Fervent Four

This week, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit with Justin Smith, Founder and CEO of Contractor+. Contractor+ is an innovative mobile solution for handyman contractors and property managers. Contractor+ gives contractors the tools they need to manage their day-to-day, impress their clients, win more bids, save time, and increase revenues. Watch this week's episode to hear about Justin's journey, how to find capital, the importance and struggle of finding the right people, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Justin Smith

(5:17) What is Contractor+?

(11:18) How Justin got started

(14:52) Being a life-long entrepreneur

(25:16) Starting on a technical track

(35:15) Contractor+'s elevator pitch

(37:33) Managing churn rate + understanding data

(47:55) Innovation + autonomy

(53:20) Being a part of 757 Accelerate

(57:31) Contractor+'s future + Conclusion

About Justin Smith & Contractor+:

Justin Smith is the Founder and CEO of Contractor+. Justin grew up working with his mother, who's a licensed contractor—and started his career as a web developer. After obtaining his graduate degree, he grew a property management company from 15 properties to 750+ properties under management and $2m ARR. He managed a maintenance team of 45+ employees, which led to his deep understanding and passion for the field service market.

Contractor+ is the all-in-one handyman contractor app for managing clients, creating estimates, sending invoices, scheduling jobs, sending client contracts, dispatching, and completing project management. The one field service management app that does everything you need. Contractor+ is for handyman companies & over 50 categories of field service contractors. Whether you do home remodeling, general handyman work, painting, drywall, roofing, plumbing, electrical, flooring, HVAC, lawn care & landscaping, pest control, concrete, or anything else, Contractor+ makes your life easier and your business more profitable.

Learn more: https://contractorplus.app/our-team/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.innovate757.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Justin Smith

https://contractorplus.app/

Instagram: @cplusapp: https://www.instagram.com/poolscouts/

X: @cplusapp: https://x.com/cplusapp

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/contractorplus & https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbriansmith/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ContractorPlusApp/

Tim Ryan

https://www.innovate757.org/

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Innovate Hampton Roads – https://www.innovate757.org/

Companies Mentioned:

Contractor+: https://contractorplus.app/

Justin on Success: https://justinonsuccess.com/

Jersey Mikes: https://www.jerseymikes.com/

Uber: https://www.uber.com/

NPPL: https://www.paintballwincount.com/nppl-super-7

PSP: https://pbleagues.com/leagues/1

Kee Action Sports: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kee-action-sports

Elon Musk: https://www.forbes.com/profile/elon-musk/

Amplitude: https://amplitude.com/

Tesla: https://www.tesla.com/

Amplitude: https://amplitude.com/

757 Accelerate: https://757accelerate.org/

Tech Stars: https://www.techstars.com/

Y-Combinator: https://www.ycombinator.com/

Jason Calacanis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis

The Syndicate: https://thesyndicate.com/

This week, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit with Michael Wagner, President of Pool Scouts. Pool Scouts is franchise company that focuses on residential pool cleaning, maintenance and repair. Pool Scouts allows pool owners around the country to spend their time enjoying their pool instead of cleaning and maintaining it. Watch this week's episode to hear about the power of franchising and creating a national brand, the scalability of the pool cleaning and maintenance business, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Michael Wagner

(5:54) Founding various franchise companies

(10:22) Defining franchising + finding a target market

(18:03) Direct mail marketing campaigns in 2023

(26:06) Expanding to a holiday lighting company

(32:10) Operating during Covid

(39:42) Offering affordable franchises

(44:13) The importance of understanding data

(51:03) Net promoter score

(54:01) Managing people + scaling

(1:01:37) Conclusion

About Michael Wagner & Pool Scouts:

Michael Wagner "was born in California but grew up a military brat who lived in many spots and traveled around the world. Michael graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with degrees in Economics and Spanish. Prior to Pool Scouts he worked as the Corporate Sales Officer for Chartway Federal Credit Union. Before Chartway, Michael was the Global Client Services Leader for DuPont Sustainable Solutions. He held multiple senior leadership roles for Coastal Training Technologies Corporation (acquired by DuPont) over a 19-year career. As the President of Pool Scouts, Michael oversees the business and works to drive growth and ensure franchisee support".

