Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share The DMV (Washington, DC | Maryland | Virginia) Business Show
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
The DMV (Washington, DC | Maryland | Virginia) Business Show
By Otto SevillaBusiness
The DMV (Washington, DC | Maryland | Virginia) Business Show episodes
- 230 - A Divine Calling with Wade Milyard of Fresh Step Laundry
In this episode of The DMV Business Show, host Otto Sevilla sits down with Wade Milyard, Founder of Fresh Step Laundry, to discuss his journey from serving as a police officer and Coast Guard member to launching a nonprofit dedicated to providing free mobile laundry services to the unhoused community in Frederick County. Wade shares the inspiration behind Fresh Step, recounting a pivotal moment during his law enforcement career when he asked unhoused individuals how they did their laundry and realized the value of bringing such a service directly to those in need. The conversation covers the challenges of retrofitting a bus to create a mobile laundry facility, the logistics of serving the community, and the importance of empathy and connection in his work. He also touch on plans for expansion, including a focus on ensuring unhoused schoolchildren have clean clothes, and offer insights for anyone interested in giving back or starting a nonprofit of their own. The episode is filled with stories of impact, personal growth, and the power of simply taking action to meet a community’s needs.
This episode is brought to you by: SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
59 min - #Classic - Trailblazing Men's Grooming with Michael Gilman of Grooming Lounge
Join us on The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla as we showcase the inspiring story of Michael Gilman, the Founder and Owner of Grooming Lounge, a pioneering men's grooming brand that's been making waves since 1999 with headquarters in the DMV. With a humble beginning as an e-commerce business, Grooming Lounge has grown into a successful and respected brand, offering a range of high-quality products and services that cater to the unique needs of men. Lets dive into Mike's journey, from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success.He established a niche in men's grooming when Mike and his wife decided to launch Grooming Lounge. They recognized a gap in the market – a lack of products and services that catered specifically to men's grooming needs. With a passion for entrepreneurship, they developed a business plan that focused on creating a welcoming, non-intimidating environment for men to explore and discover new grooming products. Initially, the company started as an e-commerce business, with a store in Washington DC and an online platform selling men's grooming products.Interestingly, Grooming Lounge's e-commerce platform was built using Yahoo's e-commerce services. Mike emphasized the importance of this initial investment, stating that it allowed them to establish a strong online presence and focus on developing their brand.Mike's personal story is just as inspiring. Growing up in Rockville, Maryland, he was involved in athletics and developed leadership skills through sports and other activities. However, it wasn't until later in life that he discovered his interest in business and entrepreneurship. Mike's major in journalism took him to different places, but eventually, he returned to the DC area to launch Grooming Lounge with his wife.Grooming Lounge's journey is a testament to the power of innovation, hard work, and dedication. By recognizing a niche in the market and developing a unique e-commerce platform, Michael Gilman was able to establish a successful and respected brand. As we continue to follow Grooming Lounge's growth and evolution, we're excited to see what the future holds for this trailblazing men's grooming brand.P.S. Don't forget to share this episode with your network and stay connected with us for more inspiring stories and insights from the DMV region.
This episode is sponsored by:SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
1 hr 7 min - 229 - Crafting Stories with Courtney Malengo of Spark + Buzz Communications
In this episode of The DMV Business Show, host Otto Sevilla sits down with Courtney Malengo, Founder of Spark + Buzz Communications, to dive into her entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of her boutique communications consultancy. Courtney shares her deep-rooted passion for storytelling, stemming from her childhood and a career that saw her transition from journalism to leading marketing and branding efforts across diverse industries. She explains how personal experiences, including observing her father's legal practice from home and exploring side hustles in her youth instilled an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire for professional autonomy. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of launching Spark + Buzz, the importance of aligning client values, and why she prioritizes authentic storytelling and strategic communications over sheer agency size. She gives practical advice for emerging business owners on knowing your worth, being selective with clients, and the necessity of persistence and adaptation in business. The episode also touches on personal motivation, including her Christian faith and her resilience as a breast cancer survivor, offering powerful lessons about balance, advocacy, and the flexibility that entrepreneurship can offer. Listeners will gain insight into the realities of solo entrepreneurship, the impact of the pandemic on her business, and actionable strategies for branding and communication whether you are a new startup or an established brand seeking to tell your story more effectively.
