We had the good fortune of connecting with Tatiana Yagecic and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tatiana, how do you think about risk?
I’ve always approached risk with a mix of caution and curiosity. Whether it was making the life-altering decision to move from Slovakia to the U.S. or responding to a random message on MySpace that led to meeting my now-husband, my life has really been an adventure. Meeting my fearless husband marked a shift in my approach to risk-taking—I’m much more open to different opportunities now, while still considering every angle before diving into them.
On the professional front, saying “Yes” to the challenge of stepping into the world of business brokerage with Best Business Brokers was a game-changer. It was a risk, no doubt, given my limited knowledge of the industry, but curiosity and a hunger for learning paid off. I went from a newbie to the Chief Operating Officer of the company, and that’s a journey I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Joining the unfamiliar team at Best Business Brokers meant adapting to a different company culture. Leveraging my marketing and tech expertise helped me find my place. Sure, there were challenges, but learning from the seasoned team was crucial. Mistakes were made, lessons were learned, and today, we’re a well-blended team using technology to our advantage, all while leveraging tons of experience in the field to help our clients achieve their goals.
So, how do I decide when to take a risk? It’s a balancing act—weighing potential growth, learning opportunities, and considering the bigger picture. Transitioning from a Marketing Manager to a Business Broker was another leap of faith. Limited experience, but a ton of knowledge—I discovered a passion for making a real impact for our clients, communities, and the company.
Right now, I’m navigating uncharted waters with the Business Exit Guide—a passion project focused on educating business owners on maximizing their business value before selling. It’s been a challenging but incredibly rewarding task, driven by the belief that this initiative has the potential to make a substantial difference for business owners beyond our local community.
In essence, my professional and personal journey is marked by calculated risks—some paid off, others taught me invaluable lessons. It’s a delicate dance between seizing opportunities and learning from unexpected hurdles, making the journey truly rewarding.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career journey kicked off in Slovakia, where my dad’s restaurant became my initial playground. From washing dishes to managing, each role taught me something new. The decision to study hospitality during college in the U.S. was a no-brainer. After earning my associate’s degree in Jacksonville, the move to Charlotte with Andy followed to study at Johnson & Wales University, well know for their Hospitality program.
Navigating student visa restrictions, I found myself providing technical support in the university auditorium, assisting renowned chefs like Alton Brown and Paula Deen. While exploring career options during my last year at JWU, private clubs caught my attention—they went above and beyond to exceed expectations and provide exceptional service. Right after an unforgettable wedding and graduation, I secured a club management internship at Charlotte Country Club, unveiling the true power of Southern hospitality.
Following the internship I became a Front-of-the-house Supervisor, running extravagant events and dining rooms. After three years at the club I was ready to take on motherhood and took a career break to take care of Max and Maggie
A few moves later, fast forward to a pivotal moment in Charleston, where the need for a flexible job met the opportunity at Best Business Brokers. Saying “yes” to a role beyond my comfort zone became a transformative journey—from Marketing Manager to Business Broker to COO in just two years. Though it’s a different arena from my hospitality roots, supporting business owners in the food and beverage industry from a fresh perspective is equally rewarding.
The most fulfilling aspect? Dedicating time to educating business owners on maximizing the value of their ventures before selling is a passion project I’m deeply invested in. The world should know that, no matter the role, I’m dedicated to giving my all, streamlining processes, and making a positive impact on people’s lives. As The Cashout Concierge, my brand is all about sharing insights beyond our local community, ensuring that knowledge is a valuable currency for business owners everywhere.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m always excited to show off the beauty of Charleston to visitors; it’s the very reason we fell head over heels for this city and decided to call it home. A week is merely a snapshot of what Charleston has to offer, but I’d aim to make each moment memorable.
Starting in the historic downtown, we’d take a stroll through the Battery, soaking in the hues of Rainbow Row, and taking in the vibes at the Pineapple Fountain, Waterfront Park, King Street, and the Market. When it comes to food, choices like Edmund’s Oast, The Ordinary, Church and Union, SNOB, or Lenoir are sure to satisfy those Charleston flavor cravings. And for the sweet tooth cravings, Kaminsky’s is the go-to spot for mouthwatering desserts.
No visit to Charleston is complete without a beach day. Whether it’s Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island, you’re in for that laid-back coastal feel. Cap it off with a delightful meal at Obstinate Daughter – a personal favorite.
For a family-friendly day, a walk on the Ravenel Bridge or at Palmetto Island County Park is a must – perfect for soaking in that Southern charm and sunshine.
Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is another hidden gem. If you’re looking for a great meal with the backdrop of fishing boats and the water, Tavern and Table is the spot.
Charleston boasts a blend of history, incredible food, and natural beauty – a perfect recipe for a memorable visit. Sharing these spots is always a blast, and the beauty of it is, there’s always more to explore.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Hat’s off to my rock and husband, Andy. His unwavering support has been the bedrock of both my professional and personal victories. Whether it’s popping the champagne for successes or providing a much-needed space for venting during tough times, he’s not just a life partner but a true teammate in every sense.
Beyond the twists and turns our shared experiences, Andy is a phenomenal salesman, creating a fantastic life for our family. His journey, marked by triumphs and trials, speaks volumes about his resilience. No matter the highs and lows, he’s always there for me and our kids.
We’ve embarked on a whirlwind of adventures while moving through 4 different time zones within the span of 4 years: from Oklahoma to Slovakia, Denver, and Charleston. I still remember when the pandemic started, and I had just landed a new job. He took on the role of not just a supportive partner but also a kindergarten teacher for Max, making time in lockdown at home in Denver enjoyable and memorable for the kids.
Actively involved in every aspect of our kid’s lives, his presence is a stabilizing force for all of us. Imagining this intricate dance of life without his unwavering support is simply unfathomable.
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Image Credits
Canva, Foxworthy Studios, Raegan Price Photography