Fervent Four

Christian Green joins the conversation to discuss his passion for community development and his role in Virginia Beach Economic Development. The episode begins with a look at the Savannah Bananas' success before diving into the history of Virginia Beach's Dome and plans for a surf park. Christian shares his long-term vision for the city's growth, highlighting tech opportunities and the defense community. His career journey and management philosophy are explored, emphasizing collaboration and accountability. The discussion covers regional development, affordable housing, and urban planning strategies. The episode concludes with insights on work-life balance, local culture, and promoting Virginia Beach at the StartUp World Cup.

(0:00) Introduction and Christian Green's passion for helping others

(1:11) Savannah Bananas success and guest introduction

(3:32) Virginia Beach Dome's history and surf park installation

(6:20) Christian Green's role in Virginia Beach Economic Development

(10:14) Long-term vision for Virginia Beach's growth

(17:00) Christian Green's career journey and achievements

(24:31) Management philosophy and collaboration in Virginia Beach

(29:35) Defense community and tech opportunities in Virginia Beach

(31:10) Planning for major events and infrastructure development

(37:42) Building tech communities and lessons for Virginia Beach

(43:36) Virginia Beach promotion at the StartUp World Cup

(45:27) Affordable housing and urban planning strategies

(47:27) Economic development and team accountability

(50:26) Urgency in regional development and aligning goals

(54:35) Work-life balance and promoting Virginia Beach

(56:07) The orange crush debate and local fitness culture

(1:00:05) Adapting to local weather and Zack Miller's move to Virginia Beach

(1:07:20) Virginia Beach vibe district and closing remarks

- Focusing on helping others succeed can lead to personal success and fulfillment in one's career.

- Virginia Beach has a unique opportunity to leverage its vibrant community, outdoor lifestyle, and strategic location to attract businesses and talent.

- Long-term planning and proactive business attraction strategies are essential for sustainable economic growth and development.

https://www.yesvirginiabeach.com/

Join the biggest business event of the summer where 10 businesses compete for a chance to win a million dollar investment.

https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/

Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.

Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Lauren Krailo, founder of Krailo Socials, joins us to break down why LinkedIn is the most underutilized tool in B2B marketing—and how companies in commercial construction and beyond can turn connections into contracts. A self-proclaimed gym rat and business strategist, Lauren shares how discipline from fitness transfers into marketing success. We dig into how to boost your Social Selling Index (SSI), decode LinkedIn's algorithm, test video lengths, and use AI to streamline content. Lauren also tackles common myths like "my industry isn't on LinkedIn" and offers real strategies to turn passive profiles into powerful business drivers.

(0:00) Introduction to the episode (0:19) Reflections on podcast milestones and final question tradition (2:26) Tim's running journey and health insights from Lauren (4:39) The importance of psychology in business (6:27) Overcoming challenges and motivation in business and fitness (9:30) Transitioning skills from fitness to marketing (10:35) Client retention, loss, and discipline in business (12:21) The role of self-motivation and discipline in success (14:29) Leveraging LinkedIn for B2B growth and networking (18:14) LinkedIn algorithm trends and content balance (20:53) Social selling index and LinkedIn page management (26:23) Engaging with LinkedIn connections and using Elevate (34:40) Perspectives on AI, content automation, and LinkedIn features (41:17) Testing video lengths and analyzing content performance on LinkedIn (49:05) LinkedIn analytics, key metrics, and external link strategies (57:22) Transition to LinkedIn ads and messaging from business profiles (1:00:28) Considering ads and Microsoft's impact on LinkedIn (1:01:42) Local interests, military relocation, and settling in (1:04:29) StartUp World Cup event and public speaking experiences - Use AI as a resource for content creation but avoid depending on it entirely to maintain authenticity. - Engaging with LinkedIn through live videos can significantly boost your social selling index and keep your audience engaged on the platform. - Start with organic content to build a strong foundation and gather valuable data before investing in LinkedIn ads for better results. https://www.krailosocials.com/ Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region. Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Berry Brunk joins the discussion, sharing insights from Hampton Road's entrepreneurial ecosystem and his background in media ventures. The episode examines financial challenges, economic downturns, and the importance of educating outside capital. Berry discusses the role of pitch contests, the evolving landscape of founder resources, and the impact of social media on deal flow and networking. The conversation addresses remote work challenges and economic development incentives, focusing on current capital raising hurdles for startups. Berry highlights his work with COVA BLVD magazine, showcasing regional culture and media. The episode concludes with reflections on Hampton Roads' startup ecosystem and upcoming events.

