51 episodes

Are you a business owner? Or are you on the verge of taking that side hustle to the next level? Or curious about the world of entrepreneurship? Join Vivian Kvam, Co-Owner of Tandem Works, each week for a behind-the-scenes at small businesses and what it takes to succeed.

Each episode is full of inspiration, education, tips, and great conversation with people like you, people who are figuring it out. Take your business to the next level with insight from expert guests in business, leadership, and marketing.

Riding Tandem Tandem Works

    • Business

Are you a business owner? Or are you on the verge of taking that side hustle to the next level? Or curious about the world of entrepreneurship? Join Vivian Kvam, Co-Owner of Tandem Works, each week for a behind-the-scenes at small businesses and what it takes to succeed.

Each episode is full of inspiration, education, tips, and great conversation with people like you, people who are figuring it out. Take your business to the next level with insight from expert guests in business, leadership, and marketing.

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

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

    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/anytimeteesTandem Works Team:
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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 

    Need help with your Social Media Content Creation? Check out Tandem Works Social SideKick https://thetandemworks.com/social-sidekick-content-creation

    • 1 hr 3 min
    #49 Scaling and Powering Through Challenges with Josh Kallsen of PowerTech

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

    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/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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


    Need help with your Social Media Content Creation? Check out Tande

    • 1 hr 13 min
    #48 Building a Subscription Box Business - Jennifer Lea's Entry Envy Journey

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

    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:
    Entry Envy WebsiteFollow Jennifer on LinkedInIf 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/entryenvysignsWebsite - https://entryenvy.comLinkTree - https://linktr.ee/Entry_envyTandem Works Team:
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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

    Need help with your Social Media Con

    • 1 hr 7 min
    #47- Venture Capital and Startup Burnout - with Kaylee Williams

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

    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


    Related Episodes:#37 How to Build a Strong Financial Foundation And Prepare To Borrow For Your Business - Jamel Hamilton
    #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/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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

    Need help with your Social Media Content Creation? Check out Tandem Works Social SideKick https://thetandemworks.com/social-sidekick-content-creation

    • 1 hr 7 min
    #46 Embracing Joy: A Conversation with Lisa Even on Finding Happiness in Life and Work

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

    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 Job05:03 The Impact of Burnout06:00 The Pac-Man Analogy09:08 Finding Joy in Different Ways11:54 The Framework for Joy15:02 Overcoming Barriers to Joy18:39 Creating a Joy Calendar20:11 The Importance of Joy in Business25:49 Writing and Publishing a Book32:50 Promoting the Book33:40 Highlights and Challenges of the Journey34:39 The Rewarding Experience of Changing Perspectives35:32 Positive Reception of the Book36:01 Expanding Circles of Influence37:10 Promoting and Selling the Book38:06 Rising Tide Events39:02 The Impact of Rising Tide Events40:13 Upcoming Podcast on Connection, Impact, and Joy41:29 Book Recommendation: The Measure42:38 Misconception About Owning a Business43:31 Work Hard and Play Hard45:43 Inspiring Song, Book, or Podcast46:51 Excitement for the Future48:24 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/lisaeven11Website - https://www.lisaeven.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/even.lisa/
    Tandem Works Team:
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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

    Need help with your Social Media Content Creation? Check out Tandem Works Social SideKick https://thetandemworks.com/social-sidekick-content-creation

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

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

    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/vivafitkitchenWebsite - https://www.vivafitkitchen.comInstagram - @vivafitkitchen // @embolden // @ladyavLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandravaldez/
    Tandem Works Team:
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TandemWorksTeamInstagram - 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

    Need help with your Social Media Content Creation? Check out Tandem Works Social SideKick https://thetandemworks.com/social-sidekick-content-creation

    • 46 min

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