Fervent Four

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Tahjere Lewis, Founder and CEO of Aunt Carol's Sauce, an all-purpose sauce delicious with meats, vegetables, and especially seafood that's purpose is to be delicious and bring families together. The sauce is a loving memory of Carol Scott, Tahjere's Aunt, who originally created the sauce for her family. Watch this week's episode to hear about Tahjere's journey, how to start a food business, Aunt Carol's sauce story, and more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Tahjere Lewis

(4:01) Early Days, High School, & First Jobs

(9:19) Academic Grind

(15:18) Virginia Tech Track and Field

(22:07) Promise made to Aunt Carol + creating the sauce

(33:11) Growing Aunt Carol's Sauce in Covid

(37:40) Starting a technology company, TTP Tech

(42:40) Getting the sauce in stores

(51:10) Start Peninsula Experience

(54:03) Next Steps + Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Aunt Carol's Sauce: https://www.auntcarolssauce.com/

TTP Tech: https://www.ttptechllc.com/

Virginia Tech: https://www.vt.edu/

Virginia Tech Track and Field: https://hokiesports.com/sports/track-and-field

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

Hampton High School: https://hhs.hampton.k12.va.us/

Hampton University: https://home.hamptonu.edu/#gsc.tab=0

Taco Bell: https://www.tacobell.com/

BJ's: https://www.bjs.com/

Sam's Club: https://www.samsclub.com/

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

Food Innovations Program at VT: https://ext.vt.edu/food-health/food-innovations.html

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

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

Mr. Bill's Wine Seller: https://www.visitroanokeva.com/listings/mr-bills-wine-cellar/8811/

The Apex Center for Entrepreneurs: https://www.apex.vt.edu/

The Magic Spoon: https://magicspoon.com/

VWIEC: https://virginiaworkforce.force.com/s/?language=en_US

Whole Foods: https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/

Harris Teeter: https://www.harristeeter.com/

Tommy's Restaurant: https://www.facebook.com/people/Tommys-Restaurant/100044694885472/

About Tahjere Lewis & Aunt Carol's Sauce:

Tahjere Lewis is the Founder and CEO of Aunt Carol's Sauce. This young entrepreneur and Virginia Tech alumni took a family recipe to new heights. Lewis promised his Aunt Carol that together they would take her famous sauce and start a business. Unfortunately, nearly halfway through college, his beloved Aunt Carol passed away from cancer. Determined to keep his promise, Lewis got to work. This is when Aunt Carol's Sauce came to life.

"Aunt Carol's Sauce is an all-purpose sauce delicious with meats, vegetables, and especially seafood. The sauce is of the loving memory of Carol Scott, who originally created the sauce for her family. The purpose of the product is not only delicious but also to bring families together".

Learn more: https://www.auntcarolssauce.com/about & www.wdbj7.com

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:

Tahjere Lewis

https://www.auntcarolssauce.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahjere-lewis-96b7b5175/

Instagram: @auntcarolssauce (https://www.instagram.com/auntcarolssauce/)

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/auntcarolssauce0/

Twitter: @auntcarolssauce (https://twitter.com/auntcarolssauce)

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Tricia Dunlap, Managing Partner at Dunlap Law PLC, a law practice that serves small businesses and business owners, helping them start businesses, protect them while they grow, and sell them when they're ready. Watch this week's episode to hear about business owners' common mistakes, the importance of a relationship with your lawyer, disrupting the broken traditional law firm, and more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Tricia Dunlap + Branding

(6:08) Businesses Dunlap Law works with + Exit strategies

(13:55) Why are layers expensive?

(24:21) Subscription Plans + disrupting the market

(27:43) Legal help for small businesses + mission

(32:50) "Government Gotchas"

(38:14) Mistakes and legal advice for Startups

(46:50) Gaining Customers + Building a law firm

(52:45) Importance of small business + Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Dunlap Law PLC: https://dunlaplawplc.com/

Richmond: https://www.visitrichmondva.com/

Ben Franklin Life Story: https://www.history.com/topics/american-revolution/benjamin-franklin

Maggie Walker: https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/maggie-lena-walker

Black BRAND: https://blackbrand.biz/

Blair Durham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-durham-15528a17a/

Crypto: https://crypto.com/

FTX: https://www.investopedia.com/ftx-exchange-5200842

About Tricia Dunlap & Dunlap Law PLC:

In 2015, Tricia launched Dunlap Law with a mission to help small business owners thrive. Started without a single client and no outside capital, Tricia's passion for helping business owners has drawn over 400 clients to the firm which now has five attorneys. Her biggest priority is building the firm's culture centered on empowerment, education, and empathy with one another and with clients.

