Cue 01

Episode Summary: Host Keith Koo talks with Farah Allen about how an early big-box retailer internship opened her eyes to the realities of the glass ceiling, prompting an entrepreneurial leap grounded in faith. Farah shares how her spiritual beliefs guided her through the pitfalls of funding, product pivots, and team-building—ultimately leading to The Labz, a creator-focused platform built around protecting content and intellectual property. From corporate frustration to startup resilience, her story underscores the power of faith in shaping purpose-driven innovation.

Key Themes:
The Glass Ceiling Reality: Farah’s formative internship highlighted industry barriers, sparking a shift toward entrepreneurship.
Faith as a Launchpad: How Farah’s belief system influenced major decision points—from leaving corporate roles to persevering through setbacks.
Pivots & Perseverance: Adapting product strategy and business models to overcome challenges, all while staying true to core values.

Why Listen:
Hear how faith can fuel resilience and clarity for founders.
Gain insights on tackling unseen barriers, from corporate hierarchies to startup hurdles.
Learn how The Labz uses smart contracts to empower creators in the digital economy.

Connect & Subscribe:
Website: The Labz
Farah on LinkedIn: Farah Allen
Tune in on your favorite podcast platform, and follow Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more stories of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

 

Connect with Keith Koo
LinkedIn: Keith Koo
Instagram: @techmaven
Facebook: Keith Koo

Join the Conversation

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking:

www.xtalents.com

Subscribe & Share

If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform:
Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio
KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST

Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.

 

Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Episode Summary: Host Keith Koo talks with Farah Allen about how an early big-box retailer internship opened her eyes to the realities of the glass ceiling, prompting an entrepreneurial leap grounded in faith. Farah shares how her spiritual beliefs guided her through the pitfalls of funding, product pivots, and team-building&mdash;ultimately leading to The Labz, a creator-focused platform built around protecting content and intellectual property. From corporate frustration to startup resilience, her story underscores the power of faith in shaping purpose-driven innovation.
Key Themes:
<ul>
<li>The Glass Ceiling Reality: Farah&rsquo;s formative internship highlighted industry barriers, sparking a shift toward entrepreneurship.</li>
<li>Faith as a Launchpad: How Farah&rsquo;s belief system influenced major decision points&mdash;from leaving corporate roles to persevering through setbacks.</li>
<li>Pivots &amp; Perseverance: Adapting product strategy and business models to overcome challenges, all while staying true to core values.</li>
</ul>
Why Listen:
<ul>
<li>Hear how faith can fuel resilience and clarity for founders.</li>
<li>Gain insights on tackling unseen barriers, from corporate hierarchies to startup hurdles.</li>
<li>Learn how The Labz uses smart contracts to empower creators in the digital economy.</li>
</ul>
Connect &amp; Subscribe:
<ul>
<li>Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thelabz.com/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">The Labz</a></li>
<li>Farah on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/farahallen/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">Farah Allen</a></li>
<li>Tune in on your favorite podcast platform, and follow&nbsp;Ten Talents with Keith Koo&nbsp;for more stories of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Connect with Keith Koo
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithkoo/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">Keith Koo</a></li>
<li>Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/techmaven/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3">@techmaven</a></li>
<li>Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/keithkoo" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4">Keith Koo</a></li>
</ul>
Join the Conversation
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking:
<a href="http://www.xtalents.com/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="5">www.xtalents.com</a>
Subscribe &amp; Share
If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform:
<ul>
<li>Apple Podcasts:&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ten-talents/id1734324221" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="6">Subscribe on Apple Podcasts</a></li>
<li>Spotify:&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5i32hPjkbycphi5IzvenuR" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="7">Subscribe on Spotify</a></li>
<li>iHeartRadio:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1300-ten-talents-156243919/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="8">Subscribe on iHeartRadio</a></li>
<li>KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every&nbsp;<a href="https://kfax.com/radioshow/ten-talents" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="9">Sunday at 9:00 AM PST</a></li>
</ul>
Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.
&nbsp;
<hr>
Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Everyone has something unique to offer the world, Ten Talents wants to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. Join Host Keith Koo for Ten Talents a ministry program bringing you interviews with some of America's premier leaders in finance, technology, sports, entrepreneurs and ministry. Learn how Jesus is using these individuals to change lives, and you just might be encourage in how Jesus wants to use you. 

