decision-Making

00:34:11 - Pursuing Growth and Learning

00:41:13 - Connecting with People on an Emotional Level

00:41:45 - Trying New Things and Finding What You Love

00:42:15 - Inspirational Podcasts and Entrepreneurs

00:43:06 - Favorite Relaxation Beverage

00:43:47 - Excitement for the Future and Making a Difference

00:44:09 - The Misconception of Intimidation

Related Episodes:

#30 From Imagination to Sweet Reality: How Amber and Jeremy built their dream icecream and coffee shop Cup & Cone

#32 The Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur: Julie Wyssman's Secrets to Running Multiple Businesses

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Alejandra Valdez

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/vivafitkitchen
Website - https://www.vivafitkitchen.com
Instagram - @vivafitkitchen // @embolden // @ladyav
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandravaldez/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#44- What you need to know about franchises - Charista Baye

Tandem Works — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 05:28:00 -0600

Meet incredible Charista Baye, a serial entrepreneur turned franchise matchmaker. We unravel the myths surrounding franchises – spoiler: they're not all about hefty investments and burgers! Charista shares her journey, from breaking free from the corporate grind to becoming the ultimate business matchmaker. We explore the lesser-known facets of franchises, from diverse industry options to the importance of timely risks and due diligence. Get ready for some golden advice on thriving in the world of franchising, sprinkled with success stories that will ignite your entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're eyeing the franchise game or just curious about the business world beyond the myths, this episode is your backstage pass. Tune in for laughter, insights, and a roadmap to finding your perfect entrepreneurial fit.

"Don't just sit back and think, this is going to come to me. It's not. You have to take action." - Charista Baye

Zorakle Assessment - https://www.zorakle.net/assessment/welcome/thoughtfulfranchisebrokers

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:03:01 - Leaving Corporate America

00:05:23 - First Business Failure - P three inventory

00:08:16 - Second Business Failure - Second Pouch

00:13:03 - Starting Business Number Three

00:15:08 - Overcoming Adversity

00:17:41 - Finding Success

00:18:26 - Scaling and Course Creation

00:23:56 - Transition to Franchise Broker

00:25:38 - Entrepreneurial Mindset

00:26:59 - Transition to Franchising

00:30:01 - Learning New Skills

00:31:42 - Pros of Franchising

00:36:00 - Common Franchise Myths

00:38:10 - The Cost of Starting a Franchise Business

00:40:07 - Understanding Franchise Fit

00:42:22 - Zoracle Business Assessment

00:43:27 - The Impact of Mindset on Business Ownership

00:45:45 - Financial Readiness and Business Ownership

00:50:06 - Starting a Business: Just Do It

00:51:01 - Knowing Yourself and Your Goals

00:52:51 - Learning from Experience

00:55:15 - Unexpected Paths in Business Ownership

01:00:59 - Free Services and Monetization

01:02:36 - Importance of Communication and Transparency

01:04:12 - Empowerment and Confidence

01:06:02 - Screen Addiction and Parenting

01:08:23 - The Value of Listening and Feedback

01:10:39 - The Power of Assessments in Business

Vivian Kvam

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Charista Baye- Thoughtful Franchise Brokers

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ThoughtfulFranchiseBrokers
Website -www.thoughtfulfranchisebrokers.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/thoughtful-franchise-brokers/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Zorakle Assessment - https://www.zorakle.net/assessment/welcome/thoughtfulfranchisebrokers

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#43- Unlocking Media Coverage and Press Release Strategies for Small Businesses -Mickie Kennedy

Tandem Works — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 09:30:00 -0600

Step into the world of press releases with our latest episode of Riding Tandem!

Have you heard these press release myths? Myth 1: Press releases are only for big businesses. Myth 2: Press releases are outdated in the digital age. Myth 3: Press releases are expensive and time-consuming. Mickie Kennedy is here to set the record straight. 🎙️ In this insightful conversation, Mickie dispels common myths that may be holding your small business back from harnessing the full potential of press releases. Mickie launched eReleases in 1998 after he realized that small businesses desperately needed a press release service they could afford.

You're not alone if you've ever felt frustrated or overlooked by the media despite your best press release efforts. Join us as Mickie shares practical strategies tailored for small businesses, helping you cut through the noise and gain the visibility you deserve.

Tune in to discover the truth about press releases and unlock the secrets to increased media coverage for your small business!

Unleash the power of media coverage with effective press release strategies - learn how to capture attention and make your small business newsworthy.
Take your PR campaigns to the next level by mastering the art of storytelling - discover how to craft narratives that resonate with journalists and their audiences.
Harness the persuasive power of data and statistics in your PR efforts - find out how to leverage numbers to strengthen your brand's credibility and attract media attention.
Build personal connections with journalists and unlock media opportunities for your small business - learn the secrets to cultivating lasting relationships with key media contacts.
Make a long-term commitment to effective PR and watch your brand's visibility soar - discover the strategies to consistently generate media coverage and increase brand awareness over time.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:02:48 - Mickey's Founder Story

00:07:31 - Press Release 101

00:10:46 - Maximizing the Impact of Press Releases

00:11:52 - Custom National Distribution

00:14:15 - Press Release vs Media Alert

00:15:41 - Overcoming "Not Newsworthy" Perception

00:19:11 - Creating Data for Press Releases

00:22:08 - Using Fun Questions in Surveys

00:23:36 - Press Releases for Local and National Audiences

00:28:03 - Importance of Consistent PR

00:28:45 - Power of Press Releases

00:30:09 - Third-Party Corroboration

00:31:42 - Building Local Rapport and Culture

00:34:37 - Using Newswires for PR

Related Episodes:

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience
#5 The two words that will change your social media posts forever, create higher engagement and eliminates social media frustration
#10 How to use storytelling to create social media content that engages your audience.

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Mickie Kennedy:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ereleases.press.release.distribution
Website -https://www.ereleases.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/publicity/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ereleases

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

PR Writing Masterclass - https://www.ereleases.com/plan/
Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#42- Navigate Stress and Burnout with Practical Tips for Entrepreneurs - Vivian Kvam

Tandem Works — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 13:36:11 -0600

In this candid and insightful episode, we tackle the pervasive issues of stress and burnout that often accompany the entrepreneurial journey. Drawing from personal experiences and real stories, Vivian delves into many entrepreneurs' challenges, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing burnout before it becomes overwhelming.

With a touch of humor and wisdom, Vivian explores practical strategies to navigate the often tumultuous waters of entrepreneurship. From identifying warning signs to implementing effective self-care practices, this episode is a roadmap for entrepreneurs seeking joy and well-being. Vivian shares six invaluable tips to manage stress, including the power of the "buddy system" — seeking support from trusted friends, mentors, or partners.

You are invited to join the conversation by sharing your own self-care strategies on our social pages.

So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's chat about navigating the hustle without feeling like a crispy, burnt marshmallow!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:01:34 - Recognizing Signs of Burnout

00:06:45 - Stress and Burnout: The B Word

00:13:50 - Tip 1: Use the Buddy System

00:14:06 - Seeking Support and Validation

00:14:25 - Use the Buddy System

00:15:33 - Take Short Breaks and Shake That Booty

00:17:39 - Unplug and Recharge

00:22:27 - You Don't Have to Do It Alone

00:24:20 - Celebrate Your Wins

00:28:05 - Importance of Self-Care and Stress Management

00:29:10 - Engaging with the Audience

00:29:33 - What's your favorite self-care tips?

Related Episodes:

#38 Turn your hobby into a business and still love it - Jeffrey Tadlock

#32 The Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur: Julie Wyssman's Secrets to Running Multiple Businesses

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#41 How to write marketing copy that attracts your ideal clients - Jennifer Curfman

Tandem Works — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 09:00:19 -0600

One entrepreneur dared to defy the norm in a world of generic marketing and cookie-cutter copy, Jennifer Curfman's perspective on how to write compelling copy for your business is so refreshing! Jennifer's journey began with a work-life balance quest, but she discovered a hidden talent that would change the game. Her unique approach breathed life into the businesses she works with by infusing their copy with authenticity and personality. This was just the beginning of perfecting her process to revolutionize how entrepreneurs connect with their audience.

Jennifer is the owner of Untamed Creative and a marketing strategist for people who want to create an unforgettable business that feels authentic to them. She looks terrible in stripes, can never seem to find her chapstick, and will always say YES to ordering a pizza. Jennifer shares her advice and tips for creating your own authentic copy and of course, shares candidly about her own business journey so pop that ear bud in and tune in!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:02:32 - Jennifer's Journey,

00:08:18 - Balancing Professionalism and Personality,

00:10:33 - Being Authentic,

00:16:16 - Getting to Know the Person Behind the Brand,

00:17:45 - The Importance of Authenticity,

00:19:27 - Embracing Personal Growth and Change,

00:21:17 - Tone and Cadence in Writing,

00:27:24 - Social Media and Authenticity,

00:32:55 - The Risk of Not Being Active on Social Media,

00:34:47 - The Myth of Being All Things to All People,

00:36:24 - The Value of Testing and Learning,

00:38:04 - Building Relationships and Making Investments,

00:42:56 - Being Authentic and Overcoming Feedback,

00:48:57 - Building Relationships as a Marketing Strategy,

00:51:08 - Being Human and Making Connections,

00:52:19 - How to Connect with Jennifer,

00:55:19 - The Importance of Adding Your Own Flavor,

01:00:34 - Trusting Yourself and Ignoring Others,

01:04:47 - The importance of persistence and resilience,

01:05:42 - Making a positive impact through financial success,

Related Episodes:

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST:

Podcast - https://www.unhingedbizpod.com
Website - https://untamed-creative.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/untamed.creative/
Voice of Customer Data Course (free): https://untamedcreative.thrivecart.com/voc-data-guide/
Write Irresistible Emails + Be 137% Yourself: https://untamedcreative.thrivecart.com/irresistible-emails/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

RESOURCES

Voice of Customer Data Course (free): https://untamedcreative.thrivecart.com/voc-data-guide/

Write Irresistible Emails + Be 137% Yourself: https://untamedcreative.thrivecart.com/irresistible-emails/

Tough Titties by Laura Belgray: https://amzn.to/3qrDma3 (affiliate)

Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://amzn.to/3spdpJ3 (affiliate)

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#40 Secrets to Success At Trades and Art Festivals - Troy Burrus

Tandem Works — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 05:43:00 -0600

Troy Burrus, (Vivian's husband) ventured into the world of entrepreneurship, trading his daily grind for the pursuit of his passion in Landscape Photography. He shares the genuine ups and downs of his recent venture putting together a booth and manning it for 11 days at the Iowa State Fair. In this episode, Troy candidly recounts the challenges he navigated, from last-minute booth creation to figuring out how much product to have on hand and personal hurdles. His journey is full of tips for adapting to the unpredictable and embracing risk.

