What can you learn after sitting down with dozens of Nebraska entrepreneurs?
That question became the focus of the latest episode of the Building Nebraska podcast with Dr. Tom Field and Hailey Demers of the Engler Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Over the course of 28 episodes, Building Nebraska featured founders, innovators and business owners from communities across the state, from western wear stores and vineyards to robotics startups, family businesses and a billion-dollar coffee company.
While each story was unique, Field said many of the same themes surfaced again and again.
“I think businesses that grow and sustain are ones that are focused on the customer,” Field said. “If we want to build a business that can sustain or grow in a community, we have to solve a real problem.”
Rather than chasing the next big idea, many of the entrepreneurs featured throughout the season built successful businesses by identifying everyday challenges and creating practical solutions.
The conversation also explored why Nebraska continues to be fertile ground for entrepreneurs. Field noted that while some once feared entrepreneurship education would encourage young people to leave the state, the opposite has happened.
“We see the vast majority of students stay either in Nebraska, most of them returning to rural communities,” Field said. “Entrepreneurship opens the door and gives you a chance to stay connected to the places and people you value.”
Demers said that spirit of community remains one of Nebraska’s greatest strengths and something the Engler Entrepreneurship Program works to cultivate among its students.
“Everyone who goes through our program has this spirit within them to bring something better back to their communities,” Demers said. “I think that’s really going to take Nebraska above and beyond.”
Another recurring lesson from the season was that entrepreneurship is rarely a straight path. From Scooter’s Coffee founders Don and Linda Eckles to young business owners just getting started, guests consistently shared stories of setbacks, pivots and perseverance.
Field believes the most successful entrepreneurs share three common traits: a willingness to work hard, resilience when challenges arise and the humility to recognize when they need help from others.
“The great ones have the capacity to acknowledge where they need help,” he said. “They understand they are not supermen and superwomen. They build teams, and when they do that, all of a sudden the game changes.”
As the discussion concluded, both guests encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs not to wait for the perfect moment to pursue an idea.
“I think life is too short,” Demers said. “Just start. I know it’s easier said than done, but you never know when something’s going to happen. Take that next step.”
Field echoed that message with a challenge.
“If you have an idea, this is the time. It’s the place. The opportunity is there. Move. Take the step.”