"Pool Scouts offers a great opportunity as a low-cost franchise in the pool services industry providing an essential service to homeowners. There are over 10 million residential pools in the United States, and they all need to be cleaned and maintained. Having a pool is a wonderful perk, but they take work to keep swim-ready, costing homeowners valuable belly-flop and cannonball time. That's where Pool Scouts comes in.

All too often pool service providers are made up of a guy with a truck and a net and a sporadic schedule. However, with a Pool Scouts business, you can be part of establishing a new benchmark in pool service by adding a level of professionalism and technology unparalleled in today's market. Through a consistent offering of recurring services, you'll be making an impact for your community, while building a business that allows you to take charge of your future".

Learn more: https://poolscoutsfranchise.com/about-us/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.innovate757.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Michael Wagner

https://poolscoutsfranchise.com/

Instagram: @poolscouts: https://www.instagram.com/poolscouts/

X: @pool_scouts: https://twitter.com/pool_scouts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pool-scouts/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wagner-2a10637/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vbnorfolkpoolscouts/

Tim Ryan

https://www.innovate757.org/

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Innovate Hampton Roads – https://www.innovate757.org/

Companies Mentioned:

Pool Scouts: https://poolscouts.com/

Buzz Franchise Brands: https://buzzfranchisebrands.com/brands

Wonderly Lights: https://wonderlylights.com/

Mosquito Joe: https://mosquitojoe.com/

Anomaly - Zack Miller: https://www.amazon.com/Anomaly-How-Finally-Stand-Crowd/dp/164279175X

McDonald's: https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us.html

Verizon: https://www.verizon.com/

The Ground Guys: https://www.groundsguys.com/

Tableau: https://www.tableau.com/

Undercover Boss: https://www.cbs.com/shows/undercover_boss/

This week, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit with William Layton, Founder of 3 Ridge Technologies Inc. 3 Ridge Technologies is an Ag Tech Company with a Low-Cost, High Yield Organic Farming System. It is Modular and highly adaptable to any plant and in any situation (vertical, greenhouse, rooftop farming, etc.). It is a Sustainable Farming System. 3 Ridge Technologies is revolutionizing indoor farming by enabling growers to produce high-quality, affordable, chemical-free, USDA Certified Organic produce. Watch this week's episode to hear how 3 Ridge Technologies can solve not only the hunger in the world but also without chemicals and pesticides. We touch on farm-to-table produce, the future of Ag Tech, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing William Layton

(3:50) What is the Agria Growing System?

(7:11) Starting Out

(11:09) Repurposing old commercial buildings

(17:28) Partnering with cities + putting farmers back in business

(24:12) Growing produce the correct way

(29:53) Utilizing AI and Robotics to help farming + Innovation

(43:30) Solving the produce-shortage

(49:44) Scaling to the commercial and public market

(54:20) Getting connected with 757 Accelerate

(57:51) Conclusion

About William Layton & 3 Ridge Technologies Inc.:

3 Ridge Technologies is revolutionizing indoor farming by enabling growers to produce high-quality, affordable, chemical-free, USDA Certified Organic produce. It all started when William Layton shattered the state record with a 1,138 lb pumpkin. Today 3 Ridge Technologies has a diverse team headquartered in Lynchburg, VA where they continue to improve on their system.

Branded as Agria™, from the Latin term for "wild, of plants," the system is an easy-to-grow, close-to-nature, growing system that produces high-quality, affordable, USDA Organic crops. It produces crops with incredible taste and shelf life without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or nutrients. It is environmentally friendly, sustainable, and enjoys full circularity.