We talk about the art of being a vendor, and Troy shares practical insights (and mistakes he made) to help you attract customers, forge connections, and build a business from live events and trade festivals.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:03:42 - Quitting His Job

00:05:33 - The Iowa State Fair Opportunity

00:10:00 - Taking a Risk

00:12:46 - The Gifted Camper

00:15:21 - Tips for Booth Events

00:18:07 - Different Pacing for Different Events

00:21:38 - Building Connections

00:23:47 - Gratitude and Taking Chances

00:28:46 - Ordering and Selling at the State Fair

00:29:39 - Lesson Learned about Small Items and Stickers

00:30:46 - Importance of Small Items for Art Fair Sales

00:31:14 - Setting Goals for the Iowa State State Fair

00:34:28 - Using Sales Tactics

00:42:13 - Balancing Conversations and Sales

00:48:02 - The Reality of Profit

00:49:50 - Setting Goals for Future Bookings

00:53:55 - The Fortune is in the Follow-Up

00:56:49 - Listening to Customer Feedback

01:00:00 - Advice on Listening to Customers

01:01:31 - Dreams and Inspiration

Related Episodes:

List and link the title here

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/KuhliiPhotography
Website - https://www.kuhliiphotography.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kuhliiphotography/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#39 Dance, TikTok, and Business: Natasha Gregory's Unique Business Choreography

Tandem Works — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 05:30:00 -0500

Unleashing her expertise and grace, ballet instructor Natasha Gregory pirouettes her way through the virtual dance world, captivating audiences, and defying expectations as she educates, inspires, and challenges the status quo of traditional dance instruction.

From a professional dancer to a virtual teacher, Natasha Gregory's journey took an unexpected turn. As the pandemic shut down dance studios worldwide, Natasha had to think on her feet. But little did she know, this twist of fate would unlock a whole new world of opportunities. Discover how Natasha harnessed the power of online platforms to not only survive but thrive, in an ever-changing digital landscape. Tune in to find out how this professional ballet performer turned into both an internationally known dance instructor and content creator. Her story is sure to inspire as she conquered the unexpected and emerged stronger than ever before.

Uncover the profound life lessons from Natasha Gregory's journey as she pivoted from being a ballet professional to becoming an online dance trainer and teacher.
Unpack the importance of emotional intelligence, as told through Natasha's experiences of transitioning away from her lifelong passion as a professional dancer into a digital instructor.
Understand how creativity and adaptability can breed success in seemingly unfavorable circumstances - perfectly demonstrated through Natasha's shift to online teaching.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:03:21 - Natasha's Background and Love for Dance,

00:06:44 - Natasha's Professional Dance Career,

00:09:48 - Favorite Roles and Characters,

00:11:55 - Conclusion and Reflections,

00:13:21 - Benefits of Fitness Training for Dance,

00:14:18 - Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence,

00:18:02 - Transitioning to Online Offerings,

00:19:27 - Growing an Online Presence through TikTok,

00:23:13 - Enjoying the Creative Outlet,

00:25:59 - The Power of Storytelling and Building Personal Connections,

00:26:39 - The Difference Between an Influencer and a Content Creator,

00:29:18 - Using New Social Media Features Strategically,

00:30:42 - Managing Content Creation and Avoiding Burnout,

00:33:04 - Fostering Community in a Virtual Setting,

00:38:17 - Keeping Up with New Trends,

00:39:13 - Getting Into Creator Programs,

00:40:50 - Sponsorships and Collaborations,

00:43:10 - Juggling Multiple Roles,

00:45:01 - Balancing Personal and Brand Content,

00:50:31 - Transition from Online to Physical Location,

00:51:04 - Bringing on Instructors and Offering a Variety of Classes,

00:52:14 - Balancing In-Person and Virtual Classes,

00:52:27 - Using the Studio for Filming and Content Creation,

00:53:26 - Natasha's Teaching Philosophy and Embracing Different Dance Studios,

Related Episodes:

#5 The two words that will change your social media posts forever, create higher engagement and eliminate social media frustration

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Natasha Jade Gregory

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DancesolutionsIA
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@miss_natasha_jade?lang=en
Website - DanceSolutions.net
Instagram - https://instagram.com/dance_solutions_?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#38 Turn your hobby into a business and still love it - Jeffrey Tadlock

Tandem Works — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 10:12:22 -0500

Jeffrey Tadlock, is an experienced photographer who successfully taken a passion from "just a hobby" to a successful business. Together, we dive deep into the key strategies and insights that can help you make that transition as well. We discuss the importance of mindset, being true to yourself, and finding the courage you need to make the transition. Of course, we also dive into tactical ideas like how to build a loyal audience, the power of content creation, YouTube and email marketing, and so many other practical insights and ideas you can grab and use for your own business right away!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:01:47 - Jeffrey's Journey in Photography

00:05:07 - Choosing What You Love

00:07:28 - Overcoming Expectations

00:10:55 - Embracing the Joy of Landscape Photography

00:13:31 - Transitioning to Landscape Photography

00:14:51 - Long-Term Success and Enjoyment

00:16:33 - Shifting Audience and Email List

00:18:46 - 80/20 Rule and Building an Email List

00:21:47 - Rapid List Growth with Webinars

00:26:45 - Finding Your Bullseye

00:27:53 - YouTube Channel and Authority Building

00:31:28 - Experimental Mode and Goal Setting

00:32:29 - Workshops as the Pillar

00:35:26 - Quarterly Review and Metrics

00:40:12 - Seeking Feedback and Support

00:41:56 - To Business or Not to Business

00:45:26 - Tools for Business Success

00:49:10 - Investing in Productivity Tools

00:49:50 - Finding the Right Fit

00:52:59 - Checking out Newsletters

00:53:26 - Misconceptions About Owning a Business

00:54:40 - Favorite Kickback Beverage

00:56:20 - Inspiring Podcasts

01:00:18 - Making the World a Better Place

Related Episodes:

#12 From corporate globetrotter to entrepreneurship: Neal Eilers' journey, building a successful business around his passion

#13 Uncharted adventures: Neal Eilers' journey to opening a storefront

#20 From New Kids on the Block to YouTube: The making of a YouTube content creator - Matthew O'Brien's story

#9 Taking an idea from paper to reality, making tough decisions and creating a values driven business with Alysia Hess, Founder of The Occasional Collective

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Jeffrey Tadlock

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jeffreytadlockphotography
Website - https://jeffreytadlock.com/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jeffreytadlock
Instagram: https://instagram.com/jeffrey_tadlock
Youtube - https://youtube.com/@JeffreyTadlockPhotography

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#37 How to Build a Strong Financial Foundation And Prepare To Borrow For Your Business - Jamel Hamilton

Tandem Works — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 05:02:00 -0500

In this episode, we debunk some common financial literacy myths and discuss the vital art of navigating borrowing for small businesses. Jamel Hamilton, reveals the truth behind many financially related misconceptions (read things that feel scary!) and offers invaluable insights into how even the smallest ventures can effectively manage their finances. We talk about what it takes to construct a robust financial foundation without the need for large initial investments. Whether you're just starting or looking to level up your financial game, this episode is your compass to better financial success in small business.

Key Take Aways

The power of building your financial literacy to fuel the success of your small businesses.
Learn about alternative funding streams that empower small businesses and underrepresented communities.
How to build relationships with financial professionals and bankers and leverage mentorship for successful borrowing.
The key steps you need to know to track finances and build a rock-solid financial base for your business.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:01:19 - Jamel’s Role at NEF,

00:04:30 - NEF’s Function and Services,

00:09:27 - Steps to Determine Loan Options,

00:11:14 - Collaboration and Support,

00:13:15 - Higher Risk Loans,

00:14:24 - Personalized Approach,

00:15:54 - Research and Education,

00:18:32 - Collaboration and Support,

00:22:42 - Vulnerability and Trust,

00:26:51 - Overcoming Financial Hurdles,

00:29:24 - Building Confidence and Supporting Dreams,

00:31:14 - Understanding Financial Terminology,

00:35:33 - The Story of Numbers,

00:39:09 - The Journey of a Business Owner,

00:40:35 - The Importance of Tracking Finances,

00:41:55 - Building Relationships with Accountants,

00:46:34 - Community and Mentorship,

00:50:10 - The Power of Small Business Ownership,

00:52:42 - Misconceptions of Owning a Business,

00:54:39 - Advice for Dealing with Upset Clients,

00:55:58 - Advice for the 18-Year-Old Self,

01:01:09 - Excitement for the Future,

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Related Episodes:

# 28 Cutting through Adversity: Shannon Jackson's Story of Grit, Determination and Good Haircuts

#35 Unleash Your Pitching Potential and Presentation Skills: Expert Advice from Kelsey Stupfell and Niki Ferguson

#16- Feel Good Money Mindset - A Chat with Megan Hale on Taking Control of Your Business & Life

Vivian Kvam:
Reach out and join the conversation!

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
DM or Comment on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam/
Email Vivian - ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Jamel Hamilton:
Jamel Hamilton is the Deputy Director of Lending at the Nebraska Enterprise Fund (NEF). Jamel stepped into the lending space four years ago and has since proven himself a savvy problem-solver with loan policies and an advocate of financial literacy for small business owners. He has a rich history in loan processing and collections, which has given him both a pragmatic and empathetic understanding of financial landscapes for small businesses. Jamel is also a passionate community servant with board roles at the Nebraska Children's Home Society and the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Greater Omaha.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nebbiz/
Website -https://nebbiz.org/
Blog- https://nebbiz.org/news-and-stories

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#36 HR Made Simple for Business Owners: Expert Advice from Bryn Reed and Lynn Owen

Tandem Works — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Riding Tandem, I'm joined by HR experts Bryn Reed and Lynn Owen, members of HRAM, to demystify HR for your business. HR isn't just about hiring and firing; it's the secret ingredient that shapes your company's culture. Discover practical resources through HRAM and learn when it's time to bring in HR expertise. 🌟

We also spill the beans on crafting standout job descriptions and where to post them. Plus, we share tips for conducting winning interviews and writing irresistible offer letters. 📝

But here's the real kicker: find out how aligning your company's mission with your recruitment and retention strategies can be a game-changer. 🎯

If you're a small business owner, this episode is your shortcut to mastering the HR puzzle. Tune in and levelup your hiring process!

