I Love VB Podcast

The I Love VB Podcast is a show about the business owners, artists, entrepreneurs and people that make up Virginia Beach, Virginia. Each episode tells the story -the dreams, the setbacks, the successes - behind a particular business and allows us to connect on a deeper level with the people and places we all know and love.

Update on Season 5 - Mike & Megan Daubert 02/24/2024

Update on Season 5 - Mike & Megan Daubert The unimaginable has rocked our world this month and I wanted to share a glimpse into our story with all of you. Among the very long list of things I am grieving the loss of, participating in this podcast is high up there. I believe it is only for a moment in time but regardless of how long our recovery will take would you join us in praying for healing and for a beautiful redemption story to be brought out of our trials? I love you all - Megan. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/30089303

Adler Therapy Group - Josh Adler 12/19/2023

Adler Therapy Group - Josh Adler Episode 9 - Josh Adler is the owner and founder of Adler Therapy Group - a practice specializing in physical, occupational and speech therapy. Growing up, Josh observed both his mother and father serving others in their professions and was inspired to choose a career path where he, too, could help people in need. Josh has been practicing occupational therapy for over 20 years and has expanded Adler Therapy Group to 6 different locations across Hampton Roads. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/29139298

Polish Boutique - Ashley Knox & Sarah Winstead 11/27/2023

Polish Boutique - Ashley Knox & Sarah Winstead Episode 8 - In the heart of Great Neck, Polish Boutique opened it's doors for business in 2022 and hit the ground running. More than a beautiful clothing boutique, Polish is a hub for community, a place to experience friendship while shopping, and a vessel for women to encourage one another. The heartbeat of Polish exists in co-owners Ashley Knox and Sarah Winstead who have both spent over a decade pouring into the community around them through schools, volunteer organizations, sports and neighborhoods - it’s no wonder that they’ve taken their investment into our city and the trust they’ve earned and turned it into a thriving, life-giving business. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/28784083

Pinup Coffee Co. - Bryce and Steph Wein 11/06/2023

Pinup Coffee Co. - Bryce and Steph Wein Episode 7 - This episode is a story of what once was a young girl’s dream being made into a reality. Pinup Coffee Co. was founded in Virginia Beach by Steph and Bryce Wein. With roots in the pacific northwest, Steph knew a thing or two about amazing coffee and set out to discover just what makes the perfect cup of coffee. Pinup Coffee Co. is a specialty coffee roaster in Virginia Beach with a devoted following of coffee lovers and plans to do really great things in the near future. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/28498193

Vessel Disposal & Reuse Foundation - Mike Provost 10/30/2023

Vessel Disposal & Reuse Foundation - Mike Provost Community Spotlight: Mike Provost founded VDRF in 2021 in an effort to help our Virginia waterways achieve sustainable health. Most locals have seen or noticed an abandoned or derelict vessel at some point in our waterways but have you ever considered what or who actually cleans them up? Check out this episode as an introduction to Mike Provost and learn about what he is doing to make change for the better. Get your tickets for the Sunk Ship Gala on January 6, 2023! /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/28445294

Kaizen Athletics - Emily Throckmorton 10/17/2023

Kaizen Athletics - Emily Throckmorton Episode 6 - Kaizen Athletics is a functional fitness gym located in the heart of The Vibe District. It’s a gym known for its community centric atmosphere and its most compassionate and inspirational founder. Emily Kramer Throckmorton started this business with a deep knowing in her soul that her purpose was to make a difference in the health and fitness realm. Her genuine desire to help change peoples lives is the core of Kaizen Athletics and is motivating the growth and future of her entrepreneurial journey. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/28310945

Lolly's Creamery Update - Joey and Jacklyn Launi 09/12/2023

Lolly's Creamery Update - Joey and Jacklyn Launi Episode 5 - Lolly's Creamery was the very first business we interviewed for the podast back in 2019. Founders Joey and Jacklyn Launi sat down with us four years ago to share the story of their beloved ice cream shop but so much growth has happened to Lolly's since that day - we had to bring them back on to tell all! The Launis share some fun insiders details on what we can look forward to from one of Virginia Beach's very favorite ice cream shops. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/28006593