Everyone has something unique to offer the world, Ten Talents wants to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. Join Host Keith Koo for Ten Talents a ministry program bringing you interviews with some of America's premier leaders in finance, technology, sports, entrepreneurs and ministry. Learn how Jesus is using these individuals to change lives, and you just might be encourage in how Jesus wants to use you.

Ten Talents

Elevating Dreams: Finding Purpose Outside the Box with Farah Allen CEO of The Labz

Guest: Roland Ellingsen, Executive Director of Tri-Valley Seek and Save

Episode Highlights

Segment 1: Journey of Faith and Career
Roland Ellingsen shares his early years growing up in a Christian home, where faith was present but not fully personal.
A transformative moment came during his involvement in youth ministry as a student, where he connected deeply with Christ and discovered his passion for service.
Roland reflects on his diverse professional journey, which includes:
County mediation work.
Market research roles with industry leaders such as Gartner Group.
Gaining experience across multiple industries, each adding to his skillset and perspective.
He describes how each step of his career has equipped him for his current role as Executive Director of Tri-Valley Seek and Save, a mission-focused organization supporting single mothers and their children.

Segment 2: Faith in Action
Roland speaks candidly about how his faith is the foundation of his passion for serving others.
He and his wife view their entire lives as ministry, integrating their beliefs into every interaction and decision.
Roland explains how Tri-Valley Seek and Save operates as a ministry to empower and uplift vulnerable families, ensuring they have resources and community support.
He emphasizes the importance of seeing every career and life experience as preparation for fulfilling God’s purpose.

Guest Links
Roland Ellingsen on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
Tri-Valley Seek and Save: Official Website

About Tri-Valley Seek and Save
Tri-Valley Seek and Save is a mission dedicated to supporting single moms and their children, offering practical resources, guidance, and spiritual support to help them thrive.

Tune In to Learn:
How Roland's career transitions reflect God's preparation for his current calling.
The profound role faith plays in shaping mission-driven leadership.
Insights into how Tri-Valley Seek and Save is making a tangible difference in the lives of single-parent families.

 

Connect with Keith Koo
LinkedIn: Keith Koo
Instagram: @techmaven
Facebook: Keith Koo

Join the Conversation

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking:

www.xtalents.com

Subscribe & Share

If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform:
Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio
KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST

Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.

 

Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Guest: Roland Ellingsen, Executive Director of Tri-Valley Seek and Save
Episode Highlights
Segment 1: Journey of Faith and Career
<ul>
<li>Roland Ellingsen shares his early years growing up in a Christian home, where faith was present but not fully personal.</li>
<li>A transformative moment came during his involvement in youth ministry as a student, where he connected deeply with Christ and discovered his passion for service.</li>
<li>Roland reflects on his diverse professional journey, which includes:</li>
<ul>
<li>County mediation work.</li>
<li>Market research roles with industry leaders such as Gartner Group.</li>
<li>Gaining experience across multiple industries, each adding to his skillset and perspective.</li>
</ul>
<li>He describes how each step of his career has equipped him for his current role as Executive Director of Tri-Valley Seek and Save, a mission-focused organization supporting single mothers and their children.</li>
</ul>
Segment 2: Faith in Action
<ul>
<li>Roland speaks candidly about how his faith is the foundation of his passion for serving others.</li>
<li>He and his wife view their entire lives as ministry, integrating their beliefs into every interaction and decision.</li>
<li>Roland explains how Tri-Valley Seek and Save operates as a ministry to empower and uplift vulnerable families, ensuring they have resources and community support.</li>
<li>He emphasizes the importance of seeing every career and life experience as preparation for fulfilling God&rsquo;s purpose.</li>
</ul>
Guest Links
<ul>
<li>Roland Ellingsen on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/roland-ellingsen-87b90016/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">LinkedIn Profile</a></li>
<li>Tri-Valley Seek and Save:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trivalleyseekandsave.org/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">Official Website</a></li>
</ul>
About Tri-Valley Seek and Save Tri-Valley Seek and Save is a mission dedicated to supporting single moms and their children, offering practical resources, guidance, and spiritual support to help them thrive.
Tune In to Learn:
<ul>
<li>How Roland's career transitions reflect God's preparation for his current calling.</li>
<li>The profound role faith plays in shaping mission-driven leadership.</li>
<li>Insights into how Tri-Valley Seek and Save is making a tangible difference in the lives of single-parent families.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Connect with Keith Koo
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithkoo/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">Keith Koo</a></li>
<li>Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/techmaven/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3">@techmaven</a></li>
<li>Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/keithkoo" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4">Keith Koo</a></li>
</ul>
Join the Conversation
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking:
<a href="http://www.xtalents.com/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="5">www.xtalents.com</a>
Subscribe &amp; Share
If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform:
<ul>
<li>Apple Podcasts:&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ten-talents/id1734324221" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="6">Subscribe on Apple Podcasts</a></li>
<li>Spotify:&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5i32hPjkbycphi5IzvenuR" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="7">Subscribe on Spotify</a></li>
<li>iHeartRadio:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1300-ten-talents-156243919/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="8">Subscribe on iHeartRadio</a></li>
<li>KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every&nbsp;<a href="https://kfax.com/radioshow/ten-talents" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="9">Sunday at 9:00 AM PST</a></li>
</ul>
Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.
&nbsp;
<hr>
Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