Discover the pivotal role of HR in your business and how to navigate HR issues as a small business owner
Learn best practices for crafting transparent job descriptions
Best places to use when posting your open positions
How to conduct a great interview
Unpack how to harness your company's mission for recruitment and retention

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Unpacking this episode min-by-min

00:07:56 - Understanding HR,

00:11:27 - Key HR Milestones,

00:13:07 - Resources for HR Compliance,

00:14:56 - Importance of Planning,

00:15:01 - The Importance of Networking and Resources,

00:19:56 - Job Creation and Essential Functions,

00:22:00 - Compensation and Market Analysis,

00:24:21 - Honesty in Job Descriptions and Interviews,

00:26:12 - Finding Reliable Compensation Sources,

00:28:54 - Importance of Job Descriptions,

00:30:25 - Posting and Interviewing Tips,

00:32:29 - Using Personal Connections,

00:34:00 - Utilizing External Resources,

00:36:30 - Leveraging Mission and Core Values,

00:42:46 - Writing a New Position Description,

00:47:55 - Embracing Chat GPTsas a Tool for Job Descriptions,

00:49:18 - Interviewing Tips and Challenges,

00:52:13 - Multiple Interviews and Candidate Experience,

00:54:39 - Hiring the Best Candidate,

00:56:55 - Making Decisions Between Candidates,

00:59:12 - Importance of Multiple Perspectives,

01:01:41 - The Offer Process,

01:05:57 - Hiring Slow, Firing Slow,

01:09:00 - The Importance of Thoughtfulness,

01:10:33 - The Role of HR in Providing Support,

01:11:49 - Rapide Fire Questions

Related Episodes:

#27 Happy, Healthy Leaders and Organizations: A Conversation with Dr. Jennifer Churchill

#1 Core values, why they matter and how to create them

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Bryn Reed, HRAM President-Elect
Lynn Owen, Vice President of the HRAM Board

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HRAMOmaha
Website - https://www.hram.org/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hram-human-resource-association-of-the-midlands/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Here are a few resources based on your organization's needs.

All organizations must implement the new I9 by November 1, 2023!

New I9

Laws based by Organizational Size

25 HR Laws & Regulations All Businesses Need to Know by Primepay
Federal HR Compliance Chart by Think HR
Rules to Follow on 1 to 100+ Employees Compliance Checklist by ObsidianHR

Additional references

Understanding the World Of HR Compliance: The Complete Guide by Primepay
7 most frequent HR mistakes and how to avoid them by Insperity
HR Compliance Guide for 2023 by Forbes

Local Resources

Human Resources Association of the Midlands
- Squeaky Clean HR partnership with Nonprofit Association of the Midlands
- Join us and connect with HR professionals!

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#35 Unleash Your Pitching Potential and Presentation Skills: Expert Advice from Kelsey Stupfell and Niki Ferguson

Tandem Works — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 08:19:58 -0500

Do you want to master the art of captivating pitch competitions and leave a lasting impression on potential investors? Look no further! This episode is all about Pitch competitions. I'm talking with Kelsey Stupfell, from Treynor State Bank, and Niki Fergeson, with Advanced South West Iowa all about the REV Pitch competition they collaborate on. We have a candid conversation about what it's like to do a pitch competition. We reveal the secrets to delivering a pitch you feel confident in, engages, and ultimately secures the support and investment you need to propel your entrepreneurial journey to new heights. We also share details about the 2023 REV Pitch Competition for any local listeners who may want to get involved (I highly recommend you do!) and talk about how you might start a pitch competition in your own area. Get ready to unlock the key to pitching success and watch your dreams transform into reality.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the power of collaborations and partnerships as a lifeline for small businesses.
Experience the profound impact of TS Bank Rev on local entrepreneurs and their ventures.
Learn foolproof techniques to ace pitching and presenting your business ideas efficiently.
Understand the transformative influence of The Rev Business Pitch Competition on budding business owners.
Unlock ways to overcome self-doubt and attain a perfect work-life equilibrium as a small business owner. I

Unpacking this Episode Min by Min:

00:02:57 - What the TS Bank Rev Pitch is

00:05:09 - Collaboration with Advanced Southwest Iowa,

00:07:43 - Tandem Works Experience with Rev

00:09:55 - Creating a Community Program

00:12:56 - The Value of the Experience

00:14:07 - Unexpected Opportunities

00:16:09 - Pitch Competition Details

00:17:50 - Wide Range of Business Ideas

00:22:25 - Elements of a Quality Pitch

00:25:48 - Importance of Knowing Your Material

00:26:15 - Using Visuals and Engaging with the Audience

00:26:51 - The "Ten Slide" Rule and the "Whoop" Framework,

00:27:57 - Authenticity

00:29:34 - Language, Nonverbal Cues, and Stage Presence

00:37:47 - Community Collaboration

00:45:27 - Fear of Idea Theft,

00:50:01 - Overcoming Self-Doubt,

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Kelsey Stupfell:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tsbank
Website - www.tsbank.com

Niki Ferguson:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AdvanceSouthwestIowa
Website - https://advancesouthwestiowa.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#34 Donuts, Determination, and Destiny - with Elizabeth Pooley & Jack Pooley, Square Donuts

Tandem Works — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 05:04:00 -0500

Elizabeth Pooley and son Jack Pooley join me on the podcast to share 8 ingredients for creating a successful business from scratch. From an aversion to sugar and early mornings to an unexpected encounter with mouthwatering donuts, Elizabeth's path took a sweet twist into a new and unexpected business venture. Working through doubts and limited baking knowledge and building a tasty experience, they took a leap of faith, securing a treasured recipe and equipment, and moved it all to Omaha to start Square Donuts. With no partner, they braved the storm of opening amidst a pandemic. Through ICU visits, a house fire, and community support, they turned challenges into triumphs. We talk about Elizabeth's book, From Scratch: Create Your Recipe for Happiness and Success in Business, where she shares her own recipe for success that you can use in your business today.

Unpacking this episode min-by-min:

00:08:59 - Building a Legacy,

00:11:26 - Square Donut,

00:12:33 - Looking for Opportunities,

00:14:13 - The Challenges of Running a Bakery,

00:16:23 - Taking a Leap of Faith,

00:17:41 - Jack's Perspective,

00:18:28 - The Joy of Creating Concepts,

00:23:34 - Overcoming Limitations,

00:27:42 - The Role of Consulting in Business,

00:29:22 - Motivation and Quality of Life,

00:31:51 - The Eight Ingredients for Success,

00:34:57 - The Journey of Writing a Book,

00:38:10 - Finding Peace and Financial Motivation,

00:42:13 - Creating a Positive Employee Experience,

00:44:18 - Finding Opportunities for Success,

00:49:00 - Overcoming Challenges and Starting Over,

00:52:30 - Leadership and Building a Positive Work Culture,

00:55:12 - Unique Leadership Approach,

00:56:41 - The Impact of Lifting Others Up,

00:57:30 - Different Leadership Styles,

00:58:44 - Personality Tests and Team Dynamics,

01:00:15 - Balancing Compassion and Objectivity,

01:05:57 - Self-Care and Prioritizing Well-being,

01:10:50 - Importance of Self-Care,

01:11:30 - Optimism and Wisdom,

01:12:40 - Different Perspectives on Optimism,

01:18:00 - Balancing Perspective and Reviews,

01:21:18 - Franchise and Future Plans,

01:24:24 - The Challenges of Donut Making,

01:24:44 - Business Owners' Impact on the World,

01:25:09 - Authenticity in Business,

01:25:24 - The Book and its Potential Success,

01:25:38 - Appreciating the Perspective

Buy the Book here! https://www.amazon.com/Scratch-Create-Happiness-Success-Business/dp/B0BMSVSSK6

If you love this show, please leave a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#30 From Imagination to Sweet Reality: How Amber and Jeremy built their dream icecream and coffee shop Cup & Cone

# 28 Cutting through Adversity: Shannon Jackson's Story of Grit, Determination and Good Haircuts

#18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/squaredonutomaha
Website - https://www.squaredonutomaha.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/squaredonutoma

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

# 33 How to get product into big-box stores: the inspiring journey of Christi Kmecik

Tandem Works — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 05:15:00 -0500

Do you dream of your product on the shelves at Big-Box stores like Target, Home Goods, or Home Depot? Then this episode is sure to inspire you! Christi and I talked about how her business took a surprising turn, and she landed her greeting cards on the shelves of Home Goods. She shares her journey from "I don't have a plan" to building her successful but unexpected greeting card business. She shares her real-life experiences with scaling her business and the art and science of landing your product in Big-Box stores. Christi is a resilient and creative entrepreneur who has overcome personal challenges to transform her artwork into a thriving business, defying the odds to pursue her dream.

Unpacking this episode min-by-min:

00:02:30 - Starting Written Hugs Designs

00:09:26 - Researching and Understanding Audience

00:12:39 - Challenges of Product Validation

00:13:11 - Gathering Feedback

00:16:04 - Overcoming Creative Blocks

00:17:34 - Digital Art and Tools

00:19:34 - Resilience and Experimentation

00:23:26 - Navigating the Logistics of Mass Production

00:29:13 - Finding the Right Partners

00:31:44 - Key Lessons Learned

00:33:37 - Asking Questions and Seeking Referrals

00:35:05 - Working with Big Box Stores

00:39:04 - Supportive Communities and Resources

00:43:12 - Impact and Changes

00:47:30 - Knowing What Matters

00:49:37 - Believing in Your Voice

00:50:36 - Advice for Women Entrepreneurs

00:53:38 - Relaxation and Inspiration

00:57:57 - Making the World a Better Place

If you love this show, please leave a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#9 Taking an idea from paper to reality, making tough decisions and creating a values driven business with Alysia Hess, Founder of The Occasional Collective

#13 Uncharted adventures: Neal Eilers' journey to opening a storefront

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Writtenhugsdesigns/
Website - www.writtenhugsdesigns.com
Instagram - http://instagram.com/writtenhugsdesigns
YoutTube - http://www.YouTube.com/@writtenhugsdesigns

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-up

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#32 The Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur: Julie Wyssman's Secrets to Running Multiple Businesses

Tandem Works — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Are you a multi-passionate entrepreneur struggling to navigate the challenges of running multiple businesses? Have you been told that the key to success is to focus on just one industry, leaving your other passions behind? But, deep down, you know that following this advice would mean sacrificing a part of who you are. You're feeling the pain of unfulfilled potential and the frustration of not being able to explore all your passions fully. It's time to discover a better way to thrive in multiple industries and succeed on your own terms.

