エピソード

  • How a 22-Year-Old Became America's Youngest AMCO Owner

    How a 22-Year-Old Became America's Youngest AMCO Owner
    2025/11/20
    At 22 years old, Eric Svedberg became the youngest franchise owner of AMCO in America — buying his first automotive shop before most people finish college. In this episode of the Fervent Four Show, Eric breaks down how he went from turning wrenches in high school to owning multiple shops, scaling a service-based business, and coaching entrepreneurs across the country. We dig into the real truth behind what it takes to grow a profitable auto repair business, why so many trades struggle to scale, how AI is reshaping the service industry, and what every entrepreneur needs to understand about marketing, systems, and leadership. Whether you run a shop, own a service business, or just want to hear a raw entrepreneurial journey, this conversation delivers practical, actionable insights you can use today. In this episode you'll learn: • How Eric bought a national franchise at 22 • Why the trades are experiencing a massive talent shortage • What EVs and new tech mean for the future of auto repair • How auto shops can use AI to increase efficiency and profit • The biggest mistakes service-based business owners make • How to build systems, train better, and scale with less chaos • Why marketing consistency beats marketing "genius" • How to grow revenue by understanding your customer avatar • What career paths really look like inside the automotive world If you're interested in entrepreneurship, franchising, automotive business, or growing a service company, this is a must-watch episode. (0:00) AI in Business and ChatGPT (0:16) discussion about dream cars (1:52) Introduction of guest Eric Svedberg and his favorite cars (2:38) Challenges and evolution in DIY car repairs and tools (5:35) Digital textbooks, educational costs, and digital learning licensing (9:33) Increased complexity in modern cars and the automotive technician workforce crisis (11:26) Reasons for technician shortage and interest in cars among youth (13:20) Elevating the image of automotive repair and personal car enthusiast stories (15:22) Trends in car modifications and transition to European cars (17:17) Mentoring business owners, customer value, and early career experiences (21:07) Soft skills, communication in the automotive industry, and hiring service advisers (28:44) Embracing change and opportunities in the electric vehicle market (35:39) AI's role in the automotive industry and benefits for business efficiency (42:47) Coaching business owners on embracing technology and improving marketing strategies (49:04) Transitioning to coaching and creating personal accountability (51:33) Backward planning for business growth and creating career paths (56:08) Value of a coachable client and importance of client motivation (58:05) Local food scene in Virginia Beach Learn more about Fuel Coaching: https://www.gofuelcoaching.com/ - AI can significantly enhance efficiency in the automotive industry by quickly generating systems, providing technical assistance, and improving training methods. - Embracing change and continuous learning is crucial in the automotive world, where advancements in technology and vehicle systems constantly evolve. - A well-structured marketing plan, focusing on multiple touchpoints and understanding the target market, is essential for the sustained growth of service-based businesses. 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
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    1 時間
  • Breaking Barriers in Tech

    Breaking Barriers in Tech
    2025/11/13
    Guillermo Fisher joins the conversation to share his journey from Brooklyn to Virginia and his experiences at MIT. He reflects on the early days of the internet, educational insights, and the challenges of keeping up with tech and AI security concerns. Guillermo discusses his passion for community through Color Coded and the importance of diversity in tech, highlighting regional talent and building a supportive tech community. The episode explores Assembly's Changemaker program, Guillermo's role as a fractional CTO, and the meaning behind Kuzaa. The discussion also covers the origin of the podcast name, success metrics in tech, and concludes with future plans, TechNite reflections, and local food recommendations. (0:00) Tech talent and studio updates (1:19) Introducing Guillermo Fisher (3:00) Guillermo's tech background and journey (5:04) Moving from Brooklyn to Virginia and MIT experience (9:21) Early days of the internet and educational insights (12:38) Keeping up with tech and AI security concerns (16:01) Guillermo's passion for community with Color Coded (19:19) Diversity in tech and regional talent (22:42) Building a supportive tech community and regional identity (29:16) Assembly's Changemaker program and tech diversity (33:41) Guillermo's fractional CTO role and Kooza's meaning (37:45) Podcast name origin and success metrics in tech (43:23) Future plans and Tech Night reflections (47:59) Local food and favorite eateries (50:11) Closing remarks and thanks https://wearekuzaa.com/ - Curiosity and collaboration are essential for leveraging the unique tech talent in the region, fostering an environment where people support and invest in each other's ideas. - Creating inclusive communities and spaces, such as through initiatives like Color Coded, helps underrepresented groups find opportunities and see themselves in leadership roles within the tech industry. - Staying on top of technological advancements requires continuous learning, such as studying for certification exams and following major tech companies, to ensure that one's skills and knowledge remain relevant in a rapidly evolving field. Since 2020, The Fervent Four Show has been the weekly conversation connecting the entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders shaping the future of Hampton Roads, Virginia. Each Thursday at 11 a.m. EST, hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with founders, CEOs, investors, and ecosystem leaders to explore the real stories behind regional growth — from bold startups and 757 trailblazers to nationally recognized brands born right here. Whether you're launching your first venture or scaling your next big idea, these candid, conversational episodes deliver insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and business growth that will keep you fired up long after the mics go off. 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
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    51 分
  • How a Quarter-Life Crisis Sparked a National Brand

