The Power of Positive Disruption | Karen Ellenbecker | TEDxUWMilwaukee

[@COCOtheBRAT]

The story about overcoming the shame of not going to college hits close to home. It takes guts to pursue a career without traditional credentials. Inspiring stuff!

[@ironmercMike]

Lately I've been having to make some pretty difficult life decisions and I think hearing about this positive disruption is just what I needed.

[@rapid-transit]

Dang, the struggle of feeling humiliated as the only woman in the pit hits hard. But turning that around with public seminars is such a power move! I'll bet that earnt her a lot of respect.

[@johngayton]

The way she describes that stockbroker "pit" reminds me of my old sales gig. Toxic as heII. Mad respect for not just surviving that environment, but using it as fuel to create something way better.

[@SpeckledDude]

The concept of using your higher self as a guide in decision-making is interesting. Kinda makes me want to tune in to my own inner wisdom more often.

[@nanburkhardt]

I'm blown away by how she turned her lack of college education into a strength. it's inspiring to see someone succeed without following the traditional path.

[@nubblesleopard9735]

This is a great reframe, lots of people hear the word disruption and immediately think of bad things happening

[@bellemaba]

I never thought about the importance of disrupting for the greater good until I heard this talk. It's fascinating how positive disruptors lead from their values and strive to serve others rather than just their own interests. I'll definitely be reflecting on this and how I can apply it in my own life.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

You will be surprised how powerful disrupting for the greater good can be. It will change you and all of those around you…everyone wants to surround themselves with positive innovative individuals

[@karlaknight]

I like that her journey shows how disruption isn't a fixed point, it's a journey that happens when you start to think outside the box and thinking about it with a long-term perspective is quite helpful!

[@jonathangravenor7987]

it does for sure

[@ryleightucker]

Positive disruption is a game changer. We switched from conventional energy sources to solar power recently and the shift not only reduced our carbon footprint but also empowered individuals to take control of their energy production. It's been incredible.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

What a great example of positive disruption… and a great legacy for so many!

[@opheliaollogtren]

her persistence is next level. Failing that broker test twice woulda crushed me, but she just kept pushing. Guess that's the difference between settling for mediocre and actually making something of yourself.

[@lucastheqtanner]

I'm currently in a period of uncertainty and yes, there's been a lot of disruption to my normal routine/life.. I'm grateful to have seen this talk though, hoping to emulate her attitude and turn it all into a positive.

[@hichemkahela]

Karen's story reminds us that fear can be a great teacher if we use it to grow and make meaningful changes.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Live by what you trust not by what you fear… if you can separate the two you are in a place of choice….

[@luciddreamsspace]

Love this mentality. Nothing is inherently good or bad, just how we perceive it is what gives it those qualities

[@monteTthompson]

Fear as a teacher is a really powerful insight.... thinking of it that way could really help us push through the discomfort.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

When you relinquish yourself to fear you are letting go of your faith… faith in yourself and faith in your higher power. My faith is grounded in God and in pausing so that I can hear what he is asking of me… my faith carries me through …

[@barbfilbert]

Loved the part about turning fear into a teacher. It's such an important lesson.

[@helenimnotready]

It's incredible to hear about someone disrupting an entire industry for the better! Like the scope of what she's done is wild... it's like the opposite story of the wolf of wall street

[@juniorjacksonjr]

This is a great perspective, disruption doesn't have to mean delays and chaos. It can lead to improvements if we just have the confidence to stick with it and see it through.

[@billy-martin]

The story about failing the securities test twice but not giving up is so motivating! Especially when you look at her now!!

[@ho_o_n_e_y__b_u_n]

The journey from a single mother to a stockbroker is a testament to the strength that lies in embracing risks for a better future.

[@greennight1239]

Stunning content. Position disruption is a fantastic way of putting it. I've always called it "risk taking" but positive disruption is a much better and well rounded take. Thank you Karen!

[@jacquelinehogan3313]

Thanks for emailing me this talk!