Their mission is to provide more affordable USDA Organic-certified crops with renewable and sustainable farming practices. 3 Ridge Technologies provides growers with a more profitable way to grow in any indoor environment. By growing in greenhouses, containers, warehouses, and more, this system enables hyper-local growing to deliver high-quality taste farm to table. Additionally, by supporting growth in urban areas, they aim to convert food deserts to food-oases and build resilience within communities.

Learn more: https://www.3ridgetechnologies.com/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.innovate757.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

William Layton

https://www.3ridgetechnologies.com/

Instagram: @AgriaAG: https://instagram.com/AgriaAG

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3-ridge-technologies/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-layton-agria/

Tim Ryan

https://www.innovate757.org/

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Innovate Hampton Roads – https://www.innovate757.org/

Companies Mentioned:

3 Ridge Technologies Inc.: https://www.3ridgetechnologies.com/

757 Accelerate: https://757accelerate.org/

DopeSick: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9174558/

Hulu: https://www.hulu.com/

Macarthur Center: https://www.shopmacarthur.com/

Clarity AI: https://clarity.ai/

FDA: https://www.fda.gov/

Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/

Cloud Kitchens: https://cloudkitchens.com/

Food Pantry: https://www.findhelp.org/food/food-pantry--lynchburg-va

Chick-fil-A: https://www.chick-fil-a.com/

This week, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit with Simon Matthews, President and CEO at Open Door Media Solutions, LLC. Open Door Media Solutions is a Faith-based Marketing and Creative agency headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Open Door Media Solutions is a network of marketers, designers, artists, writers, technologists, and an awesome group of people serving businesses looking for brand identity development and content creation. Watch this week's episode to hear about Simon's journey, how Open Door Media Solutions is innovative, working with ambitious and driven people, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Simon Matthews + protecting client data

(6:31) Using AI for marketing

(9:53) What is Open Door Media Solutions, LLC?

(11:54) Does your business need to be marketed?

(21:05) The importance of brand association

(27:24) Having a genuine relationship with customers

(31:44) Educating customers with marketing

(42:00) Pursuing a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership

(46:56) Expanding + understanding your purpose

(59:50) Conclusion

About Simon Matthews & Open Door Media Solutions, LLC:

CEO and Founder Simon P. Matthews, adds over twenty years of leadership and management experience to Open Door Media Solutions, LLC. Headquartered in Virginia Beach, Open Door Media Solutions is a network of marketers, designers, artists, writers, technologists, and an all around awesome group of people. They have helped companies in manufacturing, medical, cybersecurity, music, and in the arts and entertainment industries.

Like most marketing agencies, their network and service offerings are broad. However, Open Door Media Solutions' core specializations lie in their creativity and branding services. They not only help with planning, they carry out the execution as well. They use animation, thoughtful design, and tailored communication strategies to help their clients resonate with their audience like no other marketing agency.

Learn more: https://opendoorms.com/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.innovate757.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Simon Matthews

https://opendoorms.com/

Instagram: @opendoorms.llc: https://www.instagram.com/opendoorms.llc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/opendoormediasolutions/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/open-door-media-solutions/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/opendoorms/

Tim Ryan

https://www.innovate757.org/

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Innovate Hampton Roads – https://www.innovate757.org/

Companies Mentioned:

Open Door Media Solutions, LLC: https://opendoorms.com/

Master Class Part II: Marketing and Pitching with Simon Matthews: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/master-class-part-ii-marketing-and-pitching-tickets-719562439627?aff=oddtdtcreator

Fervent Four Show Episode 143: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vn0CzZUK4M

Greg Tomchick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-tomchick/

Why Camouflaging in Business Will Ruin You | Zack Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7107876867428257792/about/?originTrackingId=P99%2BG3PJQjSJXjEnY7aUGg%3D%3D

