Episodes

  • Revolutionizing Real Estate: VroomBrick's Journey and Leadership Insights

    Revolutionizing Real Estate: VroomBrick's Journey and Leadership Insights
    Sep 4 2025
    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. (0:00) Introduction and greetings (0:45) Hosts discuss upcoming 757 Tech Night event (3:00) How Zack and Tim met Leland Remias and the origin of VroomBrick (7:19) American dream of homeownership and 30-year mortgages (9:21) Military buyers, frequent moves, and VroomBrick's impact (11:32) Leland's Startup World Cup experience and VroomBrick's current state (18:37) VroomBrick's process, benefits, and the financial side of mortgages (25:20) Paying down mortgages and client feedback (30:06) Disrupting the real estate industry and team management (35:29) Business scaling, networking, and leveraging opportunities (47:28) Daily video commitment and leadership lessons from the military (53:09) Maintaining even temperament and a positive team dynamic (58:17) Book recommendation and the evolution of disruptive companies (1:00:09) Food of the region and closing remarks https://vroombrick.com/ - Creating a positive and fun work environment can significantly enhance team productivity and morale. - Removing middlemen in real estate transactions can save consumers thousands of dollars and streamline the home buying and selling process. - Consistent networking and taking advantage of local resources can be crucial for startup growth and gaining community support.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • When Rock Bottom Becomes the Launchpad

    When Rock Bottom Becomes the Launchpad
    Aug 28 2025
    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. (0:00) Neal Piper's personal story, Startup World Cup event recap, and audience reactions (5:17) Neal's journey to winning the Startup World Cup (11:02) Support for startups and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Virginia (17:42) Neal's transition to entrepreneurship and Noah's health journey (23:23) Neal's professional background and skill development (29:18) From idea to action and the need for modern medical technology (35:37) Neal's product development and market reception (41:03) Team dynamics and investor support in Neal's journey (43:38) Family involvement and challenges in Neal's business (48:18) Surprises and reflections on the entrepreneurial journey (51:09) Virginia's startup ecosystem and Series A capital challenges (57:47) Impact of Startup World Cup Virginia and Charlottesville highlights (1:01:02) Encouragement for entrepreneurs and upcoming events (1:03:10) Final thoughts - "Sunny days ahead" served as Neal Piper's mantra during the challenging times when his son Noah was battling a rare brain tumor. - The journey of Luminoa began with Neal's frustration over the outdated technology for enteral nutrition pumps, leading him to develop a modern, pocket-sized pump that enables mobility and provides real-time nutritional data. - Virginia's startup ecosystem is supportive in the early stages, but there is a need for more substantial series A funding opportunities to keep growing businesses within the state. Learn more about Luminoah: https://luminoah.com/ 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
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • From HGTV to Multimillion-Dollar Success: Business Growth and Leadership Lessons

    From HGTV to Multimillion-Dollar Success: Business Growth and Leadership Lessons
    Aug 21 2025
    Chasity Pritchett discusses her journey from HGTV show participation to founding Emblem Olive Oil, exploring market challenges and growth with BlackBrand. She emphasizes the importance of action, relationships, and navigating government contracts, ecommerce, and distribution. Chasity addresses logistics of contracts, debunks olive oil myths, and shares her experience starting a health foundation during COVID. She highlights flexibility in business and multimillion-dollar growth, discussing team structure, success measurement, and capital strategies. Personal anecdotes on balancing introversion with leadership and local food culture complete the episode. (0:00) Introduction, event announcement, and guest introduction (6:29) HGTV show experience and choosing a new home (14:42) The start of Emblem Olive Oil and market challenges (20:43) Business growth with BlackBrand and importance of action and relationships (25:11) Government contracts, ecommerce, and distribution challenges (30:43) Government contract logistics and understanding award management (33:32) Olive oil types and debunking myths (39:29) Starting a health foundation during COVID and future plans (45:47) Flexibility in business and multimillion dollar growth (48:50) Team structure, success measurement, and capital strategies (52:13) Building customer trust and overcoming business challenges (53:50) Balancing introversion with business leadership (56:04) Local food culture and collaborations (57:58) Show wrap-up and final thoughts https://www.emblemoil.com/ - Emblem Olive Oil gained significant exposure and growth through strategic participation in events like the Start World Cup and securing a USDA contract for supplying olive oil to Native American communities. - Chasity Pritchett emphasizes the importance of taking actionable steps from learned insights, such as registering on sam.gov and actively pursuing government contracts to scale her business. - The health benefits of extra virgin olive oil, including its high smoke point and potential to reduce heart disease risk, are foundational to both Emblem Olive Oil's product offerings and Chasity's nonprofit initiative, Let's Fight Back. Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • From Defense to Digital Health Using AI to Save Veteran Lives

