EPISODES

Episode 21: Nash Mahupete Welcome to Episode 21 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, LaShonna Dorsey chats with Nash Mahupete, CEO of QLI, about how internships are shaping the future workforce and why companies should prioritize nurturing young talent. QLI has long been a champion of internships, offering rotational programs in healthcare, therapy, and psychology. Many former interns have gone on to build full-time careers at the company, reinforcing the value of early career development. From mentorship and leadership development to creating a company culture that keeps talent engaged, Nash provides actionable insights for both students and employers looking to make an impact. 💡 "When you give people that opportunity, you will be in so many ways investing in not only the landscape of your organization, but our community at large." On the pod: 🎙️ Host: LaShonna Dorsey, Executive Director, internNE, Powered by Aksarben 💼 Guest: Nash Mahupete, CEO, QLI

Episode 19: Emily Krupicka Welcome to Episode 19 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, LaShonna Dorsey chats with Emily Krupicka, a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who has completed nine internships. Emily shares how internships helped her explore different career paths, build confidence, and find the right fit for her future. From overcoming imposter syndrome to making the most of mentorship opportunities, Emily's journey is full of valuable insights for students navigating internships. She also shares why curiosity and asking questions are the keys to standing out and making a lasting impression as an intern. "Being curious and always wanting to learn something new makes all the difference." On the pod: Host: LaShonna Dorsey, Executive Director, internNE, Powered by Aksarben Guest: Emily Krupicka, UNL Junior and Internship Pro Ready to take the next step in your career? Start exploring Nebraska-based internships today! 🔗 https://internNE-csm.symplicity.com/

Episode 20: Bo Jones Welcome to Episode 20 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, LaShonna Dorsey chats with Bo Jones, Founder of CareerPathway.com, about the future of career exploration and how students can connect with businesses in meaningful ways. Bo shares how CareerPathway.com is transforming career discovery by giving students real, unfiltered access to workplaces, allowing them to explore different industries before committing to a career path. From rethinking job fairs to leveraging digital platforms for career exploration, Bo's insights offer practical strategies for both students and businesses looking to bridge the gap between education and employment. On the pod: Host: LaShonna Dorsey, Executive Director, internNE, Powered by Aksarben Guest: Bo Jones, Founder, CareerPathway.com

Episode 18: Cecilia Beckenbauer Welcome to Episode 18 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we're joined by Cecilia Beckenbauer, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in Business Management, Entrepreneurship, and Computer Science. She is the founder of Connect with Tech, a growing initiative aimed at increasing accessibility to STEM resources and opportunities for students across Nebraska. Throughout the episode, Cecilia shares her journey in STEM, her experience as a student leader, and her work to spark interest in technology among younger students through competitions, summer camps, and discovery events. She also discusses the importance of early internships, how hands-on experiences shape career paths, and her vision for expanding Connect with Tech to make a statewide impact. Cecilia is also a nominee for the 2025 Rising Star of the Year Award! Nominees and awardees will be recognized at the upcoming Nebraska Women in Tech Summit, which will be held on March 7 at Kiewit La Vista. Learn more at https://aksarben.org/women-in-tech-summit/awards . On the Pod! Host: Shonna Dorsey, Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben Guest: Cecilia Beckenbauer, Founder of Connect with Tech Learn more about internNE, Powered by Aksarben athttps://internNEB.org.

Episode 17: Melissa Westbrook Welcome to Episode 17 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, LaShonna Dorsey chats with Melissa Westbrook, Associate Director of Member Learning and Engagement at Mentor Nebraska. Melissa shares her passion for mentoring, the incredible work of Mentor Nebraska in empowering mentoring organizations statewide, and how mentorship creates life-changing impacts for young people. From tips on becoming a great mentor to the importance of employer support for mentorship programs, Melissa offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference, whether through mentoring in your community or your workplace. On the pod: Host: LaShonna Dorsey, Executive Director, internNE, Powered by Aksarben Guest: Melissa Westbrook, Associate Director of Member Learning and Engagement, Mentor Nebraska Ready to get involved? Visit https://mentornebraska.org/ to explore mentoring opportunities today!

