Épisodes

  • How ADHD Became a Superpower for This Entrepreneur
    Sep 25 2025
    JJ Garofalo joins to discuss Attorney Live, emphasizing the benefits of its legal marketplace. He shares insights on entertainment, time management, and the transition from college to entrepreneurship. The conversation also explores managing ADHD in business and harnessing it as an entrepreneurial advantage. Additionally, JJ covers legal resources, the expansion of Attorney Live—including university partnerships and future plans—and touches on topics such as healthy fast food ventures, leadership, employee prioritization in the U.S., and regional food identity. (1:54) Health Tracking and Sleep Technology (6:42) Startups and Entrepreneurial Experiences (14:55) Launch and Features of Attorney Live (22:18) Attorney Marketplace and Benefits (24:00) Entertainment and Time Investment (27:00) College to Business: Life Transitions (30:28) "Hidden Power" and Managing ADHD in Business (36:14) Leveraging ADHD in Entrepreneurship (38:04) Legal Resources and Expanding Attorney Live (44:20) Attorney Live: University Partnerships and Future Plans (48:16) Exploring Healthy Fast Food Ventures (51:11) Leadership and Employee Prioritization in America (54:54) Discussing Regional Food Identity - Executives need to reset and prioritize their employees, as their well-being directly translates into business success. - Attorney Live connects consumers with specialized attorneys through a streamlined, telehealth-inspired mobile app, offering consultations and 24/7 AI-powered legal assistance. - JJ Garofalo's upcoming book, "Hidden Power," aims to transform perceptions of ADHD, ADD, and dyslexia, demonstrating how these conditions can be leveraged as superpowers for personal and professional success. https://attorneylive.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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h
  • Exploring Defense Tech and AI with Kali Luthra
    Sep 18 2025
    Kali Luthra shares her journey through the 757 Defend accelerator program and her relocation to Hampton Roads, delving into defense technology in partnership with Mid Atlantic Tech Bridge. The discussion covers the mechanics of the accelerator program, demystifying defense-related acronyms, and the military's economic influence in the region. Cultural and regional attractions are highlighted alongside evolving medicine and AI's potential impact. The conversation touches on ChatGPT research, privacy concerns, AI in defense, and evaluating AI companies. The episode explores the accelerator's non-equity model, founder diversity, and defense acquisition learning, concluding with anticipation for demo week and local culinary curiosities. (0:00) Insights from the accelerator program (2:38) Introducing Kali Luthra and her experiences (5:03) Startup World Cup and Mid Atlantic Tech Bridge partnership (10:34) Relocating to Hampton Roads and defense technology (17:36) Accelerator program mechanics (21:37) Defense-related acronyms and business demystification (27:05) Military's economic influence in Hampton Roads (29:22) Regional attractions and cultural discussions (33:07) Evolving medicine and AI's potential impact (36:00) ChatGPT research and privacy concerns (40:16) AI and robotics in the defense sector (44:09) Assessing AI companies and proprietary algorithms (47:38) Current cohort and tech showcase preparation (50:12) Advantages of the accelerator's non-equity model (51:42) Founder diversity and learning defense acquisition (54:00) Anticipation for demo week and local cuisine exploration (57:37) Culinary curiosities and eating habits - Focusing on transition, the 757 Defend Accelerator connects startups with government experts to solve critical defense needs, offering a unique edge over traditional accelerators. - The accelerator program emphasizes non-dilutive funding opportunities like SBIR and STTR grants, which play a crucial role in helping small businesses advance their innovative technologies. - With a mix of AI and hardware companies, the program aims to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technologies and real-world defense applications, ultimately enhancing the capabilities of the warfighter. https://757collab.org/defend/ 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h
  • Navigating Startups and AI: Insights from Mari Soonsoo Bae on Innovation and Growth
    Sep 11 2025
    Mari Soonsoo Bae shares insights from the Startup World Cup, navigating rehearsals, and social dynamics at events. She introduces Ara, her AI workspace, and discusses leaving Google and Meta to prioritize family and entrepreneurship in Seattle's tech scene. The conversation covers hustling for opportunities, college reflections, startup rejections, and evolving in business. Mari highlights AI's impact on jobs, her personal mission, and the importance of a growth mindset. She also explores opportunities for immigrants and female founders, concluding with a focus on Virginia's ecosystem and local culture appreciation. (1:14) Introducing today's guest, Mari Soonsoo Bae (1:51) Mari's experience at the CERT World Cup and the chaotic rehearsal (4:51) Social dynamics and making friends at events (7:00) Introducing Ara, Mari's AI workspace (9:28) Leaving Google and Meta for family and entrepreneurship (18:17) The tech scene in Seattle (25:30) Hustling for opportunities and reflections on college education (27:27) Dealing with rejection and perseverance in the startup world (29:30) Moving to Detroit and the importance of evolving in business (31:12) Target market challenges and technical workflow solutions (36:54) AI's impact on job roles and productivity (39:05) Personal mission and broadening perspectives (44:51) Support dynamics and maintaining a growth mindset (47:04) Opportunities and challenges for immigrants and female founders (52:25) Long-term vision for Virginia and integrating into local ecosystems (57:00) The importance of the founder's role in startups (59:37) Appreciating local culture and closing remarks - Leaving a high-paying tech job to prioritize personal fulfillment and family can lead to discovering new entrepreneurial opportunities. - Building resilience through rejection and persistence is essential for success in the startup world. - Embracing one's authentic self and leveraging personal experiences can drive innovation and growth in business. https://araforteams.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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 4 min