    From Defense to Digital Health Using AI to Save Veteran Lives
    Aug 14 2025
    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. (0:00) Introduction and live events, including World Cup promotion (2:56) Guest introduction: Mike McMahan's background and meeting at Launchpad (6:20) SDV Solutions and private equity insights (10:28) Starting a new venture and comparing ecosystems (13:39) Local resources and cost of living in business (18:08) The role of incubators in business growth (20:14) Mike McMahan on learning from mistakes and AI interests (23:24) Addressing veteran suicide and mental health challenges (27:10) Technology's role in aiding veteran mental health (31:40) Personal military experiences and background (35:45) Resistance and broader applications of mental health tech (40:12) AI, edge devices, and mental health initiative goals (49:39) Revenue model and clinical integration of the mental health app (52:28) Mike's personal story with Gulf War syndrome (54:05) Suicide prevention and proactive mental health support (56:38) Mike's upcoming pitch event and local favorites (58:16) Scuba diving adventures and underwater experiences (1:03:04) Spearfishing, lionfish hunting, and lazy river enjoyment (1:03:59) Closing remarks and thanks - Identify and leverage available resources and ecosystems to accelerate business growth and avoid the pitfalls of isolation. - Utilize AI and edge technology to create proactive mental health solutions that operate passively and protect user privacy. - Focus on solving significant, impactful problems that resonate personally, such as veteran suicide, to drive meaningful change and innovation. https://www.ngz.ai/ Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Buc-ee's Taught This Guy What About Business?

    Buc-ee's Taught This Guy What About Business?
    Aug 7 2025
    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. (0:00) Introduction and discussion on stress and celebrating wins (3:33) Startup World Cup and guest introduction (5:01) Innovate Hampton Roads and Slover Library's podcasting facilities (9:01) Tech nostalgia (10:52) Startup World Cup experience and growing up in Texas (16:23) Chick-fil-A experiences and moving to Virginia love story (23:33) Starting a business and overcoming personal challenges (27:33) Breaking his foot and its impact on business journey (30:38) Support from family and focus areas in Hampton Roads real estate (34:06) First-time homebuyer programs and support for first responders and teachers (41:24) Discover Virginia podcast evolution and guest stories (47:02) Podcast recording techniques and metrics (51:04) Audience demographics and distribution platforms (53:30) Autocorrect mishaps and spelling humor (57:22) Local cuisine and beach recommendations (1:06:11) Closing remarks and Startup World Cup preview - Celebrate every win, as even small victories can build momentum and keep you motivated through the peaks and valleys of running a business. - The Startup World Cup event is not just a traditional business pitch competition but an engaging, high-energy experience that blends entrepreneurial spirit with entertainment. - Maintaining a focus on customer experience and offering competitive wages are key strategies that have helped companies like Buc-ee's and Chick-fil-A build loyal followings and successful business models. Discover Virginia Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIoIqs24qLk7dwFPGiyMpXqLHNSsEyQvP Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • From $40 to Financial Freedom

