Fervent Four

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's journey to Hampton University (12:53) Hannah's introduction to technology and entrepreneurship through NASA's program (17:41) Discussion about NASA's IP and its potential utilization for startups (27:08) Hannah's journey as a full-time entrepreneur at 23 and the importance of seizing opportunities (40:12) Introduction to Hannah's business - HerculE-Q, and the current charging process for e-bikes and e-scooters (48:13) The decision to pivot to e-scooters and the growth potential in the market (52:50) The challenges and experiences of being a young entrepreneur (58:24) Favorite local spots in Hampton and final words

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

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) Expectations and ideal characteristics for startups in 757 Accelerate (21:38) The rise of AI in startups and the importance of validating claims with numbers (30:03) Reflections on the journey of 757 Accelerate and Eileen Brewer's experience in Iraq (37:23) The impact of government support on startup ecosystems and the long-term nature of startup investments (40:04) Eileen Brewer's advice for startups in developing countries (44:13) Eileen Brewer's move to Virginia and the attempt of cities to replicate Silicon Valley (48:35) Discussion on incubators, accelerators, and the effectiveness of virtual programming (54:06) Discussion on the ecosystem of Hampton Roads and the advantages of relocating (1:01:09) Closing remarks and plug for 757 Accelerate program applications

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

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's Journey: Starting a Podcast and a Foundation (11:14) Integrated Medicine and Therapy: Impact on Wendy's Son and Caregivers (22:44) Challenges and Triumphs: Fundraising and Raising Awareness for a Non-Profit (25:00) Education System Discussion: Budget Cuts and Consequences on Arts and Music (28:00) Personal Interests and Mental Health: Music, History, and Movement (34:24) Importance of Clear Messaging and Strong 'Why' in Business (42:10) Reflection and Future Plans: Impact of COVID and Timing in Business Success (45:23) Balancing Creativity and Numbers in Business (56:38) Wendy's Reflection: Legacy, Challenges, and Rewards of Running a Foundation

ABOUT THE GUEST

www.peaceoutportal.org—The Benjamin Goldberg Foundation's Peace Out Portal is an online platform that provides valuable resources for caregivers, patients, and healthcare professionals. With the creation of evidence-based medical articles, content, and resources, we aim to continue addressing the information gap in healthcare as it relates to the healing arts and promoting and fostering self-care practices. By integrating art, music, movement, and mind-body practices into these resources, we enhance the well-being of healthcare professionals, improve patient experiences, and positively impact healthcare environments.

www.sundayswithwendy.com —Sundays With Wendy Podcast - Insights on the Healing Journey. Hosting the Sundays With Wendy podcast has allowed me to advocate for children and their families on the medical journey. The podcast has completed ten seasons with over ninety episodes, including The Voice of Caregivers, Conversations on Grief, Interviews with Healing Arts Professionals, The Healing Guide, How Did You Heal?, and The Future of Healing.

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Join Tim and Zack as they mix it up with Cheryl Berry, founder of Our Brand Media, a multi-distribution video platform that tells the "untold story of others" by simplifying the process for independent creators to showcase their work, and creating opportunities for creators to reach a wider audience.

Tune in live as they delve into the growth of streaming, privacy issues, and evolving consumer behaviors. The trio also discuss the entrepreneurial mindset and the importance of problem-solving.

(0:00) Introduction and greetings (4:51) Guest intro - Cheryl Berry and her journey in the TV industry (13:45) Cheryl's transition into entrepreneurship and the startup world (18:11) Introduction to Our Brand Media and its distinction from other platforms (24:57) Technical challenges and the story behind Our Brand Media's name (33:01) Concept of a double-sided marketplace and content requirements (38:00) Growth of streaming, independent content, and privacy concerns (48:21) Evolution of consumer behavior and acceptance of new business models (51:27) Entrepreneurial mindset, problem-solving, and technical investments (59:13) Closing remarks

ABOUT THE SHOW Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Learn more at: https://www.zackmillersays.com

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to creating more successful entrepreneurs in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Learn more at: https://www.innovate757.org/

Check them both out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

In this episode, guest Javier Miranda-Castro shares more about the headfirst dive into his entrepreneurial journey, discussing marketing challenges and strategies.

Topics include: diversifying business sources, outreach techniques, and the importance of self-assessment.

Tune into this week's episode of the Fervent Four as fitness and mental health in entrepreneurship are explored.

(0:00) Introduction and Zack's bicycle story (2:19) Guest Introduction: Javier Miranda-Castro (4:35) Javier's journey to entrepreneurship and work in orthodontics (10:20) Challenges and strategies in orthodontic marketing (17:44) Diversifying business sources and building relationships (26:01) Outreach techniques and content strategies in entrepreneurship (34:26) Reflections on entrepreneurship journeys (37:29) Financial aspects of scaling a business (46:48) Importance of knowledge application and self-assessment in business (1:00:02) Fitness, discipline, and mental health in entrepreneurship (1:03:50) Business deals and experiences on the golf course

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

On this week's episode, Zack and Tim speak with Chase Canova, founder of Chase Buys Any House, started his entrepreneurial journey as a teenager, over a decade ago.

Join the Four as they discuss how despite not being a licensed agent, Chase has completed over 50 real estate deals by self-educating through resources like YouTube, and mentorships.

