Buc-ee's Taught This Guy What About Business?
Fervent Four
Joseph Trahan shares his journey through the Startup World Cup and his experiences growing up in Texas before moving to Virginia. The episode delves into his personal challenges, including breaking his foot and its impact on his business journey, with a focus on the support he received from his family. Joseph discusses his involvement in the Hampton Roads real estate sector, highlighting first-time homebuyer programs and support for first responders and teachers. The conversation covers the evolution of the Discover Virginia podcast, audience demographics, and recording techniques....
info_outline
From $40 to Financial Freedom
Fervent Four
Danijel Velicki shares his journey from Croatia to the U.S., offering personal insights into his experiences in Morgantown and Hampton Roads. The episode delves into his transition to business ownership, discussing the challenges and importance of adaptability in scaling a business. Danijel emphasizes mentorship and learning in business leadership, along with navigating organizational decision-making and startup challenges. The conversation covers working with fast-paced leaders, hiring practices, and cash flow management. The episode also introduces Squire's mission and explores topics like...
info_outline
Exploring Mushrooms: Business, Healing, and Community with Tia Henderson
Fervent Four
Tia Henderson shares her journey into the world of mushrooms, discussing their healing properties and experiences with mushroom coffee. The episode explores the benefits of edible mushrooms, the risks of poisonous ones, and the potential of psilocybin. Tia also talks about unconventional treatments and challenges in the pharmaceutical industry. Audience questions on mushroom foraging and lion's mane benefits are addressed. The discussion covers market competition, business strategies, and community outreach, including BlackBrand's impact. (0:00) Introduction and greetings (1:32)...
info_outline
Mastering Barber Business: Growth, Client Retention, and Industry Trends
Fervent Four
The team behind Anchorage Barbershop discuss their journey into the barber world, focusing on client satisfaction and transitioning to owning a barbershop. They cover their business model, the impact of COVID-19, and hiring strategies. The episode explores haircuts, customer preferences, and hair loss products, along with business growth and expansion strategies. They discuss subscription services for client retention, partnership dynamics, and future plans, including licensing and regulations. (0:00) Intro and guest introduction (2:06) Transition to barber world and client...
info_outline
A Global Look at Healthcare, AI, and the Future of Work with Tim Armstrong
Fervent Four
Tim Armstrong joins the show for a deep and thoughtful conversation covering the future of healthcare, the impact of AI, and what global workforce trends mean for all of us. From military technology and nurse recruitment to immigration challenges and travel experiences, Whether you're curious about the nursing shortage, healthcare quality around the world, or how technology is shaping the future of work, this episode delivers valuable takeaways for a wide audience. (0:00) Introduction to AI, History, and Military Technology (3:08) Navy Submarines and Modern Tech (3:48) Introducing Tim...
info_outline
Navigating Media Evolution and Community Growth with Cathy Lewis
Fervent Four
Cathy Lewis shares her journey of career transition and her embrace of the Norfolk community. The conversation delves into the impact of COVID on office spaces and local attractions, as well as the evolution of journalism and media. Cathy discusses the balance between practical experience and college education in journalism, along with the challenges and opportunities in targeting demographics. The episode explores entrepreneurial challenges, regional business development, and campaign ideas to attract young professionals. Listeners also gain insights into living in DC versus Hampton Roads....
info_outline
Diving Deep: Exploring Underwater Careers and Regional Marine Economy
Fervent Four
Martin Dorn takes listeners into the depths of commercial diving, sharing insights on the Elizabeth River and the crucial role of underwater work in infrastructure maintenance. The episode explores the dynamics of diving teams, management preferences, and the technicalities of deep diving, including cutting operations and tunnel construction. Martin recounts fascinating underwater encounters and the dangers of the profession. The conversation highlights career paths, certifications, and the economic impact of diving in the region. Additionally, the episode touches on the Startup World Cup...
info_outline
From Apple to AI: Building Startups and Communities with Jake Spracher
Fervent Four
Jake Spracher shares his journey from working at Apple to becoming an entrepreneur, discussing challenges in the Bay Area and the role of AI in software development. The episode covers the 757 Build Weekend and Startup World Cup, highlighting opportunities for local startups. Jake emphasizes building a startup ecosystem,.. Cultivating community interaction in Hampton Roads and focusing on core business principles are also discussed. (0:00) Introduction and casual banter with Jake Spracher (5:37) Jake Spracher's background and entry into entrepreneurship (13:30) Jake Spracher's...
info_outline
From Donuts to Disruption: Community, Innovation & the Power of Showing Up
Fervent Four
This episode is a dynamic journey through Hampton Roads’ innovation, leadership, and community spirit. Zack and Tim kick things off with a behind-the-scenes look at Innovate Hampton Roads' latest board meeting, including a warm sendoff for longtime chairman Paul Hirschbiel and the introduction of new leadership. From donut deliveries and swag debates to the Yeti vs. Stanley showdown, the episode mixes fun with serious takeaways. The hosts dive into the real challenges of live shows and event prep, highlighting the upcoming Startup World Cup and the return of Tech...
info_outline
Tech Communities, AI in Development, and Roller Coasters
Fervent Four
Kevin Griffin shares insights on managing offshore teams, quality control, and the importance of developer events. He discusses handling live TV nerves, roller coasters, and blending travel with work. Discover vibe coding, AI in development, and Hampton Roads' tech evolution. Hear about Kevin's networking skills and resilience in local entrepreneurship. Topics include his career journey, LinkedIn strategy, the origin of Shedquarters, promoting the developer community, and event catering challenges. Personal anecdotes and sponsor acknowledgments wrap up the episode. (0:00) Offshore...
info_outline(0:00) Metrics for measuring founder resiliency and reinvestment
(0:37) Zack Miller discusses Rick Rubin's creative book and Tim Ryan's thoughts on fluctuating temperatures
(3:12) Recollection of meeting at the Startup World Cup and behind the scenes chaos
(5:17) Appreciation for Debbie's support of founders and regional collaboration
(10:50) Barriers in startup communities and Lighthouse's role in economic development
(15:13) Debbie's transition to leading Lighthouse and shoutout to sponsor Roombrick
(17:30) Debbie's personal background, upbringing, and dealing with loss
(27:13) Challenges of mentoring, defining success, and handling feedback
(30:15) Lighthouse Labs' success metrics, mentor network, and founder skill development
(37:17) Importance of coachability and feedback for founders
(39:01) Personal anecdotes and introduction of the Lighthouse Network
(46:00) Long-term support, operational training, and founders learning from one another
(48:43) Benefits of partnering with founder-friendly lawyers and Pillsbury's legal services
(51:06) Richmond's corporate landscape and Engage program's impact
(52:58) Lighthouse companies seizing opportunities and expansion plans
(54:15) Tim's secret salad strategy
(57:06) Debbie's favorite Richmond and Stanton eateries and Tim's dining preferences
(1:02:00) Final thoughts and gratitude
- Focusing on founder resiliency and long-term support, Lighthouse Labs is transitioning to the Lighthouse Network, which includes three networks: Founders, Mentors, and Investors.
- Lighthouse Labs has successfully maintained a high rate of active companies, with 91 out of 140 still operating and several reaching significant milestones like $1 million ARR.
- Debbie Irwin's leadership emphasizes the importance of direct, non-personal feedback and the need for continuous development and support for founders well beyond the initial acceleration phase.
https://www.lighthouselabsrva.org/
Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It’s time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.
Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter