Jalaya Allen shares how Campus Connex connects college students with paid projects, helping them build valuable skills and gain real-world experience while pursuing their education. As a senior at Norfolk State University, a student-athlete, and the oldest of seven siblings, Jalaya reflects on how her experiences shaped her mission to create opportunities for others. She also discusses the challenges of starting a business with no prior knowledge and the lessons she’s learned from stepping out o...
Dec 06, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Dr. Eiesha Williamson joins the Fervent Four Show to share her multifaceted journey, from her background in cheerleading for two NFL teams and running a dance studio to her current role at the YMCA. She offers insights into fundraising, traveling with dance teams, and the intricacies of homeschooling gifted children. The discussion touches on the nature vs. nurture debate, emotional vs. intellectual intelligence, and trauma's impact on development. Dr. Williamson also discusses the popularity of...
Nov 21, 2024•1 hr
Stew Fortier, co-founder of Type.ai , joins us to discuss the new possibilities large language models bring to entrepreneurs and how Type adds value through its focused design. We talk about how Stew and his team have rethought the writing process for today’s needs, creating a tool that blends familiar editing features with integrated AI to make writing and editing more efficient. Along the way, Stew shares recollections from his Y Combinator batch process, talks about how he met his co-founder,...
Nov 14, 2024•1 hr 4 min
In this episode, we talk with Josh Miner, the founder of Archetype Braces, about his mission to change the way knee support works. Josh was inspired by his mom’s journey to stay active after a knee injury, despite trying surgery, therapy, and various traditional braces. Determined to create something that could truly help, he spent months testing and refining his design, gathering feedback to build a brace that supports movement without restricting it. Tune in to hear how Josh’s engineering mind...
Nov 09, 2024•1 hr
Santh Sathya joins the Fervent Four to explore the future of transportation, focusing on flying cars and VTOL vehicles. The conversation delves into FAA regulations and potential applications like air ambulances and autonomous traffic control. Santh shares his expertise in hydrogen technology and discusses how Tesla's innovations impact the transportation-energy sector. The episode also covers LuftCar's operational strategy, media influence on public perception, and the economic implications of ...
Oct 31, 2024•59 min
Collin Smith, founder of ReachSuite, joins The Fervent Four Show to discuss his journey from launching the platform to its recent acquisition. ReachSuite helps software companies stay engaged in the buyer’s journey, even when they’re not in the room. Collin discusses how ReachSuite delivers real value with interactive demos and guided sandboxes, driving better results for software sales teams. We also explore Collin’s connection to the 757 and hear his story of building his first venture while a...
Oct 25, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Join Jeana Feely, President of ALN Technology, as she discusses how ReplyAI is transforming the semiconductor industry by capturing lost revenue and optimizing customer support. Learn about AI’s practical applications in business, efficient sales strategies, and how companies can reduce costs while increasing revenue. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Chapters: (0:00) Opening remarks and introduction of guest Jeana Feely (1:33) Importance of mental exercises and chess calorie consumption ...
Oct 18, 2024•1 hr 1 min
IV failures from infiltration and extravasation can cause serious complications, including drug delivery errors and even life-threatening situations. In this episode, Gary Warren, CEO of ivWatch, explains how their cutting-edge technology is changing the game for IV therapy. With nearly 70 patents and FDA clearance, ivWatch uses near-infrared light and advanced algorithms to catch IV leaks early. Gary also shares insights into scaling the company, global healthcare challenges, and the supportive...
Oct 10, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Join Ayush Garg, founder of AnswerThis.io, as he shares his journey from building tools at 14 to scaling businesses in Singapore and presenting to the president. Now a student at the University of Richmond, Ayush is focused on transforming the research process with AnswerThis—a platform that uses AI to help users quickly extract insights from research papers. In this episode, he introduces AnswerThis, talks about AI’s growth and impact on industries like healthcare and education, and addresses t...
Oct 04, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Join us as we explore Katrina Young's career at NASA Langley and delve into the Technology Transfer Program, which licenses NASA's cutting-edge technologies. Discover NASA Langley's historical contributions to supersonic travel, drag-reducing innovations, and sensor applications. The episode also highlights upcoming NASA webinars, the Down to Earth, Ready for Launch event, and offers a glimpse into touring NASA Langley, including wind tunnel testing and SpaceX sightings. Chapters: (0:00) Katrina...
