How do married entrepreneurs build a successful business and a successful marriage?
In this revealing episode, host Nicole Jansen dives deep with Robert and Kay Lee Fukui, founders of i61 inc. Their unique business approach aids married entrepreneurs in achieving a harmonious work-life balance by efficiently structuring their businesses while working on important relationship dynamics. The episode unpacks their journey, strategies, and the critical role of communication in both business and marriage. Robert and Kay Lee are co-authors of Tandem: The Married Entrepreneurs' Guide for Greater Work-Life Balance, a must-read for entrepreneurs navigating this twin challenge.
Join us as Robert and Kay Lee share powerful insights on improving business efficiency, fostering intimacy through daily practices, and the importance of creating a "safe space" for open communication. This episode also explores mindset shifts, role understanding, and the delicate balance of personal and professional relationships.
What We Discuss in this Episode
- How did you transition from corporate roles to founding i61 inc?
- What inspired you to target married entrepreneurs specifically?
- How does your daily prayer practice impact your work-life balance?
- Can you explain the concept of a “safe space” in communication?
- What are effective strategies for role allocation and delegation in a business partnership?
- How do you manage the challenges of separating business and personal life?
- Why do you discourage compromise in relationships, and what’s your alternative?
- How does mindset influence an entrepreneur’s ability to delegate and grow?
- What is the "80/20 rule" in the context of maintaining efficient business operations?
- What free resources do you offer to help married entrepreneurs achieve balance?
Podcast Highlights
0:00 - Introduction to married entrepreneurship.
6:22 - Midlife questioning: corporate ladder or new business?
7:19 - Relationships impacted business and personal life dynamics.
10:47 - Optimize time for effective solopreneur productivity.
15:12 - Embrace change for growth; foster constructive communication.
18:18 - Conflict created anxiety before implementing communication plan.
21:47 - Balancing marriage and business partnership dynamics.
22:58 - Understand strengths, set proactive deadlines collaboratively.
27:43 - Opposites attract, important to know roles.
29:38 - Understand situations; don't take things personally.
34:11 - Marriage isn't about compromise; it's finding the best solutions.
36:39 - Set foundation, delegate tasks, hire, increase profits.
39:32 - Take transformative action; prioritize meaningful connection.
Favorite Quotes
"Time is our most valuable resource. It's crucial to focus on productive activities rather than just putting in more hours." – Robert Fukui
"Never compromise in your relationship. Aim for the best decision that benefits both partners equally." – Kay Lee Fukui
"Entrepreneurs need to shift from a survival mindset to an executive mindset to truly grow their businesses." – Robert Fukui
Episode Resources and Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/519-how-to-thrive-as-a-married-entrepreneur-with-robert-and-kay-lee-fukui
Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com
________
📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast
👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media
▶︎ YOUTUBE
▶︎ X/TWITTER