A Career of Purpose: Roland Ellingsen on Finding His Ministry

Transforming Trauma into Triumph" with Vanessa Russell, founder of Lover Never Fails

In this episode of Ten Talents with Keith Koo, Keith sits down with Vanessa Russell, the founder of the nonprofit Love Never Fails, to explore how faith, technology, and community intersect in the fight against human trafficking and domestic violence. They begin by examining how technology, when misused, can isolate people and weaken genuine human connections—reminding us that digital tools should enhance, not replace, real-world relationships. Vanessa then shares her journey from working in the tech sector and partnering with local government to founding a ministry that uplifts survivors through rescue, job training, and holistic support. Throughout their conversation, Keith and Vanessa highlight the importance of faith-driven action, the power of economic empowerment, and the need for collective, compassionate effort to dismantle exploitation. Tune in to learn how purpose, skill, and spiritual conviction can come together to restore lives and build healthier communities.

Key Links & Resources: · Love Never Fails Website: https://www.loveneverfailsus.com/

· Vanessa Russell’s Founder Story: https://www.loveneverfailsus.com/our-founder

· Vanessa Russell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessarussell10/details/experience/

Connect with Keith Koo · LinkedIn: Keith Koo · Instagram: @techmaven · Facebook: Keith Koo

Join the Conversation

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking: www.xtalents.com

Subscribe & Share

If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform: · Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts · Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify · iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio · KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST

Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.

---

Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Transforming Trauma into Triumph" with Vanessa Russell, founder of Lover Never Fails
In this episode of Ten Talents with Keith Koo, Keith sits down with Vanessa Russell, the founder of the nonprofit Love Never Fails, to explore how faith, technology, and community intersect in the fight against human trafficking and domestic violence. They begin by examining how technology, when misused, can isolate people and weaken genuine human connections—reminding us that digital tools should enhance, not replace, real-world relationships. Vanessa then shares her journey from working in the tech sector and partnering with local government to founding a ministry that uplifts survivors through rescue, job training, and holistic support. Throughout their conversation, Keith and Vanessa highlight the importance of faith-driven action, the power of economic empowerment, and the need for collective, compassionate effort to dismantle exploitation. Tune in to learn how purpose, skill, and spiritual conviction can come together to restore lives and build healthier communities.
Key Links &amp; Resources: · Love Never Fails Website: https://www.loveneverfailsus.com/
· Vanessa Russell’s Founder Story: https://www.loveneverfailsus.com/our-founder
· Vanessa Russell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessarussell10/details/experience/
Connect with Keith Koo · LinkedIn: Keith Koo · Instagram: @techmaven · Facebook: Keith Koo
Join the Conversation
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking: www.xtalents.com
Subscribe &amp; Share
If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform: · Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts · Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify · iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio · KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST
Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.
---
Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Transforming Trauma into Triumph" with Vanessa Russell, founder of Lover Never Fails

Episode Description

In this encouraging episode of the Ten Talents Show, host Keith Koo delves into how faith profoundly impacts professional networking into all areas of life including business, philanthropy and career. Keith shares insights on integrating faith into networking practices to build authentic, meaningful, and purpose-driven connections.