[@phillipnorris3rd]

What a great talk to send right now, wow, I needed to see this.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you!

[@robertlcbranson6834]

good share, thanks for sending to me

[@idreamtranslator1]

What a beautiful story of how the willingness to take calculated risks can lead to great success.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

In the beginning, when I was desperate I did not think I had a choice but to go for it… but as time went on I settled into myself and realized I had a choice

[@jackrichards9402]

The radio show - a rollercoaster of self-doubt turned into a platform for genuine education and connection with listeners, pretty incredible.

[@harrydecker3979]

When online marketplaces gained popularity, I initially saw it as a threat to my brick-and-mortar store. But instead of resisting, I embraced the change and created an online presence. This disruption opened up a whole new customer base and expanded my business beyond what I could have imagined. Good things come when we face our fears!

[@karenellenbecker5673]

You nailed it!!

[@brittaniecrum]

Listening to this reminded me of my childhood, riding my bike down familiar sidewalks. It's sad how disconnected we've become. Time to rethink our urban planning.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

What a wonderful analogy… getting comfortable can trick us into believing everything is as it should be…

[@sherrieglewis]

This is such an incredible story, like she literally flipped an industry on its head. How have I never heard of her before??

[@buddabuxby]

"Becoming a positive disrupter means challenging the status quo and seeking positive alternatives. It's about changing the way we think, behave, and do business. Inspiring!

[@karenellenbecker5673]

You nailed it! The beauty is that it gets easier the more you listen to your inner voice and challenge the status quo…

[@kaydenjasmins]

Growing up in a rural area with limited access to libraries, I always felt deprived of educational resources. However, when a mobile library started visiting our community, it was a disruptive change that opened up a whole new world of knowledge. The experience of browsing through books, attending storytelling sessions, and interacting with fellow readers transformed my perspective. That's the best example I have of what Karen is talking about here!

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you for sharing your example…. So often the word disruption is associated with a negative outcome…. One small positive change can have a major impact on your life!

[@Dollspell]

Amazing how she turned her challenges into opportunities. Truly inspiring 💖

[@bradcouper]

I think her decision to break away from what was expected and go her own route is really inspiring. It may have meant a little discomfort along the way but that's how we grow as people

[@raphkisento]

I love how she didn't just go with the flow but actively looked for more ethical, client-focused ways of doing business. We need more leaders like her!

[@NoorulHasan-pv5oq]

😊

[@VodkaByNight]

There's a lot of power in negative disruption too.

[@elliotnesster]

I have much admiration for this woman. The way she committed to ethical practices revolutionized not only her career but the financial sector and she did that all in a way that was staying true to herself. Very impressive.

[@evanesterneg]

Such importance to redefine how we perceive risk. Rather than focusing solely on potential negative outcomes, she demonstrates that calculated risks aligned with our values can lead to positive transformations.

[@maverickvassallo]

Her shift from commission-based to fee-based services is really important. I think it shows very ethical business practice on her behalf.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

It is difficult to understand why the financial industry has not changed the way it does business today, they incorporated fee base services into their business along with commission products but generally at a higher cost to clients.

[@nohadiesl]

The realization that fear is a teacher opens doors to profound personal and professional insights. I guess it's time to stop shying away from them and figure out what lessons I need to learn.

[@addisonpassini]

I think this talk does a great job of showing how intricate the process of navigating life-altering decisions can be. The choice between immediate comfort and pushing back is relatable to us all. Her narrative prompts us to consider the depth of our choices, the potential consequences, and the role discomfort plays in steering us toward personal freedom.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

I think this greatly applies to how we raise our children… we as parents are so afraid of them stepping outside of the box not acting in alignment with others that we don’t give them the opportunity to explore their personalities and interests…

[@avatbadra]

This is a transformative journey that extends beyond her personal success. Positive disruption isn't only about individual empowerment; it's about transforming systems and industries.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you for your insight… I had no idea being true to myself would lead to a personal transformation and a worldly connection to something greater than I could have imagined

[@StarfireStarleena]

Facing fear head-on, turning it into an opportunity for growth - that's the spirit of a true disruptor!