  • Revolutionizing Real Estate: VroomBrick's Journey and Leadership Insights
    Sep 4 2025
    Leland Remias joins to discuss his journey with VroomBrick, a company aiming to disrupt the real estate industry. The conversation begins with the origins of VroomBrick and explores the American dream of homeownership, focusing on the impact of 30-year mortgages and frequent moves among military buyers. Leland shares insights from his Startup World Cup experience and VroomBrick's current state, detailing its process, benefits, and financial aspects. The discussion covers scaling, networking, and leadership lessons from the military, alongside maintaining a positive team dynamic. The episode concludes with a book recommendation, reflections on disruptive companies, and regional food highlights. (0:00) Introduction and greetings (0:45) Hosts discuss upcoming 757 Tech Night event (3:00) How Zack and Tim met Leland Remias and the origin of VroomBrick (7:19) American dream of homeownership and 30-year mortgages (9:21) Military buyers, frequent moves, and VroomBrick's impact (11:32) Leland's Startup World Cup experience and VroomBrick's current state (18:37) VroomBrick's process, benefits, and the financial side of mortgages (25:20) Paying down mortgages and client feedback (30:06) Disrupting the real estate industry and team management (35:29) Business scaling, networking, and leveraging opportunities (47:28) Daily video commitment and leadership lessons from the military (53:09) Maintaining even temperament and a positive team dynamic (58:17) Book recommendation and the evolution of disruptive companies (1:00:09) Food of the region and closing remarks https://vroombrick.com/ - Creating a positive and fun work environment can significantly enhance team productivity and morale. - Removing middlemen in real estate transactions can save consumers thousands of dollars and streamline the home buying and selling process. - Consistent networking and taking advantage of local resources can be crucial for startup growth and gaining community support.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 5 min
  • When Rock Bottom Becomes the Launchpad
    Aug 28 2025
    Neal Piper shares his journey from winning the Startup World Cup to diving into entrepreneurship, inspired by his son Noah's health journey. He discusses the support from Virginia's entrepreneurial ecosystem, his professional background, and the importance of modern medical technology. Neal highlights product development, market reception, team dynamics, and investor support, revealing the challenges faced. He reflects on surprises in his journey and the impact of Virginia's startup scene, including Series A capital challenges. The episode wraps up with encouragement for entrepreneurs, upcoming events, and final thoughts. (0:00) Neal Piper's personal story, Startup World Cup event recap, and audience reactions (5:17) Neal's journey to winning the Startup World Cup (11:02) Support for startups and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Virginia (17:42) Neal's transition to entrepreneurship and Noah's health journey (23:23) Neal's professional background and skill development (29:18) From idea to action and the need for modern medical technology (35:37) Neal's product development and market reception (41:03) Team dynamics and investor support in Neal's journey (43:38) Family involvement and challenges in Neal's business (48:18) Surprises and reflections on the entrepreneurial journey (51:09) Virginia's startup ecosystem and Series A capital challenges (57:47) Impact of Startup World Cup Virginia and Charlottesville highlights (1:01:02) Encouragement for entrepreneurs and upcoming events (1:03:10) Final thoughts - "Sunny days ahead" served as Neal Piper's mantra during the challenging times when his son Noah was battling a rare brain tumor. - The journey of Luminoa began with Neal's frustration over the outdated technology for enteral nutrition pumps, leading him to develop a modern, pocket-sized pump that enables mobility and provides real-time nutritional data. - Virginia's startup ecosystem is supportive in the early stages, but there is a need for more substantial series A funding opportunities to keep growing businesses within the state. Learn more about Luminoah: https://luminoah.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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 4 min
  • From HGTV to Multimillion-Dollar Success: Business Growth and Leadership Lessons
    Aug 21 2025
    Chasity Pritchett discusses her journey from HGTV show participation to founding Emblem Olive Oil, exploring market challenges and growth with BlackBrand. She emphasizes the importance of action, relationships, and navigating government contracts, ecommerce, and distribution. Chasity addresses logistics of contracts, debunks olive oil myths, and shares her experience starting a health foundation during COVID. She highlights flexibility in business and multimillion-dollar growth, discussing team structure, success measurement, and capital strategies. Personal anecdotes on balancing introversion with leadership and local food culture complete the episode. (0:00) Introduction, event announcement, and guest introduction (6:29) HGTV show experience and choosing a new home (14:42) The start of Emblem Olive Oil and market challenges (20:43) Business growth with BlackBrand and importance of action and relationships (25:11) Government contracts, ecommerce, and distribution challenges (30:43) Government contract logistics and understanding award management (33:32) Olive oil types and debunking myths (39:29) Starting