162 episodes

Hi, my name is tena and I talk... a lot. So I figured I may as well put these vocal chords to good use. This isn't my first podcast but it just might be my last. See, my passions are probably not unlike yours - they are plentiful and kind of all over the place. I can hardly be defined by one area of expertise when it comes to biz and I love things like weiner dogs, a good game night and books - all the books. So honestly it just made sense to brand me. This brings us to this show - tena talks. I think you may just get a kick out of it.

tena talks tena pettis

    • Business
    • 4.9 • 41 Ratings

Hi, my name is tena and I talk... a lot. So I figured I may as well put these vocal chords to good use. This isn't my first podcast but it just might be my last. See, my passions are probably not unlike yours - they are plentiful and kind of all over the place. I can hardly be defined by one area of expertise when it comes to biz and I love things like weiner dogs, a good game night and books - all the books. So honestly it just made sense to brand me. This brings us to this show - tena talks. I think you may just get a kick out of it.

    the entrepreneur's dilemma: working on vs. in your business. [162]

    the entrepreneur's dilemma: working on vs. in your business. [162]

    hi, my friends! Welcome back to another episode of "tena talks" I'm Tena Pettis, and today, we're diving deep into a topic that's close to every entrepreneur's heart – finding that delicate balance between working in your business and working on your business. We'll define these terms, uncover their significance, and explore how you can shift your focus for long-term success.


    So, let's get right to it. What do I mean by "working in" and "working on" your business? Working in your business involves the daily grind – those tasks like fulfilling orders or providing services. In contrast, working on your business entails activities like creating new programs, updating your website, and crafting marketing content that drive future growth.


    Now, let's tackle the big question – why is this dilemma so important? Working in your business often means immediate cash flow – it's the essential lifeblood of your operation. However, working on your business is an investment in your future, where you'll see cash flow later. The work you're doing today might not yield results for 3-6 months, but this typically applies to the work done when you're working on your business.


    So, how do we make that shift in focus? Here's a three-step plan:


    Choose one pivotal aspect of your business to work on right now – something that will bring you a concrete win. Dedicate specific time in your schedule to these critical tasks. Making working on your business a priority is essential. Paint a vivid picture of what these efforts will achieve when they're completed. Visualize the impact and benefits they'll bring to your business.
    To bring this dilemma to life, let me share a few real-life examples of times I've successfully shifted my focus from working in to working on my business:


    Productivity Retreats: These retreats allowed me to step away from the daily grind and focus on strategic planning and growth. "Fall in Love with Twitter" Online Course: Taking 3 days to write, design and launch a new online course. "Contagiously Confident" Program: Creating this program not only generated income but also expanded my brand's reach and reputation. "FLOW" Group Membership: One week to pull together an idea and create an entire community. Here is more information on this current membership: www.tenapettis.com/flow 
    So there you have it, my friends – the entrepreneur's dilemma, working on versus in your business. It's a challenge we all face, and by understanding the distinction and taking deliberate steps to shift your focus, you can pave the way for long-term success and sustainability. Thanks for joining me today on "tena talks". Be sure to subscribe for more insightful discussions on the journey of entrepreneurship.

    - tena pettis
    www.tenapettis.com
    www.instagram.com/tenapettis

    • 15 min
    do you have a parent coach? [161]

    do you have a parent coach? [161]

    I interrupt this somewhat mostly biz podcast to shed some bright lights on parenting. If you are a mama or dad to littles (meaning, anyone that lives in your house rent free) -- this episode will surely be a breathe of fresh air for you. I have had a coach in nearly every area of my life, but a parent coach was not one of them. When I met Pam (my guest today) I just knew I had to learn more about her practice and message.

    Pam Thompson is a Certified Parent Coach with Connected Families who specializes in grace, truth and hope. She has 4 messages she wants every parent to be able to learn and implement for themselves and their kids: 

    1. You are safe with me. 
    2. You are loved no matter what. 
    3. You are called and capable. 
    4. You are responsible for your actions.

    The details she goes into on this episode about these 4 messages are ones you will want to write down! 

    I cried. It doesn't happen often, but when it does -- you know it. This topic of parenting is a tough one for me. We have had our fair share of 'I knew that happened... but not to me or my kids'. Thankfully I've never been the parent to say 'my kids will never...' phew, cause that was most certainly a close one. We have walked thru much of it really messy with a lot of sorry's and I love you's. These messages from Pam have been so helpful to truly bring grace, truth and hope to our home. 