[@Elusive-Khan]

Fear can hold us back, but it's important to identify its source and turn it into an opportunity for growth. The speaker's insight about fear being a teacher resonates with me.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Live by what you trust and not by what you fear can be daunting… finding where the fear is coming from is a process of pausing and listening to your inner voice … asking yourself what is the worst case scenario, when you ask yourself that question you are validating that you can handle any situation, you can chart a different course. Abandon it altogether or alter your plan…..

[@therealprincessareeba]

kudos for sticking to your values even when everyone thought your fee-based firm idea was crazy!

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Someone once said to me it is the crazy people who change the world..

[@KForKun]

I think her ability to consistently question norms, adapt to challenges, and stay true to her values paints a picture of how positive disruption can help us better engage with our authentic selves as well

[@lanceabbott1994]

so cool that your competition now listens to your radio show for tips. talk about turning the tables! now that's impressive!

[@luisximena]

Every decision shapes our path. It's the willingness to disrupt that leads to growth.

[@tinycockcroft]

Karen's journey shows the power of resilience and innovation. From being the only woman in a male-dominated industry to revolutionizing the way financial advice is offered, she's a true trailblazer and this kind of positive disruption is something I aspire to as well.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you, your journey will inspire everyone around you.

[@blairfavers]

I like the idea of being able to disrupt something on purpose. Like an awkward situation in a workplace or family gathering, to just be able to go, "nope!" and disrupt it in a positive way definitely has a power to it.

[@cameoserdert6719]

great talk! just shows you that positive disruption is such a powerful concept to push us out of our comfort zones and make real change.

[@elaineclouston]

what an incredible example of the transformative potential of positive disruption. By challenging the conventional norms of her industry and embracing a fee-based model, she not only prioritized ethical business practices but also demonstrated the value of trust, integrity, and client education.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you….

[@jaradpd]

Impressive how she turned a setback into an opportunity. I think we could all use a bit of that 'letting go of fear' mindset in our lives.

[@TheTwinkleDoll]

I agree fear is a great teacher and overcoming them can really make us level up every part of ourselves!

[@grazynaparadowska1306]

Her success stands as a testament to the profound impact that disruptive thinking can have on industries and individuals.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Sometimes in the moment it feels scary and more disruptive to your own security but for me I have found that there are more people watching be it your family, friends, work associates or community your willingness to stand true to your values gives them the strength to push back, and bridge the gap between their fear and holding the space to align with their values…

[@avagrutel]

Gosh it must be so satisfying to come out the other end of all of that knowing how much you've accomplished.

[@justinberdand]

The way she talks about turning criticism into fuel for change is pretty inspiring. Maybe the haters are actually doing us a favor

[@pierrevilleneu]

Loving this approach to facing and overcoming fear. I thin it's something we can all learn from.

[@nicolastsantos]

Pretty impressed by her failing a securities test to becoming a broker of the year. Talk about a comeback story!

[@blaircailean]

I think this says a lot about the relationship between values and leadership and how, when you prioritize integrity and client well-being entire industries can be influenced.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

You said that so beautifully…..

[@erikdangor]

"be careful of what you ask for" - such a true statement! sometimes our biggest opportunities come disguised as challenges.

[@olgasladekova]

I'm already hooked by her intro - it's like that bit about how when people travel back in time they're so scared of doing something that will change the course of history but in our everyday lives we never think about how any decision we make has the power to do the same thing.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you for your perspective, I appreciate that you took time to give me feedback

[@QueenberryChaos]

Karen's acknowledgment of fear as a teacher rather than an obstacle proves just how much personal transformation can come from facing your fears head-on. I think it also shows that acknowledging and learning from fear can catalyze personal and professional growth, propelling us toward positive disruption with greater self-awareness.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

You nailed it! And it gets easier each time you go head on with a fear…

[@oakleysienna]

"Positive disruptors live by what they trust not by what they fear." This is a really great insight and I'm going to try to keep in mind

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Put a sign somewhere where you see it everyday, on your door or mirror and you will be surprised how quickly it becomes part of you …

[@bazzadexter]

I have to admit I got a bit misty-eyed when she talked about her daughter becoming president of their firm. so cool to see her family being a part of this positive legacy.