Check this episode out to hear about Chase's various strategies to acquire properties, such as wholesaling contracts, taking over mortgages, and using creative financing, to build his real estate portfolio without initially using his own capital.

(0:00) Introduction and Personal Updates with hosts Zack Miller and Tim Ryan (4:03) Guest Introduction: Chase Canova's Entrepreneurial Journey (15:30) Transition from Car Hustling to Real Estate (28:05) Chase Canova's Initial Real Estate Strategy and Use of PropStream (33:00) Process of Wholesaling Properties and Selling Access to Off-Market Properties (41:43) Chase's Current Business Model and Shift to Property Flipping (45:07) Chase's Educational Background and Future Business Plans (51:23) Venture into Student Rentals and Views on Student Debt (58:42) Mentoring Young Entrepreneurs and the Importance of Paying it Forward (1:01:57) Worst Tasks in a Rental Property Business and Closing Remarks

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

This week, Zack and Tim have a conversation with Greg Garrett, a successful serial entrepreneur and Senior Partner of Garret Realty Partners, who became a real estate company at age 19, the #1 agent on the Virginia Peninsula at 25, and later the #1 real estate agent for all of Hampton Roads.

Join the Four as Greg shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of embracing failure and learning from it to achieve success.

Chapters: (0:00) Intro and banter with Zack and Tim (3:06) Guest Introduction: Greg Garrett and his business insights (9:14) Greg's predictions for the future of the housing market (19:09) Benefits of Airbnb for family tourism and debate over short-term rentals (24:59) Zack and Tim discuss journalism and context (27:17) Greg's journey from the age of 19 and his struggles and successes (35:00) Greg describes the ongoing IRS investigation (38:57) Risk-taking in entrepreneurship with Greg Garrett (42:05) Greg's love for water and early experiences with water sports (46:07) Greg's interest in wellness, longevity, and introduction to IV therapy (52:30) Overcoming fear of shots and humorous discussion on age and longevity goals (57:08) Local food recommendations and endorsements (1:00:05) Zack and Tim discuss the meaning behind the '4' in Fervent Four and its connection to EO (1:02:24) Greg's closing remarks and offer of support for ideas

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

This week, Tim and Zack sit down with Leland Remias, founder of VroomBrick — a web-based platform designed to empower veterans purchasing or selling a home, with step-by-step guidance for their real estate transactions. In this episode, Leland delves into the impact of real estate commissions on median income, unique real estate challenges faced by military personnel, and the influence of changing buyer behavior on the industry.

We also explore Leland's transition from the Navy to entrepreneurship.

(0:00) Intro and greetings (1:14) Introducing Leland Remias (4:06) VroomBrick and its role in the real estate market (10:17) Impact of Real Estate Commission on Median Income (14:05) Unique Real Estate Challenges Faced by Military Personnel (18:06) Introduction to VroomBrick and its role in real estate (26:59) Changing Buyer Behavior and the Impact of Technology (31:17) Current Status and Future Plans for VroomBrick (52:13) Leland's Journey from the Navy to Entrepreneurship (1:07:01) VroomBrick - Making Real Estate Transactions Simpler

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

On the latest episode of the Fervent Four Show, Tim and Zack speak with Dave Reisch and Josh Shelly, founders of Sunset Messages, a service that allows individuals to create and store personal messages with photos, audio, video, and text that leave a lasting legacy and provide comfort to their loved ones.

Despite facing challenges as non-technical founders and the sensitive nature of discussing death, Sunset Messages has begun to gain traction, with plans to explore partnerships and potentially bring on investors or technical partners.

(0:00) Introduction and Greetings (1:06) Guest Introduction: Dave and Josh from Sunset Messaging (2:10) Deep Dive into Sunset Messaging's Concept and Origin (15:47) The Formation and Challenges of Sunset Messaging as a Business (21:11) Future of Sunset Messaging: AI and Customer Feedback (30:14) The Current Status of Sunset Messaging and Competition Analysis (37:54) Discussing the Difficult Topic of Death and its Financial Model (45:07) Sunset's Functionalities and Adapting to Digital Transformation (54:06) Business to Business Strategies and Future Plans for Sunset Messaging (1:00:47) Benny's Pizza Challenge and Closing Remarks

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Tune in to the newest episode of the Fervent Four podcast as the hosts sit down with Jen Finn, who empowers both property managers and residents by leveraging technology, giving them "superpowers" to navigate residential life more efficiently. After leaving a long career in corporate America and overcoming burnout, she transitioned into entrepreneurship by co-founding a company that uses AI to simplify technology integration in multifamily properties — designing AI models for property managers to streamline operations and enhance resident engagement with residents. (0:00) Introduction (1:07) Guest Introduction: Jen's backstory and involvement with Richmond entrepreneurial ecosystem (10:30) Discussion on regional entrepreneurship initiative and networking in Virginia (17:04) Transition from corporate to entrepreneurship: Jen's journey post Capital One (24:11) Burnout and recovery: Techniques to regain passion for work (37:39) The decision to join a startup and the potential for technology in real estate (41:17) The role and challenges of early-stage angel investing (50:17) The glamourization of raising money in the industry and efficient use of raised funds (53:54) The potential of AI and reimagining service in real estate (57:21) Introduction to AI ethics and its importance in business (59:12) Recap and Closing remarks

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Fervent Four Show:

Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there.

About the hosts:

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow.

Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/