Redwood Smoke Shack - Bob Roberts 08/10/2023

Redwood Smoke Shack - Bob Roberts Episode 4 - Bob Roberts is the owner and founder of Redwood Smoke Shack, a Texas inspired BBQ joint in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Bob takes us through life growing up on a farm where hard work runs through his veins, to his unexpected job out of college, to brew clubs and front yard BBQs and a food truck the blew all expectations out of the water. Redwood Smoke Shack was born out of a series of meant-to-be circumstances and is a thriving, community oriented business today. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/27711702

Ynot Italian - Tony DiSilvestro 06/20/2023

Ynot Italian - Tony DiSilvestro Episode 3 - Tony DiSilvestro opened his first restaurant, Ynot Italian, in Virginia Beach in 1993. Ynot is a beloved neighborhood restaurant with delicious, homemade food yet Tony's influence has spread much wider than just in the food service industry. As of today, he has pioneered 33 different businesses and calls himself a serial entrepreneur. Tony is a Forbes author and released his first book earlier this year. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/27200643

Chesapean Outdoors - Matt Redford 04/13/2023

Chesapean Outdoors - Matt Redford Episode 2 - Chesapean Outdoors represents a quintessential part of life in Virginia Beach - the ability to explore nature, experience dolphins, kayak on the ocean, go hiking, fishing - all in your own backyard. 27 years ago, Matt Redford had a vision for turning one of his passions into a business that everyone could enjoy. Chesapean Outdoors began as kayak dolphin tours but over the decades has expanded services to much more than that. Matt’s love of marine life and exploration have paved the way for his incredible business to grow and offers the ability for locals and tourists alike to experience the very best of Virginia Beach. Wesbite: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/26523789

Upcoming Event - Business Scaling Experience 04/11/2023

Upcoming Event - Business Scaling Experience April 24th-26th the Business Scaling Experience will be at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach. 3 Days of learning from some of the top minds in the business world - Magic Johnson, David Meltzer, VB's own Tony DiSilvestro and many more! Grab your tickets at: A standard ticket is only $97 for all three days or you can use the promo code "ilovevbpodcast" for 50% off any Select, Premier, or VIP Ticket! For more info, check out: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/26500098

Thirteenwinks - Carla Ryan 03/30/2023

Thirteenwinks - Carla Ryan Episode 1 - Thirteenwinks was created by Carla Ryan turning her love of art into a full time business. As an elementary school teacher turned digital creator, Carla is recognized for making skyline art in the form of stickers, paper goods, and gifts of all kinds. Thirteenwinks is in retail stores all over the US and you can check out her designs on her website: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/26387229

Community Spotlight: YMCA - Anthony Walters 12/12/2022

Community Spotlight: YMCA - Anthony Walters Community Spotlight: The YMCA of South Hampton Roads' President and CEO, Anthony Walters, shares with us the incredible role that our region's YMCA plays in our local community. They serve over 250,000 people in our area and provide countless programs for youths and adults all while creating a sense of belonging for every individual. Website: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/25300869

Community Spotlight: YMCA - Anthony Walters 12/12/2022

Foster Beauty Fashion Show - Ace & Ariana Foster 11/14/2022

Foster Beauty Fashion Show - Ace & Ariana Foster Episode 7 - Ace and Ariana Foster are the founders of Foster Beauty Fashion Show. The Foster Beauty Fashion Show is a platform for local talent and creatives such as models, designers, artists, and many more. This event was created in 2020 and has already seen massive growth in the beginning stages. In this episode, the Fosters share their story of how it all began and give us a glimpse into how they are each using their skillsets to grow the fashion and beauty industry in Hampton Roads. Check out the music video Ace made while on the MightyIKE during their 2020 deployment: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/24995031

