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 in...
Feb 14, 2024•54 min•Ep. 46
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 transform...
Feb 01, 2024•46 min•Ep. 45
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 ...
Jan 11, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 44
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 Myth 2: Press releases are outdated in the digital age.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...
Dec 28, 2023•37 min•Ep. 43
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 s...
Dec 21, 2023•31 min•Ep. 42
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 r...
Dec 04, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 41
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 adap...
Nov 15, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 40
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 unlo...
Nov 01, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 39
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...
Oct 19, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 38
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 startin...
Sep 27, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 37
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 o...
Sep 13, 2023•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 36
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,...
Sep 06, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 35
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...
Aug 30, 2023•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 34
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 produ...
Aug 16, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 33
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...
Aug 02, 2023•57 min•Ep. 32
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 ...
Jul 18, 2023•51 min•Ep. 31
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'...
Jul 06, 2023•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 30
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 ...
Jun 20, 2023•30 min•Ep. 29
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...
Jun 06, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 28
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 feedbac...
May 23, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 27
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 supe...
May 16, 2023•32 min•Ep. 26
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 ...
Apr 05, 2023•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 25
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 dis...
Mar 15, 2023•53 min•Ep. 24
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...
Mar 08, 2023•50 min•Ep. 23
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...
Mar 01, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 22
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 a...
Feb 22, 2023•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 21
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...
Feb 15, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 20
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 ...
Feb 08, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 19
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 ...
Feb 01, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 18
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,...
Jan 25, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 17