Sep 26, 2024•1 hr 3 min
Join us as Scott Janney, co-founder and CEO of Magazine Jukebox Inc., returns to the Fervent Four Show to share his exciting news! Scott discusses the latest on Magazine Jukebox, his venture into NYC for the Venture Summit, and the highs and lows of being a Series A entrepreneur. Scott also dives into lessons learned from startup competitions and the significance of Google reviews for business growth. This episode explores adapting to hybrid work models, hiring practices, and Magazine Jukebox's ...
Sep 19, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Josh King joins the Fervent Four Show and shares his journey from attending Virginia Commonwealth University to founding a gaming company that has crafted a controller that attaches to your phone magnetically. Josh delves into the development of his innovative controller and the growth of his YouTube channel, highlighting the loyalty of his fanbase and crucial parental support. The conversation touches on the importance of networking, the impact of mobile gaming, and Josh's vision for a universa...
Sep 12, 2024•1 hr
In this episode, we welcome Dr. Julie M. Stark, Co-Director of the NavalX Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge. Dive into how Tech Bridge is growing the local entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting transitioning military personnel with non-traditional industry partners, fostering a vibrant network that supports innovation and the Naval Research Enterprise in Hampton Roads. Join us to explore the future of military tech innovation and community integration. Connect with the Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge here: ht...
Sep 06, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Jay Grant joins us to explore how Hampton Roads can become the best place to live, work, and play, starting with bold ideas on affordable housing and the power of walkable communities. He challenges the status quo, tackling hot topics like the impact of short-term rentals and overcoming the region’s toughest job market hurdles. Don’t miss the final takeaways on innovative housing solutions, behind-the-scenes insights from the Startup World Cup, and a visionary roadmap for Hampton Roads’ future. ...
Aug 30, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Tim Ryan and Zack Miller dive into details about the Startup World Cup Virginia regional event and its partnerships. They discuss the venue, application process, and the significance of startup participation. The episode covers tech innovations and startups like Complify and M-Con Innovations, explores advancements by Psionic and Agrecision, discusses Virginia's growing tech scene, autonomous drone delivery, and VIPC's role in state startup investments, all building up to the Startup World Cup. ...
Aug 23, 2024•1 hr 3 min
Terrel Majette joins the Fervent Four podcast to share his journey from aspiring actor to CEO of Jett Production Company. They explore the impact of entertainment industry strikes and Terrel's victory in the Franklin startup business competition. Terrel shares his journey, military experience, and the origin of the Jett Production Company and touches on emotional milestones. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and jokes about Tesla (1:22) Tesla's factory and guest introduction (3:44) Franklin's commun...
Aug 16, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Amber Hamilton and Sara Brown join us for a lively discussion covering various topics from Baltimore's culture to Sara's Virginia Beach roots. They address biases and their impact on female entrepreneurs and discuss the media's role in shaping societal views. The episode also touches on authenticity, well-being, marketing pitfalls, and setting realistic revenue goals. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and routine discussions (1:08) Walking treadmill meetings and future podcast plans (3:21) Introduci...
Aug 09, 2024•1 hr 12 min
Peter Grimm and Kris Cravey from Fahrenheit Advisors join the podcast to discuss the Hampton Roads workforce study, and delve into the study's key findings, methodology, and surprising revelations. The conversation addresses economic development, cost of living, wages, and the impact of remote work on talent acquisition. They also explore regional identity, local culture, and encouraging regional self-belief and growth potential. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and birthday wishes (2:19) Introduct...
Aug 02, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Tune in to hear Neal Frazier discuss his journey, from a unique fruitarian lifestyle to knocking out the same tooth multiple times. Discover how Neal Frazier Tech offers comprehensive web solutions and learn the importance of purpose in everyday life and business. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and greetings; Book tour and event; Parking garage confusion (4:12) Neal Frazier introduction and background; Explanation of the Fervent Four name (7:44) Neal Frazier's agency, services, and cold plunges (...
Jul 27, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Alasha Bennett joins to discuss the impact and origins of the Bennett Center, emphasizing the entrepreneurial mindset and the importance of networking. The conversation covers Virginia Beach's economic development, youth success stories, and the role of books and AI in business. They delve into educating kids on pricing, thoughts on the educational system, and challenges like funding and policies. Chapters: (0:00) Opening banter and introduction of guest, Alasha Bennett (5:49) Overview and impac...
Jul 19, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Chip Dodd joins Zack and Tim to discuss his journey with Support Services of Virginia, tackling growth challenges and the intricacies of working with Medicaid. Join us as he shares insights on living minimally, effective task delegation and finding true happiness through his personal mission. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and greetings (0:14) Tim's thoughts on favorite shows and nostalgia (1:08) Zack and Tim recount how they met Chip Dodd (1:18) Chip Dodd's introduction and early memories (4:19)...