Airotciv by Victoria - Victoria DiSilvestro 10/10/2022

Airotciv by Victoria - Victoria DiSilvestro Episode 6 - Victoria DiSilvestro is a young and driven business owner who has grown her brand - Airotciv by Victoria - to a national level. As a second generation entrepreneur, Victoria grew up learning from the best. She allowed her parents’ wisdom to guide her business building decisions and, mixed in with her own courage and creativity, it has proven to be a recipe for success. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/24634038

Community Spotlight: Virginia Beach Friends School - Mike Barclay 09/26/2022

Community Spotlight: Virginia Beach Friends School - Mike Barclay Community Spotlight: Virginia Beach Friends School was established in 1955 and has faithfully served as our areas only private Quaker school. Head of School, Mike Barclay, shares the school's history, core values and goals with us in this community spotlight. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/24485988

First Landing Seafood Company - Bruce and Bay McLaughlin 09/06/2022

First Landing Seafood Company - Bruce and Bay McLaughlin Episode 5 - First Landing Seafood Company was brought to life by three brothers coming together to revive a decades old family business. Raised on the Lynnhaven River, the McLaughlin Family grew up loving and caring for the oysters that are native to our region. America’s First Oysters™ are arguably the best oysters in the world and this company’s mission to ensure that everyone in Virginia Beach -whether resident or visitor - has access to the most delicious, fresh and clean Lynnhaven oyster anytime they want it. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/24281364

Community Spotlight: CHKD with Lauren Kiger and Matt Fanghella 08/15/2022

Community Spotlight: CHKD with Lauren Kiger and Matt Fanghella Community Spotlight: Lauren Kiger, Director of Philanthropy at Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, and Matt Fanghella, who sits on the Future Generations Board, share with us the history and mission of CHKD. They share their experiences with us as well as highlight the ways in which our community helps meet the needs of the Children's Hospital. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/24052110

Chris Keys - Chris Hall 07/25/2022

Chris Keys - Chris Hall Episode 4 - Chris Hall is a full time musician and recording artist known as Chris Keys. His incredible talent is highlighted in his piano playing and flawless vocals. Chris has been singing and performing since he was a child and is clearly living out his life’s passion today. You can catch his solo act or his duo, LittKeys, in popular restaurants and stages around town. In 2021, Chris Keys released his first album and it’s available for download on all music platforms. Instagram: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/23842733

Hiit House - Antwain Britt & Brittany Augustine 07/11/2022

Hiit House - Antwain Britt & Brittany Augustine Community Spotlight: We check in with past guest, Antwain Britt, to get an update on his gourmet cookie business and hear about his latest venture with business partner, Brittany Augustine. Hiit House is a one of kind workout with a unique twist. Check it out at: Find the full Juggernaut Cookie story in Season 2 Episode 9 of the I Love VB Podcast! /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/23653238

Van Syckle Group - Owen Van Syckle 06/27/2022

Van Syckle Group - Owen Van Syckle Episode 3 - Owen Van Syckle takes us though his journey of over 21 years in the consulting business as the founder of Van Syckle Group. The Van Syckle Group is a sales results organization that founded the Sales Acceleration Academy. They work with companies all over the country and have seen tremendous success with their clients. The growth of the company led naturally to the next step of creating the Van Syckle Financial Group. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/23533982

VB Rescue - Gina Benefiel 06/13/2022

VB Rescue - Gina Benefiel Episode 2 - VB Rescue is the nation’s largest volunteer-based emergency medical services system and has been serving our city for over 80 years. In this episode, the Executive Director of the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad Foundation, Gina Benefiel, shares about the mission of VB Rescue and what makes our local rescue squads so unique. Visit their website: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/23405513