MGM Grand: https://mgmgrand.mgmresorts.com/en.html

Apple: https://www.apple.com/

Garmin: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/

GPT-4: https://openai.com/gpt-4

Canva: https://www.canva.com/

Regent University: https://www.regent.edu/

Green Light Auto Auctions: https://greenlight-auctions.com/

Foo Fighters: https://foofighters.com/tour-dates/

Taylor Swift: https://www.taylorswift.com/

Katy Perry: https://www.katyperry.com/

ESPN: https://www.espn.com/

Taylor Swift: https://www.taylorswift.com/

Geico: https://www.geico.com/

Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/

McDonald's: https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us.html

Verizon: https://www.verizon.com/business/

This Week in Startups E1809 with Boll & Branch CEO Scott Tannen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C66b2GNgd74

Boll & Branch: https://www.bollandbranch.com/

Super Size Me 2: https://www.amazon.com/Super-Size-Me-Holy-Chicken/dp/B07X39WV38

Air Force: https://www.airforce.com/

This week, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller chat with Marouane Sadoq, Chief Executive Officer at Green Light Auto Auctions. Green Light Auto Auctions is a virtual auction place for people who want to sell their cars fast, convenient, and for the most money. Green Light Auto Auctions understands that buying and selling cars can be time-consuming and stressful, so they've created a platform that makes it easy and convenient for our users. Watch this week's episode to hear about how Green Light Auto Auctions helps people get the most for their cars fast, what happens when you trade into a dealer, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introduction

(4:17) Travel problems + being prepared

(9:03) Who is Marouane Sadoq, and what is Green Light Auto Auctions

(14:15) Inspection Process

(18:39) Marouane's background and creating a solution

(27:32) Competition within the industry

(32:35) Marketing to gain new customers

(40:07) Total Addressable Market in used car market

(49:04) Learning from other businesses

(54:31) Capital One Accelerator Program

(59:02) Conclusion

About Marouane Sadoq & Green Light Auto Auctions:

Marouane Sadoq, Chief Executive Officer at Green Light Auto Auctions. He was a software engineer who turned a car dealer and is now trying to combine both trades to create transparency in the industry that lacks that. Green Light Auto Auctions' goal is to create a transparent marketplace for dealers and private owners to trade cars where dealers get a new source of inventory. And for private owners, a marketplace that will guarantee them the best offer for their car without having to leave their homes.

Green Light Auto Auctions enables individuals to buy and sell their cars seamlessly and at the most favorable prices. The platform provides a hassle-free means for car buyers and sellers to connect and conduct transactions online. Recognizing that buying and selling cars can often be time-consuming and stressful, Green Light Auto Auctions has established a user-friendly platform that streamlines the experience. The website showcases an extensive range of top-quality vehicles, encompassing classic cars to contemporary sports cars, offering buyers an opportunity to discover their ideal vehicle.

Learn more: https://greenlight-auctions.com/company/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.innovate757.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Marouane Sadoq

https://greenlight-auctions.com/

Instagram: @greenlight.auto.auctions: https://www.instagram.com/greenlight.auto.auctions/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenlight.auto.auctions?mibextid=LQQJ4d

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/green-light-auto-auctions/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/marouane-sadoq-2b067237/

Tim Ryan

https://www.innovate757.org/

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Innovate Hampton Roads – https://www.innovate757.org/

Companies Mentioned:

Green Light Auto Auctions: https://greenlight-auctions.com/

Start Peninsula: https://www.startpeninsula.com/

Start Peninsula Pitch Perfect: https://bit.ly/SP23PP4

Pitch Perfect (2012): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1981677/

Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/

American Airlines: https://www.aa.com/homePage.do

Bruce Almighty: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0315327/

A.K. Schultz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-k-schultz-9b5b899

SVT Robotics: https://www.svtrobotics.com/

Swisslog Logistics Inc: https://www.swisslog.com/en-us

Tesla: https://tesla.com/

Carvana: https://www.carvana.com/

Carmax: https://www.carmax.com/

Capital One Accelerator Program: https://www.capitalone.com/about/newsroom/accelerator-program/

This week, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Rachel Willinger, Chief Operating Officer at Pancopia, Inc. Pancopia is an environmental engineering firm specializing in research, development, and commercialization of water and wastewater treatment technologies. The NASA-inspired technology, which recycles wastewater into drinking water for astronauts, has been brought down to earth. Watch this week's episode to hear about Rachel's journey, recycling waste, innovation, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Rachel Willinger

(4:48) What is Pancopia + problem it solves?