This episode is brought to you by: SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
1 hr 4 min - #Classic - Shaking Up Electric Vehicle Charging with Nanbo Liu of OpenGrid Technologies
Do not miss the episode of The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla, Nanbo Liu, Co-Founder of OpenGrid Technologies, shared his insights on the company's innovative approach to electric vehicle (EV) charging. OpenGrid Technologies with headquarters in Washington, DC has developed a unique solution that simplifies the build and operation of Level 3 DC fast charging stations for commercial retail locations, particularly grocery-anchored properties.Nanbo shares his personal story, discussing his background and entrepreneurial experiences. Born in China, Nanbo moved to the US at 18, where he attended the University of Toledo and studied finance and international business. He credits his international upbringing and experiences with helping him run his business effectively, particularly when it comes to dealing with global supply chains and international teams.OpenGrid Technologies has a simplified and sustainable solution that achieves this by incorporating lithium-ion batteries into the charging stations, making them more sustainable and a turnkey solution for commercial property managers. The company takes care of the equipment, installation, and operation of the charging stations, recovering its costs through revenue from drivers who use the network. This model is similar to that of banks and ATM's, where the bank covers the costs of equipment and installation, and recovers its investment through transaction fees.Nanbo highlighted their competitive advantage and the significant differences between OpenGrid's approach and that of Tesla, which requires substantial capital expenditures for equipment and installation. OpenGrid's plug-and-play solution eliminates the need for complex and expensive setup, making it an attractive option for commercial properties. Furthermore, OpenGrid's stations are compatible with multiple electric vehicle brands, allowing drivers to charge their vehicles regardless of the manufacturer, whereas Tesla's stations are currently only compatible with Tesla vehicles.He also discussed the seamless user experience, stating that Tesla's strength lies in its seamless experience for owners due to its control over both the cars and the charging network. However, this may not be the case for other car brands, which can lead to frustrating experiences with third-party charging providers. Overall, OpenGrid Technologies is revolutionizing the electric vehicle charging industry with its innovative approach, making it an attractive option for commercial property managers looking to offer EV charging services to their customers.
This episode is sponsored by:SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
1 hr 1 min - 228 - Creating Futures In The Trades with Daniel Fuentes of Cardinal Plumbing, Heating, and Air
In this episode of The DMV Business Show, host Otto Sevilla sits down with Daniel Fuentes, Co-Founder of Cardinal Plumbing, Heating, and Air. Danny shares his personal journey growing up in Northern Virginia as the child of immigrant parents, reflecting on the values instilled by his devoted mother and the experiences that shaped his early life. He delves into his career path, from working in retail and warehouses to being introduced to the trades at age 23, where he discovered a passion for plumbing that motivated his relentless self-education and growth despite early challenges. The conversation highlights Danny’s transition from employee to business owner, forming a partnership with his Co-Founder, and the initial struggles they faced establishing Cardinal Plumbing. He discusses the significance of hiring, training, and empowering his team, emphasizing the impact of creating opportunities for employees to build their own success. The discussion covers the power of reviews, the importance of focusing on their core services, and how staying true to their mission of quality work and community impact has driven steady growth over 13 years. Danny offers candid insights into overcoming business obstacles, the value of strong processes and people, and his commitment to ongoing learning and leadership. The episode wraps with his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and a look at how his passion for service, family, and personal development continues to shape his life and business.
This episode is brought to you by: SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
58 min - 227 - Building a Business from Junk with Andreas Karagounis of Gen Z Junk Removal
Join us on The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla as we share the journey of Andreas Karagounis, Founder and Owner of Gen Z Junk Removal. Andreas shares his journey from growing up in McLean, Virginia and attending high school in Montgomery County, to launching his business while still in college. He discusses how an early interest in entrepreneurship led him from flipping couches to full-scale junk removal, and the challenges and rewards of running a service-based business. The conversation touches on marketing strategies such as leveraging Facebook groups and referrals, lessons learned from family and mentors like Alex Hormozi, and the importance of persistence, patience, and learning from mistakes. Andreas provides practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of getting started and testing ideas, and shares his vision for the future growth of his business.
This episode is brought to you by: SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
51 min - #Classic - Protect Your Wealth and Secure Your Future with Diana Khan of DK Law Group
Join on us The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla as we get to meet Diana Khan, an Attorney At Law and Owner of DK Law Group with headquarters in Owings Mills, Maryland as she shares her personal and professional journey!Born in Bulgaria, Diana immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 10 and grew up in the Baltimore area. Despite facing challenges and making sacrifices, Diana's mother played a significant role in her education, and she eventually pursued a career in law, focusing on business planning and wealth building.Diana shares her journey from initially wanting to become a doctor to deciding to become a lawyer. After being diagnosed with diabetes, she knew she couldn't become a doctor. She then became interested in real estate, working for a law firm that did short sales, and eventually opening her own real estate brokerage. After being a solo practitioner for a few years, Diana decided to focus more on law, leveraging her knowledge and network to build a law firm that specialized in real estate and business law. Her motivation was to retire at 50 and provide for her family.Diana's law firm grew organically, with most clients coming from her real estate network. She also started a title company, real estate brokerage, and offers LLC startup and estate planning services. Today, she has a staff of 60-70 employees and is working on branding and growing her company.When it comes to starting a business, Diana emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong business structure ahead of time, including setting up an LLC, operating agreement, and QuickBooks. She stresses the importance of planning and doing things correctly from the outset to avoid potential issues and liabilities later on.As a successful business owner, Diana highlights the importance of having a trust to protect one's assets and ensure the smooth transition of wealth to heirs. She emphasizes that many people don't understand the concept of a trust and think it's only for wealthy individuals, but in reality, it's for anyone who wants to protect their wealth and legacy. A trust can be set up to have its own rules and parameters, allowing an individual to put their assets into it and gift them to their loved ones in the future, while also protecting themselves from liability and ensuring a more efficient transfer of wealth upon their passing.Diana Khan's journey from lawyer and entrepreneur is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. By sharing her insights and expertise, Diana emphasizes the importance of having a trust as a key part of one's wealth planning and legacy planning. With her extensive experience in real estate, business planning, and wealth building, Diana Khan is a valuable resource for anyone looking to establish a strong business structure, protect their assets, and ensure a secure financial future for their loved ones.
