Riding Tandem

Tandem Works
  • 5.0 (15)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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.

  1. 06/04/2025

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

    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 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/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-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

    45 min

  2. 05/21/2025

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

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

    1h 20m

  3. 05/14/2025

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

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

    1h 9m

  4. 05/07/2025

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

    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/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

    27 min

  5. 03/26/2025

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

    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/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrctTandem 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-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

    30 min

  6. 03/19/2025

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

    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/tbdbfdcsnbtngdfzkgwkrrgcbwcdcrctTandem 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-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

    30 min

  7. 03/12/2025

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

    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/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-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 min

  8. 03/05/2025

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

    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/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-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

    1h 14m
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Tandem Works
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Tandem Works
  • Show Website
    Riding Tandem