Discover Virginia Podcast

Joseph Trahan

Welcome to Discover Virginia, the ultimate podcast for anyone looking to uncover the hidden gems, rich history, and vibrant culture of the state of Virginia. Hosted by Joseph Trahan, each episode takes you on a journey through the diverse regions of Virginia. We explore the best places to eat, the most exciting events, and the unique stories that make Virginia a must-visit destination. In every episode, we sit down with local experts, business owners, and community leaders who share their insider knowledge and personal experiences, giving you a true sense of what life is like in Virginia. Whether you're a local, a newcomer, or planning your next vacation, Discover Virginia is your go-to guide for everything this incredible state has to offer. Join us as we dive deep into the heart of Virginia, exploring its past, celebrating its present, and looking ahead to its bright future. Don’t miss out on discovering your Virginia vibe!

  1. 1d ago

    How New Realm Brewing Builds Buzz, Community & the Perfect Guest Experience | Cassidy Marshall

    What does it take to market more than a beer—and turn a brewery into a place people want to return to again and again? In this episode of the Discover Virginia Podcast, Joseph sits down with Cassidy Marshall, marketing manager for New Realm Brewing, to explore how the brand creates excitement around its beer, food, live music, events, partnerships, and growing presence in Hampton Roads. Cassidy shares what brought her to Virginia and how she built her career with New Realm. She also takes us behind the scenes of a brewery brand founded by Bob Powers, Mitch Steele, and Carey Falcone—with no known connection to Gotham City’s Carmine Falcone. The conversation covers New Realm’s approach to creating a signature guest experience, from the beer and dining menu to the atmosphere surrounding each visit. Cassidy explains how her team selects live music, develops events, and keeps the experience consistent while still giving each location its own personality. We also discuss the business value of collaborations with organizations such as Old Dominion University and the Virginia International Tattoo. Cassidy breaks down how the right partnerships can strengthen community relationships, attract new customers, and support both marketing and sales. Finally, we take a closer look at the launch of New Realm’s Party Animal Pack and a few of their new brews that will raise more than your spirits!

  2. Aug 4

    How to succeed in one of the most hated industry... ft Dan Rochon and his new book Teach to Sell

    What is the number-one mistake salespeople make that keeps them from closing more deals? According to Dan Rochon, it is believing that selling means convincing, chasing, or pressuring someone into saying yes. Dan is a DMV real estate broker with more than 20 years in business and the author of Teach to Sell, and was recently featured on the TEDX Stage in Italy on how the sales world is changing in favor of more consumer support and transparency. In this episode of the Discover Virginia Podcast, he explains why people do not buy when they feel pushed—they buy when they feel understood. As salespeople and business owners, many of us know the pressure of wondering where the next client will come from. That pressure can lead to bad habits: talking too much, relying on scripts, chasing every lead, and trying to force a decision before understanding the real problem. Dan offers a different approach. Instead of selling, learn how to: Build genuine rapport Ask better questions Listen for pain, desire, and hesitation Help people gain clarity Use systems without losing the human connection Lead prospects toward the best decision for them Create more consistent income without pressure selling We also discuss why so many salespeople remain undertrained, what top performers do differently, and why the greatest obstacle may not be the market, the lead, or the script—but the belief that you are not worthy of success. Dan also shares his perspective on AI’s growing role in sales. Buyers may now have access to more information than the salesperson, but information alone cannot diagnose the real problem, earn trust, or replace a meaningful face-to-face conversation. This episode is for salespeople, real estate agents, founders, coaches, consultants, leaders, and entrepreneurs who want to stop guessing and start understanding the system behind consistent sales. Get Dan Rochon’s book, Teach to Sell, and learn how to create “No Broke Months” by leading with trust instead of pressure. https://teachtosellbook.com/

  3. Jul 28

    How Do We Talk to Our Children About Death: Faith, Family, and Healing ft Author Jenny Powers

    Disclaimer: This episode includes conversations about death, grief, and the loss of a child. Listener and viewer discretion is advised. In this deeply personal episode of the Discover Virginia Podcast, Joseph is joined by his in-laws, Jenny and Mac Powers, along with his daughter, Blake, for an honest conversation about helping children understand death and navigate grief within a family. Jenny shares the story behind the devotional and family guide she wrote to give parents and caregivers age-appropriate language, thoughtful reflection, and faith-based support during one of life’s most difficult experiences. Together, the family discusses how children process loss, why adults should not avoid hard conversations, and how Christian faith can provide comfort, hope, and a sense of connection during seasons of grief. This episode is about more than a book. It is about family, faith, remembrance, and creating space for children to ask questions, express their emotions, and grieve without feeling alone. To support Jenny and her work visit: https://authormurpheypowers.com

  4. Jul 21

    The Best Business Woman In Real Estate Closings - EVER. The Ace Marie Story

    Guys and Galls we are BACK! Ace Marie with Rocket Title and ONE & MAIN's newest Preferred Partner joins us on the show. We talk Real Estate Closings, Crushing Cancer, and THE BEST ACCENT to have. Ace is an INCREDIBLE person so show some love and support in the comments below and while you're at it share, subscribe, like, do your part cause I want to get more great guests like Ace. PSSST we can now text, if you have show feedback text us or leave us a message at: 757-509-1518

  5. Jul 14

    Discover Virginia LIKE NEVER BEFORE ft. The A.I. Brothers

    You probably know the story of Lewis and Clark; The Tales of The Wright Brothers, The Dynamic Trio that is Alvin and the Chipmunks, but have you heard of the A.I. Brothers? Meet Luke and Charlie, the DYNAMIC DUO behind LogentIQ Solutions the business suite powered by A.I. designed for business owners looking to grow and scale their business. We talk how A.I. can actually help you systemize your business, A.I. regulation, and some other A.I. and computing terms Charlie and Luke told me to put in the episode description but I forgot how to explain it. All this happens while we sip on REFRESHING Crunchy beverages (not sponsored) just REALLY good. PSSST we can now text, if you have show feedback text us or leave us a message at: 757-509-1518 PSS: Okay for real last thing if you are still reading we have a special little something for you at the VERY END of the video so be sure to listen or watch all the way through.

