When Rock Bottom Becomes the Launchpad

Neal Piper shares his journey from winning the Startup World Cup to diving into entrepreneurship, inspired by his son Noah's health journey. He discusses the support from Virginia's entrepreneurial ecosystem, his professional background, and the importance of modern medical technology. Neal highlights product development, market reception, team dynamics, and investor support, revealing the challenges faced. He reflects on surprises in his journey and the impact of Virginia's startup scene, including Series A capital challenges. The episode wraps up with encouragement for entrepreneurs, upcoming events, and final thoughts.

From Defense to Digital Health Using AI to Save Veteran Lives

Mike McMahan shares insights from his journey in starting new ventures, highlighting the importance of local resources and incubators for business growth. He delves into the challenges of veteran suicide and mental health, discussing technology's role in supporting veterans. Mike reflects on his military experiences and personal story with Gulf War syndrome, emphasizing suicide prevention and proactive mental health support. The conversation explores AI and edge devices in mental health initiatives, including revenue models and clinical integration. Personal anecdotes about scuba diving, spearfishing, and lazy river adventures add a unique touch, while the episode concludes with Mike's upcoming pitch event and local favorites.

Startup Stories, Podcasting Insights, and Real Estate in Hampton Roads

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. Light-hearted moments include tech nostalgia, local cuisine, and beach recommendations. The episode concludes with details on the upcoming Startup World Cup event.

From $40 to Financial Freedom

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 financial literacy, government contracts, and the Invest America Act. Personal stories and local food recommendations add a personal touch.

Exploring Mushrooms: Business, Healing, and Community with Tia Henderson

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.

Mastering Barber Business: Growth, Client Retention, and Industry Trends

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.

AI, Global Nursing, and Recruitment Insights with Tim Armstrong

Tim Armstrong joins the conversation, sharing his journey in global nurse recruitment and insights into the current nurse shortage. The discussion touches on AI's role in healthcare, the importance of sleep, and the intricacies of nurse recruitment as a career. Immigration challenges and visa sponsorship for international nurses are explored, along with hospital concerns and human trafficking issues. Tim provides strategies for recruitment differentiation and discusses competitors in the field. Personal anecdotes highlight healthcare quality comparisons and water safety during travel. The episode wraps up with Tim's culinary experiences post-travel, offering a diverse perspective on international nurse recruitment.

Navigating Media Evolution and Community Growth with Cathy Lewis

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. The episode concludes with a warm invitation for Cathy’s return visit.

Diving Deep: Exploring Underwater Careers and Regional Marine Economy with Martin Dorn

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 networking opportunity, TechNite's significance, and marine growth in Norfolk, concluding with local dining recommendations.

From Apple to AI: Building Startups and Communities with Jake Spracher

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, acknowledging Paul Chin's contributions and revenue split offers. Cultivating community interaction in Hampton Roads and focusing on core business principles are also discussed. The conversation touches on local food catering and community appreciation. Sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, the episode concludes with closing remarks and acknowledgments.

From Donuts to Disruption: Community, Innovation & the Power of Showing Up

This episode is a dynamic journey through Hampton Roads’ innovation, leadership, and community spirit. 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 Night—an award show celebrating the region’s top tech and entrepreneurial talent.

Tech Communities, AI in Development, and Balancing Work-Life

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.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Offshore Outsourcing

Ravi Chhatani joins the discussion, sharing his journey from Morgan Stanley to relocating to Norfolk. The episode explores communication in staffing, the benefits of nearshoring, and insights into international labor laws. Ravi discusses contract lengths, remote worker commitment, and his career path. The conversation shifts to parenting, self-belief, and the importance of networking. Ravi offers lessons on starting a business for lifestyle reasons and managing podcast interruptions. The impact of AI and overcoming outsourcing hesitations are also covered. The episode wraps up with insights into business operations in Norfolk and Latin America, local dining spots, and new ventures in the food industry.