(0:00) Announcing financial challenges and Startup World Cup details

(3:32) Reflecting on the podcast's history and welcoming Berry Brunk

(5:09) Berry Brunk's background in Tidewater's ecosystem

(16:18) Raising capital and surviving economic downturns

(22:11) Building a successful ecosystem and educating outside capital

(28:31) The value of pitch contests and regional tech impacts

(31:47) Expanding funding search and the evolution of founder resources

(37:33) Social media's role in deal flow and networking

(39:01) Remote work challenges and economic development incentives

(44:21) Current capital raising challenges for startups

(46:18) Focusing Hampton Roads' startup ecosystem

(54:32) Berry's media ventures and Cova Boulevard magazine

(57:56) Magazine features and regional cultural highlights

(1:02:02) Closing thoughts and event promotion

- Resilience is crucial for founders, especially when facing economic downturns, as illustrated by Berry Brunk's experience of having to lay off staff and stop taking payroll to keep his startup afloat.

- The Hampton Roads region has significant potential for growth in defense tech and healthcare innovation, leveraging its proximity to military installations and a growing demand for healthcare solutions.

- Building a strong startup ecosystem requires fostering collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and support organizations, as well as creating more networking opportunities like regular dinner events to connect key players in the community.

https://covablvd.com/

Don't miss the hottest event of the summer and your chance to win $1,000,000 at the Startup World Cup at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach. https://bit.ly/swctitovb Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region. Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Jarrett Beeler, Sway Creative Labs, shares his journey from the music industry to advertising, highlighting lessons applicable to business success. The discussion explores Norfolk's startup incentives and local business climate, emphasizing fostering creativity and talent. Jarrett delves into the economics of streaming, changing revenue models, and educating clients on music industry dynamics. Topics include personal growth, leadership, managing responsibilities, and acquiring advertising clients. Ethical considerations, AI's impact on advertising, and talent recruitment are examined, alongside overcoming regional skepticism. (0:00) Strategies for early-stage business success and catching up (3:02) Norfolk's startup incentives and local business climate (4:08) Jarrett Beeler's journey from music to advertising (8:28) Lessons from the music industry for businesses (15:08) The economics of streaming and changing revenue models (21:00) Educating clients on music industry dynamics (24:33) Fostering creativity and talent in Norfolk (30:35) Personal growth and leadership in business (36:40) Managing energy and responsibilities (37:52) Acquiring and working with advertising clients (39:57) Ethical considerations in advertising and spec work (46:04) AI's impact on advertising and campaign creation (51:10) Talent recruitment and retention strategies (53:09) Overcoming regional skepticism in agency work (57:19) Client service as a cornerstone of agency success (58:39) Celebrating Norfolk's culinary diversity and restaurant scene (1:02:04) Closing thoughts and looking ahead Key Takeaways: - Perseverance and adaptability in the early stages of business development are crucial for long-term success. - Leveraging diverse skill sets and fostering collaboration can drive community and business growth. - Utilizing AI tools can significantly enhance productivity and streamline creative processes in the advertising industry. Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region. Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Himalaya Rao-Potlapally discusses the dynamics of venture capital and startup funding, advising founders on when to avoid VC money. The episode delves into various funding types and the significance of the TomTom festival. Himalaya shares insights on starting a venture fund, early startup events, and the importance of mentorship for new entrepreneurs. The conversation touches on investor motivations, matching capital to business needs, and integrated capital approaches. Challenges like funding disparities and fostering innovation in rural areas are explored, along with entrepreneurship's role in economic development in Hampton Roads. Lifestyle tips include gardening and local dining, complemented by thoughts on regional identity and Hampton Wealth Week.

(0:00) Convincing founders not to take venture capital money

(0:54) Introduction to the episode

(2:34) The VC and startup world pace and introductions

(7:44) Understanding different types of funding

(8:41) Guest's entrepreneurial background

(10:47) TomTom festival significance and anecdotes

(15:58) Starting a venture fund and its challenges

(21:07) Early startup events and building momentum

(26:02) Welcoming new entrepreneurs and mentorship

(31:09) Investor motivations and capital matching

(38:07) Venture capital suitability for businesses

(42:26) Integrated capital for diverse funding needs

(43:35) Addressing funding disparities

(46:07) Innovation in rural areas and relocation

(50:19) Entrepreneurship for economic development in Hampton Roads

(54:04) Lifestyle: Gardening and local dining recommendations

(56:10) Hampton Wealth Week and regional identity

(1:01:03) Closing remarks and the importance of identity for entrepreneurs

- Building the right relationships and holding out for the right investors is crucial for long-term success.

- Entrepreneurs need to understand the different types of funding and match them to the appropriate stage and goals of their business.

- Trust and network-building are essential for securing investment, particularly for underrepresented founders who may lack initial connections.

https://www.bfm.fund/

https://vcpartners.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/venture-partners-fund/

Application to next Capital Allocator fellowship: https://form.jotform.com/243574991206160

Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.

Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Debbie Irwin, Lighthouse Labs, explores metrics for evaluating entrepreneurial resilience, inspired by Rick Rubin's creativity. She shares insights and her experiences supporting founders. Topics include regionalism in startup funding, inspiration from the Kaufman Foundation, and Debbie's personal journey. The episode delves into founders' motivation, feedback dynamics, mentorship's impact, the Lighthouse (Labs) Network's evolving support, Richmond's corporate scene, and founder responsiveness.

(0:00) Metrics for measuring founder resiliency and reinvestment

(0:37) Zack Miller discusses Rick Rubin's creative book and Tim Ryan's thoughts on fluctuating temperatures

(3:12) Recollection of meeting at the Startup World Cup and behind the scenes chaos

(5:17) Appreciation for Debbie's support of founders and regional collaboration

(10:50) Barriers in startup communities and Lighthouse's role in economic development

(15:13) Debbie's transition to leading Lighthouse and shoutout to sponsor Roombrick

(17:30) Debbie's personal background, upbringing, and dealing with loss

(27:13) Challenges of mentoring, defining success, and handling feedback

(30:15) Lighthouse Labs' success metrics, mentor network, and founder skill development

(37:17) Importance of coachability and feedback for founders

(39:01) Personal anecdotes and introduction of the Lighthouse Network

(46:00) Long-term support, operational training, and founders learning from one another

(48:43) Benefits of partnering with founder-friendly lawyers and Pillsbury's legal services

(51:06) Richmond's corporate landscape and Engage program's impact

(52:58) Lighthouse companies seizing opportunities and expansion plans

(54:15) Tim's secret salad strategy

(57:06) Debbie's favorite Richmond and Stanton eateries and Tim's dining preferences

(1:02:00) Final thoughts and gratitude

- Focusing on founder resiliency and long-term support, Lighthouse Labs is transitioning to the Lighthouse Network, which includes three networks: Founders, Mentors, and Investors.

- Lighthouse Labs has successfully maintained a high rate of active companies, with 91 out of 140 still operating and several reaching significant milestones like $1 million ARR.

• Debbie Irwin's leadership emphasizes the importance of direct, non-personal feedback and the need for continuous development and support for founders well beyond the initial acceleration phase.

https://www.lighthouselabsrva.org/

Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.

Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Nate Lahy joins the episode to explore landscape architecture, sharing his morning routine and favorite inspirational books. He discusses Orbis Landscape Architecture and the field's evolution, focusing on innovative flood management in Norfolk. The conversation emphasizes historical context, networking, and community-building. Additional topics include insights from Rick Rubin's book, the value of authors narrating their works, and fostering relationships with Assembly. The episode wraps up with local food recommendations and business shout-outs.

(0:00) Introduction and Casual Chatter

(10:12) Nate's Morning Routine and Inspirational Books

(17:08) Spotlight on Orbis Landscape Architecture

(24:05) The Evolution of Landscape Architecture

(30:33) Addressing Flooding Issues in Norfolk Through Design

(34:37) Strategies for Flood Management and Urban Development

(47:37) Historical Context in Landscape Projects

(49:12) The Significance of Networking in Landscape Architecture

(55:04) The Power of Small Interactions in Community Building

(56:14) Lessons from Rick Rubin's Book

(59:20) The Value of Authors Narrating Their Own Books

(1:00:29) Building Relationships with Assembly

(1:02:04) Local Food Recommendations and Business Shoutouts

(1:06:41) Closing Remarks and Call to Action

- Community engagement can be sparked through simple interactions in everyday places like coffee shops, leading to meaningful connections and opportunities.

- Norfolk's historical development involved significant environmental changes, such as filling in creeks and wetlands, which now contribute to its flooding issues.

- Landscape architecture is evolving to prioritize sustainable and holistic designs that consider environmental impact, wildlife, and community stories.

https://orbis-la.com/

Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.

Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

Sanele Lasana joins this episode to explore the power of embracing unique business ideas and the importance of celebrating milestones along the entrepreneurial journey. The conversation delves into learning and risk-taking in business, and a discussion on the Startup World Cup. The episode highlights innovations in adult tumbling and exercise science, uncovering niche acrobatic communities and the significance of play for adults. Challenges like insurance in gymnastics and strategic partnerships for market adoption are discussed. Sanele shares insights on coaching adults, structuring pricing models, and the Chesapeake food scene, offering encouragement for entrepreneurs and a chat on Gen Z slang.

