We recently connected with Tamara Burkett and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Tamara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Early in your career, how did you think through the decision of whether to start your own firm or join an established firm?

Once upon a less-than-glamorous time, I found myself standing at a career crossroads. Picture this: a layoff notice in one hand, an uncertain job market ahead, and a heart yearning for something more fulfilling. It was like being at the world’s worst buffet – limited options and nothing particularly appetizing. So, what’s a soon-to-be-former employee to do? Dive back into the sea of job listings, hoping to catch a role that wouldn’t have me watching the clock? Or take a leap into the great unknown of entrepreneurship? Spoiler alert: I chose the latter.
Starting my own marketing firm wasn’t just a bold move but a necessity. I was craving a narrative change – a story where I wasn’t just a character but the author.
I title the first chapter of my entrepreneurial life “The Struggle.” Imagine trying to climb Mount Everest, but instead of snow, it’s mindset work, networking, and building discipline. I had to learn how to make money without a regular paycheck ( I don’t need to tell you how terrifying that was). But, just like any intrepid explorer, I adapted. I developed routines, shifted my mindset, and even enjoyed the taste of beet juice ( That was short-lived!).
Confidence? That was the trickiest part. It’s one thing to believe in something or someone other than yourself; it’s another to speak highly of yourself especially when your business is as young as a newborn fawn on wobbly legs.
Fast forward through the montage of late nights, early mornings, and an unhealthy amount of screen time, and you’ll find me here. Standing more confident, prepared for uncertainty, and able to navigate the business world with the agility of an alley cat (think scrappy attitude, less Cats the Musical).
Was it the right choice? Absolutely. It’s like making your own pie crust instead of buying it – a bit more effort, but infinitely more rewarding. I’ve climbed Everest and planted my flag, and now I help others find their voice in the podcast wilderness. And the best part? No more worrying about layoffs. I can make a living from my talents and abilities without having an employer. This brings me immense confidence and satisfaction.
Ultimately, this journey wasn’t just about starting a business but discovering my potential, one podcast at a time. And let me tell you, it’s been one heck of a ride – with far better views than any office cubicle could offer.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Initially, my business was all about CRM selection and implementation. I quickly learned that this process is like solving a puzzle with a thousand moving pieces of the same color. For many, especially solopreneurs, dedicating time to building robust CRM systems is daunting. But, as they say, necessity is the mother of invention. My evolution began when a client expressed interest in podcasting. I dove headfirst into the podcasting world, helping them from ideation to launch. It was like discovering a hidden passion for painting; I was hooked. However, like any great saga, there were challenges. Vendor changes were frequent, and by the third season, I faced a decision: find yet another vendor or take the reins myself. I chose the latter, and what a revelation it was! It wasn’t long before most of my business came from managing podcasts. That’s when I realized I should stake my claim and tell the world. So, I pivoted my business, focusing on podcast management and content repurposing.

What I enjoy the most about podcast management is the creative process of telling the same story in several ways or creating new stories from existing content. To have effective marketing, you need a simple method to produce content consistently and a method to process and distribute content. A podcast is a content flywheel you can repurpose into 3 media formats. It’s not just recycling old material; it’s about giving it a new life, ensuring it’s in my clients’ voice and resonates with their audience. Think of it as a chef creating a gourmet dish from leftovers – the same ingredients, an entirely new experience. It’s fun co-creating with my clients and observing the results of our efforts. My services are well-suited for those who podcast to market their business and are looking to outsource the production and promotion.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The answer is simple yet profound: customer retention. It’s not just about clinching deals; it’s about nurturing and maintaining those relationships over time. This approach is epitomized by my bond with one of my earliest clients, with whom I’ve collaborated for over five years. This longevity is a testament to business endurance and reflects a more profound personal commitment. I often describe my relationship with clients as a marriage of sorts – once we commit, we’re in it for the long haul. This philosophy extends beyond professional interactions; it’s about forging lasting friendships and building a community.
Some might view this approach as old-fashioned or unconventional in today’s fast-paced, profit-driven business landscape. However, for me and my team, it’s the cornerstone of our success. Our motivation stems from cultivating meaningful relationships, not just chasing financial gains. This ethos resonates with my clients, who appreciate the genuine care and investment in their success.
My business thrives because we prioritize people over profits, forming bonds that go beyond transactions. It’s a strategy that has fueled our growth and enriched our professional journey with invaluable connections and experiences.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

The most pivotal lesson was unlearning the instinct to follow the crowd. Initially, I mimicked the popular marketing trends, believing this was the blueprint for success. However, I soon realized this approach was like running on a hamster wheel, going nowhere fast. The real challenge was finding answers and discerning when to adopt prevailing wisdom and when to forge my own path. This revelation hit home as I observed a striking contrast in the entrepreneurial landscape: some of the most successful individuals were scarcely visible online, while others with vibrant online personas struggled behind the scenes. It became clear that success isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula; it’s about finding a path that aligns with your unique strengths and values. This journey of unlearning has taught me the essence of authenticity and the courage to create a niche in a world that often prizes conformity. It’s a lesson that continues to guide my entrepreneurial spirit, steering me towards a path that truly reflects who I am and what I stand for.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.TamaraBurkett.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamaraburkett1/

Image Credits
photos by Stacy Kaat