Vroom Vroom Veer with Jeff Smith

Vroom Veer Media
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The Road Differently Traveled

  1. 1D AGO

    Chris Parker – How a Simple Website born in 2000 now Pays his Bills (BOV)

    Chris Parker is the founder of WhatIsMyIPaddress.com, the number one IP address lookup website. Chris started the website in January 2000 and for the first five years his revenue didn't even cover his internet bill. In 2014, Chris was laid off from his corporate job and was faced with the scary opportunity to make his website a full-time business. Chris Parker Vroom Veer Stories Grew up in Tustin California and has lived within a 10 mile radius of home his whole life Went to Cal State Fullerton for about a year; not a great student--then attend the local community college for more years he wants to disclose; quit school when he realized his part time job was paying more than the what college grads were earning Worked in sales for a company called "Club Mac" selling Macintosh computers via a mail order catalog and in-person; not a great salesman; was talking people into buying cheaper computers Worked on IT and web stuff near the birth of the internet for Club Mac; at that time there wasn't an easy way to figure out your public IP address He build a server out of spare parts and set it up in his house to run the first version of WhatismyIPaddress.com.  No graphics, it just returned the IP address. At some point he was getting alerts telling him the harddrive was nearly full; the traffic logs were building up Verion .1:  He offered to answer questions via email; he just the email traffic to generate a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list A few years later Google Adsense call along; and decided to throw up a banner ad and it made a little bit of money; neat! Warning!  Geek Content!:  The server ran in Chris's house from pre-google time until 2014; he had a half rack server with UPS's in case of power outage and a very high electric bill trying to keep the house under 90 degrees and he was spending way too much money paying for internet bandwidth His wife points out that it might not be the best idea to have all the business assets in their house; a break in would effectively kill the business Strange as it sounds there were about six co-location facilities in Tustin within 1 mile of his house; bring your server there and plug it into their facility and you rent power, bandwidth, HVAC, and security. In 2014 he was selling life insurance online; the economy tanked and people were getting laid off work; Chris was asked to transition from full to part time Went back to full time for a while; but eventually he was let go entirely; Should I get a job or work full time on the website business? They experimented with working on the business for six months; which made enough to keep going---he has now replaced his job income with the business revenue Version .2 of the website, no graphics, bar on top, bar on bottom and a wall of text Version .3 he hired a graphic designer to make the site look much better GRAPHICS! Version .4 hired a couple of content writers to create blog content related to online security and internet privacy How important it is to use a VPN (virtual private network) to secure your internet connection; most businesses out there don't know how to secure their network and the ones that do are breached all the time On a trip to Taiwan from Sinapore his wife gets sick; in the airport in Taiwan there was a medical station using an infrared "fever detector" to find sick people and put them in quarantine; Chris noticed in time to put himself the detector and his wife and they made through Barf bag of the month club for dog owners who get queasy when picking up dog poo; start collecting those barf bags from airplanes You can verify that your VPN is working on Chris's site; you can also verify the country of an IP address; helpful to verify an internet order before you ship Chris Parker Connections Website - WhatismyIPAddress.com

    52 min

  2. FEB 9

    Lauren Gaggioli Entrepreneur, Podcast Host, Friend – BOV

    Lauren Gaggioli is the founder of Higher Scores Test Prep – an online SAT & ACT test prep company – and host of The College Checklist Podcast. Lauren is also the founder of Gold Star Test Prep, an in-home SAT & ACT tutoring company. With Gold Star, I’ve been serving families throughout Southern California for 7 years. She is a beer geek, a tech nerd and one of my new favorite people. Check her out on Twitter. Lauren Gaggioli Vroom Veer Stories In High School she was really prepping for College totally in Vroom mode She veered to NYU school of theater, which was very different from her roots as an academic roots. She didn't feel like she belonged in the community of actors. She finished her bachelor's degree in 3 years and then moved back to Southern California to pursue acting. Veer away from acting and returned to her roots as an academic. She started working as a SAT/ACT tutor as a job. Veered away from "employee" and started her own SAT/ACT tutoring company Learned how to do most of her tutoring online, so she spends significantly less time driving from client to client Lauren Gaggioli Links Lauren's Web Page Higher Scores Test Prep The College Checklist Podcast Gold Star Test Prep Jimmy Fallon "Ew" Video That Guy…Who was in That Thing… Robert Patrick on Nerdist Podcast Buffer App for Social Media Social Ommph Chris Brogan Subscribe = Love :-D

