Starting a business gets talked about a lot. What gets talked about less is what it actually feels like when the safety net disappears.
In Episode 5 of the JRNY Podcast, Tegan Larkins from Talent Mining shares a refreshingly honest look at the early stages of entrepreneurship — the uncertainty, the pressure, the mistakes, the speed, and the mindset it takes to keep going.
After spending 11 years in the mining industry, Tegan made the decision to step away from the corporate world and build something for herself. On paper, that sounds exciting. In reality, it meant starting again, learning on the run, making decisions fast, and carrying the mental load that comes with trying to grow a business while raising a family.
You Don't Know What You Don't Know
One of the biggest themes in this episode is the idea that you do not know what you do not know until you are in it.
Tegan talks through the real side of business ownership — learning the cost of everything, understanding risk, figuring out pricing, hiring people, managing clients, and realising that relationships only go so far until you prove yourself in the market. It is a grounded reminder that experience helps, but once you go out on your own, you are back in the beginner seat.
Attitude is Everything
What stands out most is her attitude.
She is not pretending the journey is polished. She is honest about being fast-moving, learning by doing, making calls before everything is perfect, and discovering where stronger systems and support are needed. She also speaks openly about why passion matters — because when the hard days come, and they always do, passion is often what gets you through.
"The conversation also touches on a critical lesson for business owners: you do not need to know everything. In fact, one of Tegan’s strengths is recognising the value of bringing in good people, trusting specialists, and building around the right support."
A Real Look at Entrepreneurship
There is a lot in this episode for founders, operators, and anyone thinking about making the jump into business. It is not a glamorised version of entrepreneurship. It is a real one.
And that is exactly why it is worth your time.
If you’re building, pivoting, or thinking about taking the leap, Episode 5 of the JRNY Podcast is a must-listen.