  6. 12/24/2025

    Build It to Last: Eric Svedberg on Mastering Operations in Any Service Business

    In this episode of Discover Virginia, we sit down with Eric Svedberg, the force behind European Autowerks and a sought-after business coach helping service providers build companies that actually run. With more than three decades owning one of Hampton Roads’ premier European automotive shops—and a track record for transforming chaotic businesses into structured, scalable operations—Eric reveals the systems that turn small companies into sustainable, profitable machines. This conversation uncovers: • Personal — the hard-earned lessons from Eric’s early years, leadership journey, and why he committed to building businesses that serve the owner… not the other way around. • Business — how he diagnoses operational bottlenecks, builds processes for finance, HR, and automation, and helps owners create predictable profit without burning out. • Community — the ripple effect of better-run service businesses: stronger teams, higher customer standards, and a healthier local economy in Hampton Roads. Eric breaks down the mindset shift every owner needs, the structure most shops are missing, and the systems that drive freedom, growth, and longevity. Whether you run an auto shop, manage a service team, or simply want a business that doesn’t depend on you 24/7—this episode gives you the blueprint to build it to last. Who should we interview next? Support the show Discover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204  Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach

  7. 12/22/2025

    Sam Riggs on Seaplanes, Aviation, and Building a One-of-a-Kind Experience for Virginia Aviation

    For the first time in Discover Virginia Podcast history, we’re taking the conversation off the ground. In this episode, we sit down with Sam Riggs, founder of Coastal Seaplanes, while flying in a coastal seaplane — marking our first-ever interview recorded in the air. Launching directly from the water and soaring above Virginia’s coastline, this episode captures local innovation and storytelling from an entirely new perspective. Mid-flight, we make a pit stop at The Tides Inn in Virginia, where we land on the water and take viewers along for a bonus on-location tour of one of Virginia’s most iconic waterfront destinations. It’s part aviation, part entrepreneurship, and part destination discovery — all in one experience. Once back in the air, Sam breaks down what it really takes to operate a seaplane business, from safety and regulations to building unforgettable experiences that elevate Virginia tourism. We explore: How Coastal Seaplanes created a one-of-a-kind aviation experience What makes water-based aviation uniquely challenging The logistics behind landing at premier destinations like The Tides Inn Why experiential businesses are redefining how people explore Virginia How bold, local ideas can create national-level attention This episode is more than an interview — it’s a Discover Virginia milestone, blending adventure, business, and destination storytelling in a way we’ve never done before. If you want to see Virginia from a completely new angle, this is a flight you won’t want to miss. Who should we interview next? Support the show Discover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204  Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach

  8. 12/19/2025

    Local Stories, Global Stages: Dr. Ashlie on Writing Fiction That Wins Awards

    In this episode of the Discover Virginia Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ashlie, a Virginia-based author whose fictional I Remember trilogy has gained national recognition, including winning at the LA Film Festival. Her work is a powerful example of how storytelling, imagination, and craft can take a local voice to a global stage. We talk not only on her book, but her award winning podcasts on sports and podcasts. For podcasts check out Pardon My Politics, "Leaning on 18+ years of government study and writing, we discuss news and issues surrounding government policies, current administration, congressional leadership, and more" and for Sports, Not Your Average Cheerleader, NFL updates, news, highlights, game recaps, interviews with players and trainers, fantasy football, and much more!  To top it all off, we’re giving away a copy of Dr. Ashlie’s I Remember fiction trilogy, with the winner announced the week of Christmas 2025. This episode is a reminder that world-class creative work doesn’t have to come from major media hubs — sometimes it starts right here, with a story worth telling. to learn more about Ashlie and support her work, visit: https://www.ashliegibbs.com/  Who should we interview next? Support the show Discover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204  Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach

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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to Discover Virginia, the ultimate podcast for anyone looking to uncover the hidden gems, rich history, and vibrant culture of the state of Virginia. Hosted by Joseph Trahan, each episode takes you on a journey through the diverse regions of Virginia. We explore the best places to eat, the most exciting events, and the unique stories that make Virginia a must-visit destination. In every episode, we sit down with local experts, business owners, and community leaders who share their insider knowledge and personal experiences, giving you a true sense of what life is like in Virginia. Whether you're a local, a newcomer, or planning your next vacation, Discover Virginia is your go-to guide for everything this incredible state has to offer. Join us as we dive deep into the heart of Virginia, exploring its past, celebrating its present, and looking ahead to its bright future. Don’t miss out on discovering your Virginia vibe!

Information

  • Creator
    Joseph Trahan
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    156
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Discover Virginia Podcast
  • Show Website
    Discover Virginia Podcast