• #76 Planting Roots and Brewing Beer: Choosing the Right Place to Start - Dessie Redmond Full Fledged Brewing
    Jun 4 2025
    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.🔔 Subscribe & leave a review to support the show! Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.Unpacking this episode min by min: 02:53 The Journey to Brewing06:01 Establishing the Brewery08:59 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities12:04 Community and Support15:06 The Impact of the Pandemic18:01 Innovation and Growth21:03 Future Aspirations27:09 Engaging the Community: Innovative Public Engagement Strategies28:00 Adapting to Change: The Evolution of Brewery Offerings29:57 Navigating Business Challenges: Lessons from the Brewery34:22 Planning for Growth: Capital and Layout Considerations40:23 Balancing Act: Managing Time and Responsibilities44:45 Working Together: The Dynamics of a Business Partnership47:20 Misconceptions of Entrepreneurship: The Reality of Business OwnershipRelated 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 CollectiveVivian 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/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrctDessie Redmond:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fullfledgedbrewingcompanyWebsite - https://fullfledgedbeer.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fullfledgedbeer/Tandem Works Team:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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-thingsReceive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-upRiding Tandem with Vivian KvamA podcast from Tandem WorksEmail the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
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    45 Min.
  • #75 The Grind: Ideas, Discipline, and the Cost of Doing What You Love
    May 21 2025


    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...”


    🔔 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 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


    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

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    1 Std. und 20 Min.
  • #74 The Leap, What no one tells you before you leave the 9–5 - Casey Putney Part 1
    May 14 2025

    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

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    1 Std. und 9 Min.
  • #73 Ditch Vanity Metrics—Measure What Actually Matters- Marketing Mindset Shift #5
    May 7 2025

    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

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    27 Min.
  • #72 - Why Your Logo Doesn’t Matter as Much as You Think - Marketing Mindset Shift #4
    Mar 26 2025

    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


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    30 Min.
  • #71 The Secret to Selling More: Focus on the Outcome - Mindset Shift #3
    Mar 19 2025

    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

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    30 Min.
  • #70 Starting a Business at 10: Chloe’s Journey from Pebbles to Profit
    Mar 12 2025
    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 Galahan03:00 The Birth of a Creative Business06:00 Challenges and Growth in Entrepreneurship09:02 Artistic Process and Customer Engagement11:57 Navigating the Business Side of Creativity14:53 The Emotional Connection in Art18:01 Support Systems and Community20:58 Future Aspirations and Lessons Learned26:58 Outsourcing and Collaboration in Creativity30:55 The Journey of a Young Entrepreneur34:11 The Importance of Trust in Business37:34 Encouragement for Aspiring Creatives40:14 Future Aspirations and Flexibility41:44 Misconceptions About Business Ownership42:56 Fun and Snacks at Craft Fairs43:32 Inspiration Through Music and Art44:21 Embracing Change and Opportunities45:20 The Unique Journey of Young Entrepreneurs47:55 The Role of Art in Making a Difference49:10 Promoting Chloe's Crafts and Community EngagementRelated 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 StoryVivian 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/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrctChloe Gollehon:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ChloeofChloesCraftWebsite - ChloesCraft.bigcartel.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/chloes_.craft/Tandem Works Team:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram: 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-thingsReceive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-upRiding Tandem with Vivian KvamA podcast from Tandem WorksEmail the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
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    55 Min.
  • #69 Comparison, Confidence, and Career Growth with Lapora Lindsey
    Mar 5 2025
    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 Misrepresentation03:01 Introduction to LaPora Lindsey06:04 The Dual Role of Employment and Entrepreneurship08:51 Understanding Value in the Workplace12:05 The Journey of Writing a Book15:05 Building Relationships in Organizations18:03 Fostering Value and Engagement20:55 The ACT Framework for Leadership26:30 Understanding Personality Assessments28:40 Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness30:31 Navigating Business Challenges and Relationships33:23 The Role of Comparison in Business Growth36:06 Intentionality in Overcoming Comparison40:50 Fostering Healthy Competition and Curiosity45:44 Valuing the Present in Business Growth49:58 The Power of Reflection and Journaling52:26 Goal Setting Philosophy and Techniques58:15 Misconceptions of Business Ownership and Personal Insights01:06:25 The Importance of Empathy in BusinessRelated 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 StuderVivian 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/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrctLaPora Lindsey:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thelaporalindseyWebsite - www.laporalindsey.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lapora-lindsey/Tandem Works Team:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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-thingsReceive the latest news, encouragement and inspiration from Vivian to your inbox by signing up here https://thetandemworks.com/newsletter-sign-upRiding Tandem with Vivian KvamA podcast from Tandem WorksEmail the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com
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    1 Std. und 14 Min.