Fervent Four

On the heels of an epic 200th podcast episode, the Fervent Four keep the cycle of groundbreaking flowing. For Episode #201, we're having a 2nd sit down with Change Agent, author, and regional leader: Blair Durham.

As the driving force supporting Black BRAND — our region's Black Chamber of Commerce — Blair discusses the importance of focusing on business as a means for change, highlighting the need for consistent support and education to foster entrepreneurship and that while there is room for improvement, particularly in access to capital, the spirit of collaboration and support among founders is strong in Hampton Roads.

(0:00) Introduction and casual conversation (7:37) Guest Blair Durham shares her journey and the start of Black BRAND (11:18) Formation and role of the Black Chamber of Commerce (17:00) Impact of community-based Initiatives and the Importance of education in non-profit work (20:31) Blair Durham's passion for advocacy and the importance of community support (21:00) Progress and challenges in the past seven years (26:08) Impact of the casino in Portsmouth and potential casino in Norfolk (30:47) Journey and growth of the initiative and state of entrepreneurship (37:23) Evolution of the entrepreneurial landscape and role of collaboration and trust (46:22) Discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in business (57:50) Blair Durham's favorite spots in Hampton Roads and potential for full-day tours (1:00:06) Upcoming plans for Black BRAND to start lending and potential impact

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 our monumental 200th episode, Fervent Four sits down with Charles Corprew III, Ph.D, Senior Venture Partner at 757 Collab, where he contributes his extensive background in education, psychology, and venture capital to support and invest in promising founders.

We discuss the importance of creating a unified regional approach to entrepreneurship and investment, and emphasizing the need for collaboration among the cities of Hampton Roads to foster a more robust economic ecosystem.

(0:00) Introduction and Reflection on Journey to Episode 200 (1:03) Introduction of Guest Charles Corprew and Discussion on Following Up (8:21) Importance of Knowing Your Core Customers and Community Needs (16:13) Building Deep Relationships and Understanding Diverse Listener Segments (23:53) Biohacking, Learning from Gary Breka, and Focused Productivity (27:27) Creating Discomfort for Personal Growth and Conquering Fears (34:50) Charles' Journey to Becoming a Senior Venture Partner and Role of Mentorship (40:46) Supporting Founders with Financial and Social Capital and Challenges in the Business Ecosystem (52:19) Lack of Places for Entrepreneurs and Investors to Connect and the Impact of Population Density (1:00:24) Charles Corprew's Schedule at Assembly, Local Coffee Spots, and Memories of New Orleans (1:03:06) Episode 200 Special Thanks 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/

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/

Pet owners can celebrate as Tim and Zack chat with KayCee McCoy, co-owner of Pawsnickety Pets, a pet supply boutique committed to providing high-quality, human-grade products for pets.

Tune in as they discuss the importance of understanding the psychology behind retail pricing, the significance of sourcing ethically, and the impact of supporting local shelters through adoption programs.

(0:00) Introduction and significance of episode 199 (2:59) Discussion on the psychology of pricing and game show strategies (3:39) KayCee McCoy's journey with Pawsnickety Pets (14:16) Trust in marketing and pet food selection (17:12) Origins and growth of KayCee and Shizuka's pet supply business (26:40) The dynamics of business partnership and communication (35:29) Implementing new business ideas and strategies (39:26) Personal experiences with pets and understanding their behavior (44:39) Life and misconceptions in Hampton Roads (54:38) Future expansion plans and challenges (59:25) Tim Ryan's closing thoughts

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 us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with renowned architect Georgie Marquez — where we explore the profound joy of creative expression, the triumphs that come with overcoming challenges, and the deep-rooted pride in heritage and identity.

Tune in to find out how accessibility and willingness of business and community leaders to connect and collaborate is a unique regional strength that can drive positive change and development in Hampton Roads .

(0:00) Introduction and discussion about Advanced Aircraft Summit and new technologies (4:20) Introducing Georgie Marquez and her work in architecture (8:55) Discussion on population growth and airport expansion in Norfolk (24:28) Future of MacArthur Center Mall and potential for a new arena in Norfolk (32:44) Importance of community involvement in regional growth (35:20) Transformation of Norfolk's skyline and Hampton Roads as the largest small town (39:52) Reflection on changing business climate and accessibility in the business community (46:06) Debate over the region's name and modernizing commuting systems (52:50) Rise of alternative commuting methods in the region (57:18) Discussion on Bad Bunny's Music 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/

Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with renowned architect Georgie Marquez — where we explore the profound joy of creative expression, the triumphs that come with overcoming challenges, and the deep-rooted pride in heritage and identity.

Tune in to find out how accessibility and willingness of business and community leaders to connect and collaborate is a unique regional strength that can drive positive change and development in Hampton Roads .

(0:00) Introduction and discussion about Advanced Aircraft Summit and new technologies (4:20) Introducing Georgie Marquez and her work in architecture (8:55) Discussion on population growth and airport expansion in Norfolk (24:28) Future of MacArthur Center Mall and potential for a new arena in Norfolk (32:44) Importance of community involvement in regional growth (35:20) Transformation of Norfolk's skyline and Hampton Roads as the largest small town (39:52) Reflection on changing business climate and accessibility in the business community (46:06) Debate over the region's name and modernizing commuting systems (52:50) Rise of alternative commuting methods in the region (57:18) Discussion on Bad Bunny's Music 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/

Tim and Zack sit down with Luvenia Hankins, founder-operator of CLTRE, a Hampton Roads-based vegan cuisine outfit that offers a solution to the need for spaces that promote health-conscious choices without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.