In entrepreneurship, where unexpected twists can shape a journey, one woman's path took a surprising turn. Julie Wyssman, a dedicated advocate for quality home health care, was venturing into coffee and donuts. With no prior experience, she delved into the art and science of coffee, creating an experience that captivated her community. But what happened next? How did Julie navigate the challenges and find success in this unexpected industry? Tune in as we uncover the extraordinary journey of this multi-passionate entrepreneur.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Follow Julie's exceptional entrepreneurial journey, filled with diverse interests and the power of resilience.
Discover the art of balancing multiple business ventures simultaneously.
Understand the power of agility in business, adapting to the ever-evolving needs while expanding effectively.
Uncover the impact of collaboration and support within the business community, a testament to the power of kindness and mutual upliftment.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:03 - Introduction,

00:02:13 - Julie's First Business,

00:09:39 - Julie's Second Business,

00:15:22 - Overcoming Challenges,

00:20:17 - Advice for Multi-Passionate Entrepreneurs,

00:14:56 - The Birth of Jay's Coffee Shop

00:15:46 - The Best Job Ever

00:16:32 - Growth and Expansion

00:19:19 - The Science of Coffee

00:22:40 - Starting a Business Without Debt

00:29:07 - Opening a Brick and Mortar,

00:31:16 - Navigating Growth and Change,

00:33:46 - Starting a Mobile IV Hydration Business,

00:36:13 - The Importance of Preventative Measures,

00:37:56 - Balancing Passion and Sanity,

00:44:19 - Navigating Multiple Social Media Channels,

00:47:28 - Embracing Diverse Interests on Social Media,

00:48:36 - Advice for Those with Multiple Passions,

00:51:46 - Misconceptions about Owning Multiple Businesses,

00:54:54 - Making the World a Better Place as a Business Owner,

#31 Master AI in Your Small Business: Secrets that Drive Growth and Efficiency - with Sue Pitts

Tandem Works — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 05:01:00 -0500

Have you heard these myths about leveraging AI for small businesses? Let's debunk them and uncover the truth!
Myth #1: AI is only for large corporations with big budgets.
Myth #2: Implementing AI requires technical expertise and is too complex for small businesses.
Myth #3: AI will replace human workers and lead to job losses. But fear not! My guest, Susan Pitts, shares the truth about how small businesses can leverage AI for growth and innovation. Get ready to discover the real potential of AI and how it can transform your business!

Topics we cover in this episode:

Discover tips you can use right now when trying AI in your small businesses.
Get acquainted with groundbreaking AI tools like Chat GPT, Calendly, and smart data analysis.
Recognize the significance of embracing AI for data-driven decision-making and how it revitalizes the work ecosystem.
We talk about critical ethical aspects, including plagiarism, privacy, and the potential for job shifts in this era of AI dominance.
Learn to strike the right balance between automation and personal touch when working with AI-driven content.

Unpacking this episode min by min

00:01:09 - Sue's Pitts- Role and Experience with the SBDC

00:02:41 - Integration of AI

00:06:10 - Business Planning vs Business Plans

00:09:06 - Initial Use of Chat GPT

00:13:35 - The Power of AI in Business Management

00:16:26 - The Scary Side of AI

00:19:18 - Getting Started with AI

00:22:53 - AI's Impact on the Workforce

00:25:54 - The Future of Content Creation

00:27:50 - Understanding the Use of AI

00:28:29 - Writing with an Outline Generated by AI

00:29:13 - AI as a Brainstorming Tool

00:34:12 - Pros and Cons of AI for Business Owners

00:42:35 - Rapid fire questions with Sue Pitts

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST: Sue Pitts, SBDC

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/iwccce
Website -http://iowawesternsbdc.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/riding-tandem-podcast

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#30 From Imagination to Sweet Reality: How Amber and Jeremy Turned Their Ice Cream Shop Dream into Cup & Cone

Tandem Works — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to a delicious episode of Riding Tandem! This episode reveals the inspiring story of Amber and Jeremy Tkaczuk, the power couple behind the irresistible ice cream and coffee shop in Bennington, Nebraska. This delectable conversation explores the triumphs, challenges, and unexpected turns this entrepreneurial family encountered while turning their dream into a reality.

Amber and Jeremy generously share their golden nuggets of wisdom earned through their lived experiences. Whether you're an established business owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will leave you inspired and hungry for success.

In this episode:

Uncover the mystery behind setting up and managing a coffee and ice cream shop.
Delve into the trials, victories, and insights entrepreneurs encounter in their business journey.
Appreciate the community's role in shaping your business's warm and hospitable ambiance.
Navigate the intricacies of handling a business alongside your spouse and turn challenges into strengths.
Discover the power of social media in propelling your venture forward, backed with real-life narratives.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:01:08 - About Cup and Cone,

00:02:00 - Balancing Business and Personal Life,

00:04:22 - Choosing the Name Cup and Cone,

00:06:29 - Quality and Intentionality,

00:12:26 - Planning and Challenges,

00:13:41 - Adapting and Feedback,

00:16:06 - Timing and Decision-Making,

00:18:13 - Making the Dream Real,

00:20:05 - Balancing Work and Family,

00:24:55 - Finding the Perfect Business Partner,

00:26:21 - The Power of Names,

00:28:03 - Working Together as a Family,

00:30:17 - Balancing Work and Marriage,

00:32:54 - Advice for Couples in Business,

00:37:31 - Starting a Business with No Background

00:39:26 - The Challenges of Opening Day

00:41:59 - The Impact of Cup and Cone on the Community

00:43:37 - The Importance of Grit and Perseverance

00:50:04 - Using Social Media for Marketing,

00:51:48 - Managing Social Media,

00:53:06 - The Importance of Social Media Presence,

00:56:11 - Straddling Between Jobs,

00:58:39 - Keeping it Simple,

01:03:10 - Importance of Being Present in the Business,

01:04:18 - Misconceptions About the Owners,

01:06:04 - Flipping Roles and Introversion vs Extroversion,

01:07:03 - Treating Employees Well,

01:10:56 - Spreading Happiness and Providing Delight,

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

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Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084479298450
Website - cupandconebennington.com
Instagram - @cupandcone_bennington

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#29 Thriving Together: The Dynamic Duo of ADHD and Non-ADHD Business Partners - with Machaela Clark

Tandem Works — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0500

There are so many myths about business owners and partners with ADHD. So business partners Vivian Kvam and Machaela Clark, share the truth about how ADHD could be your secret weapon in business success and a unique asset in a business partner by busting through three common myths which are:

Myth: ADHD is a disorder that hinders all forms of productivity.
Myth: ADHD is only a negative attribute.
Myth: ADHD is a significant disadvantage in business.

In this episode:

Understand the implications of ADHD on business productivity and personal development.
Master useful techniques for coping with ADHD symptoms, emphasizing self-care and strong support networks.
Embrace ADHD as a distinctive and valuable trait in the workplace.
Implement practical productivity-boosting tips, including using sticky notes and calendars creatively.
Uncover the importance of focusing on personal strengths to find an ideal career that complements these assets.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:01:13 - The Connection Between ADHD and Entrepreneurship

00:03:06 - Machaela's Experience with ADHD

00:08:25 - Being a Business Owner with ADHD

00:09:21 - Tips for Managing ADHD

00:11:36 - Organizational Tips

00:14:38 - Calendars and Accountability

00:18:31 - Slowing Down and Giving Permission

00:20:59 - Self-Awareness and Communication

00:21:44 - Trust and Delegation

00:22:27 - Overcoming Anxiety and Trusting Each Other

00:23:23 - The Power of Problem-Solving

00:25:27 - Focus On Your Strengths

00:27:41 - Thriving in Strategic Planning and Super Connecting

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

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Related Episodes:

#21 Machaela Clark's Networking Tips: Going Beyond the Business Card with Authentic Connections

#18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Machaela Clark:

Email Machaela - mclark@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

# 28 Cutting through Adversity: Shannon Jackson's Story of Grit, Determination and Good Haircuts

Tandem Works — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 05:01:00 -0500

Just when entrepreneur Shannon Jackson was launching her barber shop, life threw her an unexpected and violent twist. What could have been the downfall of her business turned out to be a test of the power of the team and community she had built as well as her own grit. But how did she navigate this unexpected turn of events? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the significance of forging connections in the world of business.
Master the art of defining professional boundaries in the barber industry.
Equip yourself for unforeseen challenges, both financially and mentally.
Ignite your passion for honing your craft and fostering a warm atmosphere for clients.
Learn the value of taking a step back, saying no, and prioritizing your well-being.

00:02:25 - First Celebrity Haircut

00:06:16 - Music and Barbershops

00:09:16 - Misconceptions about the Barbering Industry

00:10:59 - Importance of Boundaries,

00:12:10 - Importance of Boundaries and Professionalism

00:14:50 - Heavy Hitters Services

00:17:41 - The Dream

00:21:15 - Barbering vs. Other Careers

00:24:16 - Starting a Business with Funding

00:27:16 - Taking Time to Do Things Right

00:30:07 - The Power of Saying "No"

00:33:24 - Setting Boundaries for Mental Health

00:34:56 - The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

00:36:07 - Building Strong Client Relationships,

00:38:43 - Overcoming Tragedy and Resilience

00:42:22 - Team Building and Business Vision

00:45:18 - Preparing for Business Disaster

00:47:21 - Mental Health and Business Success

00:49:13 - What Shannon loves and is proud of as a business owner

00:51:13 - Lessons learned during COVID-19

00:52:50 - Misconceptions about owning a business

00:55:46 - Inspiration from Eric Thomas and Steve Harvey

01:01:37 - Networking Opportunities

01:01:47 - Appreciating the Connection

FREE RESOURCES

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#27 Happy, Healthy Leaders and Organizations: A Conversation with Dr. Jennifer Churchill

Tandem Works — Tue, 23 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Are you tired of feeling like you're not reaching your full potential as a business leader? Have you been told to just be more self-aware without any actionable steps to get there? It's time to ditch the ineffective advice and join us in this episode, where Dr. Jennifer Churchill and I uncover the crucial role self-awareness plays in leadership and business success and how to grow in this area. We talk about managing stress, growing in your self-awareness, engaging teams with tailor-made feedback strategies, effective communication, and relationship-building techniques to create a harmonious workplace environment. Embody authenticity and vulnerability for meaningful connections with your team members and develop the high-performance mindset you've been striving for. Dr. Churchill shares her background in swimming, which has given her a strong approach to being a high performer. She notes how swimming taught her to overcome challenges and adversities, developing self-awareness, teamwork, and a disciplined mindset. Drawing from her expertise in psychology, she aims to help people achieve happy and healthy lives, translating to stronger communities and organizations.

Dr. Jennifer Churchill, a management psychologist, and executive coach, is dedicated to helping people develop self-awareness and a high-performance mindset. With a background in swimming at the national level, Jennifer has firsthand experience in the importance of discipline and mental strength. She holds a Master of Science, a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, and an MBA from the University of Denver. Her holistic coaching approach incorporates her athletic background and education, providing clients invaluable insights and strategies for success. In addition to her impressive resume, Dr. Churchill hosts the Happy Healthy Leaders Podcast, where she shares practical tips and tactics for positively impacting business and personal life.

