Mara Zepeda is a Co-Founder and Managing Director of Zebras Unite, an international and intersectional hybrid cooperative creating the capital, culture, and community for the next economy. This global community of founders, investors, and are creating a more ethical, inclusive, collaborative, and sustainable approach to building businesses.
Prior, Mara was the founder of a venture-backed software company, Switchboard (now Hearken). It was through her experience as an entrepreneur of a different stripe that led her to co-found Zebras Unite, along with Jennifer Brandel, Astrid Scholz, and Aniyia Williams. Their manifesto,“Zebras Fix What Unicorns Break,” launched this timely, necessary, culture-shifting movement that has garnered broad recognition. It now boasts an online community of 10K+ strong, 100+ member-owners, and over 25 chapters around the world.
Mara Zepeda is a systempreneur and serial social entrepreneur. She has also co-founded and was the founding board chair of Business for a Better Portland and XXcelerate. BBPDX is a next-generation business organization 350+ members strong that forges public-private collaborations to advance systemic change, shared prosperity, and social justice and equity in Portland. XXcelerate provides business support, education, peer mentorship, and funding to 200+ Oregon womxn entrepreneurs.
She speaks about and leads workshops on education, trust, social networks, and the future of business internationally. Mara has spent her career at the intersection of community building, economic empowerment, and movement building.
Mara Zepeda speaks from her experience as an economic reporter for NPR, calligrapher, and child of bohemian and spiritually curious artists. She holds a BA in Russian from Reed College and an MS in Journalism from Columbia University where she graduated with honors. She grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
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Alternative Funding, Entrepreneurship, Startup, Business, Community Building, Economic Empowerment, Movement Building, Social Change & Issues, Journalist
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Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
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The Swing Cats Big Band with the Swing Kittens is Southern California’s freshest and most dynamic swing band around. Composed of top musicians dedicated to the performance and preservation of big band music, The Swing Cats will take you back to the ’30s, ’40s, and ’50s with their high-quality, authentic sound. Come cut a rug […]
Aerial bartenders bring a unique and captivating twist to event entertainment by serving drinks while suspended in the air. Combining acrobatics, elegance, and mixology, these performers gracefully pour beverages from aerial hoops, silks, or other aerial apparatus, adding a touch of spectacle to any gathering. Perfect for upscale events, weddings, and corporate functions, aerial bartenders […]
Felicia Pizzonia is a dynamic entrepreneur, best-selling author, and sought-after speaker renowned for her expertise in mind conditioning and sales training. As a partner at Ultimate Publishing House (UPH), she has dedicated over two decades to helping individuals harness the power of publishing to enhance their personal branding and professional credibility. With a passion for […]
In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given less than a 1% chance to live. This epic story of survival was first showcased in Overwhelming Odds, the book his parents […]
Sarah Schauer is a force of unfiltered humor and raw authenticity in the world of comedy. With a straightforward demeanor and a penchant for calling it like she sees it, Sarah has carved out a unique niche for herself in the digital realm as a self-proclaimed “Youtuber when I feel like it, Ex-Viner, and all […]
Amy Ashton is a force of comedic brilliance in the corporate world, renowned for her unique ability to blend humor with professional insight. With a career spanning over a decade, Amy has established herself as a sought-after conference comedian, known for her quick wit, engaging stage presence, and ability to tailor her performances to a […]
Allison Gill is a multifaceted talent whose career spans from serving as a federal government executive to advocating for the resistance as a comedian, author, and podcast host. With a PhD and a rich background in public service, Allison brings a unique blend of intellect, humor, and dedication to her work. Her mission is clear: […]
Nikki Stone is a world-renowned inspirational keynote speaker, Olympic gold medalist, and Amazon best-selling author. As the first American to win an Olympic gold medal in inverted aerial skiing, she has defied the odds and pushed the boundaries of human potential. Nikki’s journey is a testament to resilience, mental fortitude, and the power of perseverance. […]
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