Dunlap Law serves small businesses and business owners, helping them start businesses, protect them while they grow, and sell them when they're ready. Woman-owned and led, our sole focus is serving solo, micro, and small business entrepreneurs -- the Ben Franklins and Maggie Walkers of our time. "We are passionate about disrupting the broken traditional law firm business model because it fails to meet the needs of most small businesses. Using technology, we are reinventing how we show up for our clients with extensive educational content, small-group anonymous video calls, a library of DIY+ contract templates, and monthly subscription plans."

Learn more: https://dunlaplawplc.com/tricia/

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:

Tricia Dunlap

https://dunlaplawplc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dunlap-law-plc/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/triciadunlap/

Instagram: @dunlaplawplc (https://www.instagram.com/dunlaplawplc/)

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DunlapLawPLC

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week it's a special edition of the Fervent Four Show! Hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Blair Durham at the Mighty Dream Forum. Blair is the Co-founder and President of Black BRAND, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that stands for Business Research Analytics Networking and Development seeking to transform the local, regional, and national community through unity, education, access, opportunity, and development. This episode is part three of three Fervent Four Show episodes that were recorded at the Mighty Dream Forum. Watch this week's episode to hear Blair talk about her experience building a community, the 757 ecosystem, and much more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Blair Durham Interview Preview

(4:17) The live show

(5:43) What is Black BRAND + starting out

(12:34) Starting accelerator programs

(16:58) Potential for the 757 Ecosystem

(20:52) Is DEI an industry?

(23:08) Black BRAND Funding

(26:22) Black BRAND + Mighty Dream Partnership

Companies Mentioned:

Black BRAND: https://blackbrand.biz/

Business Insider Magazine: https://www.businessinsider.com/

Jacob Marshall: https://futureofstorytelling.org/speaker/jacob-marshall

ABC: https://abc.com/

Navy: https://www.navy.mil/

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

Mighty Dream Forum: https://mightydream.co/

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

Cox: https://www.cox.com/residential/home.html

Dominion Energy: https://www.dominionenergy.com/

Ikea Foundation: https://ikeafoundation.org/

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

Pharrell Williams: https://pharrellwilliams.com/

Something in the Water: https://somethinginthewater.com/

About Blair Durham & Black BRAND:

Blair Durham is a Hampton Roads Native and a Virginia Tech alum whose undergraduate focus on social justice, psychology, and race disparity culminated in the development of Black BRAND, a regional black chamber of commerce -- now with divisions in Hampton Roads and the Dan River Region. Blair and her team are leading the effort to help a growing number of black business owners contribute to meaningful economic development through entrepreneurship and job creation.

Black BRAND is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that stands for Business Research Analytics Networking and Development. Black BRAND's mission is to promote group economics through professional development and community empowerment. The organization seeks to transform the local, regional, and national community through unity, education, access, opportunity, and development. Black BRAND helps build scalable businesses that employ qualified staff and leverage tomorrow's technology; advances partner's missions by building valuable connections; and anchors families and community in strong values while competing on a global level.

Learn more: https://www.theworkforcecouncil.org/black-brand/ & https://blackbrand.biz/

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:

Blair Durham

https://blackbrand.biz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blackbrandbiz/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-durham-15528a17a/

Instagram: @blackbrandbiz (https://www.instagram.com/blackbrandbiz/)

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

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Jolie Spiers, Executive Director of Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (SBDC), a local resource that provides free business advising and technical assistance to existing and pre-venture entrepreneurs. Watch this week's episode to hear about how the SBDC helps businesses, the importance of small businesses to our communities, the recent entrepreneurial growth, and more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Jolie Spiers + Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center

(5:42) How can HRSBDC help your business?

