#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.

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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

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#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

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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam

A podcast from Tandem Works

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What is Riding Tandem?

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.