(10:15) Waste treatment process

(13:48) Breaking down + knowing your audience

(26:54) Understanding a Customer + funding a solution

(36:48) Providing the solution

(44:54) Receiving funding + finding opportunities

(53:15) Marketing poop

(57:00) Ending up in Poop

(1:00:13) Conclusion

About Rachel Willinger & Pancopia, Inc.:

Rachel Willinger is the Chief Operating Officer at Pancopia, Inc. She with a B.S. in marketing and environmental studies from Christpoher Newport University. In May of 2016 Rachel took a last-minute internship with a one-person startup in Bill Cumbie and Pancopia. Since then Rachel and Bill have grown Pancopia, Inc. into what it is today and Rachel holds the title COO.

Pancopia is an environmental technology development firm dedicated to the profitable recovery of currently wasted resources in a way that helps people, the planet, and profits. The innovative technologies we are pioneering span research and development of new cutting-edge biological urine recycling systems for NASA to recycle urine to drinking water in space, to innovative nutrient management systems for swine production that remove excess nutrients and pay for themselves by increased profits to farmers due to healthier, higher-weight pigs.

Pancopia's mission is to identify, grow, and commercialize high-impact environmental technologies, taking them from the laboratory to the marketplace where they can make a meaningful difference. We harness the SBIR program to fund early-stage development of potential technologies, vet them, prototype, and usher them towards commercialization. Our goal is to create products for industries and fields underserved by innovation where the right technology applied in the right way can have an outsized impact.

Learn more: https://www.pancopia.com/about/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.startwheel.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.startwheel.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Rachel Willinger

https://www.pancopia.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pancopia & https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-willinger-616242116/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

Companies Mentioned:

Pancopia, Inc.: https://www.pancopia.com/

NASA: https://www.nasa.gov/

REaKTOR: https://reaktor757.org/

Steve Jobs: https://www.forbes.com/profile/steve-jobs/?sh=6606df2c2808

Apple: https://www.apple.com/

Super size Me 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSyicDf9UvI

Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/

Max: https://www.max.com/

How the Universe Works: https://www.max.com/shows/how-the-universe-works/307750ba-6145-4d36-959e-43b52942e365

Shark Tank: https://abc.com/shows/shark-tank

Christopher Newport University: https://cnu.edu/

Dirty Jobs: https://go.discovery.com/show/dirty-jobs-discovery-atve-us

This week hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Richard Wintsch, Executive Director of Startup Virginia. Startup Virginia (SVA) supports startups and innovators with an engaged community, holistic programs, targeted resources, and dynamic workspace to help them reach their full potential and positively impact Virginia's economic landscape. Watch this week's episode to hear about Startup Virginia's Incubator pipelines, the great tools Entrepreneurship Support Organizations are offering, the infrastructure in place for founders, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Richard Wintsch

(4:45) What is Startup Virginia?

(12:11) Finding out what works for Entrepreneurs

(19:24) Collaborating within regions

(21:30) Believing in the local startups and community

(28:35) Successful exits' impact on a region

(36:37) Getting connected with Startup VA + utilizing the Virginia network

(43:58) Switzerland culture

(48:27) The power of a reference

(54:36) Favorite Golf course + Conclusion

About Richard Wintsch & Startup Virginia:

Startup Virginia (SVA) is a nonprofit, high-growth business incubator and entrepreneurial hub where innovators can learn, collaborate, and grow. Their incubator serves startup companies supported by an expansive network of mentors, investors, corporate partners, and donors. SVA provides holistic programming, a dynamic workspace to its member community, and free entrepreneurial education that is open to all. By helping entrepreneurs reach their full potential, SVA drives innovation and strengthens the region's economy.