In this episode:

Explore the significance of self-awareness within leadership and business spheres.
Develop custom feedback approaches that enhance self-awareness across your team.
Master communication methodologies for an efficient and productive work atmosphere.
Embark on relationship-building journeys that contribute to a positive and robust company culture.
Demonstrate authenticity and embrace vulnerability to foster strong bonds with your team members.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:03:34 - Swimming, Health and Coaching, Bringing It All Together

00:10:12 - Impact in the Workplace

00:12:50 - Happy Healthy Leaders Podcast

00:15:48 - Merging Swimming and Psychology

00:16:58 - Early Lessons on Work-Life Balance

00:18:39 - Building Warmth and Trust

00:25:17 - Self-Awareness in Swimming and Business

00:30:27 - Helping Teams Develop Self-Awareness

00:32:57 - Importance of Customized Feedback

00:34:58 - Customization and Consistency

00:38:51 - Establishing Guidelines for Difficult Conversations

00:43:49 - Assume Benevolence

00:46:48 - Communication as a Top Priority

00:49:21 - The Importance of Developing Relationships First

00:50:37 - Motivating Employees Through Understanding

00:52:02 - Remembering Your Why

00:55:48 - Owning a Business Requires Hard Work

01:00:21 - Make the World Better by Knowing People's Names

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#25 The Art Of Leadership: Valued, Respected, Appreciated and Heard - With Casey Putney

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Dr. Jennifer Churchill

Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-healthy-leaders-with-dr-jennifer/id1668927092
Website - www.jenniferchurchill.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-churchill-mba-phd-2700a61/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team- RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
Website- https://thetandemworks.com/

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/riding-tandem-podcast

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#26 Mastering the Art of Brainstorming: Fueling Small Business Growth

Tandem Works — Tue, 16 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Find out how brainstorming will become your favorite secret weapon for achieving greatness with your business. Vivian debunks the myth that creativity is limited to a select few and shares how anyone can generate great ideas. Whether you consider yourself "creative" or believe you're out of ideas, this podcast will inspire and empower you to unlock your creative genius and revolutionize your small business.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Unleash the full potential of brainstorming to supercharge business success.
Master powerful techniques to optimize every brainstorming session.
Foster an inviting and cooperative atmosphere that sparks innovative ideas.
Appreciate the significance of diverse perspectives and open dialogue in brainstorming.
Transform brainstorming results into actionable steps and assign responsibilities.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:02:45 - What Is Brainstorming?

00:07:55 - Why Is Brainstorming Important?

00:10:30 - How to Conduct an Effective Brainstorm Session

00:15:40 - Tips for Making the Most of Your Brainstorming Time

00:14:40 - Brainstorming Basics

00:20:01 - Creating a Safe Environment

00:24:27 - Scheduling Brainstorming Sessions

00:26:45 - Technology Tools

00:28:08 - Importance of Open and Honest Communication

00:28:28 - Having the Right People in the Room

00:29:34 - Assigning Action Items

00:30:50 - Importance of Regular Brainstorming Sessions

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#25 The Art Of Leadership: Valued, Respected, Appreciated and Heard - With Casey Putney

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things

Receive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/riding-tandem-podcast

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#25 The Art Of Leadership: Valued, Respected, Appreciated and Heard - With Casey Putney

Tandem Works — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 07:01:49 -0500

Casey Putney is a John Maxwell certified leadership coach, speaker, and trainer. He's led leadership development programs and teams within the for-profit and non-profit sectors. For well over 25 years, he's dedicated himself to the study and implementation of leadership principles that help to create the cultures we all desire to be a part of.

In this episode, Casey and I explore what it would look like if we mobilize an army of leaders that measure success by the impact they have on the hearts of other individuals in the workplace, homes, and communities.

Casey also shares the valuable framework he has created to guide his own leadership methodology centered around the idea that people feel valued, respected, appreciated, and heard. This is an inspiring episode you won't want to miss as a leader!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Casey Putney, John Maxwell certified leadership coach, speaker, and trainer

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyputney/
Podcast - The Leadership for Life Podcast

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

# 24 Jon Nelson: The dad, husband & creative entrepreneur juggling 4 businesses & 6 kids & changing the world

Tandem Works — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Jon Nelson, a business owner and idea guy juggles entrepreneurial success, family, and personal health as he navigates the complexities of the restaurant industry. Jon Nelson is determined to make his ideas a reality and take on whatever challenges come his way.

Jon is a dad, husband, entrepreneur, and creative thinker. He owns four businesses and gets involved in creative solutions for people struggling with mental health. He also loves classic trucks and is obsessed with interesting butter dishes. This conversation is inspiring, I can't wait for you to listen in.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

03:35 - Wild ideas

10:30 - We built this custom program based on butcher's chef's needs, and we call it Butcher driven.

11:13 - Selling Cellar 19

13:07 - The value was the business and the consistency

15:00- Leaving a cubical and starting a restaurant

16:23 - What makes a successful business

17:59- Juggling it all

19:11- The balance between family and business life

21:39 - Raised over a million bucks for a music room

27:01- Partnerships and relying on people

29:36- Pizza trucks and how to get the best dough (It's all about the stretch and the dough.)

33:28- Proving yourself

41:13- Lincoln's pub

44:19- It takes years and years of work

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#11- Is it a piece of cake for friends to be business partners?
#15 - Tiffaney Florentine - Focus is everything
#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Jon Nelson

Website - http://jonsnaturals.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jonsnaturals/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#23 Brad Arrowsmith: Building a legacy towing operation

Tandem Works — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Brad Arrowsmith owns Arrow Towing, one of the largest towing companies in the Midwest. Towing everything from passenger cars and airplanes off the interstate after a crash and assisting with complicated semi-extractions. Brad’s company also assists with fire and rescue efforts, mobilizing fleets of mail trucks, toxic spill cleanup, and many other projects.

He bought the business from his dad and has grown it from 7 trucks to a fleet of 98 pieces of equipment. Brad takes us through his experience of the highs and lows of a towing business as he navigates the challenges of growing the outfit, keeping customers first and building a great team.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

2:00 - Unreal stories on the job
03:41 - Encountering challenges and tragedies as a team

15:45 - Building your professional team, bankers, lawyers and accountants
24:10 - Growing the fleet and service offerings

32:29- Finding good workers and building culture

41:52- Building a family legacy

44:13- What is the biggest misconception about owning a business?

46:40- Being a leader has its rewards

47:48- Keeping perspective in success

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

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Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Brad Arrowsmith

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ArrowTowingCB
Website -https://www.arrowtowing.com/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#22 Growing a business and a family - Kyle Ranney's journey

Tandem Works — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0600

When Kyle Ranney, a successful business owner and video producer, discovers he and his wife are expecting a baby, he realizes another shift in his personal and business life and flexes to hold his passion for creating compelling content with the demands of his growing family. Kyle is a 30-year-old videographer and business owner who recently welcomed his first child into the world. He runs Rainey Film Co, a video production company, and helps business owners tell their stories through compelling video strategies. In this episode, we discuss transitions, life decisions, getting out of debt, and Kyles's expert video tips for small business owners.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:59- I first met Kyle Ranney when I was doing video production.
02:28 -New baby and adjusting
04:13- Preparing for baby's arrival
06:19- One of the biggest things that hold people back from pursuing a business is benefits and insurance.

12:14- Video production demands

13:46- Service and product offering changes and transitions

16:51- Building teams or staying solo

19:14- Video production requires an understanding goals

23:08- Video ideas for business owners

25:04- Types of videos that work for small businesses

32:26- Shooting video for social media

39:09- Getting started with video while in Haiti

41:51- Building systems into your business.

49:09- Email sequences

52:50- Getting debt free

56:41- Getting out of debt is so valuable for anybody, but especially for a business owner.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theranneys
Website - https://www.kyleranney.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kyleranneydp/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kyleranney

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#21 Machaela Clark's Networking Tips: Going Beyond the Business Card with Authentic Connections

Tandem Works — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, my business partner Machaela Clark returns to the podcast to chat about networking. Machaela is a super-connector and passionate about building authentic relationships that benefit everyone involved. Machaela shares her tips and secrets for successful networking and how she uses her skills to stand out in a crowd. Machaela's approach to networking is rooted in curiosity and a genuine desire to get to know people. She believes that networking is all about building relationships and that it's essential to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn from others.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:48
Welcome Machaela back to the podcast

01:17
The Super connectors and introverts
07:06
The name games

07:35
Why it really matters, going beyond the business card

10:32
The purpose of networking is to serve others and to connect

14:00
Strategies for introverts and the importance of the greeting

16:45
Helping others, who then help you

19:56
Networking tips to find common ground

21:50
Embarrassing networking moments

25:49
If you ask a question, truly be interested

27:09
Set up attainable goals for networking

32:05
Digital business cards

33:29
Finding the right events, and setting up objectives beforehand

38:40
Connecting after a networking event

42:46
Setting up reminders and systems for followups

52:07
Avoid overcrowded calendars

1:02:17
Know where you network best

1:04:36
Networking together

1:07:21
Create your own networking events

1:10:07
Shhh...a special happy hour networking connection event coming soon!

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

List and link the title here

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Machaela Clark:

Email Machaela - mclark@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#20 From New Kids on the Block to YouTube: The making of a YouTube content creator - Matthew O'Brien's story

Tandem Works — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 08:12:00 -0600

Matthew O'Brien is a filmmaker, content creator, and YouTube expert who has worked in show business for 15 years. He edited content for live tours, including New Kids on the Block, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez & Gwen Stefani, runs a production company producing documentary films, and has a successful YouTube channel. In this episode, Matthew shares his story, how he discovered his true passions, went after them, and created a successful YouTube channel. After years of experiences and self-evaluation, he has now found a way to express himself and connect with an audience in a way that is both personally and financially fulfilling.

"I was never good at playing other people. I was best at being myself." - Julia Childs

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:54
Meet Matthew O'Brien a YouTube content creator expert.

02:56
Sworking in Los Angeles creating concert content for big names is thrilling. Then you think about what you sacrifice.

13:07
There are times be a little bit more on your own and private, and there are other times when you want to get out there and transfer that energy.

14:09
What it's like to be an independent contractor and move to content creation.

21:01
Making the shift to become content, Julia Child's says "I was never good at playing other people. I was best at being myself."

22:14
Design your business around that what you want and know when something is an opportunity or a distraction.

27:49
Think about marketing yourself and building your own community

36:17
The process of creating a profitable Youtube channel

40:25
The passive income craze.

42:55
How to keep content flowing

44:35
Creating goals and the drive to achieve them

55:50
You only have so much energy to apply

1:02:12
A lot of pressure is put on young people to "arrive" and become a Youtube sensations overnight.

1:05:34
Running a business is a paid self-improvement plan.