Episode 16: Alexis Sherman Welcome to Episode 16 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we're joined by Alexis Sherman, the Assistant Dean of Student Success at UNO's College of Information Science and Technology. Throughout the episode, Alexis shares the crucial role her position plays in helping shape the future of college students through her guidance. She also shares about the different programs the college has started and how they're working with employers to help prepare students for the future. On the Pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Guest, Alexis Sherman: Assistant Dean of Student Success at UNO's College of Information Science and Technology

Episode 15: Jay-Boi Robinson Welcome to Episode 15 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we're joined by Jay-Boi Robinson, who runs Jay-Boi Production & Youth Development (JYPD), a non-profit based in Omaha that serves underprivileged youth by nurturing their artistic passions and potential. Throughout the episode, Jay-Boi shares his journey growing up, his entrepreneurial experience, making it in the music industry, and now his work to help shape the futures of young people who are in nontraditional paths through JYPD. On the Pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Guest, Jay-Boi Robinson: CEO and Founder of JYPD

Episode 14: Kaylie Hogan-Schnittker Welcome to Episode 14 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by Kaylie Hogan-Schnittker, the Director of Talent Strategy at Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development. Kaylie shares her insights on retaining and engaging Nebraska’s emerging talent. She highlights strategies to build a stronger workforce, from networking opportunities to professional development. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Guest, Kaylie Hogan-Schnittker: Director of Talent Strategy at Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development

Episode 13: Andrew Prystai Welcome to Episode 13 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we're joined by Andrew Prystai, CEO and co-founder of Vesta, an innovative platform connecting users with events across 200 cities. Andrew dives into his journey as an entrepreneur, sharing insights on building Vesta, his experience in Omaha's startup ecosystem, and how community events foster essential connections for founders and interns alike. Throughout the episode, co-host and former Vesta intern Justin Krug highlights the power of a proactive approach in internships and how bias for action makes a difference in startup culture. Andrew discusses Vesta's plans to hire another intern this fall, providing exciting sales enablement and analytics opportunities. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Co-host, Justin Krug: Account Executive at Workshop, Founding Organizer of Nebraska Startup Job Mixer Guest, Andrew Prystai: CEO and Co-founder of Vesta

Episode 12: Elliott Cain In this episode, we’re joined by Elliott Cain, Program Coordinator for Registered Apprenticeships with the Nebraska Department of Labor. Elliott discusses the importance of apprenticeships in building a skilled workforce and highlights how these programs provide young professionals with hands-on training and career development opportunities. He also shares the benefits apprenticeships bring to businesses, including building a strong talent pipeline and creating lasting career pathways. Learn how Nebraska expands apprenticeship opportunities and hear about upcoming events, like the Youth Apprenticeship Summit! On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Guest, Elliott Cain: Program Coordinator for Registered Apprenticeships with the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Episode 11: Merrick Brtek In this episode, we’re joined by Merrick Brtek, Director of Young Professionals and Talent Development Programs at the Greater Omaha Chamber. Merrick shares her journey from operations management to working with young professionals, as well as how the Chamber supports businesses in attracting, retaining, & developing Young talent. Tune in to hear how Merrick is helping to foster community and connection for young professionals across Omaha and beyond, along with insights on upcoming events designed to help young talent thrive! On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Guest, Merrick Brtek: Director of Young Professionals and Talent Development Programs at the Greater Omaha Chamber

Episode 10: DeMoine Adams In this episode, we are joined by DeMoine Adams, CEO of TeamMates Mentoring Program. Adams explores the transformative power of mentorship and internships in shaping future leaders. He discusses breaking cycles, empowering young people, and building crucial skills like leadership, character, and communication. With insights on connecting businesses and communities, the podcast highlights how real-world experiences and mentorship open doors, elevate lives and create lasting impact across Nebraska. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Cohost, Justin Krug: Account Executive at Workshop, Founding Organizer of Nebraska Startup Job Mixer  -Guest, DeMoine Adams: CEO of TeamMates Mentoring Program and program partner for internNE, Powered by Aksarben