    1h 2m

  3. FEB 2

    Dr. Will Haas – Take Charge of Your Health

    Dr. Will Haas, MD, MBA is redefining what it means to age well. He is the Founder and CEO of VYVE Wellness in Charlotte, NC, where he helps high-achieving professionals reclaim energy, focus, and vitality through cellular optimization. Board-certified in Integrative and Family Medicine, Dr. Haas blends advanced therapies—IV nutrient infusions, therapeutic peptides, hyperbaric oxygen, and red light therapy—to deliver measurable results that help patients feel decades younger. Beyond VYVE, he co-founded OvulifeMD, creating natural fertility protocols, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Infusive, supporting wellness practices nationwide. His expertise has been featured in Men’sJournal, Daily Mail, Yahoo Life, and Woman’s World Magazine. Passionate about bridging science with practical results, Dr. Haas empowers high-performers who want more than just longevity—they want their best years ahead of them. Dr. Will Haas Vroom Vroom Veer Summary Journey to Integrative Medicine William shared his journey from medical school to finding his passion in integrative medicine, which focuses on using a variety of healing modalities to optimize health. He initially struggled with the conventional approach to medicine, which primarily focuses on treating diseases, and decided to pursue business studies during his medical training. However, a personal loss led him to fulfill his father's dying wish to complete his medical degree. William eventually found his calling in integrative medicine, which he believes should be the standard approach to healthcare, combining the best of conventional and alternative treatments. Cellular Optimization and Health Strategies Jeffery and William discussed the concept of cellular optimization and the importance of addressing toxins and oxidative stress in the body. They explored how factors like poor diet, lack of sleep, and environmental exposure can contribute to cellular damage and reduced energy levels. Jeffery shared his personal experience of reducing sugar and processed foods intake, which led to improved health and well-being. They also touched on the idea of getting a CT scan for a calcium score as part of a proactive approach to prevent heart attacks. Cardiovascular Health Assessment Strategies Jeffery and William discussed cardiovascular health, diagnostic tests, and therapeutic peptides. William explained the importance of assessing inflammation levels, homocysteine, and other markers to evaluate heart attack risk. They talked about the benefits of advanced lipid panels and the role of Apo B and oxidized LDL in predicting cardiovascular events. William shared a success story of a patient who improved his health through dietary changes, gut healing, and IV nutrient therapies. They also briefly discussed the potential of therapeutic peptides under medical supervision. Connections Website

    51 min

  4. JAN 26

    Meghan Cathlin – Leading with the Heart

    Photo Credit: Leah Muse Meghan Cathlin is a writer, speaker, and founder of Considerate Ventures. For over 25 years, she has been a trusted advisor to authors, celebrities, CEOs, and dignitaries, in high-stakes environments and heart-centered missions. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her son Greyson and their two dogs, Lucy and Django. Meghan Cathlin Vroom Vroom Veer Show Summary Journey of Healing and Resilience Meghan Cathlin, author of "Leading with the Heart," discussed her journey of personal growth and resilience following the loss of her father to suicide at a young age. She shared how this experience shaped her worldview and inspired her book, which combines memoir and prescriptive elements. Meghan also highlighted her current projects, including writing her next book and supporting clients through her agency, Considerate Ventures. The conversation explored themes of healing, self-compassion, and finding meaning in life's challenges. Overcoming Poverty and Bullying Meghan shared her experiences growing up in poverty and the impact it had on her mental health and social life. She discussed how she was open about her struggles, which helped her cope but also made her a target for bullying. Meghan described the challenges of dealing with mean girls in elementary school and the deteriorating situation at home, including her sister's rebellion and attempts at suicide. The conversation touched on the universal reasons behind bullying and the importance of resilience in overcoming difficult experiences. Overcoming Challenges to Success Meghan shared her personal journey, which began with dropping out of school at age 12 and engaging in rebellious behavior, including drinking and experimenting with drugs. She eventually found success through a job at a jewelry supply store, which led her to pursue a career in the music industry as a concert promoter. Despite not receiving a traditional education, Meghan was able to earn a high school diploma by working part-time and completing assignments on Fridays. Education and Knowledge Gaps Jeffery and Meghan discussed the importance of education and how reading, even fiction, can fill knowledge gaps. They also talked about the stigma associated with not having a high school diploma and the value of obtaining one. Meghan shared her experience working in the concert promotion industry in the late 1990s, before it became more centralized. Career Journeys and Personal Motivation Meghan shared her career journey from working at a rock concert promotion company to a corporate event agency, where she learned different aspects of event management. She discussed her personal motivation, which was driven by a desire to prove herself after facing judgment and bullying during her childhood. Jeffery shared his academic experience, noting his natural ability to succeed in subjects like science and English without much effort, which he attributed to his parents' work-hard-play-hard values. Journey to Authentic Success Meghan shared her journey from an aggressive pursuit of success to finding a more fulfilling path through personal growth and coaching. She discussed her book "Leading with the Heart," which explores the disconnect between societal success metrics and true happiness. Meghan emphasized the importance of listening to one's heart by recognizing what brings joy (YES!) and avoiding activities that drain energy (Uhgs). She also highlighted the need to balance authenticity with practical responsibilities. Connections MeghanCathlin.com Considerate Ventures

    47 min

  5. JAN 19

    Dr. Thomas Recher – Positivity Effect (BOV)