01:08:18
Using the Discord server for creating a community and a place for YouTubers to share their experiences and help others achieve their goals.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#10 How to use storytelling to create social media content that engages your audience.
#5 The two words that will change your social media posts forever, create higher engagement and eliminates social media frustration

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Matthew O'Brien

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@matthewtobrien
Website - https://www.matthewobrien.co

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#19 Making confident decisions with Kirsten Parker: How to hear yourself and stop overthinking

Tandem Works — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Kirsten Parker, former theater stage manager and self-proclaimed "organizer," helps people organize their overwhelmed minds, drop their shoulders and make decisions they love, even when fear and self-judgment threaten to derail them. We talk about confident decision-making for business owners when so much is at stake. There's a balance to Planning, Action, and Mindset. Usually, when confidence is low and decision pressure is high, people bounce back & forth between Planning & Action. We dive into real-life stories and Kirsten's SIMPLE 6-step decision-making process from her Decision Masters Program, where she teaches how to trust every decision you make.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

Fear #18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Kirsten Parker

Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/decision-masters/id1625773899
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kirstenparkercoaching
Website - https://www.kirstenparker.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kpcoaching/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

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Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance

Tandem Works — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0600

If everything you want is on the other side of fear, how do you get to the other side? On this episode, I'm talking to Marianne Chance, an accomplished trainer, author, and coach who is passionate about helping others conquer their fears and bet on themselves.

Marianne has experienced the highs and lows of fear firsthand, so she is the perfect person to explore the topic of fear with. Described as brilliant, hilarious, awesomesauce, and so engaging you’ll forget to eat your snacks, Marianne has trained over 20,000 people in nearly every state and worldwide. She is recognized as one of the top trainers in America. In 2013 she started Work Warrior, a training organization that provides manager and team training to companies across all states.

We take the topic of fear head one, talking about what fear is, where it comes from, how it manifests in our bodies and affects our lives and businesses, and strategies to get on the other side of fear, where everything we want is waiting.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:49
Marianne Chance is one of the top trainers in America. Marianne applies her experience to elevate people around the world and she's here today to help elevate us.

5:26
How do we behave when we're afraid and what can we do in spite of it?

7:43
What is fear? Fear is when we become drunk on adrenaline and cortisol.

11:56
Why we don't apply what we know?
19:09
Sometimes with business owners, fear looks like being complacent.

24:25
The difference between going from a caterpillar to a butterfly or just kind of being stuck

27:09
How does fear play in when you're first starting a business?

32:37
Whenever you can get feedback, do so.

38:17
Social media and the fear of the constant feedback loop

40:03
Business owners need to figure out what's the purpose of social media.

45:28
If you run a Facebook group, stop doing this

47:44
There is a sea of money to be made. You have to be able to see it.

53:38
My biggest struggle was sticking to one message. Don't play with your brand. Be crystal clear on what it is.

57:00
The only thing I would tell myself, move, and take a risk.

59:08
It's never as scary as we think.

1:00:50
What do you think would make the world a better place? I don't think that we realize managers' impact on the world.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Marianne Chance

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WorkWarrior
Website - https://work-warrior.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/marianne.chance/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianneworthington/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

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Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#17 This is not sexy, but it's your key to success

Tandem Works — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0600

00:46
Awesome feedback on past episodes, thank you!

02:25
Myth, I just can't stay consistent

04:15
The biggest indicator of success is the ability to channel your consistent behavior into good actions.

09:32
No business is launched because someone just has an idea and talks about it all the time. Real success comes in all of the day-to-day actions

11:26
The domino effect only works when all the dominoes are lined up well.

15:22
It is difficult to create consistency in all areas at once, in fact, I have found it basically impossible.
15:44
A couple of areas for focus that I find to be the most impactful.
16:43
When your personal life is chaotic your business life is chaotic too

23:35
When you know your numbers, you have power. Consistency in your finance impacts so many other aspects of your business.

31:43
Marketing is often one of the first things we stop being consistent in - Don't do it!

36:23
Be consistent with your people. Building trust and setting regular expectations is just gold.
38:54
Think about your personal relationships
40:00
Consistency builds a narrative of wins.
43:05
Distractions that get in the way.

44:34
What makes this task so unpleasant? Is there something I don't understand? Does it take me away from something else? Just notice it.

45:55
Do the hard things first

49:35
How could I make this more enjoyable? (Check out Lisa Even for more on "Crappy to Happy")

51:47
Fear-induced distractions can easily make you slip from your goals and dreams.

54:14
Are you spending more time researching than doing?

58:26
Get out there; get consistent. Pick one area, just one area. Hone in. Build some trust.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Please email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#16- Feel Good Money Mindset - A Chat with Megan Hale on Taking Control of Your Business & Life

#5 The two words that will change your social media posts forever, create higher engagement and eliminates social media frustration
#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, social media tips, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#16 Feel Good Money Mindset - A Chat with Megan Hale on Taking Control of Your Business & Life

Tandem Works — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:51
Megan Hale is today's guest. She is a business strategist and money mentor for experienced coaches, consultants, helpers, healers. We'll explore the whole idea of money and how we make it.

05:22
Megan's private practice and psychotherapy. When she went into online entrepreneurship, she realized she had a lot of money mindset work to do.

11:49
What's the life that you want to live? That is going to inform how you structure the revenue streams.

17:02
Many entrepreneurs get caught up in the idea that there's always more to do. A lot of inner work centers around redefining enoughness.

20:38
Most entrepreneurs have big visions. The hardest part is finding a balance between ambition and realistic timelines.

24:29
Once the goal is set and there's a meaning behind it, then I start focusing on the work that actually needs to happen.

27:17
We revisit our goals all the time.

30:01
There's a lot of noise out there that if you're not making the money that you want to make, it's because you haven't done the healing work first.

36:24
"The money really is meant to support me. I'm not here to support the money. It has taken me forever to understand

39:24
Entrepreneurship comes with risk. How can you hold yourself in that discomfort?

43:32
Juggling motherhood and being an active-duty military spouse.

46:44
We're human first, always.

55:11
The 2% pledge is really that initiative of taking 2% of your revenue and giving it to organizations that are creating the type of change that you want to see in the world.

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

List and link the title here

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Megan Hale

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/meganhale.ma
Website - https://meganhale.co
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@meganhale_mh

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, social media tips, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#15 Focus in entrepreneurship is everything - a conversation with Tiffaney Florentine

Tandem Works — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0600

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:48
Tiffaney Florentine joins Vivian to talk about discovering and pursuing passions. Tiffaney is a fitness, nutrition and mindfulness coach and expert at what she calls "taming the squirrels."

02:11
Tiffany is on a mission to change the health and fitness industry from diet centric focus to a client-centered approach rooted in mindfulness.

4:27
Tiffaney shares her story of going from a factory worker to the CIA, American Gladiator finalist, consultant, and finally finding her passion. There are inflection points that we have along the way when we make decisions. It's our job to narrow it down to get to the impact we were put on this earth to create.

1:15
How do you know when your passion is worth following? I'd say it's always worth following. It's on you to figure out how to integrate it into your life. Honoring those moments. If they light you up, then build them in.

14:37
Building in passions and knowing when it's time to attach a dollar or do it just for fun.

8:17
To be in the moment is like focusing on one step in front of the other versus the end destination. If I'm hesitant to take the next step, I look for proof. Quick decisions also mean I learn fast.

22:56
Focus in entrepreneurship is everything. Do I want to pursue these five things because it feels good? Or do I pursue one, get really successful, and then bring in those other things? It is tempting to bring in shiny objects. Focus as an entrepreneur is everything for long-term success.

27:28
Tiffaney recently moved from the Windy City of Chicago to sunny San Diego. She combined all her learnings around mindfulness, spirituality and nutrition, and fitness in one key offering. She shares how the new environment lights her soul on fire.

31:00
Setting up your environment for success. Have key items lying around or easily accessible. Eating a healthy meal, and doing some breath work, or sitting and meditating. If these things are easily integrated, it will impact how we show up in every moment.

35:37
Studies show that you're dumping 40% of your productivity by multitasking. Ask yourself what feels good in every moment. The more things you do at one time, the worse you will feel. If you want to feel better and save a ton of time and actually be more productive, do one thing at a time.

37:08
The problem with New Year's resolutions is that they tend to be extremely rooted in resistance. The other camp, the other energy, is flow. Energy is either moving towards resistance in any moment, or it's moving towards flow. Being completely rooted in flow is the only way to achieve your goals.

42:44
Tiffaney shares, "I didn't start living until six or seven years ago when I realized that I could actually live in the moment and not live in stress. To live our lives, to be happy, it takes daily maintenance to reel in the squirrels."

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#12 From corporate globetrotter to entrepreneurship: Neal Eilers' journey, building a successful business around his passion
#13 Uncharted adventures: Neal Eilers' journey to opening a storefront
#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tiffaney Florentine

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/powerfulwomenlevelingup
Website - www.mindsettomovement.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tiffaney.florentine/
Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mindset-to-movement/id1579334950

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#14 5 areas to focus on in your first 90 days for a successful year

Tandem Works — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0600

"The trick to successfully kicking off the first 90 days of the year as a business owner, or frankly, just as a human, is to approach it with a sense of both reflecting and strategizing."

Unpacking this episode min by min:

0:52- Reflection and strategy
9:17- Listen to your team
11:01 - List of questions to ask your team
24:46 -Same-page meetings
25:46- Get to know your clients
29:32- List of questions to ask your clients
32:21- How to expand your network
36:19- Secure early wins
43:23- Set up a personal growth plan and what mine looks like

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

List and link the title here

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#13 Uncharted adventures: Neal Eilers' journey to opening a storefront

Tandem Works — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0600

Neal Eilers left behind his corporate career and the traveling life he had been living. With the support of his wife, he opened a storefront, but the process was more difficult than expected. He encountered growing pains, such as learning about permits and dealing with contractors, and it took many months before his store was ready and Neal opened the doors. Despite the delays and setbacks, Neal remained resilient and, in this episode, shares his behind-the-scenes perspective.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

1. What is it like to decide to transition from the corporate world to owning your own business?
2. What strategies can be used to manage cash flow seasons in a business?
3. How does transitioning to a storefront work?
4. Networking importance and a few pro tips

Unpacking this episode min by min:

2:18 - How to decide if you have a passion or a business
4:09 - Know what you are leaving behind and be ok with it
4:35 - Finding your passion over time
6:45 - The influence of experience
6:48 - The importance of good customer service
8:06 - The impact of mindset on customer service
10:30 - Using online sales to balance cashflow
11:10 - Fluctuations in business
13:27 - Transitioning to a storefront
14:18 - DIY renovations and working with contractors
16:00 - Delayed grand opening
16:53 - Setting realistic expectations
17:38 - The effects of working with your team out of your residence basement
20:20 - Not everyone is built for tough transitions
22:56- Taking time for yourself as a business owner
24:27- Hustle hard; is that truly the way?
26:32 - Check yourself before you wreck yourself (and everyone else)
27:41 - Networking and a few tips
30:21 - Getting over the fear of talking about your business and meeting other people
35:00 - How can we make the world a better place?

