Ep. 235 - Inconvenient Entrepreneurs: How Not To Start A Business with Robbie and Nicole Harper

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What happens when a career shake-up, a calling to entrepreneurship, and a surprise pregnancy all collide at once? In this episode, Robert sits down with Robbie and Nicole Harper—co-founders of Blue Ridge PR—to talk about what it really looks like to build a business while protecting your marriage and family. Robbie shares how leaving an unhealthy work situation became the catalyst for launching their PR firm, while Nicole reflects on the early season of keeping the “home fires burning” so the business could get off the ground.

You’ll hear how they navigated financial uncertainty, parenting stress, and the emotional ups and downs that come with entrepreneurship—especially when one spouse processes internally and the other needs to talk it out. Their secret? Honest communication, giving each other space to process, and learning how to “carry the baton” when the other spouse is spiraling. They even share practical tools they use in real life (including one surprising app that helps them process emotions and stay connected).

The Harpers also unpack what it takes to protect your relationship long-term—especially as kids grow up and empty nest seasons approach. From beach walks and “broke date nights” to ice cream runs and dog walks, they remind us that connection doesn’t require a big budget—just intentionality. If you’re a married entrepreneur trying to build something meaningful without losing each other in the process, this conversation will feel like a deep breath and a roadmap.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t let life stack up without a pause. Regularly audit what’s working and what’s adding unnecessary stress.

• Start-up seasons are intense—support is everything. A spouse being genuinely “on board” can be the difference between breaking and building.

• Communication is the real safety net. When money is tight or clients are slow to pay, staying connected keeps fear from taking over.

• Only one meltdown at a time is a win. Learn how to stabilize each other when one spouse is spiraling.

• Give each other space to process differently. Some need silence and a walk; others need to talk it out to find clarity.

• Connection doesn’t need to be fancy. Ice cream runs, dog walks, beach subs—small moments can be the most impactful.

• Protect the marriage before the empty nest arrives. Keep investing now so you don’t wake up later wondering, “Who are you?”

• Intertwined lives require extra intentionality. When work, church, and family overlap, boundaries and check-ins matter even more.

Bio:

Robbie Harper, MBA, and Nicole Harper are the co-founders of Blue Bridge PR, a public relations firm focused on building reputation for faith-driven and values-based organizations. Robbie serves on the boards of both the U.S. Christian Chamber of Commerce and the Central Florida Christian Chamber of Commerce. Nicole is also the Children’s Minister at Stetson Baptist Church. They live in DeLand, Florida, with their three children. Connect with them at https://www.bluebridgepr.com.