    Dr. Thomas Recher helps individuals with hearing impairment sharpen their ability to communicate and in some instances reconnect to the world of sound. Right before he began college, Dr. Tom's brother sat him down and said, "To live a fulfilled life, find a career in life that you would love waking up to every morning - where it doesn't feel like work" Nine years later, Dr. Tom successfully obtained his doctorate and opened a private practice in audiology right out of school. The road was bumpy, but with the assistance of great mentors and the power of positivity, he celebrated the office's one year anniversary this past September. Now he's also the host of a podcast called The Positivity Effect. He quickly realized the importance of mentors in his life and now he wants to pay it forward. Dr. Tom is inviting everyone to join him in creating a ripple effect of positivity in the world. Dr. Thomas Recher Vroom Veer Stories Started out in accounting for his under-graduate degree...then walked out of a class and had to change his major Changed his Major to Speech and Language Pathology, which was better...but not quite right Finally found the world of audiology, helping people with hearing impairments Teamed up with this friend, who happened to be a Chiropractor who ran his own business for 10+ years Launched his own business right out of college and has been working at for a year now Launches his on podcast "The Positivity Effect" on 23 Nov to spread the word on the benefits of a positive mindset We talk about how important mentors are in his life and how even mentors you never meet can change your life. Dr. Thomas Recher Links Website

    59 min

  6. JAN 12

    Cat Rose – The Creative Introvert (BOV)

    Cat Rose helps creative introverts reach their goals through coaching, online programs, step-by-step guides and my online membership community the League of Creative Introverts. Cat Rose Vroom Veer Stories Feeling thoroughly drained at an office job, didn't know why Quit job to start freelance work; but first took a trip to Japan Learning that introverts use energy when interacting with large groups people Helping introverts sell their art in ways that feel good to an introvert Why Japanese people put non-sense English words on products Why heated toilet seats in Japan are essential Accidentally walking into someone's home looking for an Osen (hot bath) oops! Cat Rose Links The Creative Introvert The League of Creative Introverts

    50 min

  7. JAN 5

    Dan Erickson – Simple Living (BOV)

    Dan Erickson is  a minimalist. He spent most of his life trying to simplify. He rejects the ways of consumption and waste and prefer to produce and renew.  He is an author of several books and a single Dad. Dan Erickson Vroom Veer Stories Living in a cult as a slave boy.  How did that happen?Transitioning from cult back to freedom in foster care.How did Dan learn to forgive people after being in a cult?How Dan used writing and blogging as his own therapy for PTSD, which he didn't know he had.Finishing up a trilogy of novels based on his experiences living in a cult & his recovery.Turned off internet for the summer to unplug.  How did that work out?How did you get interested in a more simple life? Dan Erickson Links WebsiteA Train Called ForgivenessAt the Crossing of Justice and MercyAlways On:  Language in an Online and Mobile World, by Naomi BaronEssentialism:  The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, by Greg Mckeown

    1h 4m

  8. 12/29/2025

    Brad Szollose Inspiring a Multi-Generational Workforce – BOV

    Brad Szollose says:  "Has anyone noticed that there is a generational divide these days? Today we have 4 very defined Generations working side-by-side. Generation Y are also called Millennials or Digital Natives and working with Baby Boomers and Traditionalist. Ever wonder why this is an issue all of a sudden?" And WHY is Generation X being ignored? Brad Szollose (Zol-is) is a global business adviser and the foremost authority on Generational Issues and Workforce Culture Strategies who specializes in helping businesses large and small ignite their business productivity. Author of the award-winning, international bestseller Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia, Brad is a former C-level executive of a publicly traded company that he cofounded that went from entrepreneurial start-up to IPO in three years; the first Dot Com Agency to go public on NASDAQ. His company K2 Design, experienced 425% hyper-growth, due in part to a unique management style that won his company the Arthur Andersen NY Enterprise Award for Best Practices in Fostering Innovation among his workforce. Today, Brad helps smart companies like Dell and MasterCard, understand just how much technology has transformed a new generation, and how that impacts corporate culture, management interaction, expectations, productivity and sales in The Information Age. Brad Szollose Vroom - Veer Stories Story about Star Wars - How did you discover this modern global "myth" that is so influential? Video games in the home changed digital natives into an on-demand culture. Student-Centered education went mainstream, flowed into the workplace I was born in 1969...so what does that make me?  I am pre-1977...but I love Star Wars! :D And WHY is Generation X being ignored? GenXers have an opportunity to serve as a bridge between generations, I speak some of both of these languages. Why are Valve and Zappos so scary to Boomers? What does the future hold for Baby Boomers? Brad Szollose Generational Distinctions Pre-1977 Analog aka Digital immigrants Post 1977 Digital Natives Brad Szollose Links Brad's website is at:  www.bradszollose.com Brad Szollose on Twitter Brad's Keynote Promo Video (Funny and informative)

    1h 6m
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The Road Differently Traveled

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