(9:41) SBDC Team formatting

(12:52) COVID impact on small businesses and advancement

(18:07) Becoming the Executive Director

(26:25) Utilizing connections and resources in the region

(36:49) Customer journey + counseling through SBDC

(42:56) Overcoming challenges during COVID

(47:54) Outside perspective + Coaching

(52:31) Top foods in the region

(59:44) Podcast and book recommendations + Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center: https://hrsbdc.org/

Virginia Peninsula Community College: https://www.vpcc.edu/

Virginia Peninsula Chamber: https://www.virginiapeninsulachamber.com/

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

George Mason University: https://www.gmu.edu/

SBA: https://www.sba.gov/

Zoom: https://zoom.us/

Wordpress: https://wordpress.com/

Jim Carroll: https://www.virginiasbdc.org/team/jim-carroll/

Mighty Dream: https://mightydream.co/

Blair Durham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-durham-15528a17a/

Hampton Roads Alliance: https://www.linkedin.com/company/757alliance/

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

Virginia PTAC: https://virginiaptac.org/

Virginia VBOC: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/veterans-business-outreach-center-vboc-program

Bunker labs: https://bunkerlabs.org/

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

Black Brand: https://blackbrand.biz/

BizWheel: https://www.startwheel.org/bizwheel/

Bubba and Franks: https://www.bubbanfranks.com/

Redwood Smoke Shack: https://redwoodsmokeshack.com/

County Grill & Smokehouse: https://countygrill.com/

Benny's Pizza: https://www.bennysva.com/

North by Scott Jurgk: https://www.amazon.com/North-Finding-While-Running-Appalachian-ebook/dp/B01N6Z44OZ

David Goggins: https://davidgoggins.com/

National Geographic: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/

Michelle Obama Books: https://michelleobamabooks.com/

Fathom.fm: https://hello.fathom.fm/

This Week in Startups: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-week-in-startups/id315114957

Fresh Air - NPR: https://www.npr.org/programs/fresh-air/

Checklist Manifesto: http://atulgawande.com/book/the-checklist-manifesto/

About Jolie Spiers & HR SBDC:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (HRSBDC) provides free business advising and technical assistance, low-cost training, and connection to resources for existing and pre-venture entrepreneurs. HR SBDC serves 18 localities from Williamsburg across the entire Peninsula and Southside over to the Eastern Shore. Each year, hundreds of entrepreneurs in Hampton Roads seek resources and experienced advisors to help them start, survive, expand and thrive. HR SBDC serves all small business owners at all stages, from pre-venture and ideation to existing/growth companies to those ready to exit and cash out.

"Throughout her career, Spiers has held many different positions, including English teacher and tutor in Beijing and Shenzhen; journalist at the Sun Herald; media relations manager at Mississippi Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau; director of marketing and communications and director of resource development at United Way of South Mississippi; beautification director for Harrison County, Mississippi; and senior director alumni relations at the University of Rochester. After she earned her Master of Business Administration from the University of Rochester Simon Business School in 2017, Spiers took over as executive director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Mount Morris, New York. During her two-year tenure with the nonprofit organization, Spiers was responsible for a $1.6 million budget and generated more than $100,000 in new funding".

Learn more: https://www.pilotonline.com/inside-business/vp-ib-jolie-spiers-0613-20220607-tlf5uqbspzf65ltelpxuozhujy-story.html

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:

Jolie Spiers

https://hrsbdc.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolie-spiers-30683422/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/hampton-roads-chamber-of-commerce/

Instagram: @chamber757 (https://www.instagram.com/chamber757/)

Twitter: @chamber757 (https://twitter.com/chamber757)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HamptonRoadsSmallBusinessDevelopmentCenter & https://www.facebook.com/chamber757

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week it's a special edition of the Fervent Four Show! Hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Jacob Marshall at the Mighty Dream Forum. Jacob is the Head of Partnerships at Quantum Spin Studios, a majority woman-owned media company whose interdisciplinary expertise spans entertainment, worldbuilding, and emerging technology. This episode is part two of three Fervent Four Show episodes that were recorded at the Mighty Dream Forum. Watch this week's episode to hear Jacob talk about his background as a musician, collaborating, connecting, storytelling, and much more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Jacob Marshall Interview Preview

(4:58) The live show

(7:30) Musical Background + Raising money through music

(16:42) Growing community through events

(22:46) Asking the right questions + always learning

(26:17) Energy is contagious + having fun

(30:56) COVID-19 Project in New York

(39:13) Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Quantum Spin Studios: https://quantumspinstudios.com/

Mae Band: https://www.whatismae.com/

River James Music: https://mobile.twitter.com/RiverJamesMusic

The Future of Storytelling: https://futureofstorytelling.org/speaker/jacob-marshall

Ted Talks: https://www.ted.com/talks

Something in the Water: https://somethinginthewater.com/

Mount Sinai: https://www.mountsinai.org/about/newsroom/podcasts/road-resilience/recharge-room

Mount Sinai Recharge Rooms: https://www.wired.com/story/covid-recharge-rooms-health-care-front-line/

About Jacob Marshall:

Jacob Marshall is a musical artist, lecturer, writer, artist manager, social entrepreneur, and pioneer of humanitarian art campaigns. He serves as a Senior Connector at More Partnerships, working with some of the world's largest and most innovative public and private companies to coordinate their cause partnerships with some of the world's best artists. He worked as a senior advisor and liaison for the Global Citizen Festival, which brought 60,000 music fans to New York's Central Park on September 29th, 2012.