Episode 9: Savannah High Welcome to Episode 9 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by Savannah High, the Technology Employment Specialist at Persevere. Savannah also leads the Omaha Re-entry Task Force and is a member of the Nebraska Women in STEM and Women in Technology in the Heartland (WiTH). Tune in and hear all the fantastic things she is doing in Nebraska. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Cohost, Justin Krug: Account Executive at Workshop, Founding Organizer of Nebraska Startup Job Mixer -Guest, Savannah High: Technology Employment Specialist at Persevere

Episode 8: Tony Aguilera Welcome to Episode 8 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by Tony Aguilera, the Community Outreach Manager at Cinco de Mayo Omaha. Tony discusses the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation, which has awarded over $335,000 to Latino students from the greater Omaha area since 2005. Learn about their 14th Annual BSF Golf Tournament and their 2025 goal to double scholarship awards, granting 30 scholarships totaling $105,000. Tune in and see how you can contribute to our community! On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Cohost, Brian Poppe: Executive Leader at Mutual of Omaha -Guest, Tony Aguilera: Community Outreach Manager at Cinco de Mayo Omaha

Episode 7: Will Anderson Welcome to Episode 7 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by Will Anderson, a Software Engineer Intern at Workshop. Will discusses his college career and internship experience, offering insights on navigating and preparing for a career. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben and the Nebraska Tech Collaborative. -Cohost, Justin Krug: Account Executive at Workshop, Founding Organizer of Nebraska Startup Job Mixers -Guest, Will Anderson: Software Engineer Intern at Workshop

Episode 6: Wolow Gatluak & Treyson Russell Welcome to Episode 6 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by two Rabble Mill interns, Wolow Gatluak & Treyson Russell. The Booey Boys talk about their experience with Rabble Mill’s skill and career accelerator program and marketing internship experiences. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben and the Nebraska Tech Collaborative. -Guests, Wolow Gatluak & Treyson Russell

Episode 5: Dillon De Rozairo Welcome to Episode 5 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by Dillon De Rozairo, the Chief Operating Officer at Nebraska Innovation Labs. Rozairo talks about his experience at Innovation Labs and the importance of leveraging interns. On the pod! -Host, Megan Bell: Operations Manager of internNE, Powered by Aksarben --Cohost, Justin Krug: Account Executive at Workshop, Founding Organizer of Nebraska Startup Job Mixers -Guest, Dillon De Rozairo, Chief Operating Officer at Nebraska Innovation Labs

Episode 3: Eric Reichwaldt Welcome to Episode 4 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! In this episode, we are joined by Eric Reichwaldt, a co-founder of Shyft Solutions. Eric will share his career journey and offer valuable insights on the benefits of hiring interns and how it can positively impact students and companies. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Cohost, Justin Krug: Account Executive at Workshop, Founding Organizer of Nebraska Startup Job Mixers -Guest, Eric Reichwaldt, a Co-Founder of Shyft Solutions

Episode 3: Ryan Wade Welcome to Episode 3 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! Join us as we welcome Ryan Wade, a former startup founder who now works for Lutz and has hired numerous interns. He will share his insights on why employers should participate and inspire us to take action. Ryan's accomplishments also include being an internNE awardee. Let's learn from his experience and make a positive impact in our community together. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Cohost, Mike Smith: Co-Founder of Rabble Mill and The Bay -Guest, Ryan Wade, Director of software solutions at Lutz

Episode 2: Natalie Micale Welcome to Episode 2 of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! Our guest speaker is Natalie Micale, a marketing agency founder who has successfully navigated hiring and training interns! On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben -Cohost, Mike Smith: Co-Founder of Rabble Mill and The Bay -Guest, Natalie Micale, Founder of Oh Hello

Episode 1: Lexi James Welcome to the first episode of the internNE Podcast Series, Powered by Aksarben! Our guest speaker is Lexi James, a former intern who now supervises interns. Learn the advice, tips, and tricks she has learned along the way. On the pod! -Host, Shonna Dorsey: Executive Director of internNE, Powered by Aksarben  -Cohost, Mike Smith: Co-Founder of Rabble Mill and The Bay -Guest, Lexi James, Social Media Strategist at Oh Hello