    How a Quarter-Life Crisis Sparked a National Brand
    2025/11/06
    Megan Riggs joins the discussion to share her journey and the evolution of her business, Crunchy, while offering holiday stress solutions. The conversation covers holistic health approaches, self-assessment strategies, and the importance of celebrating small wins through customer stories. Megan delves into market research and product development, highlighted by the Crunchy Chug Off event and the Thrive Market launch. The episode explores retail expansion timing, scaling challenges, and the impact of retail visibility on direct sales. Branding, social media presence, and Heather's role at Crunchy are discussed alongside top-selling products and community support. The episode concludes with a tease of an upcoming product launch and local recommendations. (0:00) Intro and greetings with Zack Miller and Tim Ryan (1:01) Introduction of guest Megan Riggs and holiday stress solutions (3:19) Megan Riggs' journey and the evolution of Crunchy (10:25) Holistic health approaches and self-assessment strategies (18:15) Customer stories and celebrating small wins (24:24) Market research, product development, and the Crunchy Chug Off event (28:40) Thrive Market launch and networking tips (33:01) Retail expansion timing and readiness (35:34) Scaling and distribution challenges (39:52) Impact of retail visibility on direct sales (44:02) Branding and social media presence (47:23) Heather's background and role at Crunchy (51:00) Top-selling products and the importance of market research (53:19) Community support, mentorship, and mentoring young entrepreneurs (57:34) Tease of upcoming product launch and development challenges (59:44) Local recommendations and future plans - Stress relief and holistic health can be effectively achieved through natural solutions like cold-pressed juices and adaptogens, as demonstrated by Megan Riggs' journey and product development. - The success of a consumer product, especially in the competitive beverage industry, hinges not only on its quality but also on strategic marketing, market research, and fostering strong retail relationships. - Achieving business milestones, such as national distribution or significant retail partnerships, often requires persistence, adaptability, and leveraging community support and mentorship. https://www.drinkcrunchy.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
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    1 時間 2 分
  • Off the Beaten Path: Building Where2Wheel

    Off the Beaten Path: Building Where2Wheel
    2025/10/30
    Brittany and Dave Peregoff introduce Where2Wheel, sharing its inception and growth journey. They discuss transitioning the business model and partnering with landowners to develop off-road parks. The conversation touches on Zack's off-roading experiences and trail difficulty, as well as strategic pivots and market expansion in the off-roading industry. They explore demographic shifts, networking's role in business growth, and overcoming fundraising challenges. Insights into Founder University, entrepreneurial traits, and co-founder dynamics are shared, along with maintaining momentum through events. The episode also covers off-roading's social media impact, content trends, experiential marketing, and safety measures. (0:00) Introduction to Where2Wheel with Brittany and Dave Peregoff (2:10) The inception and growth of Where2Wheel (5:08) Transitioning Where2Wheel's business model (6:34) Partnering with landowners for off-road parks (9:02) Zack's off-roading experience and trail difficulty discussion (12:30) Business pivots and strategy evolution in off-roading (17:07) Expanding Where2Wheel's business and market reach (18:14) Demographic shifts and market growth in off-roading (22:43) The power of networking in expanding business opportunities (24:16) Networking success stories and overcoming fundraising rejection (29:13) The significance of Founder University and follow-up (34:49) Entrepreneurial traits and co-founder dynamics (36:21) Maintaining business momentum through events (39:59) Off-roading as a hobby and its social media impact (42:04) Trends in off-roading content: ASMR and raw sound videos (44:10) Experiential marketing and vehicle management in off-roading (48:12) Safety measures and post-event activities - Effective follow-up and genuine networking can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth in a startup. - Adapting and pivoting based on market needs and data is crucial for long-term success. - The off-roading market is significantly larger and more diverse than initially perceived, with a growing number of women and beginners participating. https://w2wparks.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
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    53 分
  • From Forensics to Founding: Rachelle Turiello's Med Tech Mission