Learn more: https://futureofstorytelling.org/speaker/jacob-marshall & https://quantumspinstudios.com/about

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:

Jacob Marshall

https://quantumspinstudios.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobmarshall

Twitter: @beartiamart (https://twitter.com/beartiamart)

Instagram: @beartiamart (https://www.instagram.com/beartiamart/)

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Dominique Hawkins, CEO of NP on Demand LLC, a niche medical practice that provides medical clearances virtually via telemedicine to patients undergoing cosmetic surgery. Watch this week's episode to hear about how Dominique got started in business, scaled her business from $0 to more than 270k in 15 months, and much more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Dominique Hawkins

(5:19) The problem NP on Demand LLC solves + services provided

(13:08) Medical Background

(15:00) Micro-marketing + hearing "no"

(21:44) Pitching in Start Peninsula + telemedicine

(28:08) Overcoming the odds + mindset

(35:56) Being a self-learner + using resources

(41:43) Personal hobbies and interests

(50:50) Improving business pitch

(56:56) Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Np on Demand LLC: https://www.npondemandllc.com/

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

South University: https://www.southuniversity.edu/virginia-beach

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

Wix: https://www.wix.com/

BizConnect Hampton Roads: https://www.bizconnecthr.com/

Benny's Pizza: https://www.bennysva.com/

Something in the Water: https://somethinginthewater.com/

Craig Zingerline: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigzingerline

Velocity Growth: https://velocitygrowth.com/

J & A Racing: https://www.jandaracing.com/

Shamrock Marathon: https://www.shamrockmarathon.com/

Star Wars: https://www.starwars.com/

The 50th Law Book: https://www.amazon.com/50th-Law-50-Cent/dp/006177460X

The Perfect Day to Boss Up Book: https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Day-Boss-Up-Hustlers/dp/1335475109/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Wing Stop: https://www.wingstop.com/

Cash App: https://cash.app/

Venmo: https://venmo.com/

Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/us/home

HRBizWheel Quarterly: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hr-bizwheel-quarterly-business-expo-and-connection-event-tickets-429097571387

Giggster: https://giggster.com/

About Dominique Hawkins & Np on Demand LLC

Dominique Hawkins is the Founder and CEO of Np on Demand LLC is a niche medical practice that provides medical clearances virtually via telemedicine to patients undergoing cosmetic surgery.

To date they've cleared over 700 patients safely since July 2021. "We serve women between the ages of 19-55. We solved a major problem as we were able to clear women from the comfort of their homes, during the pandemic. Many places in different states closed including PCP offices so these patients had no way to be medically cleared". Np on Demand LLC allows people to be medically cleared all from the comfort of their home, office, school, bringing healthcare to them!

Learn more: https://www.npondemandllc.com/

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:

Dominique Hawkins

https://www.npondemandllc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiquehawkinsmsn/

Instagram: @NPONDEMANDLLC (https://www.instagram.com/NPONDEMANDLLC)

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

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Dan Bell, President and Chairman of The Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative, one of ten technology councils in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Watch this week's episode to hear about how Dan's experience from working for Apple and Cannon to has helped him grow the technology market and community in Hampton Roads.

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Dan Bell

(6:10) Why should larger companies care about smaller tech companies

(11:30) Dan's experience with Canon and Apple

(17:04) Opportunity for free marketing

(21:32) What is HRBizWheel Quarterly

(27:04) Supporting local companies + Controlling the narrative

(36:12) The Quarterly meetup growth

(41:16) How to know if startups will succeed + what needs to improve in the region

(49:53) Helping companies feel wanted at economic development events

(58:39) Dan's corporate experience + entrepreneurship background

(1:00:54) Gaining the momentum back + Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative: https://technologyhamptonroads.com/

HRBizWheel Quarterly: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hr-bizwheel-quarterly-business-expo-and-connection-event-tickets-429097571387

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

O'Connors Brewing Company: https://oconnorbrewing.com/

Mermaid Winery: https://www.mermaidwinery.com/mermaid/

Benny's Pizza: https://www.bennysva.com/

757 Makerspace: https://www.757makerspace.com/

Something in the Water: https://somethinginthewater.com/

BizConnect Hampton Roads: https://www.bizconnecthr.com/

Laura Henderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-henderson-bizconnect