The Key Salon - Krystal Henry 04/11/2022

The Key Salon - Krystal Henry Episode 1 - Krystal Henry is the owner of the The Key Salon - a hair salon focused on bringing you the highest quality products, service and style while pampering you and making you feel like part of her family. After twelve years in the industry, Krystal opened her own business in 2020 and has continued to grow and expand. Her story is full of determination, courage, and success as she persevered through challenges big and small. You can find her at: IG: /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/22752809

Sunshine and Sweet Pea's Coastal Decor - Steff Speirs 12/06/2021

Sunshine and Sweet Pea's Coastal Decor - Steff Speirs Episode 14 - Steff Speirs is the owner of Sunshine and Sweet Pea’s Coastal Decor - a bright and colorful shop filled with art, decor, jewelry and all things coastal inspired. In 2018 Steff took her passion and knack for business and opened a retail space where art is center stage. Steff’s story includes lessons from operating previous businesses and overcoming unexpected life challenges time and time again. Her drive and determination to cultivate a place for community has allowed Sunshine and Sweet Pea’s to blossom into what it is today. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/21387656

Surf Hatteras - Ross & Hannah Byrd 11/01/2021

Surf Hatteras - Ross & Hannah Byrd Episode 13 - Ross and Hannah Byrd own and operate Surf Hatteras - an overnight, destination surf camp on Hatteras Island. For the past 16 years, the Byrd family has picked up their life in Virginia Beach and spent their summers in the Outer Banks working around the clock running a premier surf camp for teenagers from all over the country. The idea for this camp came at an opportune time in the Byrd’s life and it has grown into something wildly fulfilling. www.surfhatteras.com /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/20986775

Tactical Distributors - Todd Askins 10/12/2021

Tactical Distributors - Todd Askins Episode 12 - Tactical Distributors is an e-commerce company that sells high end tactical gear to elite groups of people. Ten years ago, Todd Askins was given the opportunity to take Tactical Distributors from a wholesale branch to being a boutique international retailer. Todd has pioneered tremendous growth for the company and seen it through many ups and downs. He shares how his journey has been filled with challenges of its own but the opportunity for second chances has taught him many valuable life lessons. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/20771231

Bees Nees - Katie Denton & Interior Designer Liz Hartz 09/21/2021

Bees Nees - Katie Denton & Interior Designer Liz Hartz Episode 11 - Bees Nees is a company curating boutique vacation homes in Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks. Katie Denton's gifts of hospitality and attention to detail are beautifully captured in the Bees Nees Getaways. Katie shares that her mission is to create spaces where families can come together in a place where everything has been thought of so that lifetime memories can be made during their vacation. Her inspiration for the business comes from her own childhood memories and she hopes to pass them along to all her Bees Nees guests. Visit for all the info! /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/20547713

ROX (Rapid Overland Xpress) - Jeff McWaters 09/07/2021

ROX (Rapid Overland Xpress) - Jeff McWaters Episode 10 - ROX (Rapid Overland Xpress) is a luxury motor coach service taking you directly from Virginia Beach to your destination and back. Whether it’s for business or leisure, you truly get to experience “Travel Reimagined.” ROX motor coaches are gorgeous, spacious and every detail has been considered so that the guest experiences the best way to travel. In this episode, the Founder of ROX, Jeff McWaters, takes us through his entire career leading up to this point. Jeff is a leader and champion for bettering our community and the lives around him. He is packed full of wisdom and has well-respected business advice for any entrepreneur. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/20374925

Juggernaut Cookie Co. - Antwain Britt 08/16/2021

Juggernaut Cookie Co. - Antwain Britt Episode 9 - Antwain Britt is the creator of Juggernaut Cookie Co. - a local cookie company that makes gigantic, delicious cookies and ships nationwide. But the cookie company is neither the beginning nor the end of his story. From a factory worker, to a professional MMA fighter to a gym owner, Antwain is a picture of hard work and dedication to pursuing excellence in his craft. We hope his story brings new inspiration to wherever you are in life and go get yourself a delicious Juggernaut Cookie. /episode/index/show/ilovevb/id/20156483

I Love VB Podcast

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