    From Forensics to Founding: Rachelle Turiello's Med Tech Mission
    2025/10/23
    Rachelle Turiello shares her journey from forensics to founding Avant Genomics, exploring challenges in DNA sample preparation and her experiences with TechNite and pitch competitions. She discusses synesthesia in entrepreneurship, Charlottesville's startup scene, and med tech innovation in Virginia. The conversation covers Avant Genomics' 20-year vision, wearable health tech. Rachelle also touches on Theranos comparisons, microfluidics, and early cancer detection, concluding with insights into Charlottesville's culinary scene and sourdough culture. (0:00) Rachelle Turiello's curiosity and career path (1:02) Post-TechNite and pitch competition reflections (2:26) Synesthesia in entrepreneurship (4:53) Charlottesville's entrepreneurial community and World Cup reactions (8:21) Judging startup competitions and Avant Genomics founding (12:08) DNA sample preparation challenges and Rachelle's background (16:01) Forensics, Dexter, and genetic research (21:51) Avant Genomics' 20-year vision (26:32) Wearable technology's health impact (29:10) Med tech innovation in Virginia (33:13) Health tech's intersection with sports and fitness claims (36:46) Oura Ring decision and deep tech startup fundraising (42:40) Forensics to startup founder journey and Theranos comparisons (49:37) Microfluidics challenges and early cancer detection (54:07) Colonoscopy importance and med tech career advice (58:48) Charlottesville's culinary scene and sourdough culture - Follow your curiosity and stubbornness to create innovative solutions that address real-world problems. - Early detection of cancer through advanced liquid biopsy techniques can significantly improve patient outcomes and accessibility to life-saving diagnostics. - Building a successful startup requires community engagement, understanding market needs, and finding the right investors who align with your long-term vision. https://www.avant-genomics.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
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    1 時間 2 分
  • Beyond the Bark: Building Yellow Dog Through Grit and Curiosity

    Beyond the Bark: Building Yellow Dog Through Grit and Curiosity
    2025/10/16
    Jay Livingood joins the Fervent Four Show for a wide-ranging conversation that opens with the rebirth of 757 TechNite—where he was named Entrepreneur of the Year. The discussion dives into the importance of grit and curiosity in technology, navigating event overbooking, and the value of regional events and team networking. Jay also explores the role of CEO groups, community learning, and capital raising, while offering an inside look at Yellow Dog's integrated services and business model. From managing client data and stadium concessions to embracing core values, supporting veterans, and retaining top talent, the conversation highlights the power of innovation, collaboration, and community. (0:00) Grit and curiosity in tech; Rebirth of 757 TechNite (1:02) Overbooking concerns; Event highlights and engagement (4:10) Regional events, awards, and team networking benefits (9:22) CEO groups, community learning, and raising capital (15:02) Yellow Dog business overview and service integration (20:29) Client data insights and Yellow Dog's mascot (24:29) Stadium concessions and event inventory management (28:42) Yellow Dog's client diversity and professional relationships (33:39) Core values and supporting veterans in business (38:07) Employee retention, hiring, and development strategies (47:12) Innovations in stadium concessions and POS systems (50:01) Golf influence and "The Driving Range" book success (55:03) Perks, site visits, TechNite, and new projects (57:10) Managing dual-team stadiums and community collaboration (58:46) Local food, beverages, and reflections on achievements - Curiosity and grit are essential traits for success in the tech industry, as they drive innovation and problem-solving. - Building a supportive community and sharing insights with peers can significantly accelerate growth and learning in any business. - Effective inventory management is crucial for operational efficiency, especially in dynamic environments like stadiums and resorts where demand fluctuates rapidly. https://www.yellowdogsoftware.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
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    1 時間 1 分
  • Gamifying Your Life Through Health Literacy