The Hive: https://www.yesvirginiabeach.com/key-industries/small-business-resource-center

USS Wisconsin BB064: https://nauticus.org/explore/battleship-exhibits/about-the-battleship/

Norfolk Naval Base: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naval_Station_Norfolk

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

Cannon: https://www.usa.canon.com/

Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/us/home

IBM: https://www.ibm.com/us-en/

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

Facebook: www.facebook.com

Vinylmint: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vinylmint

Mighty Dream Forum: https://mightydreamforum.com/

About Dan Bell & Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative

Dan Bell is the President of the Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative, a 501(c)(6) organization focusing on entrepreneurial business success and innovation export. He has been an executive in the high technology industry, working with world-class companies such as Honeywell, Xerox, Apple, US Robotics, 3Com, and Canon.

The HRIC has a mission of creating programs, events, and visibility for area technology companies. These activities are intended to assist the development and growth of the technology sector and contribute to a diversified regional economy. The HRIC is one of ten technology councils in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dangbell/ & https://technologyhamptonroads.com/about-us/

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:

Dan Bell

https://technologyhamptonroads.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dangbell/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week it's a special edition of the Fervent Four Show! Hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Antonio Dowe at the Mighty Dream Forum. Antonio is the co-Founder of High Tide Cannabis Summit, a one-of-a-kind event that aims to bring people from all walks of life together to elevate the conversation around cannabis. This episode is part one of three Fervent Four Show episodes that were recorded at the Mighty Dream Forum. Watch this week's episode to hear Antonio talk about his background as a music and event promoter, discussion about failure, where to find guidance in business, and much more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Fervent Four Show Live x Mighty Dream Forum

(5:35) Antonio Dowe interview preview

(7:25) The live show

(9:53) Introducing Antonio Dowe

(12:30) Local impact on the 757 + High Tide Cannabis Summit

(17:19) Learning from failure + being afraid to fail

(21:30) Pushing past the stigma of cannabis

(26:22) Access to opportunity + building on Pharrell's vision

(31:02) Importance of mentorship

(33:00) Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

High Tide Cannabis Summit: https://hightidecannabissummit.com/

Mighty Dream Forum: https://mightydreamforum.com/

Pharrell Williams: https://pharrellwilliams.com/

R&B Block Party: https://www.sevenvenues.com/events/detail/rnb-block-party

Crunchy Hydration: https://crunchyhydration.com/

Daymond John: https://daymondjohn.com/

Zack Miller Interview with Daymond John: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnjxpNdlh1A

About Antonio Dowe & High Tide Cannabis Summit

Antonio Dowe is Co-Founder of the High Tide Cannabis Summit, a one-of-a-kind event that aims to bring people from all walks of life together to elevate the conversation around cannabis. From informative sessions on criminal justice, medicinal breakthroughs, and economic advancement to a live concert by some of the world's biggest artists, High Tide Cannabis Summit aims to be the preeminent festival of its kind not only in the south but in the country.

As a forward thinker, Antonio is building his brand in the cannabis industry. He is currently developing a strategic plan to educate communities by using the entertainment industry at a national level to introduce policies and laws relative to cannabis agriculture.

Learn more: https://hightidecannabissummit.com/#about & https://www.wavy.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2022/03/HT-001-PresentationDeck-r14.pdf?ipid=promo-link-block1

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:

Antonio Dowe

https://hightidecannabissummit.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-dowe-3a437911a

Instagram: @realantonio_ (https://www.instagram.com/realantonio_/)

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with David and Brittany Peregoff, Founders and Owners of Where2Wheel LLC, the nation's largest crowd-sourced off-road trail database for Jeep & truck off-road enthusiasts with off-road trails listings in every state. The online trail database has been built over the last eight years to make off-roading more accessible. Watch this week's episode to hear about David's story, the growing off-road market, how to bring attention to your business idea, and much more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing David and Brittany Peregoff

(4:55) Starting Where2Wheel and W2W Parks

(10:42) Translating an idea into revenue

(17:54) Sticking with a business idea + proving the demand

(28:19) Business opportunities + Inclusive to all vehicle brands

(34:46) Vending machine business + Covid

(42:10) Modernized vending machines

(47:55) What's next for Where2Wheel?