Jul 12, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Join us for episode 217, as we dive into Lionel Sapp's journey from celebrity assistant to tech trailblazer. We explore Lionel's YouTube channel and live audience engagement, and discuss career transitions, tech skepticism, imposter syndrome, Digital Builders 757, and organizing large events. Chapters: (0:00) Episode introduction (1:21) Introducing guest Lionel Sapp (2:27) Previous guest Andrew (4:20) Content creation and scheduling (6:05) Lionel's YouTube channel topics (10:58) Managing live au...
Jun 27, 2024•1 hr 3 min
On episode 216, the Fervent Four hosts get some reps in with Andrew Choi, a recent micro pitch winner, and one of the co-founders of VIX, the AI Personal Trainer. Learn how three friends from Virginia Tech pivoted from failure to innovation, creating an app that tracks and improves your workout form in real-time. The episode also covers moving to Hampton Roads, the fitness industry, and future plans for VIX. Chapters: (0:00) Opening remarks and episode introduction (2:18) Introducing guest Andre...
Jun 21, 2024•1 hr 5 min
In this episode, Zack, Tim, and Torrey discuss transitioning from military life to business, leveraging military experience, and effective networking strategies. They introduce Scribble, its pricing model, and highlight the importance of overcoming rejection and valuing community in entrepreneurship. Chapters: (0:00) Greetings (0:10) Enjoying the warm June weather (1:19) Transitioning from military life (3:37) Leveraging military experience in business (12:58) Introduction to Scribble (22:14) Pr...
Jun 18, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Join us on our "sweetheart" episode 214 where we explore the power of laughter in business and innovation with Allison Moore! Tim, Zack, and Allison Moore dive into comedy's nuances, from roasting to transitioning to corporate gigs. Allison shares her journey, her Amazon Prime special, adapting to virtual comedy during the pandemic, and insights on the Will Smith and Chris Rock incident. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and greetings (0:45) Discussion on comedy and roasting (1:22) Introduction of t...
Jun 07, 2024•58 min
On this week's episode, Greg Lewis from Future of Hampton Roads discusses the importance of data collection, regional collaboration, and loyalty for business growth. The conversation covers challenges, opportunities in the commercial sector, local dining, and workforce transition programs for military personnel. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and catching up with Zack Miller and Tim Ryan (2:11) Guest introduction: Greg Lewis from Future of Hampton Roads (7:24) Overview of the Future of Hampton Ro...
May 31, 2024•1 hr 7 min
In this 212th episode, the hosts connect with Gen Z entrepreneur Isaiah Smith, founder and CEO of Build for Demand - a team of product developers that help visionaries build products that customers actually want to buy. Tune in as the trio discuss the importance of educating and guiding high school students by connecting them with opportunities for entrepreneurship. Chapters: (0:00) Intro (8:53) Introduction of guest Isaiah Smith, co-chair of the Hampton Roads Gen Z Commission (13:12) Debate abo...
May 24, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Tune in to Episode 211 as the hosts plug in with Hannah LaCon — founder of HerculE-Q — to explore her journey from Hampton University to NASA, and her transition into full-time entrepreneurship. In this episode, the trio discuss the huge potential for startups to get access to NASA technology, the growth prospects in the electric vehicle market, and the experiences that come with young entrepreneurship. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and greetings (4:09) First-time podcast experiences and Hannah'...
May 17, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Zack Miller and Tim Ryan invite Eileen Brewer to discuss her journey to Hampton Roads, her involvement with the 757 Accelerate startup accelerator, and the rise of AI in new startups. The group delves into the impact of government support on startup ecosystems, the effectiveness of virtual programs, and the advantages of relocating to Hampton Roads. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and Zack Miller's book launch (7:35) Guest introduction: Eileen Brewer and her journey to Virginia (12:38) Expectation...
May 10, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In this episode, guest Wendy Goldberg shares her journey of starting a podcast and a foundation, and discusses the impact of integrated medicine on the Hampton Roads cmmunity, and balancing creativity in business. Tune in live to the Fervent Four as Wendy, Tim, and Zack delve into the trials and victories of fundraising, the effects of education budget cuts, and the dance between creativity and numbers in business. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction: Wendy Goldberg (5:51) Wendy...
May 02, 2024•57 min
