Fervent Four

Zack Miller, Tim Ryan

4.0 (4)
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
UPDATED WEEKLY

Fervent Four

Welcome to the Fervent Four. Did you know that only 4% of businesses ever cross the annual million dollar revenue mark? The Fervent Four is a weekly show, every Thursday at 11am, dedicated to sharing insights into growing a world class business no matter the climate.

2 DAYS AGO

Inspiring Young Minds: Elijah’s Turtle-Fueled Journey to Authorship

Join Elijah Mackey, a 12-year-old author from Hampton, as he reveals how his passion for turtles led to writing a children’s book that nurtures curiosity and respect for nature. Discover how youth-driven creativity can educate and inspire, proving that anyone—regardless of age—can make a meaningful difference. Don’t miss this uplifting conversation on harnessing passion to spark change! Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and small talk (6:03) Guest introduction: Elijah (Eli) Mackey (7:05) Insights on pet turtles and terrapins (12:23) Eli's path to becoming an author (20:09) Writing process and book promotion strategies (25:00) Eli's future projects and conservation efforts (27:17) Breaking into the museum market with Turtle Tales (29:13) Business lessons from Eli's experiences (30:18) Turtle care essentials (33:29) Understanding turtle behavior (35:21) Entrepreneurial advice from Eli (40:06) Confidence-building in business (41:57) Launching Turtle Talks podcast (43:17) Eli's TMNT and turtle aspirations (47:45) Expertise and continuous learning in turtle care (49:11) Simplification in business decision-making (50:23) Seasonal business adaptation strategies (52:14) Pop culture and personal interests (54:32) Daily routines and productivity tips (57:20) Overcoming challenges and staying motivated (59:32) Turtle trivia: Favorites and care tips (1:02:10) Turtle evolution discussion (1:03:35) Promoting Eli's book and upcoming events Guest links: https://adventuretimeeli.square.site/ https://thevlm.org/ https://www.hampton.gov/100/Libraries ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1h 4m
DEC 12

Destini Harrell Turns Bold Visions into Lasting Change

Destini Harrell, founder of The Blessed Rogue, helps turn bold ideas into meaningful action. In this episode, she dives into the power of investing in Hampton Roads’ talent and why it’s time to move from potential to real opportunity. Destini also shares how supporting local organizations can spark change and what we can do to prepare for the shifts shaping the future. Join us for a conversation about community, growth, and making your vision a reality. Chapters: (0:00) Big news about West Virginia University's football coach and discussion on bowl games (2:06) Introduction of guest Destini Harrell and marketing in sports (4:00) Destini's background, ventures, and work with The Blessed Rogue (7:38) Challenges in Hampton Roads and the importance of mindset (14:44) Destini's hobbies and strategies for regional change (21:15) Destini's community engagement and growth journey (24:39) Key organizations and talent support in Hampton Roads (27:06) Utilizing networks and comparing community dynamics (31:30) Perspectives on community issues and startup impact (34:34) Making Hampton Roads startup-friendly and cultural attitudes (38:03) Local business support and government's role (42:48) Economic growth leveraging and investing in arts and culture (45:45) The potential for transportation infrastructure improvements (49:06) Community building, regional narrative, and the Surfing Santa event (50:09) Public transportation's impact on regional development (52:09) Destini Harrell's plans in 2025 (54:12) Pushing boundaries and Hampton Roads' culinary identity (57:10) Unique local foods and Zack's experience at Chick's Oyster Bar (1:00:01) Closing remarks and gratitude Guest links: https://theblessedrogue.com ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1h 1m
DEC 6

Jalaya Allen on Connecting Opportunities for College Students

Jalaya Allen shares how Campus Connex connects college students with paid projects, helping them build valuable skills and gain real-world experience while pursuing their education. As a senior at Norfolk State University, a student-athlete, and the oldest of seven siblings, Jalaya reflects on how her experiences shaped her mission to create opportunities for others. She also discusses the challenges of starting a business with no prior knowledge and the lessons she’s learned from stepping out of her comfort zone. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and updates (2:00) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles anniversary and college football (6:02) Norfolk State University visit and CampusConnex (10:26) Challenges and safety in student services (16:41) Evolution of college experiences and technology (20:40) Business development with ChatGPT (26:03) AI's impact on solo founders and startup challenges (30:01) Overcoming social anxiety in business growth (34:07) Strategies for networking and conversation (36:21) Learning automation for business application (38:01) CampusConnex commitment and Jalaya's bowling scholarship (42:25) Bowling techniques and experiences (50:41) Lifestyle observations and local food spots (57:01) Expanding and monetizing a campus-based business (59:13) Empowering student entrepreneurs and building networks (1:00:48) Closing remarks Guest links: https://campusconnex.net ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1h 1m
NOV 21