    Gamifying Your Life Through Health Literacy
    2025/10/09
    Tom Chamberlain reflects the excitement for 757 TechNite, highlighting the significance of showcasing local companies and EdLogics nomination. The episode delves into building healthy communities and innovation in Hampton Roads, focusing on Tom's background and health literacy's role in reducing the life expectancy gap. Challenges in health literacy, educational gaps, starting EdLogics, and team building are discussed. Engaging users through gamification, raising capital, and the role of 757 Angels are explored, along with expanding health literacy topics and partnerships. The episode concludes with the impact of COVID-19, favorite dining spots, and community engagement. (0:00) Introduction and casual chat (1:08) Reflections on past awards and excitement for 757 TechNite (3:28) Mention of Robert Herjavec and World Cup finale anticipation (4:51) Importance of highlighting local companies and EdLogics nomination (6:24) Building healthy communities and innovation in Hampton Roads (7:58) Tom Chamberlain's background and health literacy impact (11:33) Narrowing the life expectancy gap (13:32) Challenges and educational gap in health literacy (15:29) Starting EdLogics and team building importance (19:28) Engaging and educating users through gamification (23:45) Team building and raising capital in startups (27:21) Selling your vision and role of 757 Angels (28:50) Overcoming technical challenges and managing a virtual team (32:21) Expanding health literacy topics and economic impact (35:43) Selling health literacy and partnerships with local organizations (39:14) Promoting health literacy through various channels and prescriptions (44:18) Improving access to health resources and decision makers (47:09) Persistence in health literacy mission and encouraging physical activity (49:11) Addressing high deductibles and educating consumers (51:29) Importance of sleep health and health literacy certification (58:28) Impact of COVID-19 on business and community health (1:02:13) Favorite local dining spots and building a company (1:05:09) Anticipation for upcoming event and community engagement - Gamification and incentives are crucial in engaging users and improving health literacy by making learning fun and rewarding. - Building a strong, multidisciplinary team is essential for developing and scaling a complex platform like EdLogics effectively. - Educating individuals on health literacy can significantly reduce healthcare costs and improve health outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. https://www.edlogics.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
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    1 時間 8 分
  • AI for High-Stakes Decisions

    AI for High-Stakes Decisions
    2025/10/02
    Jeana Bolanos joins to discuss her company rebranding and experiences at the Startup World Cup, emphasizing the creation of opportunities. The conversation delves into building a technical team for SalesE, its vision, and system integration for customer onboarding. AI applications and logic-based rules are explored, focusing on target markets for AI systems and ERP integration challenges. The future of AI in enterprise, its impact on supply and demand, and technology adoption trends are highlighted. The episode also covers SalesE's revenue model, support for startups, regional business, and machine learning in restaurant operations, concluding with local food spots and industry challenges. (0:00) Episode introduction and Super Bowl highlights (2:25) Guest introduction: Jeana Bolanos and company rebranding (6:52) Belief in aliens and simulation theory (10:59) StartUp World Cup experience and creating opportunities (18:25) Building a technical team and SalesE's vision (23:19) SalesE's system integration and customer onboarding (27:55) AI applications and logic-based rules (30:19) Target market for AI-based systems (33:18) ERP integration challenges and updates (35:30) Future and adoption of AI in enterprise (39:51) AI's impact on supply and demand (43:54) AI technology adoption trends and maturity (47:30) SalesE's revenue model and growth potential (50:12) Support for startups and regional businesses (53:45) Local favorite food spots and restaurant industry challenges (56:06) Machine learning potential in restaurant operations (57:07) Closing remarks and upcoming events - Embracing AI with a combination of logic-based rules and targeted artificial intelligence can significantly enhance operational efficiency and revenue capture for businesses, particularly in wholesale distribution. - The current challenge for enterprises in adopting AI lies in the integration and readiness of their existing data and systems, which often require substantial groundwork to fully leverage AI's capabilities. - Despite the rapid advancements in AI technology, many companies are still in the experimental phase, and the industry is expected to mature as more successful implementations and skilled professionals emerge over time. https://salese.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
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    58 分