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#12 From corporate globetrotter to entrepreneurship: Neal Eilers' journey, building a successful business around his passion

#9 Taking an idea from paper to reality, making tough decisions, and creating a values-driven business with Alysia Hess, Founder of The Occasional Collective

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Neal Eilers, NE Custom Framing and Furniture

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NECustomWoodFrames
Website - www.necustomwoodframes.com
Instagram - @necustomframing_furniture Instagram

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#12 From corporate globetrotter to entrepreneurship: Neal Eilers' journey, building a successful business around his passion

Tandem Works — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 07:13:00 -0600

"If you find that passion in your life of what you're doing, it's very easy to talk about. I've been in corporate jobs and stuff and not really passionate about it. And it was probably a little harder to talk about because it's like, I don't really care about what I'm doing." -Neal Eilers

Unpacking this episode min by min:
1:03 - Introducing Neal Eilers and NE Custom Framing and Furniture
4:15- Humble bragging (Book referenced *Brag!: The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It)
6:15 - Growing up loving the outdoors
7:33 - Living in the mountains of Montana
9:14 - Working at a wholesale plumbing supply company
9:42 - Working in sales and not caring if people bought anything
10:27 - Learning the value of customer service
11:01- Traveling for a year in South America
13:19 - Working with an indigenous tribe in Bolivia and biking South America for five months
16:09 - Deciding what is next
17:05 - Working cross-border operations in another corporate gig
17:33 - Discovering wildlife photography
18:35 - Focusing on birds
20:58- Owning the whole process
22:21 - Building custom frames and woodworking
24:07 - Building frames in the garage
24:39 - Bought a professional photo printer
25:19 - Plan A - travel in a camper van, photograph wildlife, sell prints, host gallery openings
26:15 - Covid kills the plan
27:48 - Opening an Etsy shop
29:40 - Plan B - a building in Ralston, Nebraska, changes everything
30:19 - A job at Dairy Queen in high school leads to an investor
32:27 - Changing plans
33:05 - Do I turn my passions into a business?
35:19 - Can you monetize it?
35:52 - Follow your passions
36:55 - Running numbers, or not...
37:09 - Research the industry
38:26 - Curating an entire experience
39:07 - Setting goals one year in
40:39 - Facing the fear, "What if it doesn't work?"
41:55 - Gaining through trying
42:36 - Getting past the fear, the alternative of a cubicle was worse
43:34 - Seize the opportunities in front of you

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

Join in for Part 2 of my conversation with Neal Eilers next week!

Vivian Kvam

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Neal Eilers, NE Custom Framing and Furniture

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NECustomWoodFrames
Website - www.necustomwoodframes.com
Instagram - @necustomframing_furniture Instagram

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

*This podcast uses affiliate links, meaning: at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We only feature products that we believe in and use ourselves. Your support means the world to us and allows us to bring you great content. Thank you!

#11 Is it a piece of cake for friends to be business partners? - a conversation with The Baking Flamingos

Tandem Works — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode

1. What it's like to own and operate a bakery
2. Amber and Curts's secrets for a successful business partnership between friends - It's a batch made is heaven ;)

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Please email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Amber Sanne & Curt Forester - The Baking Flamingos

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thebakingflamingos/
Website - https://www.bakingflamingos.net/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bakingflamingos/
GO VOTE HERE: https://www.amazingcakeideas.com/11/29/2022/b10-vote-maker-of-the-worlds-highly-impressive-cakes/20/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#10 How to use storytelling to create social media content that engages your audience.

Tandem Works — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0600

What you will find in this episode:

"When you connect with people and you share some of your stories, things start to happen, right? Conversation sparks. They tell a story that relates to the story you said, or they start to ask questions about the story that you told." This is how it all works on social media! Let me show you how!

I recently taught a workshop where we talked about creating a culture of storytelling, specifically related to social media, and I'm sharing some of the most valuable key takeaways in this episode with you. It's so important for your social media posts to be driven by story. If you're making random posts, people will be able to tell, and they'll be less likely to engage with your content. In this episode, I share key questions to help generate story ideas for your social posts. Answering these questions will help you come up with a bunch of ideas for more engaging and interesting social media posts.

In this episode, you will learn the following:
1. How to make social media posts that are driven by story
2. The seven principles of good storytelling

*Machaela's Favorite Pen
*Vivian's Favorite Pen

*These are affiliate links, and we may make a commission from any purchases

Free Download

Brand Story Questions Free Download

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Brand Story Questions Free Download
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Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#9 Taking an idea from paper to reality, making tough decisions and creating a values driven business with Alysia Hess, Founder of The Occasional Collective

Tandem Works — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0600

Unpacking this episode min by min:

1:21 - Introduction to Alysia Hess and The Occasional Collective
2:40 - What you will find in The Occasional Collective - a cozy mix of all things local
3:24 - Saw a building for sale, and Alysia knew she had to do something awesome with it
4:42 - An article about a local meat producer inspired her idea
5:33 - Working at the zoo shaped her mindset for conservation that influenced her idea further
6:00 - Sustainability has always been a priority, and the store inspires behavior change in her small-town community
7:46 - Everything is coming full circle for supporting conservation
8:07 - Unique ability to align passions for impact
8:42 - Designing brand pillars and guiding principles - Community - Sustainability - Inclusivity
9:34 - Highlighting diverse local makers, especially in rural areas
10:14 -Sticking to brand pillars requires really tough decisions
11:29 - Trusting in the community to support the values of the business
12:51 - Can you be driven by your values or is it all about what the market wants?
13:25 - Sourcing from larger networks and Inspiring new creators, new makers, and new businesses
16:10 - Leaving her job and transitioning full time into The Occasional Collective
18:30- Juggling solo business ownership, full-time work, and healthy living
19:43 - Give yourself grace and start hiring things out to build the business
20:25 - What would it take to leave my job
20:51 - Getting buy-in from everyone with the idea of The Occasional Collective
21:32 - The right time for a boutique shop and the culture shift toward local shopping
22:24 - The Walmart effect and Amazon
23:33 - Our competitive edge is the customer service and locally sourced items
24:14 - Inspiring makers with feedback from customers
25:35 - Rural areas need community hubs like the shop to survive
27:00 - You need to secure a domain for your business
29:35 - What if you fail? What's the plan?
31:58 - Vetting your ideas and being open to the cold hard truth
36:41 - Finding the right people to review a business plan
38:11 - Have to enjoy risk
38:33- Pitch competitions, TS Bank REV pitch
41:55 - Buying and reselling items
45:50 - Utilize ALL the small business resources and get real feedback on your business plan (scroll below for links to resources)
50:00 - Shifting your mindset for owning a business
51:52 - Utilizing Tandem Works resources (The Social Engagement Method)
52:00 - Improving social media to focus on stories
55:07 - What is on the horizon and how to support The Occasional Collective

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST: Alysia Hess

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theoccasionalcollective
Website -https://www.theoccasionalcollectiveia.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/@theoccasionalcollective/
Email - theoccasionalcollective.ia@gmail.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox
SBDC
Advanced Southwest Iowa
TS Bank REV
Pottawattamie Community Foundation
Nebraska Enterprise Fund

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#8 Love your Mondays, leaving a miserable job & healthy business partnership tips - With Machaela Clark, co-owner of Tandem Works

Tandem Works — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0600

Machaela Clark, co-owner of Tandem Works, jumps onto the podcast to introduce herself and share how she started her own business, merged with Vivian to create Tandem Works, and shares thoughts on having a successful business partnership with a co-owner.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

1:49 - Machaelas first business selling fabric wreaths out of a wagon
2:22 -Publishing newsletters as kids, clip art, and comic sans
4:06 - First grown-up business as a photographer
4:52 - Pursuing something you love now, not waiting for when you retire
5:55 - Machaela's mom encouraged her and her siblings to go after what they loved
7:05 - An 8-week job turned into a nightmare that pushed Machaela to make them move
8:14 - Waiting for the sign to take the jump
8:42 - Setting yourself up to make the jump leaving your job to start a business
9:55 - How to decide it's time to start your own business - look for the nudge
10:34 - Create a plan
11:27 - Don't get stuck in perfect
12:00 - Straddling a job and your own business
12:55 - What happened after Machaela started her own business (Morrissey Photography)
13:32- Making strategic connections to grow a client base
15:08- Outgrowing word-of-mouth marketing tactics, telling your brand story to people who don't know you
16:30- How we met and started a business together
17:55- How we created a partnership that works and remains friends too
18:50 -24-hour rule
19:55 -Is a partnership worth it? What we have discovered about the huge benefits of working together
22:18 - Using the 16Personalities evaluation and personalities in the workplace podcast with our team
26:55 - Leaning into your strengths and working on harder areas, flexibility is key to business success
27:52- Some of our frustrations when we first started working together and how we handled them
29:36- Pro tip - Use a separate messaging system for personal and business; we use Telegram
32:18 - Pro tip - Find your people to help prioritize, bounce ideas, and keep you accountable
33:33 - How to prioritize what is important and what is not, even when the ideas all seem important (or great!)
35:34- Playing with ideas, what happens when that confuses the team, being ok with throwing ideas back over the fence
37:32 - Throwing ideas back over the fence or saying no when transitioning offerings
38:09- Love your Mondays
39:47 -Our biggest takeaways looking back on our business
42:45 - Taking our Fridays off, even though we were incredibly busy. Read more on the blog here
44:54 - Pushing each other to be better
45:29 - What to do when looking for a business partner. Know yourself, find someone better than you at key activities, not a clone of yourself

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Machaela Clark:

Email - mclark@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#7 How to take a vacation as a business owner- with Ilona Holland

Tandem Works — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0600

You started your business to have freedom, not feel stuck, and never be able to travel. Gain inspiration from Ilona Holland, who shares her story of traveling for 7 weeks with her family and leaving her business to operate without her. Vivian shares how she also traveled internationally and how it was nearly disastrous with her first business. She shares what she learned so she can travel successfully now with her husband and their teardrop camper to visit every National Park.