    You can contact Pam on her website www.cordsofhopecoaching.com or email cordsofhopecoaching@gmail.com 

    - tena pettis
    www.tenapettis.com
    www.instagram.com/tenapettis

    • 37 min
    getting some hate? here's 4 tips to grow from it. [160]

    getting some hate? here's 4 tips to grow from it. [160]

    So, let me dive into how I handle all that negativity and hate that can sometimes creeps into the biz journey. It's a real game-changer when you can pinpoint whether it's coming from within you or those external sources. Just recently a client came to me and asked how to handle some real negative vibes from her own family, believe it or not. Can you imagine? I made sure to drive home the point that understanding their perspective doesn't mean you sacrifice your own uniqueness.


    It's not always easy, but I attempt to keep my focus on personal growth and development, reminding myself not to take things personally. AND »» Speaking of growth, I can't stress enough how vital it is to surround yourself with the right people for advice. You know, those go-to folks who've got your back and won't lead you astray. Ahem... I am that person for many and happy to be yours!


    I've def had my fair share of 'haters gonna hate' situation and this podcast episode I share stories (yes, the hate ones) and how I grew from them! 


    So, if you're on this journey and want to ride the wave of negativity to growth, I'm all ears. And hey, let's keep this convo going – catch me on social media, and we'll dive even deeper.

    - tena pettis
    Business + Marketing Coach
    www.tenapettis.com
    www.instagram.com/tenapettis

    • 12 min
    3 ways to effectively use AI in your business today. [159]

    3 ways to effectively use AI in your business today. [159]

    A quick run-thru of what is AI and HOW can you effectively use it in your business right now! 

    Step One: Sign up for https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt

    Step Two: Soak up all the awesomeness in this episode where I walk thru how to write or edit your bio for anywhere online, create social prompts and long form marketing using AI. 

    Ready - Go! 

    - tena pettis

    Would love if you joined F L O W » Reveal Your Brand, Create Your Systems + Attract Your Ideal Clients www.tenapettis.com/flow 

    • 16 min
    are you doing your life's work? with Ivan Amssan [158]

    are you doing your life's work? with Ivan Amssan [158]

    Ohhhh how I love interviewing incredible humans! I knew from the moment I met Ivan Amssen, I was going to really like him. He wooooed an entire wedding invite list and truly captivated the room -- I mean, second to the bride of course.

    But seriously, Ivan is a good time and is extremely passionate about his life's work, photography. It's real hard to sum him up as JUST a photographer though, take a listen and I think you will understand! 

    The question is, are you doing your life's work? 

    Let's dive in. 

    You can find Ivan here: https://ivanamssanphoto.com/
    and my fav place, here: https://www.instagram.com/ivanamssan

    - tena pettis
    www.tenapettis.com

    P.S. let's continue the convo on the gram: www.instagram.com/tenapettis

    • 37 min
    [top 10] best practices for starting a business. [157]

    [top 10] best practices for starting a business. [157]

    Whether you have been in business for a day, 10 months or 10 years -- this episode will surely give you a handful of ideas to implement into your biz today. 

    I've got 10 best practices for starting (or growing) a business, here they are: 

    1. Get SUPER clear on your industry. What is happening and what you are getting yourself into. I referenced the book Believe It by Jamie Kern Lima https://bit.ly/43dzvuJ

    2. Plan. Yep, it's that simple, create a plan. I of course go into more details, but don't overcomplicate this one. One of my most used apps right now is Notion, I've got it linked on my site here: https://www.tenapettis.com/bizfavs/

    3. Find your 5 -- people that is. EPS [058] goes into even more detail: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tena-talks-a-lot/id1418912509?i=1000550147180

    4. Budget. I know, I don't love that word either -- but it's necessary. This Etsy Seller has amazing spreadsheets for tracking, they are pretty and everything! https://www.etsy.com/shop/HayeCreatives?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1246298340

    5. Unique-ability. I share details of how I have showed up in a few of my past businesses that have set me apart. 

    6. Digital Footprint. Get crystal clear on where you will be and where you will not be. I referenced the software I created my site on, you can find that link on my site: www.tenapettis.com/bizfavs/

    7. Lead Gen. How are you meeting your next customer/client/member? 

    8. Customer Journey. They are here, now what? Develop the path they will take. 

    9. Never stop learning. Oh and be coachable too! 

    10. YOUR WHY. This is a biggie. In this episode I share a bit of a blunder I had surrounding a major why in my biz. 

    Disclaimer » if you liked this, you will LOVE my marketing membership » F L O W. Check it out here: www.tenapettis.com/flow 

    - tena pettis 

    • 32 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
41 Ratings

41 Ratings

Makyna.elise ,

Don’t sleep on this podcast!

From Agency to Small Business, Tena Talks will leave you feeling empowered to start Today! If you need a dose of inspiration give this podcast a listen and learn from the expert herself!

DocConner ,

Ah-mazing!

I LOVE to listen to Tena’s energetic and fun advice on professional and personal podcasts. She’s a perfect companion on my walks and drive time.

JillO19 ,

A must listen!

Educational, thought provoking, enlightening- Tena Talks has a bit of everything!

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