Join Steve Van Diest, co-host of the Sharpen Podcast by Acumen, as he invites his wife, Christine Van Diest, to share about the unique challenges and rewards of being married to an entrepreneur! Christine, a business owner herself, shares her invaluable perspective and experiences from their 31-year journey together.

Christine discusses the emotional and logistical hurdles of supporting an entrepreneurial spouse, especially during the early years of business startups. She offers practical advice on maintaining a balanced family life, effective communication, and the importance of personal growth for both partners.

This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurial couples seeking to thrive both in business and in their personal lives. Tune in for heartfelt insights and actionable tips to navigate the complexities of marriage and entrepreneurship.

 

 

Episode Summary

0:03 - 0:30: Steve Van Diest, Co-host of Acumen's Sharpen Podcast, introduces his guest (his wife, Christine) and their topic: the experience of being married to an entrepreneur.

0:30 - 0:38: Christine's background: Wife, mom of four, wellness coach focusing on nutrition and fitness.

0:38 - 1:13: Discussion on Christine's unique perspective on being married to an entrepreneur, mention of future podcast episode with a married couple who co-founded a company.

1:13 - 2:30: Christine shares her experience of transitioning from nonprofit work to supporting her husband in starting a business, the challenges of adjusting to a new rhythm, and her journey into CrossFit coaching.

2:30 - 4:03: Emotional and practical challenges of being married to an entrepreneur, including feeling like a single parent and financial strain during the 2008 economic crisis.

4:03 - 4:54: Importance of clear communication and setting financial expectations to avoid bitterness and resentment.

4:54 - 5:47: Positive changes as the business grew, including improved work-life balance and recalibrating roles and expectations.

5:47 - 6:35: Advice for entrepreneurs on maintaining intimacy and communication with their spouse, and ensuring the spouse feels included and valued.

6:35 - 7:52: Practical tips for keeping the relationship strong, including regular check-ins, date nights, and time together without discussing business.

7:52 - 9:12: Importance of not letting financial constraints prevent quality time together and investing in the spouse's personal development and community.

9:12 - 10:12: Role of faith and prayer in managing stress and maintaining a strong relationship.

10:12 - 11:01: Emphasis on treating the spouse as a partner in the business and including them in key conversations and decisions.

11:01 - 12:03: Practical advice for entrepreneurs to ensure their spouse has time and opportunities for personal growth and rest.

12:03 - 12:44: Importance of community and support for the spouse, whether they work at home or have another job.

12:44 - 14:15: Encouraging the spouse to find their own community and interests, and the positive impact of personal coaching and support.

14:15 - 16:02: Final advice for business owners to include their spouse in the journey, manage stress levels, and communicate effectively to avoid misunderstandings and resentment.

16:02 - 18:21: Christine's insights on personal development, community, and maintaining holistic well-being.

18:21 - 19:00: Steve's closing remarks on the importance of supporting and valuing the spouse, and Christine's contact information for those interested in wellness coaching: she can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and Linkedin.

19:00 - 19:50: Promotion of Acumen and its offerings, including events and resources for business owners.

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