Dr. Eiesha Williamson on Dance, Community, and Portsmouth’s Future

Dr. Eiesha Williamson joins the Fervent Four Show to share her multifaceted journey, from her background in cheerleading for two NFL teams and running a dance studio to her current role at the YMCA. She offers insights into fundraising, traveling with dance teams, and the intricacies of homeschooling gifted children. The discussion touches on the nature vs. nurture debate, emotional vs. intellectual intelligence, and trauma's impact on development. Dr. Williamson also discusses the popularity of pickleball, challenges in Portsmouth, and the significance of diversity and major league sports for community cohesion. Stay tuned to learn more about her vision for the city of Portsmouth! Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and early topics roundup (3:47) Introducing Dr. Eiesha Williamson (4:10) Dr. Williamson's background, cheerleading, and dance studio experiences (10:27) Fundraising, travel with dance teams, and parenting insights (14:44) Stage presence in business and talent development (20:21) In-depth homeschooling discussion for gifted children (24:10) Nature vs. nurture debate and impact of trauma on development (29:36) Emotional intelligence vs. intellectual intelligence (33:18) Dr. Williamson's role at the YMCA and diet's impact on health (36:11) Popularity of pickleball and YMCA facilities (43:16) Challenges facing Portsmouth and real estate development (46:39) New casino in Hampton Roads and diversity reflections (49:04) The importance of major league sports for community unity (52:09) Attracting professional sports teams to Hampton Roads (53:08) Dr. Williamson's vision for Portsmouth's future (55:31) Dining spots in Norfolk and Suffolk (57:16) Overview of Dr. Eiesha Williamson's ventures (59:03) Closing remarks and gratitude Guest links: https://www.instagram.com/madetodayinc/ ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1 hr
NOV 14

How Type.ai Supercharges the Writing Experience

Stew Fortier, co-founder of Type.ai, joins us to discuss the new possibilities large language models bring to entrepreneurs and how Type adds value through its focused design. We talk about how Stew and his team have rethought the writing process for today’s needs, creating a tool that blends familiar editing features with integrated AI to make writing and editing more efficient. Along the way, Stew shares recollections from his Y Combinator batch process, talks about how he met his co-founder, Stefan, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at launching a product built for professional writers and editors. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and casual banter (1:31) AI and robots in business operations and skepticism (5:00) Guest introduction: Stew Fortier and his entrepreneurial journey (10:22) Stew's first venture and MassRoots experience (21:28) Importance of timing in startups (24:28) Stew learns to code and the impact of ChatGPT (27:59) ChatGPT's growth and Type.ai introduction (32:15) AI writing market and Type's process (39:06) Acceptance into Y Combinator and the balance of building and writing (43:46) Y Combinator's Demo Day and fundraising insights (47:10) YC's focus on people and changes in batch sizes (50:18) Overcoming YC rejection and the value of persistence (51:14) Post-YC support and alumni network (53:42) Unpredictability of YC success stories and cofounder importance (57:44) Founding story of Type (1:01:20) Visiting Virginia Beach and personal connections (1:02:35) Final thoughts and advice for founders Guest links: https://type.ai https://stewfortier.substack.com/ ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1h 4m
NOV 9

Archetype Braces - A New Take on Knee Support for Everyday Movement

In this episode, we talk with Josh Miner, the founder of Archetype Braces, about his mission to change the way knee support works. Josh was inspired by his mom’s journey to stay active after a knee injury, despite trying surgery, therapy, and various traditional braces. Determined to create something that could truly help, he spent months testing and refining his design, gathering feedback to build a brace that supports movement without restricting it. Tune in to hear how Josh’s engineering mindset led to a practical, effective brace that helps people stay active, reclaim their movement, and return to the activities they love. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and episode context (1:02) TV show "From" and streaming platform discussion (2:57) Start Peninsula and Josh Miner's participation (6:30) Guest introduction: Josh Miner (7:08) Josh's background in Williamsburg and William & Mary (10:41) William and Mary's data science program and entrepreneurship hub (18:18) Origin of Josh's business idea and knee brace development (21:28) In-depth look at knee injuries and brace engineering (23:31) Profitability and effectiveness of knee braces (25:16) Doctor and patient feedback on Josh's new brace (26:54) "Born to Run" book relevance and shoe cushioning (30:16) Barefoot training insights and target market focus (34:24) Affordable pricing and ethical business practices (39:07) Brace design development and testing (42:58) Manufacturing goals and local production (45:10) Risks and strategies in preordering (46:03) Crowdfunding and early business phases (49:19) Family support and personal anecdotes (56:58) Entrepreneurial reflections and preorder information Guest links: https://archetypebraces.com/ ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1 hr
OCT 31

