Building Bridges by Networking with Students

 "Career conversations don’t start with résumés—they start with curiosity."

This episode explores the value of teaching kids how to network through authentic conversation and connection. Host Katie Currens shares why it matters, how professionals can get involved without the awkwardness, and the ripple effect it creates in communities.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Why listening to students matters more than lecturing

• 5 simple questions to spark meaningful conversations

• How student engagement benefits your business

• Ways to connect with schools and youth organizations

• Encouragement to take action without overthinking

Whether you're an educator, business leader, or just someone who wants to make a difference, this episode gives you the tools and confidence to connect with the next generation.

Read the blog for more from this episode.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Order her Books:

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

Notable Moments:

00:00 – Why teaching kids to network matters
01:10 – Connection starts with listening, not lecturing
02:45 – 5 curiosity-building questions to ask students
04:40 – What’s in it for professionals and businesses
06:00 – Practical, non-creepy ways to connect with youth
08:35 – Embrace the weird: students’ career dreams and slime collections
10:19 – You don’t need credentials to make an impact
11:08 – How to take action today in your community