(51:45) Marketing and growing the off-road market

(57:58) Growing a community

(01:02:54) 1 Million Cups Virginia Beach

(01:05:09) Conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Where2Wheel: https://where2wheel.com/

W2W Parks: https://w2wparks.com/

1 Million Cups: https://www.1millioncups.com/s/

Jeep: https://www.jeep.com/

Night Ride: https://getnightride.com/

Jake Maines Networking Happy Hour: https://jakemainesrealtor.com/networking-happy-hour/

4 Wheel Parts: https://www.4wheelparts.com/

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

Cavalier Ford: https://www.cavalierford.com/

Best Buy: https://www.bestbuy.com/

Apple Pay: https://www.apple.com/apple-pay/

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

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

About David and Brittany Peregoff & Where2Wheel

David and Brittany Peregoff first met in High School and are now married and business partners of Where2Wheel. Where2Wheel.com "is the nation's largest crowd-sourced off-road trail database for Jeep & truck off-road enthusiasts, with off-road trail listings in every state. We have built this trail database over the last eight years to make off-roading more accessible. Our latest project is to move that mission from the digital into the physical by building small-scale off-road parks near major metropolitan areas around the country. We have built an MVP prototype here in the 757 and are currently using it as a marketing studio to promote our crowdfunding campaign to build an ORV park right here in Hampton Roads".

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:

David and Brittany Peregoff

https://where2wheel.com/

Twitter: @BPeregoff (https://twitter.com/BPeregoff)

Instagram: @Where2Wheel (https://www.instagram.com/where2wheel/)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Where2wheel/

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org

This week hosts Tim Ryan, and Zack Miller sit down with Bretton Key, Founder, and CEO of Date Jar, LLC, a dating app designed to change the challenge of figuring out what to do on a date. Date Jar gives date suggestions and plans and is designed to be your pocket date guide and concierge service. Watch this week's episode to hear about how Bretton's 15+ years of IT and software development background has helped him create Date Jar, its features, and much more!

Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of StartWheel, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Learn more at: https://www.startwheel.org

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

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

Show notes:

(0:00) Introducing Bretton Key

(2:31) The need to simplify dating + inspiration

(8:55) Developing an App + technical background

(14:24) Guys vs Girls Date Ideas

(18:13) Real-life Hitch/Dating Expert?

(22:40) Date Jar Dates

(28:25) How to generate income + future partnerships for Date Jar

(35:45) Why do people still need to date? + What is the importance of dating?

(43:53) Being seen on the App Store

(49:15) The founder hustle

(52:49) Experience being a minority founder

(58:22) Overcoming adversity + conclusion

Companies Mentioned:

Date Jar: https://mydatejar.com/

App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-date-jar/id1613734886

Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mellow.datejar

Mighty Dream Forum: https://mightydreamforum.com/

Neon District: https://neonnfk.com/public-art/757-energy-vibe/

Hitch: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0386588/

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

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

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

Door Dash: https://www.doordash.com/

Target: https://www.target.com/

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

Twist Cigar Lounge: http://twistvb.com/cigar-lounge-use-666/

Magoo's Cigar Lounge: https://www.facebook.com/groups/161119819176328/

Mona Lounge and Cigar Bar: https://monaloungecigarbar.com/

Michaels: https://www.michaels.com/

About Bretton Key & Date Jar, LLC

Bretton Key is an IT Professional with 15+ years of software development experience. He is the Founder and Owner of Date Jar LLC. Date Jar was formed in November 2021, launched in April 2022, and is now available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

"Date Jar is an awesome way to figure out what to do on dates. This app is not here for matchmaking but for sure will match you up with memorable date experiences that are enjoyable for whatever stage you are in your relationship(s). Date Jar is here to eliminate the pain of figuring out what to do, and allows you to have better quality time with the person(s) you hold dear. Date Jar is meant to become your personal date concierge service. A one-stop shop for all your dating needs."

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:

Bretton Key

https://mydatejar.com/

Twitter: @mydatejar (https://twitter.com/mydatejar) & @playthebkgrd (https://twitter.com/playthebkgrd)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mydatejar/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettonjkey/

Instagram: @mydatejar (https://www.instagram.com/mydatejar/) & @key.to.success (https://www.instagram.com/key.to.success/)

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

Tim Ryan

https://www.startwheel.org

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

Twitter: @StartWheel (https://twitter.com/StartWheel)

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startwheel-org/

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

Zack Miller

https://www.zackmillersays.com

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

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

Thanks to our Sponsors:

The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center – http://www.hrsbdc.org/en/

StartWheel – https://www.startwheel.org