Luv and the Fervent Four discuss the importance of understanding business psychology, organizational leadership, and customer service, and the need to adapt and learn from different market trends and customer bases, especially when considering expansion to new locations.

(0:00) Introduction and casual conversation (0:34) Discussion on Super Bowl commercials and introduction of guest speaker, Luvenia Hankins (6:33) Deep dive into innovative remedies for supporting local businesses and the importance of community growth (16:22) Embracing the diversity of small businesses and merging the worlds of tech and creativity (22:58) Opening a second location for Culture Vegan Joint and discussing the high costs of eating at restaurants (31:01) The impact of increased wages on the restaurant industry and the psychology behind price hikes (35:30) Discussion on cleanliness practices and the importance of stepping out of comfort zones in networking events (41:55) The challenges of setting business goals for others and the common fears about networking events (45:39) The desire for comfort and authenticity in today's professional world and the importance of reading for business growth (49:36) The role of business psychology in the modern workforce and the challenges of expanding a business (1:00:51) Insights from "The Hard Thing About Hard Things" book and Zack Miller's book "Anomaly" (1:02:04) Luvenia Hankins shares her insights on personal growth and boundaries (1:02:29) Zack Miller and Tim Ryan sign off and acknowledgments (1:02:47) End of episode

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 pod, Tim and Zack chat with Jerry Frostick, co-founder of J&A Racing, a nationally recognized race management company that hosts neighborhood 5Ks and welcomes thousands of runners to Hampton Roads every year.

Along with his wife Amy - Jerry and J&A Racing grew their Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend from 3,000 participants to a record 30,000.

The company is passionate about the local area and invests in community initiatives, such as providing free shoes and free race entries to kids from financially struggling families.

Jerry and The Four discuss careful selection of sponsors and partners, creating a positive and inclusive community around their events, and moving together - instead of racing.

(0:00) Introduction and hosts' discussion about running and favorite podcasts (2:14) Guest introduction: Jerry Frostick and debate on running gear (4:12) The strategy and purpose behind J&A races (11:01) Advice for first-time runners and the importance of community in races (17:20) Adapting to the pandemic as a small business and personal fitness goals (27:45) Branding for J&A Racing and recognition of family-friendly races (31:40) Expansion of 'Operation Smile Final Mile' event to Title 1 schools (38:04) Ideal weather for running and challenges of Shamrock Marathon course (45:22) Hosts share their race experiences and the importance of timing in races (51:07) Hands-on management of events and the importance of quality merchandise (1:00:43) Learning from feedback, event naming rights, and brand partnerships (1:04:07) Closing remarks on community involvement

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/

Steve Waddell shared lessons learned from both successes and failures, including the value of exposure from pitching on national TV shows and how it led to significant investment opportunities.

Steve's new book "Valuepreneurs" is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the journey of bringing a product to market, incorporating strategies for customer validation, prototyping, and understanding the right time for patenting.

(0:00) Introduction and Swag Discussion (10:32) The Process of Writing and Editing a Book (13:21) Importance of Case Studies in Business Books (21:30) The Art of Storytelling in Selling and Raising Investment Funds (26:08) Introduction to the Idea to Product Summit (31:13) Free and Paid Options for Attending the Summit (34:56) Impact of COVID-19 and Pivoting towards Grants (40:08) Utilizing Lead Magnets for Business Growth (45:42) Finding Value in Partnerships (54:17) Creation and Success of the MVP Faucet (1:00:09) Wrapping up the conversation with Steve

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/

Tim and Zack sit down with Stephen Shedletzky, affectionately known as "Shed", the visionary behind Shed Inspires.

Shed shows us a tested formula that explains why "VALUES x BEHAVIOR = CULTURE", how the strength of the people you lead is determined by the clarity of your values and the consistency of your behaviors, and ways leaders aren't inherently born or made - but demonstrated through actions and the ability to inspire followers.

(0:00) Introduction and discussion on the power of YouTube and email communication (4:45) Introduction of guest Stephen Shedletzky and understanding speak up culture (9:36) Discussion on fear in leadership and the contagious nature of courage (14:35) The role of humor, sports, and coaching in business and leadership (24:18) Exploration of team synergy, relationships, and trust in startups (28:41) The business case for vulnerability and acknowledging strengths and weaknesses in a team (33:04) Hiring to offset weaknesses and adapting to unexpected changes (42:25) Stephen's book writing journey and career transition (52:29) Discussion on hobbies, interests, and their relation to leadership (56:32) The value of the current audience, the concept of overnight success, and the role of luck in success (59:28) Discussion on influencer culture, niches in celebrity culture, and closing thoughts

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/

Tim and Zack sit down with the amazing Nancy Grden, CEO and Leader of the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable.

The three entrepreneurs discuss how Hampton Roads has dramatically evolved and improved in the last 20 years, how schools have stepped up to meet the needs of our young talent, and how the maritime industry has shifted into the future with developments in offshore wind, un-manned systems, and other technologies that bring jobs to Hampton Roads.

CHAPTERS

(0:00) Introduction and Discussion with Nancy Grden (5:14) Nancy's Journey into Entrepreneurship and Biotech (13:22) Reflection on the Impact and Evolution of Entrepreneurship (18:37) Role of Educational Institutions and Technology in Entrepreneurship (24:05) Importance of Networking and Building Relationships in Business (26:12) Insight into Hampton Rose Executive Roundtable and Regional Growth (36:34) Public Awareness and Civic Engagement in Community Development (40:54) Perception of Corporate Acquisitions and Regional Success Stories (56:19) Challenges of Business Retention and Role of Higher Education (58:30) Appreciation for Fervent Four Show and Conclusion of Conversation

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/