[@CroonGirl]

Failing multiple times and pushing through fear is relatable. We all have those moments where we question our choices, but a bigger 'why' can give us the strength to keep going.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

We are constantly being challenged to ask ourselves do we align with our values in the midst of what is being asked of us, family, work, social. Sometimes it is little things that are not necessarily illegal but just don’t land right on us. These small seemingly insignificant challenges are the hardest to push back on. If you can stay true to your why and your values these challenges form a deep root system that will continue to guide you and draw the people into your life that are like minded and strong leaders and thinkers .

[@jamesbowie4540]

Her authenticity and commitment to ethical practices not only revolutionized her career but also sent ripples through the financial sector.

[@TracieJLee]

The idea that fear can be a great teacher resonates with me. It's not about never being afraid, but about what you do when you face those fears. I think her whole story brilliantly shows this in action.

[@bencycaitlin]

It really is important to ask yourself questions like this on a regular basis. Like a self check up.

[@blairfavers]

yes it is!

[@kobetclark]

Bringing her kids to seminars was such a smart and heartfelt move. Shows her dedication to both family and career _and_ shows the clients what kind of person she is.

[@rangatvespaldy]

Embracing discomfort is where true personal freedom begins. Kudos for advocating positive disruption!

[@forsaken-lover9508]

Her willingness to confront fear head-on and extract valuable lessons from it provides a blueprint for transforming fear into a catalyst for growth. This reframing of fear as a guide encourages us to embrace challenges with a different perspective.

[@RedRustyAdvertising]

This is so empowering and shows you can change the game at any age or stage in your life!

[@happyriley]

I totally relate to feeling stuck in the chaos of daily life and just putting a band-aid on it. It's important to embrace discomfort and take risks to find personal freedom.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Life shrinks and expands depending on your courage and willingness to grow 👍

[@kaydenjasmins]

That's an interesting point! I'd not thought of just getting through it as putting a band-aid on it but I guess you're right, the feeling that something isn't quite right still lingers underneath...

[@superduperthedoug]

Loved her determination to lead with ethics in the financial world, something more people should emulate.

[@alaskabaked]

Every woman I know has felt diminished in a male-dominated industry. Hearing how she then launched her own fee-based firm is very special.

[@MyAmazingDarkenedSky]

I can relate to the fear of not being 'smart' or 'polished' enough. The reminder to focus on serving others rather than self-doubt is golden.

[@cappikarlson]

I totally understand the way she talks about fear as a teacher. I’ve been letting fear hold me back for way too long, but maybe it’s time to start seeing it as a push forward instead of a stop sign. Definitely something to think about.

[@ekimoduarte]

thank you, for sharing your story. it's given me a lot to think about and inspired me to be a positive disruptor in my own life.

[@sophiachandler4662]

a great reminder that perseverance and a strong sense of purpose can lead to remarkable achievements.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

That is playing life at the highest level!

[@heatherrausch1987]

her story about ditching the commission-based BS and starting her own thing... that's real courage right there.

[@shastahasta4563]

Loved hearing about her journey and how positive disruption is not just about immediate change, but about creating a lasting impact by challenging conventions for the greater good.

[@geraldsolley]

her story about failing and still pushing through was so relatable. we’ve all been there in some way.

[@mystic.10]

It's so cool that her shift to fee-based services disrupted the financial sector and also paved the way for more transparency between her and her clients. It's a really fantastic approach and result!