    From $40 to Financial Freedom
    Jul 31 2025
    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. (0:00) Introduction and greetings (0:34) Upcoming event and Virginia Beach Arena project (1:50) Introducing guest Danijel Velicki (3:01) Danijel's personal anecdotes and background (6:48) Danijel's journey from Croatia to the U.S. (8:27) Danijel's experiences in Morgantown and Hampton Roads (12:26) Transition to business ownership and challenges (18:47) Scaling a business and the importance of adaptability (21:55) Mentorship and learning in business leadership (24:07) Organizational decision-making and startup challenges (27:45) Working with fast-paced leaders and hiring practices (33:26) Cash flow management and business models insights (39:52) Personal stories and networking events (45:47) Introduction to Squire's mission and financial literacy (50:06) Government contracts, higher education, and financial literacy (55:05) Invest America Act, generational wealth, and insurance strategies (1:01:09) Local food spots and personal anecdotes (1:03:42) Closing remarks and final thoughts https://www.getsqwire.com - The transition from being an employee to a business owner involves a significant change in mindset, responsibility, and decision-making. - Financial literacy is crucial for individuals at all stages of life, and providing accessible, unbiased education can empower better financial decisions. - Creating a flexible work environment that focuses on mission-specific outcomes rather than rigid schedules can attract and retain the right talent for a startup. Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Exploring Mushrooms: Business, Healing, and Community with Tia Henderson

    Exploring Mushrooms: Business, Healing, and Community with Tia Henderson
    Jul 24 2025
    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) Making sports engaging and event promotions (3:19) Zack's mushroom insights (6:26) Tia's healing journey with mushrooms (9:30) "Fantastic Fungi" and mushroom coffee experiences (13:07) Edible vs. poisonous mushrooms and psilocybin benefits (18:23) Unconventional treatments and pharmaceutical industry (22:11) Audience question: Mushroom foraging (25:27) Lion's mane benefits and learning resources (27:34) Tia's mushroom growing and challenges (31:57) Market competition and mushroom uses (36:28) Business strategies and community outreach (41:11) Farmer's markets and customer interactions (49:22) Mushroom coffee adoption and BlackBrand impact (53:05) Networking for business growth (54:01) Addressing mushroom skepticism and psychedelic insights (57:28) Tia's favorite local food spot and final thoughts - Mushrooms offer significant health benefits, including improvements in gut health, mental clarity, and hormonal balance. - The unique challenges of growing mushrooms include contamination from other fungi, which can jeopardize entire crops and impact business operations. - Organizations like BlackBrand can provide essential support and resources for niche businesses, helping them navigate challenges and grow successfully. https://southernbellefungus.com/ Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
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    1 hr
  • Mastering Barber Business: Growth, Client Retention, and Industry Trends

    Mastering Barber Business: Growth, Client Retention, and Industry Trends
    Jul 17 2025
    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 satisfaction (7:13) Opening a barbershop and business model (12:34) COVID-19 impact on business (18:39) Hiring practices and maintaining quality (22:41) Haircuts, customer preferences, and hair loss products (25:28) Business growth and expansion strategies (29:19) Subscription services for client retention (33:34) Partnership dynamics (37:43) Future business plans and licensing (41:18) Recognitions and dealing with regulations (42:15) Marketing strategies and tattooed barbers (45:31) Comprehensive client retention strategies (50:34) Choosing business locations and haircut trends (55:16) Hair health and overcoming business challenges (57:48) Personal favorites and recommendations (1:00:04) Final thoughts - Building strong relationships with clients is crucial for repeat business and can be achieved through excellent customer service and personal connections. - Adapting the business model to avoid common industry pitfalls, such as excessive fees for employees, can create a more supportive and loyal team environment. - Navigating challenges like the COVID-19 shutdown requires flexibility, resourcefulness, and strong community support, demonstrating the importance of resilience and adaptability in business. https://www.anchoragebarbershop.com/ Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
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    1 hr and 1 min