Episode Highlights

· The Role of Faith in Networking

o Understanding networking from a faith-based perspective.

o Biblical principles guiding professional relationships.

· Authenticity and Integrity

o Staying true to your values in professional settings.

o Balancing expressions of faith with respect for diverse beliefs.

· Purpose-Driven Connections

o Aligning networking efforts with your God-given purpose.

o Viewing networking as a means to serve others and fulfill divine callings.

· Strategies for Faith-Based Networking

o Practical tips for integrating faith into professional interactions.

o Leveraging faith communities and spiritual networks for mutual growth.

· Overcoming Challenges

o Navigating potential conflicts between personal beliefs and professional expectations.

o Addressing ethical dilemmas with wisdom and grace.

· Does Faith Change the Way We Network?

o Exploring overt and subtle differences in networking approaches.

o Considering whether faith should influence professional relationships and why it matters.

Key Takeaways

· Integration of Faith and Work

o Embrace faith as a guiding force in all life aspects, including your career.

o Recognize networking as an opportunity to live out spiritual values.

· Building Meaningful Relationships

o Focus on genuine connections beyond transactional interactions.

o Practice active listening, empathy, and servant leadership.

· Ethical Considerations

o Uphold integrity and honesty in all networking activities.

o Be mindful of ethical dilemmas and handle them in accordance with your faith.

Connect with Keith Koo · LinkedIn: Keith Koo · Instagram: @techmaven · Facebook: Keith Koo

Listen to Ten Talents Podcast · Apple Podcasts: Ten Talents on Apple Podcasts · Spotify: Ten Talents on Spotify · iHeartRadio: Ten Talents on iHeartRadio · KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Ten Talents on KFAX

Join the Conversation

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking: www.xtalents.com

Subscribe & Share

If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform: ·

Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts ·

Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify ·

iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio ·

KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST

Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Episode Description
In this encouraging episode of the Ten Talents Show, host Keith Koo delves into how faith profoundly impacts professional networking into all areas of life including business, philanthropy and career. Keith shares insights on integrating faith into networking practices to build authentic, meaningful, and purpose-driven connections.
Episode Highlights
· The Role of Faith in Networking
o Understanding networking from a faith-based perspective.
o Biblical principles guiding professional relationships.
· Authenticity and Integrity
o Staying true to your values in professional settings.
o Balancing expressions of faith with respect for diverse beliefs.
· Purpose-Driven Connections
o Aligning networking efforts with your God-given purpose.
o Viewing networking as a means to serve others and fulfill divine callings.
· Strategies for Faith-Based Networking
o Practical tips for integrating faith into professional interactions.
o Leveraging faith communities and spiritual networks for mutual growth.
· Overcoming Challenges
o Navigating potential conflicts between personal beliefs and professional expectations.
o Addressing ethical dilemmas with wisdom and grace.
· Does Faith Change the Way We Network?
o Exploring overt and subtle differences in networking approaches.
o Considering whether faith should influence professional relationships and why it matters.
Key Takeaways
· Integration of Faith and Work
o Embrace faith as a guiding force in all life aspects, including your career.
o Recognize networking as an opportunity to live out spiritual values.
· Building Meaningful Relationships
o Focus on genuine connections beyond transactional interactions.
o Practice active listening, empathy, and servant leadership.
· Ethical Considerations
o Uphold integrity and honesty in all networking activities.
o Be mindful of ethical dilemmas and handle them in accordance with your faith.
Connect with Keith Koo · LinkedIn: Keith Koo · Instagram: @techmaven · Facebook: Keith Koo
Listen to Ten Talents Podcast · Apple Podcasts: Ten Talents on Apple Podcasts · Spotify: Ten Talents on Spotify · iHeartRadio: Ten Talents on iHeartRadio · KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Ten Talents on KFAX
Join the Conversation
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking: www.xtalents.com
Subscribe &amp; Share
If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform: ·
Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts ·
Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify ·
iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio ·
KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST
Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.
Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Elevating Dreams: Finding Purpose Outside the Box with Farah Allen CEO of The Labz

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