Hosts: Brian Poppe and Shonna Dorsey Guest: Karen Borchert, Founder of Alpaca Tune in for an inspiring discussion with special guest Karen Borchert, founder of Alpaca, on innovation in education, the importance of valuing teachers, and the role of community support in educational progress. Learn more about Karen's compelling vision behind Alpaca: to elevate the teaching profession by creating support and recognition systems that are similar to those in the tech industry.

Stemming from her belief in "paying teachers like software developers," Karen explores how this concept can reshape the educational landscape. In this episode, Karen shares a bit about her experience in technology operations and her transition to entrepreneurship, driven by a deep respect for educators. The conversation covers the launch of Alpaca and its mission to provide teachers with the recognition and support they deserve.

Listeners will hear about Alpaca's initial pilot at Karen's children's school, its expansion to thousands of teachers across multiple states, and the tailored solutions they offer for diverse school districts. The episode also features the unique story of how team member Marina Erickson (last week's TEN podcast guest!) joined Alpaca and the importance of a joyful team culture in driving the company's mission.

Get involved and support Alpaca's mission by sharing introductions to the Alpaca team to schools and districts in your area - learn more at www.alpacapacks.com.

Hosts: Todd Murphy and Shonna Dorsey Description: In this engaging, bite-sized episode of the "Personal Brand Equity" subseries, part of the "TEN" podcast, hosts Todd Murphy and Shonna Dorsey expand on the topic in episode 1 "Don't Fight Human Nature" by diving into "Knowing Yourself". Use the tips in these episodes to play a part in growing Nebraska's profile. In this episode,

Todd and Shonna discuss how self-awareness and authenticity are essential in building a brand that truly represents you. Whether you're seeking a job, aiming to advance in your career, or just striving to thrive in your current role, understanding and embracing your unique qualities is key. The episode offers practical advice on projecting a genuine image both in-person and online, emphasizing the importance of first impressions and consistent engagement. From mastering LinkedIn to effective networking strategies, Todd and Shonna provide easy takeaways for enhancing your personal brand.

Listen as they share insights on leveraging soft skills, the art of conversation, and the power of asking questions. Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, their tips will help you make genuine connections and leave a lasting impression.

Don't miss this episode's interactive element - engage with the hosts by commenting on the podcast and participate in a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card this holiday season. Drawing date: December 15, 2023!

Thank you to Marina Erickson for agreeing to join us for an unplanned recording of the TEN podcast! Marina is employee #3 at Alpaca, a trailblazing company in the educational support space. Discover how Alpaca is revolutionizing access to resources for educators and the inspiring journey that led Marina to this innovative company!

Highlights:

• Alpaca’s Educational Impact: Brief insight into how Alpaca empowers educators with unique resources and celebratory initiatives.
• Marina's Unexpected Path: Marina shares her unexpected yet rewarding journey to Alpaca, emphasizing the power of community connections.
• The Value of Customer Service Experience: The foundational role of customer service in professional growth.

Learn more: www.alpacapacks.com

Tune in for a genuine, unedited conversation that's as enlightening as it is entertaining, and equip yourself with practical steps to swim with bigger fish in your professional pond.

In this episode, Todd and Shonna discuss the importance of challenging oneself by interacting with more experienced peers and mentors - growth comes from surrounding yourself with those who can teach and inspire you.

Shonna and Todd provide real-life examples and strategies, such as the benefits of the 80/20 rule and overcoming the hurdles of perfectionism. The episode includes relatable stories, including journeys in community building, the concept of brand building through association, and the importance of active participation in professional circles. Whether you're an upcoming entrepreneur, a student, or a tech professional seeking to enhance your presence in your field, this episode is full of actionable insights.

In this episode Todd Murphy and Shonna Dorsey discuss the role of credibility in establishing a powerful personal brand. They emphasize authenticity and the importance of mentorship.

Key Points:

1. Credibility as Essential
2. Authenticity Over 'Faking It'
3. Importance of Delivering on Promises
4. Mentorship for Skill & Credibility Development

Listener Takeaways: Gain practical tips on building a credible personal brand and learn about the impact of authenticity and mentorship in professional growth. Also, follow along on LinkedIn for an opportunity to win a $100 Amazon gift card sponsored by Truescope.

In this episode of TEN, we visit with Laurel Oetken, the Founding Executive Director of Tech Nebraska. As the leader of Tech Nebraska, Laurel is at the helm of Nebraska's Tech Trade Association, focusing on critical tech policy issues.

Join us to hear about Laurel's journey from aspiring broadcast journalist to her role at Tech Nebraska including their role in advocating for tech advancement and policy reform in Nebraska.

Listeners will also learn more about the Inaugural Tech Nebraska Summit, happening on November 28th. This event will feature local and national tech leaders, including a keynote speaker from Google. It's an unmissable opportunity for those looking to engage with the forefront of tech policy and innovation.

To participate in this event and connect with tech professionals, make sure to register for the Tech Nebraska Summit. Also, follow Tech Nebraska on LinkedIn for updates and insights. Tune in now for a preview of what's to come at the summit!

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On this episode of TEN, Brian and Shonna chat with Joy Doll, a healthcare professional who is passionate about improving the way technology is used in healthcare. Doll discusses the importance of interoperability, the challenges of extracting data from electronic health records, and the role of artificial intelligence in the future of healthcare. She also emphasizes the need for a team approach to healthcare, with different experts working together to improve care and make life better for patients.

In this episode, we discuss how to build your personal brand equity without fighting your own human nature starting with understanding your personality and communication style. If you're an introvert, don't force yourself to be an extrovert. Instead, find ways to connect with people in a way that feels comfortable for you.

We also discuss the importance of being authentic and genuine in your interactions with others - let your personality shine through.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand your own personality and communication style.
• Find ways to connect with people in a way that feels comfortable for you.
• Attend events and post about them on social media.
• Share and give credit to other people's content.
• Be authentic and genuine in your interactions with others.

Join us as Dorothy Johnson, North Omaha, Nebraska native and VP of Diversity and Inclusion at gener8tor, dives into the important role of diversity and inclusion in Nebraska's startups. Learn how inclusivity fuels innovation and the steps to building a culture of excellence for all.

Discover Zach Oshinbanjo's startup story, from founding Vetelligence to his growth through his experience with Lincoln, NE based NMotion by Gener8tor. Dive into a tale of innovation and community support on his entrepreneurial journey.