Richard was born and raised in Geneva, Switzerland, before coming to the States to attend James Madison University and play on their golf team. He began his career in private banking for JP Morgan before moving to Richmond, where he spent 14 years at ChamberRVA. He spent that time pioneering and launching multiple leadership programs designed to attract and retain emerging leaders in the Richmond region and was recognized as one of Richmond's Top 40 under 40. In his role as Executive Director, he will focus on the success of Startup Virginia and the Richmond entrepreneurial community.

Learn more: https://www.startupvirginia.org/leadership/richard-wintsch/#:~:text=Richard%20was%20born%20and%20raised,spent%2014%20years%20at%20ChamberRVA.

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.startwheel.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.startwheel.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Richard Wintsch

https://www.startupvirginia.org/

X: @theStartupVA (https://twitter.com/theStartupVA)

Instagram: @startupvirginia: https://www.instagram.com/startupvirginia/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartupVirginia/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-virginia/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardwintsch/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

Companies Mentioned:

Startup Virginia: https://www.startupvirginia.org/

Newsletter Signup: https://bit.ly/SWNewsSignUp

REaKTOR: https://reaktor757.org/

Start Peninsula: https://www.startpeninsula.com/

NFL: https://www.nfl.com/

Miley Cyrus: https://shop.mileycyrus.com/

Harry Styles: https://www.hstyles.co.uk/

Ed Sheeran: https://www.edsheeran.com/

ICAP VA: https://www.virginiasbdc.org/programs/icap/

VIPC: https://www.virginiaipc.org/

Start Peninsula: https://www.startpeninsula.com/

Lighthouse Labs: https://www.lighthouselabsrva.com/

Paul Nolde: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-nolde-8143546/

Major Clarity: https://majorclarity.com/

Old Dominion University: https://www.odu.edu/

757 Collab: https://757collab.org/

Entrepreneurship Certificate | ODU Global: https://online.odu.edu/academics/programs/entrepreneurship

Venture South: https://venturesouth.vc/

Ballybunion Golf Club: https://www.ballybuniongolfclub.com/

Harbour Town Golf Links: https://www.seapines.com/golf/courses/harbour-town-golf-links

Topgolf: https://topgolf.com/us/

Answersnow: https://www.getanswersnow.com/

This week hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Paul Nolde, Managing Director of 757 Collab. 757 Collab is collaborative vehicle focused on growing an interconnected, inclusive, and impactful entrepreneurial ecosystem. Harnessing the power of 757 Angels, 757 Accelerate and 757 Startup Studios, 757 Collab provides capital, acceleration, and an incubation arm—a unique, complete model for achieving success for the region's entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem. Watch this week's episode to hear about Paul's journey, who is 757 Collab, "leaning in" to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Remembering Dan Bell

(4:03) Introducing Paul Nolde

(15:03) Learning from successful cities

(22:59) Views on "failure"

(34:41) 757 Angels + Venture South

(41:30) Improving chances for funding

(49:00) Collaborating together

(54:33) Incubator vs Accelerator

(58:22) What's the food of Richmond

(1:02:28) The mega-region merger + Conclusion

About Paul Nolde & 757 Collab:

In May of 2023, Paul Nolde was named the new managing director of 757 Collab. Before taking this position, Nolde was the executive managing director of Lighthouse Labs in Richmond, a top 20 venture accelerator in the Global Accelerator Network, and the model for 757 Accelerate. Prior to joining Lighthouse, he served as the fund manager and managing director of Riverflow Growth Fund, a seed-stage, healthcare-focused venture capital fund based in Richmond.