Trademark Tips, AI in Law, and Entrepreneurial Insights with Crystal Brown

Join Crystal Brown as she delves into the complexities of trademarks, including the importance of thorough searches and policing. Discover when startups should trademark and how to tackle email scams. Crystal shares insights on AI's impact on copyright enforcement and infringement. The episode also covers franchising, documenting business processes, and creating systems for entrepreneurs. Explore cost considerations for legal services and common startup mistakes, with valuable advice for founders. Concluding with lighter topics, Crystal shares her love for sourdough baking and favorite local eateries, blending professional insights with personal interests.

Tech, Talent, and Tourism: The New Virginia Beach Economy

Christian Green discusses his passion for community development and his role in Virginia Beach Economic Development. The episode starts with a nod to the Savannah Bananas' success before exploring the historical significance of Virginia Beach's Dome and plans for a surf park. Christian shares his vision for city growth, focusing on tech and defense sectors, and emphasizes collaboration and accountability in his career. Topics include regional development, affordable housing, urban planning, work-life balance, local culture, Virginia Beach's participation in the StartUp World Cup, local fitness, the orange crush debate, and adapting to the weather.

Harnessing LinkedIn for Business Growth and the Power of Discipline

Lauren Krailo, founder of Krailo Socials, joins us to break down why LinkedIn is the most underutilized tool in B2B marketing—and how companies in commercial construction and beyond can turn connections into contracts. A self-proclaimed gym rat and business strategist, Lauren shares how discipline from fitness transfers into marketing success. We dig into how to boost your Social Selling Index (SSI), decode LinkedIn’s algorithm, test video lengths, and use AI to streamline content. Lauren also tackles common myths like “my industry isn’t on LinkedIn” and offers real strategies to turn passive profiles into powerful business drivers.

Is Hampton Roads the Next Seattle Tech Powerhouse?

Berry Brunk joins the discussion, sharing insights from Hampton Road's entrepreneurial ecosystem and his background in media ventures. The episode examines financial challenges, economic downturns, and the importance of educating outside capital. Berry discusses the role of pitch contests, the evolving landscape of founder resources, and the impact of social media on deal flow and networking. The conversation addresses remote work challenges and economic development incentives, focusing on current capital raising hurdles for startups. Berry highlights his work with COVA BLVD magazine, showcasing regional culture and media. The episode concludes with reflections on Hampton Roads' startup ecosystem and upcoming events.

The Music Industry Mindset That Builds Better Businesses

Jarrett Beeler, Sway Creative Labs, shares his journey from the music industry to advertising, highlighting lessons applicable to business success. The discussion explores Norfolk's startup incentives and local business climate, emphasizing fostering creativity and talent. Jarrett delves into the economics of streaming, changing revenue models, and educating clients on music industry dynamics. Topics include personal growth, leadership, managing responsibilities, and acquiring advertising clients. Ethical considerations, AI's impact on advertising, and talent recruitment are examined, alongside overcoming regional skepticism.

Navigating Funding: Venture Capital, Integrated Capital, and Entrepreneurial Identity

Himalaya Rao-Potlapally discusses the dynamics of venture capital and startup funding, advising founders on when to avoid VC money. The episode delves into various funding types and the significance of the TomTom festival. Himalaya shares insights on starting a venture fund, early startup events, and the importance of mentorship for new entrepreneurs. The conversation touches on investor motivations, matching capital to business needs, and integrated capital approaches. Challenges like funding disparities and fostering innovation in rural areas are explored, along with entrepreneurship's role in economic development in Hampton Roads. Lifestyle tips include gardening and local dining, complemented by thoughts on regional identity and Hampton Wealth Week.

Empowering Founders: Resilience, Mentorship, and Regional Startup Success with Debbie Irwin

Debbie Irwin, Lighthouse Labs, explores metrics for evaluating entrepreneurial resilience, inspired by Rick Rubin's creativity. She shares insights and her experiences supporting founders. Topics include regionalism in startup funding, inspiration from the Kaufman Foundation, and Debbie's personal journey. The episode delves into founders' motivation, feedback dynamics, mentorship's impact, the Lighthouse (Labs) Network's evolving support, Richmond's corporate scene, and founder responsiveness.