Unpacking this episode min by min:

2:02 - Meet Ilona Holland
2:23 - From a closet at the YMCA to a thriving wellness studio
7:43 - Vivian's first "desk" - making things work
8:44 - Traveling for seven weeks, how Ilona did it as the business owner
10:53 - Making wise and skillful choices and planning ahead
13:34 - Planning as a family for the ideal vacation
15:00 - Thinking about your vacation dreams early in your business
17:14 - Traveling to Africa without a plan for our business
17:45 - We couldn't afford Netflix, but we traveled to Africa
19:40 - Working with an accountant for big travel plans
23:50 - Taking small trips first and involving the team
27:14 - Putting together an out-of-office plan and getting input from your team
31:00 - Practical tip - Creating frameworks and using screen recordings of processes
37:57 - Traveling internationally without a fixer lined up and adapting to the moment
42:16 - Working while traveling, pros and cons
52:25 - Even if you are not self-employed, it's important to design your life with self-awareness
54:29 - Giving yourself permission to travel as a business owner
55:47 - Illonas invitation to attend an incredible Malta experience with immersive yoga practice and workshops and touring for the Summer of 2023

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

GUEST: Illona Holland, Life Dimensions

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LifeDimensionsCB/
Website - https://lifedimensionscb.com/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ilona_holland?lang=en

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#6 Success after a massive layoff late in a career and starting a podcast recording studio - a candid conversation with Todd Studer

Tandem Works — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0600

A massive layoff after a successful career in Radio left Todd Studer with a critical choice to make, was this the time to start his own business? Todd and Vivian discuss what it was like to make that decision, especially later in his career, how pressure makes you hyper-focused and living life in forward motion.

Unpacking this episode min by min:
1:55- Introducing Todd Studer
3:10- About The Studios on S 4th Street
4:04- Todd's past radio career led to a layoff
6:16- The way things begin is seldom how they end up; failure is a baseline
7:52- Going from painting houses and radio to being self-employed
8:05- The difference between working for yourself and growing a business
8:20- Growing a business is not just adding things to your to-do list
9:42- Focus under pressure led to being hyper-focused
10:56- Feeling jaded with the layoff led to starting a business
12:07- Technology has allowed more possibilities in podcast recording anywhere
12:43- Now is the time to start a podcast
13:30- How do you decide to make a move from employment to owning your own business
13:55- Comfort can hold you back
15:00- Letting go of perfection when stepping out on your own, failure is the base-line
15:42- Meeting your client's needs and how Todd works with new clients
17:42- Designing your destiny allows for fulfillment and impact
19:30- The feeling of seeing your name on the door
20:00- The impact of turning 50 and losing a parent
21:00- The dreams that drive us toward success
23:57 -Starting or growing a new business idea at age 50
27:00- Life has to be lived in forward motion

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? Email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Todd Studer:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/The-Studios-On-South-4th-101523482630570
Website - https://www.studioson4th.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddstuderproductions/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#5 The two words that will change your social media posts forever, create higher engagement and eliminates social media frustration

Tandem Works — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Unpacking this episode min by min:

1:00 - Two words that are the secret ingredient behind all our successful posts
3:31 - This is one of the most overlooked tactics, and it's also the key
3:40 - 4 key areas you can create delight on your social media
3:52 - The question, how do I stand out on Social Media?
4:00 -Many owners struggle with social media
4:51 - #1 create delight for yourself first; the fact is we won't do things we don't enjoy
8:23 - Tactics that work the best
9:22 - How Machaela and I handled creating posts in different ways
10:25 - Tips for making content types that are "not your thing" or give you anxiety
11:54 - # 2 create delight for your team
12:11 - Define who your team is
14:37 -How business owners can practice gratitude on social media
15:11 - Real-life example -Meet us Monday posts for Barleys Bar
17:44 - #3 Create delight for your clients and customer
18:56 - Ask these questions when making your posts to make sure your audience will connect with them
21:30 - #4 Create delight for your community by showing up actively
22:59 - What happens when we celebrate the success of others
28:47 - Social SideKick for small business

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast? email me at ridingtandem@thetandemworks.com

Related Episodes:

#1 Core values, why they matter, and how to create them

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Nicole Lindquist:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolelindquist/
Website - https://www.iowawestfoundation.org/
Imagine Hour Results - https://www.iowawestfoundation.org/about-us/imagine-hour-results/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#4 Taking on big projects when you don't know it all, and how we created the Iowa West Foundation Imagine Hours -with Nicole Lindquist (Pt 2)

Tandem Works — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 04:45:00 -0500

Unpacking this episode min by min:

4:00 - Both clients and business owners are often feeling similar emotions about a project
4:05 - Just because you haven't done it before doesn't mean you are not capable
5:11 - Moving with confidence into the unknown - Female-owned business owners often won't step into an unknown *
7:30 - Building in and charging for discovery during the start of a project
9:19 - How we priced things when the scope is uncertain
10:32 - Imagine Hours - what they are
21:00 - Growing in confidence by taking calculated risks
23:00 - What we did when I couldn't show up and deliver, and how the IWF felt about it
29:28 - How we brought together and promoted one session in another language
37:42 - What we know now, we didn't have to know the answers before we ask the question

(*A google search pulled up the statistic I was referencing and came from an internal Hewlett Packard Report stating that Men apply for a job when they meet only 60% of the qualifications, but women apply only if they meet 100% of them.)

Related Episodes:

#3 Nailing an RFP, scope creep and sticky details - a candid chat with client Nicole Lindquist (PT 1)

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Nicole Lindquist:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolelindquist/
Website - https://www.iowawestfoundation.org/
Imagine Hour Results - https://www.iowawestfoundation.org/about-us/imagine-hour-results/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#3 Nailing an RFP, scope creep and sticky details - a candid chat with client Nicole Lindquist (PT 1)

Tandem Works — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Unpacking this episode min by min:

2:51 - Meet Nicole Lindquist from newspapers to Communications Director at Iowa West Foundation
4:15 - What is the Iowa West Foundation
5:22 - Iowa West grant partnerships explained
5:55- How Iowa West Foundation supports local business owners
7:54 - The proposal Iowa West Foundation offered us and why we turned it down
8:38 - How Nicole reacted when we turned down her first RFP
10:13 - The fear of turning down a project
10:58 - How we got another opportunity for creating an RFP for the second half of the project
12:31 - Both clients and business owners often are having similar experiences
14:30 - Iowa West Foundation was ready to revisit the vision, and mission and to authentically hear from the community
15:09 - What an RFP is
16:09 - The RFP process and how staying flexible was key
17:05 - RFP's can be intimidating, how we navigated the unknowns
19:03- The "need" business owners have to impress clients and how that can get in the way
19:50 - Small businesses often have an advantage when creating RFPs and the scope with clients
20:54 - Navigating sticky conversations in the RFP process
23:49 - Time is money on both sides

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to know about RFPs, creating proposals, or the negotiation process?

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Nicole Lindquist:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolelindquist/
Website - https://www.iowawestfoundation.org/
Imagine Hour Results - https://www.iowawestfoundation.org/about-us/imagine-hour-results/

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#0 - What is Riding Tandem?

Vivian Kvam — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Unpacking this episode min by min:

00:37 - Who this podcast is for
1:10 - Meet Vivian
1:27 - Getting paid in silver coins
2:08 - Growing up in an entrepreneurial family
3:09 - Working will all kinds of clients from Crayola, Disney and mom and pop shops
3:48 - My first businesses, from renting my toys, sales, manufacturing, dance instructor, farmers markets and more
5:50 - Photography and video production company out of college
6:10 - Running a team and creating 7 media brands in my 20's - then I lost it all
7:07 - Tandem Works & Mac&V
7:32 - 3 options for business owners - Crash and burn, Build a business that runs you, Create opportunities and a legacy
9:03 - Riding Tandem with you
9:10 - Who this podcast is for

Subscribe, follow, and share for more.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What would you like to hear about on this podcast?

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#1 Core values, why they matter and how to create them

Tandem Works — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Unpacking this episode min by min:

1:17 - Core values are the glue that holds a business together
1:35 - The hype of core values, is it just all about wall decor and vinyl graphics?
3:16 - What I thought core values were all about at first
3:39 - Core values are the heart and soul of the owner and for the team first and then for your clients
4:00 - What core values are all about
5:11 - Defining what core values truly are
6:20 - They are values, not what you do, they are the why and the way
7:15 - Why they matter and why you should define them sooner than later
7:57 - Most common reason businesses finally create core values
8:44 - When the excitement of a new business wears off, these are the most common things business owner say
9:40 - Fully owning your core values is key
10:08 - Take the test, do you have your core values defined? Do this short exercise
11:24 - The people you work with can't read your mind
12:19 - How to use core values in your business
15:48 -Step-by-step on how to create your business core values
20:18 - Example core values

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. Have you created core values? If so, what are your core values? If not, whats holding you back? Drop me a message I would love to hear from you.

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

#2 The 3 most important pieces of advice that will directly impact your entrepreneurial experience

Tandem Works — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Unpacking this episode min by min:

1:32 - #1 Succesful business owners don't struggle alone
2:15 - At age 23 I was running a business and trying to figure it all out on my own
3:04 - Why I didn't ask for help
4:00 - I have never seen a successful business run by a lone wolf
4:05 - The direct link in business failure is not asking questions and seeking guidance
4:58 - The day I discovered what a CRM is and how much time I wasted making my own
6:04- Ask questions and seek advice and mentors
6:47 -Our team's internal process for finding answers
7:35 - What I do when I don't know what question to ask
8:04 - The excuses we make and getting past them
9:14 - #2 People matter, success doesn't happen in a vacuum
9:30 - Make space and protect your space
9:40 - The people we choose to surround ourselves directly impacts the way we think, act and feel
10:06 - Making space for people as an introverted business owner has taught me valuable lessons
10:40 - The wider your circles are the better
11:11 - Add people who think differently than you do
11:29 - Find a super connector
11:52 - The time I wanted real animals in a photoshoot and Machaela sourced them for us because of her connections
13:02 - The best job you can have before going into business for yourself
13:32 - Choosing people wisely
14:15 - The characteristics I look for when adding people into my circles
15:00 - Eliminating people from your circles
15:49 - People I avoid in my close circles
16:58 - #3 Know yourself
17:40 - Are my personal and business core values the same?
18:27 - The last thing you want to do is build a business out of alignment with your personal core values
18:35 - Its possible to have great personal values and great business values that just don't align, and it leads to unhappiness
19:33 - Step-by-step how to define your personal core values
20:36 - My personal core value examples
20:58 - Recap it

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Related Episodes:

#1 - Core values, what they are, why they matter, and how to create them

If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.

Reach out! Send your feedback and comments. What do you think of these three pieces of advice? What would you add? Drop me a message I would love to hear from you.

Vivian Kvam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viviankvam/
Email Vivian - vkvam@thetandemworks.com

Tandem Works Team:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeam
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetandemworks/
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com

FREE RESOURCES

Tandem Works Circle for Marketing, Facebook Group all about marketing for small biz owners
Join our weekly email HERE for Next-level advice, a little accountability, and out-of-the-box ideas delivered to your inbox.

Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com