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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:
Dessie Redmond:
Tandem Works Team:
FREE RESOURCES
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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: [email protected]
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:
Casey Putney:
Tandem Works Team:
FREE RESOURCES
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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: [email protected]
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:
Casey Putney:
Tandem Works Team:
FREE RESOURCES
Shop Our Favorite Tools and Things here https://thetandemworks.com/our-favorite-things
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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: [email protected]
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:
If you love this show, please leave us a review. Go to RateThisPodcast.com/ridingtandem and follow the simple instructions.
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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:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
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:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
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:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
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:
Chloe Gollehon:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
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:
LaPora Lindsey:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
In this episode of Riding Tandem, Vivian dives deep into one of the eight marketing mindset shifts for entrepreneurs—letting go of the “shoulds.” Feeling overwhelmed by endless marketing advice? Vivian’s got you covered. In today’s conversation, she shares how she and Michaela learned that you don’t need to be on every platform. Instead, focus on what’s working for your business, leverage your strengths, and align your marketing efforts with your goals.
Key Points:
👉 If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Tag me on Facebook or LinkedIn, or shoot me an email. Let’s keep the conversation going!
🔔 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
03:20 Overcoming Marketing Overwhelm
12:49 The Three-Step Marketing Funnel
17:08 Aligning Marketing with Goals and Resources
22:24 Simplifying Marketing for Success
Related Episodes:
#54 Connecting Through Stories For Business and Non-Profits with Jeremiah Tittle and Vivian Kvam
#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:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
Welcome to the first episode of our Marketing Mindset Shifts for Entrepreneurs series! If you've ever thought, “I’m not a marketer”, think again. In today’s episode, Vivian Kvam is flipping that belief on its head. You’re already a marketing expert—you just don’t know it yet!
Marketing isn’t about complicated strategies, algorithms, or fancy ads. At its core, marketing is storytelling, and you tell stories every day—whether it’s recommending a restaurant, convincing your kids to eat veggies, or sharing your latest great find with a friend.
By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with:
✅ A new perspective on marketing that makes it feel natural and effortless
✅ Real-life examples of how you’re already using marketing skills in your daily life
✅ A FREE resource to help you uncover your most powerful business stories!
📌 Grab your free download here: thetandemworks.com/promptyourstory.
Next Episode:
We’ll tackle Marketing Mindset Shift #2, another powerful shift that will change how you approach marketing. Don’t miss it!
👉 If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Tag me on Facebook or LinkedIn, or shoot me an email. Let’s keep the conversation going!
🔔 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
01:19 Reframing Marketing as Storytelling
05:39 Recognizing Your Natural Marketing Skills
12:44 Finding and Crafting Your Business Stories
16:05 Conclusion and Next Steps
Related Episodes:
#54 Connecting Through Stories For Business and Non-Profits with Jeremiah Tittle and Vivian Kvam
#62 8 Game-changing mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to make for business success
#26 Mastering the Art of Brainstorming: Fueling Small Business Growth
#18 Overcoming fear and betting on yourself - a candid conversation with Marianne Chance
Vivian Kvam:
Tandem Works Team:
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: [email protected]
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