Off the Beaten Path: Building Where2Wheel

Brittany and Dave Peregoff introduce Where2Wheel, sharing its inception and growth journey. They discuss transitioning the business model and partnering with landowners to develop off-road parks. The conversation touches on Zack's off-roading experiences and trail difficulty, as well as strategic pivots and market expansion in the off-roading industry. They explore demographic shifts, networking's role in business growth, and overcoming fundraising challenges. Insights into Founder University, entrepreneurial traits, and co-founder dynamics are shared, along with maintaining momentum through events. The episode also covers off-roading's social media impact, content trends, experiential marketing, and safety measures.

From Forensics to Founding: Rachelle Turiello's Med Tech Mission

Rachelle Turiello shares her journey from forensics to founding Avant Genomics, exploring challenges in DNA sample preparation and her experiences with TechNite and pitch competitions. She discusses synesthesia in entrepreneurship, Charlottesville's startup scene, and med tech innovation in Virginia. The conversation covers Avant Genomics' 20-year vision, wearable health tech. Rachelle also touches on Theranos comparisons, microfluidics, and early cancer detection, concluding with insights into Charlottesville's culinary scene and sourdough culture.

Beyond the Bark: Building Yellow Dog Through Grit and Curiosity

Jay Livingood joins the Fervent Four Show for a wide-ranging conversation that opens with the rebirth of 757 TechNite—where he was named Entrepreneur of the Year. The discussion dives into the importance of grit and curiosity in technology, navigating event overbooking, and the value of regional events and team networking. Jay also explores the role of CEO groups, community learning, and capital raising, while offering an inside look at Yellow Dog’s integrated services and business model. From managing client data and stadium concessions to embracing core values, supporting veterans, and retaining top talent, the conversation highlights the power of innovation, collaboration, and community.

Gamifying Your Life Through Health Literacy

Tom Chamberlain reflects the excitement for 757 TechNite, highlighting the significance of showcasing local companies and EdLogics nomination. The episode delves into building healthy communities and innovation in Hampton Roads, focusing on Tom's background and health literacy's role in reducing the life expectancy gap. Challenges in health literacy, educational gaps, starting EdLogics, and team building are discussed. Engaging users through gamification, raising capital, and the role of 757 Angels are explored, along with expanding health literacy topics and partnerships. The episode concludes with the impact of COVID-19, favorite dining spots, and community engagement.

AI for High-Stakes Decisions

Jeana Bolanos joins to discuss her company rebranding and experiences at the StartUp World Cup, emphasizing the creation of opportunities. The conversation delves into building a technical team for SalesE, its vision, and system integration for customer onboarding. AI applications and logic-based rules are explored, focusing on target markets for AI systems and ERP integration challenges. The future of AI in enterprise, its impact on supply and demand, and technology adoption trends are highlighted. The episode also covers SalesE's revenue model, support for startups, regional business, and machine learning in restaurant operations, concluding with local food spots and industry challenges.

How ADHD Became a Superpower for This Entrepreneur

JJ Garofalo joins to explore into the launch and features of Attorney Live, highlighting its marketplace benefits. JJ shares insights on entertainment, time investment, and transitions from college to business. The discussion addresses managing ADHD in business and leveraging it in entrepreneurship. Legal resources and the expansion of Attorney Live are discussed, including university partnerships and future plans. The episode also touches on healthy fast food ventures, leadership, employee prioritization in America, and regional food identity discussions.

Exploring Defense Tech and AI with Kali Luthra

Kali Luthra shares her journey through the 757 Defend accelerator program and her relocation to Hampton Roads, delving into defense technology in partnership with Mid Atlantic Tech Bridge. The discussion covers the mechanics of the accelerator program, demystifying defense-related acronyms, and the military's economic influence in the region. Cultural and regional attractions are highlighted alongside evolving medicine and AI's potential impact. The conversation touches on ChatGPT research, privacy concerns, AI in defense, and evaluating AI companies. The episode explores the accelerator's non-equity model, founder diversity, and defense acquisition learning, concluding with anticipation for demo week and local culinary curiosities.

Navigating Startups and AI: Insights from Mari Soonsoo Bae on Innovation and Growth

Mari Soonsoo Bae shares insights from the Startup World Cup, navigating rehearsals, and social dynamics at events. She introduces Ara, her AI workspace, and discusses leaving Google and Meta to prioritize family and entrepreneurship in Seattle's tech scene. The conversation covers hustling for opportunities, college reflections, startup rejections, and evolving in business. Mari highlights AI's impact on jobs, her personal mission, and the importance of a growth mindset. She also explores opportunities for immigrants and female founders, concluding with a focus on Virginia's ecosystem and local culture appreciation.

Revolutionizing Real Estate: VroomBrick's Journey and Leadership Insights

Leland Remias joins to discuss his journey with VroomBrick, a company aiming to disrupt the real estate industry. The conversation begins with the origins of VroomBrick and explores the American dream of homeownership, focusing on the impact of 30-year mortgages and frequent moves among military buyers. Leland shares insights from his Startup World Cup experience and VroomBrick's current state, detailing its process, benefits, and financial aspects. The discussion covers scaling, networking, and leadership lessons from the military, alongside maintaining a positive team dynamic. The episode concludes with a book recommendation, reflections on disruptive companies, and regional food highlights.

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.