EmpowerU Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Action Provides Clarity... Featuring Alyssa Walsh
Hosts: Weston Hendrix, Augustus Sexton, Quinn Hartley
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Introduction
In the third season premiere of EmpowerU, hosts Weston Hendrix, Augustus Sexton, and Quinn Hartley welcome listeners to an inspiring episode featuring Alyssa Walsh. Alyssa, a Cyclone graduate from Iowa, has made significant strides in the livestock industry through her ventures Sweet Briar Creative and Regal Cattle alongside her husband, Daniel.
Alyssa Walsh's Background and Journey
Alyssa introduces herself as a passionate advocate for women in the livestock industry. She highlights her upbringing in Iowa, her education at Iowa State University, and her move to Texas to expand her business.
"I'm pumped to represent the ladies and hopefully pave the way with the struggles and challenges I faced for any young men or women that are wanting to go out and learn these skills and serve the industry that feeds the world."
— Alyssa Walsh [03:02]
Building Sweet Briar Creative
Alyssa recounts the inception of Sweet Briar Creative, which began as a self-taught portfolio project during her time at Iowa State University. Initially aimed at showcasing her videography and graphic design skills to potential employers, the business quickly grew beyond its original mission.
"Sweet Briar Creative was actually started as a portfolio at first... graphic design and video just slowly rose to the top in terms of a skill set that I found that came somewhat naturally."
— Alyssa Walsh [05:18]
She credits the shift towards entrepreneurship to the trust and responsibility bestowed upon her by clients, which inspired her to transition Sweet Briar Creative into a full-time venture post-graduation.
Transition to Kansas and Work-Life Balance
After moving to Texas, Alyssa and her husband Daniel relocated to Kansas to better balance their personal and professional lives. This move allowed Alyssa to enjoy a more conducive work environment and reduce the need for extensive travel.
"The move was truly more about our personal lives and also Regal, our second business that we had started."
— Alyssa Walsh [11:48]
Alyssa emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, sharing how relocating helped her separate work from personal life, leading to the expansion of her educational initiatives within Sweet Briar Creative.
Evolution of Sweet Briar Creative
Sweet Briar Creative has evolved to include an educational component, offering digital courses aimed at empowering other creatives by teaching essential skills in graphic design and videography.
"These digital courses began... teaching my clients or other young creatives this is what you need to learn to succeed at these skills."
— Alyssa Walsh [14:37]
Alyssa discusses the dual focus of her business: continuing to serve video and graphic design clients while building a library of skills through digital courses to help others achieve financial and creative independence.
Introduction to Regal Cattle
Alyssa and Daniel’s venture, Regal Cattle, focuses on providing high-quality genetics to aspiring show cattle producers. They prioritize producing cows that excel both in the show ring and as productive animals on the pasture.
"We are truly focused on producing something that will give success in the show ring for that season for a customer. But more importantly, we really aim to provide the genetics to build a foundation for them to start their business off of."
— Alyssa Walsh [24:01]
Regal Cattle distinguishes itself by implementing a unique application process for cattle sales, fostering deeper relationships with their clients and ensuring that the cattle meet specific quality and genetic standards.
Innovative Application Process for Cattle Sales
Alyssa explains Regal Cattle’s distinctive application process, which replaces traditional online or private treaty sales. This approach allows them to personally connect with applicants, understand their goals, and ensure a good match between the cattle and the buyer.
"The application process allows us to work with those kids, form a relationship with them regardless of if they're chosen to get the calf."
— Alyssa Walsh [30:15]
Despite challenges in convincing clients to adopt this new method, Alyssa highlights the benefits, such as personalized interactions and the ability to support clients beyond the sale.
Favorite Projects and Impact
Alyssa shares heartfelt stories of her favorite projects, such as creating videos that serve as lasting memories for families in the livestock industry. These projects underscore the emotional and impactful nature of her work.
"I will never take lightly... the sweet moments that I get to capture, and those are truly my favorite memories or my favorite projects that I get to work on."
— Alyssa Walsh [16:08]
Empowering and Inspiring Advice
Alyssa offers valuable advice to young women and aspiring entrepreneurs in the livestock industry. She emphasizes the importance of taking action to gain clarity and encourages setting manageable goals to achieve long-term success.
"Action breeds clarity. And oftentimes when you're about to start something big, it can be really scary and really confusing. But if you just take the first step, that will open up more doors and it's going to lead you where you need to go."
— Alyssa Walsh [20:29]
Augustus supports her message, reinforcing the idea that the hardest part is taking that initial step.
"The hardest step of any journey I found is just getting started, taking that first step."
— Augustus Sexton [22:30]
Inspirational Bible Verses
In line with the podcast’s tradition, Alyssa shares her favorite Bible verses that guide her through challenges and inspire her daily.
"Jesus answered him. What I am doing now, you do not understand, but soon you will. Trust that the Lord has a plan for our lives."
— Alyssa Walsh [44:15]
Augustus adds another empowering verse:
"Isaiah 41:10 - Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand."
— Augustus Sexton [48:39]
Conclusion
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to Alyssa for sharing her journey and insights. The hosts express their appreciation for her contributions to the livestock industry and reinforce the episode's theme of empowerment through action and clarity.
"Thank you for coming on. It's meant a lot to me."
— Weston Hendrix [49:04]
Alyssa reciprocates the gratitude, looking forward to future seasons of empowerment and growth.
"It was a pleasure. Yes, thank you both. It was a lot of fun."
— Alyssa Walsh [49:55]
Key Takeaways
- Action Leads to Clarity: Taking the first step, even when uncertain, can open doors and provide direction.
- Personal Connections Matter: Building relationships with clients fosters trust and long-term success.
- Empowerment Through Education: Sharing knowledge and skills helps others achieve their goals and strengthens the industry.
- Faith as a Foundation: Drawing inspiration and strength from spiritual beliefs can guide business and personal decisions.
This episode of EmpowerU serves as a testament to the power of action, the importance of personal relationships, and the role of faith in achieving clarity and success in the livestock industry.