This episode is sponsored by:SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
57 min - 226 - Solving Restaurant Staffing with John Elko of GigShift
Join us on The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla as we share the journey of John Elko, founder and CEO of GigShift, a platform aiming to revolutionize staffing for restaurants and bars. John shares the inspiration behind GigShift, which is akin to a rideshare app for food service, connecting businesses in urgent need of skilled staff with nearby experienced contractors. Drawing from his own deep roots in the restaurant industry and a long career in the Army, John recounts how challenges in both arenas shaped his idea and approach to entrepreneurship. He discusses the practicalities of the app, focusing on its flexibility for contractors and efficiency for business owners, as well as the hurdles of launching a tech solution in a traditional industry. The episode also explores John's personal journey, his family's legacy in food service, the difficulties of military life, and the transition into building a business from scratch. Listeners get a candid behind-the-scenes look at the startup world, the importance of resilience, and the power of saying yes to new opportunities.
This episode is brought to you by: SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
49 min - #Classic - Unlocking the Secrets to Managing Back Pain Effectively with Dr. Christopher Good of VSI
Join on us The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla as we meet Dr. Christopher Good, Spine Surgeon, President, & CEO of VSI (Virginia Spine Institute) with their office in Reston, Virginia! He shares his 16-Year Journey at Virginia Spine Institute. Dr. Good mentions how to stop back pain and make healthier choices NOW! He talks about how his dad's accident inspired him to be a spine surgeon and then from surgeon to CEO. We talk about regenerative medicine's game-changing potential and how it can unlock the future. Dr. Good shares the secret to ending chronic headaches with the elimination diet and explains how nicotine harms your back health. He mentions how PRP treatment healed his knee injury forever and we explore the future of stem sells and ethics! Dr. Good talks about why the healthcare system is changing fast and why diverse healthcare solutions are essential today.Dr. Good shares how to transform your health by ditching pro-inflammatory foods! Why hydration is key for joint health. He gives us some essential tips to prevent injuries and stay active. It all starts with unlocking your day and how morning workouts transform your mood!
This episode is sponsored by:SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
1 hr 3 min - 225 - Crafting Memories Through Scents with Jon-Michael Moses of Meet Haus
Join us on The DMV Business Show with Otto Sevilla as he sits down with Jon-Michael Moses, Founder of Meet Haus, to explore his dynamic career journey and the inspiration behind his Baltimore-based home fragrance company. He shares how his love for memories and scents motivated him to create candles that capture the essence of neighborhoods and experiences, making each product meaningful and unique. The conversation covers his early experiences growing up between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, his time as a Navy veteran stationed in Japan, and his varied professional background as a chef, photographer, and marketing director. He discusses the launch of Meet Haus, the challenges and joys of developing fragrances inspired by local communities, and the hands-on process that goes into creating each candle. The discussion also dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of finding your ideal customer, and the lessons learned from failures and successes. Jon-Michael emphasizes creativity, authenticity, and building genuine connections, both in life and in business, offering insightful advice for anyone considering launching their own venture.
This episode is brought to you by: SEVI - The first commercial real estate company committed to the four C’s: Commercial Real Estate, Community, Content, and Culture
https://seviproperties.com/
LET'S CONNECT!
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ottosevilla
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theottosevilla
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheOttoSevilla
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OttoSevilla
Email Me! [email protected]
Text Me! 240-706-7584
55 min
About The DMV (Washington, DC | Maryland | Virginia) Business Show
From the publisher's feed
The DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) Business Show takes you inside the world of local business and community leaders in the DMV area. Join our host, Otto Sevilla as he unpacks their story and how they…
got there. You can expect to hear advice and learn about their journey.