a health foundation during COVID and future plans (45:47) Flexibility in business and multimillion dollar growth (48:50) Team structure, success measurement, and capital strategies (52:13) Building customer trust and overcoming business challenges (53:50) Balancing introversion with business leadership (56:04) Local food culture and collaborations (57:58) Show wrap-up and final thoughts https://www.emblemoil.com/ - Emblem Olive Oil gained significant exposure and growth through strategic participation in events like the Start World Cup and securing a USDA contract for supplying olive oil to Native American communities. - Chasity Pritchett emphasizes the importance of taking actionable steps from learned insights, such as registering on sam.gov and actively pursuing government contracts to scale her business. - The health benefits of extra virgin olive oil, including its high smoke point and potential to reduce heart disease risk, are foundational to both Emblem Olive Oil's product offerings and Chasity's nonprofit initiative, Let's Fight Back. Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 1 min
  • From Defense to Digital Health Using AI to Save Veteran Lives
    Aug 14 2025
    Mike McMahan shares insights from his journey in starting new ventures, highlighting the importance of local resources and incubators for business growth. He delves into the challenges of veteran suicide and mental health, discussing technology's role in supporting veterans. Mike reflects on his military experiences and personal story with Gulf War syndrome, emphasizing suicide prevention and proactive mental health support. The conversation explores AI and edge devices in mental health initiatives, including revenue models and clinical integration. Personal anecdotes about scuba diving, spearfishing, and lazy river adventures add a unique touch, while the episode concludes with Mike's upcoming pitch event and local favorites. (0:00) Introduction and live events, including World Cup promotion (2:56) Guest introduction: Mike McMahan's background and meeting at Launchpad (6:20) SDV Solutions and private equity insights (10:28) Starting a new venture and comparing ecosystems (13:39) Local resources and cost of living in business (18:08) The role of incubators in business growth (20:14) Mike McMahan on learning from mistakes and AI interests (23:24) Addressing veteran suicide and mental health challenges (27:10) Technology's role in aiding veteran mental health (31:40) Personal military experiences and background (35:45) Resistance and broader applications of mental health tech (40:12) AI, edge devices, and mental health initiative goals (49:39) Revenue model and clinical integration of the mental health app (52:28) Mike's personal story with Gulf War syndrome (54:05) Suicide prevention and proactive mental health support (56:38) Mike's upcoming pitch event and local favorites (58:16) Scuba diving adventures and underwater experiences (1:03:04) Spearfishing, lionfish hunting, and lazy river enjoyment (1:03:59) Closing remarks and thanks - Identify and leverage available resources and ecosystems to accelerate business growth and avoid the pitfalls of isolation. - Utilize AI and edge technology to create proactive mental health solutions that operate passively and protect user privacy. - Focus on solving significant, impactful problems that resonate personally, such as veteran suicide, to drive meaningful change and innovation. https://www.ngz.ai/ Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 4 min
  • Buc-ee's Taught This Guy What About Business?
    Aug 7 2025
    Joseph Trahan shares his journey through the Startup World Cup and his experiences growing up in Texas before moving to Virginia. The episode delves into his personal challenges, including breaking his foot and its impact on his business journey, with a focus on the support he received from his family. Joseph discusses his involvement in the Hampton Roads real estate sector, highlighting first-time homebuyer programs and support for first responders and teachers. The conversation covers the evolution of the Discover Virginia podcast, audience demographics, and recording techniques. Light-hearted moments include tech nostalgia, local cuisine, and beach recommendations. The episode concludes with details on the upcoming Startup World Cup event. (0:00) Introduction and discussion on stress and celebrating wins (3:33) Startup World Cup and guest introduction (5:01) Innovate Hampton Roads and Slover Library's podcasting facilities (9:01) Tech nostalgia (10:52) Startup World Cup experience and growing up in Texas (16:23) Chick-fil-A experiences and moving to Virginia love story (23:33) Starting a business and overcoming personal challenges (27:33) Breaking his foot and its impact on business journey (30:38) Support from family and focus areas in Hampton Roads real estate (34:06) First-time homebuyer programs and support for first responders and teachers (41:24) Discover Virginia podcast evolution and guest stories (47:02) Podcast recording techniques and metrics (51:04) Audience demographics and distribution platforms (53:30) Autocorrect mishaps and spelling humor (57:22) Local cuisine and beach recommendations (1:06:11) Closing remarks and Startup World Cup preview - Celebrate every win, as even small victories can build momentum and keep you motivated through the peaks and valleys of running a business. - The Startup World Cup event is not just a traditional business pitch competition but an engaging, high-energy experience that blends entrepreneurial spirit with entertainment. - Maintaining a focus on customer experience and offering competitive wages are key strategies that have helped companies like Buc-ee's and Chick-fil-A build loyal followings and successful business models. Discover Virginia Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIoIqs24qLk7dwFPGiyMpXqLHNSsEyQvP Startup World Cup: https://www.innovate757.org/startupworldcupva/ 757 TechNite: https://www.innovate757.org/757technite/ 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 9 min