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you for sharing your observation, 28 years later I still feel the empowerment of listening to my instincts and not collapsing into fear of failure

[@lannydaslin]

I've always been about taking risks. Now I have a fancy name for it 💁🏼‍♀ thanks!

[@Sky-Leap]

Her point about how fear gets our attention but shouldn't control our actions is spot on. Gonna try to remember that next time I'm facing a tough choice.

[@mangocantu5382]

Hearing her talk about leading from values instead of fear... that’s some real talk. Makes me wonder how different my workplace would be if our bosses thought like that

[@andersonaimes]

I'm really glad Karen talks about how it's not just about taking risks but actually having a plan, setting goals and being _intentional_ about the way we're seeking to disrupt our lives.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Than you!

[@oakleysienna]

Yeah big time. You hear disruption and assume it's an accident or mistake but to do it on purpose seems really powerful

[@sanderburton]

Her story about the way her clients responded to her and their comments was really beautiful. It's obvious that her methods make a difference, not just in her life but in the lives of those around her.

[@dereksunder]

I think Karen's chosen some great examples to showcase how leading with integrity and values can create positive impact that actually lasts. Nice.

[@gakthegreat]

Self education, you're the best Karen Ellenbecker. Truly a legend.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you!

[@chloesanduski]

The struggle of being the only woman in a male-dominated industry is real. I'm a little bit in awe of her for finding creative solutions to overcome gender bias.

[@BlingHive]

Really highlighting the power of aligning our 'why' with our actions, here. By discovering her bigger purpose and disrupting the status quo, she not only achieved personal success but also reshaped the financial industry for the better

[@karenellenbecker5673]

I believe that everyone has the power to disrupt and create positive change… identifying your why for life is a guidepost and beacon for strength and courage… staying true to your values compliments and completes the recipe for success.

[@andididntknow]

The question she asks at the 9:50 mark is so important... I find I'm constantly asking "who is this for?" whenever I do anything. It's so powerful in terms of figuring out what you want the outcome to be

[@karenellenbecker5673]

That is so great and it keeps you in alignment with your purpose and your values

[@aleidbarend]

Karen's message encourages us to pause, reflect, and make decisions aligned with our values for meaningful impact.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you!

[@gratitudeattitude1801]

Disruption seems to be what the world is built on these day, and the term 'positive disruption' as in the title, could only be wonderfully told by one who has wisdom. I whole heartedly appreciate this. Thank you!

[@Bubbly-Snowflake]

this story really highlights how one person's courage to challenge the status quo can inspire others to do the same.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you…. It truly is one step at a time, pretty soon you have gone a mile with change unfolding along the way…

[@iamthetroublefinder]

I really like this talk, particularly the emphasis on having a strong sense of self. Makes all the difference when you're making huge changes, personal or otherwise.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

The idea of growing stronger in our self and in our convictions is as important as strengthening our core… they both offer stability when you need it.

[@chancesestor]

Yes Karen, I agree it's important to ask, "what do I want" but often putting your family's needs ahead of yours in more important.

[@karenellenbecker5673]

You are right, it can be a difficult choice … asking yourself what do I really want can make things clear for you, such as I want a good life for my children might help bring clarity to your situation

[@sadiaykor]

I think her journey shows how believing in yourself can lead to groundbreaking changes, not just for you but for everyone your work touches, and that's kind of beautiful to think about 💜

[@milesprimrose5990]

Transitioning from commissions to a fee-based model isn't just a business move; it's a moral compass pointing towards ethical financial practices! Ya love to see it

[@henryhunterthenobleone]

I think anything can be perceived as positive if you frame it in the right way, and the way Karen talks about positive disruption really proves that for me!

[@karenellenbecker5673]

Thank you Henry!

[@azureopal]

Listening to her journey got me thinking... how many other industries could use some "positive disruption"? Like, where else are we just putting up with things when we could be changing them for the better?

[@vivashus5140]

I love this, for some people staying true to themselves would have meant leaving the industry altogether but instead she molded it to fit her values, amazing.