757 Collab harnesses the power of 757 Angels powered by Venture South, 757 Accelerate, and 757 Startup Studios, providing capital, programs, and place to entrepreneurs in all stages of development. 757 Collab is located at the 757 Startup Studios within Assembly, an iconic campus for makers and creators in the heart of downtown Norfolk, VA. It is a vertically integrated community that provides capital, acceleration, and an incubation arm—a unique, complete model for achieving success for the region's entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem.

Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-nolde-8143546/ & https://peninsulachronicle.com/2023/04/14/757-angels-and-757-collab-boards-appoint-new-managing-director/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.startwheel.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.startwheel.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Paul Nolde

https://757collab.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/757-collab/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-nolde-8143546/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

Companies Mentioned:

757 Collab: https://757collab.org/

757 Angels: https://757angels.org/

757 Accelerate: https://757accelerate.org/

757 Startup Studios: https://757startupstudios.org/

Lighthouse Labs: https://www.lighthouselabsrva.com/

VentureSouth: https://venturesouth.vc/

BlackBRAND: https://blackbrand.biz/

Virginia SBDC: https://www.virginiasbdc.org/

Stella's: https://stellasrichmond.com/

219 Bistro: https://www.219bistro.com/

Elation Brewery: https://elation.beer/

This week hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Tom Marsden, Vice President of Marathon Consulting. Marathon Consulting is an Information Technology consulting services firm headquartered in Virginia Beach delivering services to organizations ranging from small to medium-sized businesses to global Fortune 500 companies. Marathon offers a wide range of Information Technology consulting and digital marketing services, utilizing proven IT and management methodologies to achieve world-class results. Watch this week's episode to hear about Marathon's growth, commitment to local development, growth by acquisition, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Tom Marsden

(6:00) Marathon Consulting

(9:32) Staying ahead of the development curve

(15:30) Finding clients within the region

(22:03) Landing in Hampton Roads

(27:02) The state of tech at the university level

(33:21) What is tHRive?

(43:38) Regional strengths + being stronger together

(53:14) Being promoted to leadership

(55:40) 757 taxi driver questions + answers

(1:00:31) Acquiring a company + conclusion

About Tom Marsden & Marathon Consulting:

Tom Marsden is a Vice President at Marathon Consulting. He started with Marathon as a senior information technology consultant in 2010 and was promoted to the executive leadership team in 2015. Tom oversees much of the company's new client strategies. He's also intimately involved in application development projects. Additionally, Tom spearheads internal leadership programs like employee coaching and mentorship. Tom is first and foremost a developer who has built and designed software solutions since 1996. A native of Toronto, Canada, he sharpened his tools on the West Coast at Google and Amazon before he settled in Virginia.

Marathon Consulting is a Virginia Beach-based, locally-owned Information Technology services company serving businesses of all sizes across the country. Marathon offers a wide range of IT services, including custom application development, data solutions, CMS design and development, digital marketing, IT Advisory, and more.

Learn more: https://www.marathonus.com/about/

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.startwheel.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.startwheel.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Tom Marsden

https://www.marathonus.com/

Instagram: @marathonconsulting: https://www.instagram.com/marathonconsulting/

X: @MarathonIT: https://twitter.com/MarathonIT

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marathonconsulting/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-marsden-28b5823/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarathonConsultingVA/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

Companies Mentioned:

Marathon Consulting: https://www.marathonus.com/

STIHl: https://www.stihlusa.com/

Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/

Christopher Newport University: https://cnu.edu/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/

Google: https://www.google.com/

DroneUp: https://www.droneup.com/

Yellow Dog Software: https://www.yellowdogsoftware.com/

University of Waterloo: https://uwaterloo.ca/

ODU: https://www.odu.edu/

Morgan Stanley: https://www.morganstanley.com/

Goldman Sachs: https://www.goldmansachs.com/

Lead 757: https://hrchamber.com/programs/lead757/

tHRive: https://ypthrive.org/

Navy: https://www.navy.com/

Waterman's Surfside Grille: https://www.watermans.com/

The Shack on 8th : https://www.theshackvb.com/

The Dirty Buffalo: https://thedirtybuffalo.com/

This week hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Carl Cleanthes, Founder of Epic Made. Epic Made is a digital art and animation studio with expert strategists, artists, and storytellers who help brands tell powerful and engaging stories. With expertise in visual storytelling, fantasy pop-culture, and detailed world-building, Epic Made has collaborated with some of the biggest entertainment brands such as SYFY, Nickelodeon, and TNT. Watch this week's episode to hear about Carl's journey, making art, working with big-time brands, and much more!