(0:00) Embracing unique business ideas & celebrating podcast milestones

(1:17) Learning and risk-taking in business

(5:50) Zack's aversion to contacts & Startup World Cup discussion

(7:50) Celebrating entrepreneurial journeys and small successes

(10:41) Innovations in adult tumbling and exercise science

(17:50) Niche acrobatic communities and teaching backflips

(25:32) Importance of play for adults and defining new business categories

(30:12) Insurance challenges in the gymnastics industry

(37:28) Strategic partnerships and market adoption

(40:08) Specializing in adult gymnastics services

(44:00) Coaching adults vs. kids

(50:08) Structuring a business pricing model

(52:18) Guest background: Sanele Lasana's journey

(53:18) Local Chesapeake food scene

(57:01) Encouragement for entrepreneurs and episode wrap-up

(59:16) Listener engagement and Gen Z slang discussion

- Don't let anyone tell you your idea is too quirky or weird; stay creative, push the envelope, and don't give up.

- Adult learning can be incredibly rewarding and humbling, offering a unique opportunity for personal growth and rediscovery.

- Insurance and liability concerns are significant barriers for innovative business ideas, but perseverance and finding the right partners can help overcome these challenges.

Join Ned Lilly as he discusses the evolution of open source ERP software and XTuple's acquisition journey. Explore the role of data in AI and the challenges of remote work. Ned shares insights into Start Norfolk and Hatch, emphasizing regional leadership and community engagement. The episode covers talent recruitment, customer engagement strategies, and trends in mergers and acquisitions. Ned offers investment banking perspectives from Quorum Group, highlighting M&A preparation and due diligence. Plus, hear about AI's impact on tech, the value of data, and favorite regional cuisine and M&A hosting spots.

(0:00) Introduction and importance of data in AI

(1:20) Consistency in show scheduling and remote work challenges

(2:43) Guest introduction: Ned Lilly

(4:32) Origins of Start Norfolk and Hatch; xTuple's early history

(9:37) Open source ERP software development

(13:27) Talent recruitment challenges

(20:21) XTuple's acquisition journey

(28:15) Regional leadership and entrepreneurial community participation

(33:33) Regional collaboration and networking emphasis

(38:00) Customer engagement strategies

(41:08) Mergers and acquisitions trends

(43:06) Ned Lilly's role at Quorum Group and investment banking insights

(47:43) Hampton Roads outlook and educational marketing

(52:41) M&A preparation and due diligence

(54:29) Investor fiduciary obligations and exit strategies

(57:25) AI's impact on technology and data value

(1:00:42) Final question on regional cuisine

(1:01:35) Favorite M&A hosting restaurant

(1:03:10) Closing remarks -

Leveraging accumulated data to train AI models can transform adjacent business applications and unlock new opportunities.

Establishing a consistent schedule for content or events helps build a loyal audience and reinforces brand presence

Having a clear exit strategy and preparing for future transactions from the outset can significantly enhance business outcomes.

https://www.corumgroup.com/

Don't miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads' innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter

(0:00) Importance of staying on tune and finishing tasks

(0:19) Making lots of little bets in government contracting

(1:01) Weekly struggles, motivation, and guest introduction

(2:27) Meeting William Randolph and his background

(4:53) Overview of MicroMarket and government purchase card program

(10:33) Challenges and features in government marketplace

(13:08) Impact of government resolutions and spending on businesses

(16:22) Preparing vendors for government opportunities and DOGE purchase freeze

(20:09) Proposal for purchase card efficiency and business uncertainty

(22:01) Government changes and transition to entrepreneurship

(30:47) Realizing market value and starting own company

(31:18) Challenges and marketing strategies for double-sided marketplaces

(36:24) Moving to Virginia Beach and handling business setbacks

(42:50) Exploring state and local government opportunities

(44:33) Potential benefits and due diligence of the platform

(48:11) Onboarding process and prototyping mindset

(53:28) Encouragement for strategic bets in business

(57:53) Split and micro purchasing strategy

(59:27) Local food discoveries and favorites

• Success in government contracting is measured by what you finish, not by what you start, making it crucial to make lots of small, strategic bets to see what works.
• The micro-purchasing strategy, especially for government services under $10,000, offers a highly efficient sales cycle, allowing small businesses to quickly secure contracts and payments.
• Despite the current freeze on government purchase cards, opportunities abound in state, local, and commercial markets, necessitating a pivot and adaptation strategy to sustain and grow the business.

https://micromarket.co

William Randolph offers insights on navigating government contracting and strategic decision-making. The episode kicks off with motivation tips before diving into William's background. He discusses MicroMarket, the government purchase card program, and challenges in the government marketplace. Topics include the impact of government resolutions on businesses, preparing vendors, and the DOGE purchase freeze. William shares his journey from government to entrepreneurship, founding his own company, and realizing market value. The episode covers marketing strategies for double-sided marketplaces, exploring state and local opportunities, due diligence, and William's experiences in Virginia Beach, including handling setbacks and local food favorites.