JabberYak: Transforming Social Engagement Through Human Connection

As our world becomes increasingly virtual, so do our connection, making finding genuine ways to engage and connect more vital than ever. This is where Shideh Doerr comes in, co-founder of JabberYak, a groundbreaking social engagement platform based on the concept of seven degrees of interest. This innovative startup combines technology and creativity to make human connections easier and more meaningful.

This article discusses some of the highlights of Doerr’s recent appearance on The Elephant in the Room Podcast, where she shared her story, the concept and goals of JabberYak, and how she aims to transform social engagement through human connections and technology.

The Concept Behind JabberYak

The premise of JabberYak is simple yet powerful: studies show that people connect with strangers on one out of seven shared interests. JabberYak leverages this by creating custom items like T-shirts, name plates, and badges that predominantly display an individual’s top seven interests. These serve as instant conversation starters, reducing the anxiety of meeting new people.

For example, Doerr’s shirt highlights her passions: yoga, the Detroit Pistons, paddleboarding, music, designing, dancing, and food. These topics not only showcase her personality but also invite others to engage. “Even people who know me well see the shirt and say, ‘Oh, I forgot you’re a Pistons fan!’ It’s a great way to reconnect or discover something new about each other,” she explains.

The Birth of an Idea

The inspiration for JabberYak came from Doerr’s co-founder, Gail Levinthal. During a family cruise, Gail noticed her son’s university T-shirt sparking conversations with fellow passengers. This observation planted the seed for a platform that could replicate these spontaneous connections in various settings.

Fast forward five years, and JabberYak has evolved into a tech-driven platform that not only facilitates ice-breaking but also collects valuable insights. Its applications span from conferences to corporate settings, offering tools like personalized badges with QR codes, venue maps, schedules, and even scavenger hunts designed to foster interaction.

The Technology Driving Connection

While JabberYak’s outward simplicity might suggest otherwise, its backend is highly sophisticated. The team has developed an advanced system that allows users to create profiles, select their interests, and integrate features like QR codes for seamless functionality. The data collected through the platform is shared with clients, offering insights into their audience and helping them cater to specific preferences.

For example, a ski resort using JabberYak’s name tags could learn that many employees enjoy coffee or Pilates, enabling personalized rewards like gift cards. “It’s all about making meaningful connections and tailoring experiences to what people truly care about,” Doerr says.

Breaking the Ice in a Post-Pandemic World

The pandemic reshaped how we interact, often isolating us from social environments. JabberYak provides a gentle reentry into in-person engagement, helping ease social anxiety and encouraging meaningful conversations. Whether at a professional event or a nonprofit gathering, participants can use JabberYak’s tools to find common ground and bridge divides.

One notable success story came during an industry conference. Attendees expressed amazement at learning new things about colleagues they had worked with for years. “It’s rewarding to see people genuinely connecting, especially after the isolation we’ve all experienced,” Doerr shares.

The Journey and Advice of a Fearless Entrepreneur

Shideh Doerr’s journey from a healthcare executive to a tech entrepreneur is a testament to adaptability and determination. As the daughter of Persian immigrants who came to the U.S. with nothing but two suitcases, Doerr was inspired by her parents’ resilience and work ethic. “If my parents could come to a foreign country and build a beautiful life, there’s no reason I should waste the opportunities I’ve been given,” she says.

Doerr encourages others to embrace their ideas fearlessly. “You don’t need to be a tech expert to succeed in the industry. There are so many resources and avenues for funding available today. The worst that can happen is you learn from the experience,” she explains. She also emphasizes the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and leveraging support networks: “There’s no limit to what you can achieve if you stay true to yourself and pursue what feels right.”

What’s Next for JabberYak?

Looking ahead, JabberYak aims to grow its presence in Phoenix and beyond while continuing to innovate its offerings. With a commitment to employing locally and supporting the community, Doerr envisions JabberYak as a transformative tool for social engagement across industries.

JabberYak is more than just a tool for sparking conversations; it’s a catalyst for meaningful connections and an example of using technology for good. Through its innovative approach, it bridges gaps, fosters inclusion, and helps people rediscover the joy of human connection. To learn more about Shideh Doerr and JabberYak, listen to her full Elephant in the Room podcast episode.

Produced by Carey Pena: https://inspiredmedia360.com/
Adopt Technologies: https://www.adopttechnologies.com/podcast
Co-Produced by: The Felice Agency www.felicagency.com
Director: Nick Tantillo https://tantilloproductions.com/
Still images: Patrick Fuller, Fuller Story https://www.fullerstory.com/
Graphic design: Tony Felice www.felicagency.com