Flying Cars & Hydrogen Tech: Exploring the Future of Transport with LuftCar

Santh Sathya joins the Fervent Four to explore the future of transportation, focusing on flying cars and VTOL vehicles. The conversation delves into FAA regulations and potential applications like air ambulances and autonomous traffic control. Santh shares his expertise in hydrogen technology and discusses how Tesla's innovations impact the transportation-energy sector. The episode also covers LuftCar's operational strategy, media influence on public perception, and the economic implications of these advancements. Chapters: (0:00) Introduction and Weekly Topics Overview (2:14) Evolution of Air Mobility and Flying Cars (4:51) Electrification and Its Benefits in Aviation (7:12) Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Technology (10:54) Advanced Air Mobility Use Cases (12:49) Air Ambulances: Cost, Accessibility, and Organ Transport Efficiency (16:05) Autonomy in Air Traffic Control and Passenger Capacity (20:19) Hydrogen Propulsion in Aviation (23:14) Guest Background: Santh Sathya (26:31) Hydrogen Refueling and Transportation-Energy Sector Convergence (30:10) LuftCar's Airframe Design and Initial Focus Areas (32:17) LuftCar's Potential Relocation and Expansion Plans (34:26) FAA Validation, Commercialization, and Financial Strategies (37:10) Importance of Letters of Intent (LOIs) and Geographic Rollout (44:32) Hydrogen Infrastructure Development in Virginia (46:40) Public Concerns, Social Acceptance, and Industry Reflections (55:17) Comparisons with Automotive Industry and Pricing Affordability Guest links: https://www.luftcar.com/ ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

59 min
OCT 25

Collin Smith: From Founding ReachSuite to a Game-Changing Acquisition

Collin Smith, founder of ReachSuite, joins The Fervent Four Show to discuss his journey from launching the platform to its recent acquisition. ReachSuite helps software companies stay engaged in the buyer’s journey, even when they’re not in the room. Collin discusses how ReachSuite delivers real value with interactive demos and guided sandboxes, driving better results for software sales teams. We also explore Collin’s connection to the 757 and hear his story of building his first venture while attending Old Dominion University. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Chapters: (0:00) Zack and Tim's casual chat and podcast reflection (1:41) Colin's morning routine and Wim Hof technique (5:17) Colin's introduction and connection with hosts (8:52) Colin's background, ODU's impact, and first business (16:20) Entrepreneurship challenges and work-life balance (24:40) Personal habits and the fervent hangover cure (27:41) ReachSuite's inception, bootstrapping, and market fit (32:38) Customer validation at SaaStr and importance of feedback (40:48) Founder resources and learning from mistakes (43:40) ReachSuite's acquisition by Consensus (49:01) Founder control, investor relations, and post-acquisition integration (52:33) Celebrating entrepreneurial success and future plans (55:28) Regional real estate and favorite local eateries (59:20) Impressions of Norfolk's urban layout and appeal (1:01:09) Closing remarks and celebration plans Guest links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BNejY1e9ik https://www.unusual.vc/field-guide https://reachsuite.io ABOUT THE SHOW: Did you know that only 4% of businesses hit $1M in revenue? Tim Ryan and Zack Miller are the creators of The Fervent Four Show, designed to help you get there. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd. Tim Ryan is an angel investor and the Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads, an organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs with resources in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Tim also serves as the Director of REaKTOR, a space for technology-based startups to start and grow. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM: https://www.innovate757.org/live/

1h 1m

4

out of 5

4 Ratings

Welcome to the Fervent Four. Did you know that only 4% of businesses ever cross the annual million dollar revenue mark? The Fervent Four is a weekly show, every Thursday at 11am, dedicated to sharing insights into growing a world class business no matter the climate.

Creator

Zack Miller, Tim Ryan
Years Active

2021 - 2024
Episodes

100
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Fervent Four