Bob Theuring on Why Businesses Succeed by Taking Action

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Bob Theuring, a business coach and the founder of Tandem Innovations, where he helps people improve their businesses and lives. We decide to pick a topic and discuss it for ten minutes, something useful for entrepreneurs.

I’ve noticed that that companies used to invest more in leadership training, but Bob points out that now many rely on online resources. While learning opportunities are widely available, I notice that some people spend so much time preparing and researching that they never take action. Bob relates to this and explains that, like learning to ride a bike, people must eventually stop researching and start doing.

I recall how I learned to ride a bike—not through research, but through trial and error. My dad tried to help, but I was stubborn and wanted to prove I could do it myself. Bob points out that this is how real learning happens.

Music is another example. People want to pick up a guitar and play like Jimi Hendrix overnight, but even professional musicians spend years practicing. Bob mentions his brother, a musician who spent countless hours playing. The hard work behind success is often hidden from public view. Even social media and YouTube only show curated versions of reality.

Bob brings up the concept of Deep Work, a term from Cal Newport’s book, which emphasizes focused, meaningful practice. He references Steve Martin’s advice to be so good that people can’t ignore you.

As we wrap up, I ask how this applies to business. Bob stresses the importance of action. Instead of just planning, people should take concrete steps. If someone wants to grow their business, they should start making calls rather than just reading about how to do it.
Every situation is different, but the key is taking steps forward.