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Carl Cleanthes

(5:35) Rebranding a business

(9:53) The power of community + random collisions

(11:33) Imposter syndrome + Carl's Hat

(21:55) Memorializing his Father's Legacy

(28:40) Landing big clients

(33:33) Taking risk + setting goals

(38:25) Carl's opinion on AI

(49:11) How does a creative make money?

(51:43) Finding validation

(54:19) Impacting the community + Conclusion

About Carl Cleanthes & Epic Made:

Carl Cleanthes is a lifelong artist and Entrepreneur. He started his creative studio Epic Made in 2006, which has been the core focus of his career. Epic Made is based out of Hampton Roads (Norfolk), Virginia. Over the past 15+ years, the team has created award-winning animation, illustration, and design for hundreds of beloved brands including SyFY, Nickelodeon, USA Network, WWE, TNT, and others. Epic Made is a digital art and animation studio that understands the magic behind powerful creative assets for the advertising and entertainment worlds. They work directly with entertainment brands and networks as well as partner with advertising and marketing agencies to produce creative for campaigns, commercials, and socials

He is Epic Made's "fearless leader and the smiling face of the company. Carl's energy and charisma is infused into every element of the business, from the first handshake to the final deliverable. He has dedicated his life to building a guild of driven artists and passionate content creators who value their craft as much as he values his business and has a genuine pride for the work that is produced".

Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleanthes/ & https://www.epic-made.com/team

About the hosts:

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.

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

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.startwheel.org/live/

Watch past episodes: https://www.startwheel.org/fervent-four-show/

Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four

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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Carl Cleanthes

https://www.epic-made.com/

Instagram: @epicmade: https://www.instagram.com/epicmade/

X: @getepicmade: https://twitter.com/getepicmade

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/epicmade/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleanthes/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EpicMade/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

X (personal): @ryantnt (https://twitter.com/ryantnt)

X: @Innovate757 (https://twitter.com/Innovate757)

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads: https://www.instagram.com/innovatehamptonroads/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantnt/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovate757/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Innovate757

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays (https://twitter.com/zackmillersays)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zackmillersays

Thanks to our Sponsors:

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

Companies Mentioned:

Epic Made: https://www.epic-made.com/

Colorful Carl: https://www.colorfulcarl.com/

Supernal: https://www.webtoons.com/en/canvas/supernal/list?title_no=566870

Buffalo Bills: https://www.buffalobills.com/

Sphere Las Vegas: https://www.thespherevegas.com/

Hatch: https://www.startwithhatch.com/

Anomaly: https://www.amazon.com/Anomaly-How-Finally-Stand-Crowd/dp/164279175X

ODU: https://www.odu.edu/

Neon District: https://www.downtownnorfolk.org/

AIGA: https://www.aiga.org/

Barbie Movie: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/barbie

Pat McAfee: https://twitter.com/PatMcAfeeShow

ESPN: https://www.espn.com/

Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/

Steve Jobs: https://www.apple.com/stevejobs/

Mark Zuckerberg: https://www.forbes.com/profile/mark-zuckerberg/?sh=13d3a7c73e06

Jeff Bezos: https://www.forbes.com/profile/jeff-bezos/?sh=2d04307a1b23

SyFy: https://www.syfy.com/

Adobe FireFly: https://www.adobe.com/sensei/generative-ai/firefly.html

Black Mirror: https://www.netflix.com/title/70264888

Drew Ungvarsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewungvarsky

Grow: https://thisisgrow.com/