Fervent Four

In this episode of The Fervent Four Show, hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Jeff Merritt, Market Vice President of Cox Communications Virginia, for a deep, wide-ranging conversation on innovation, connectivity, workforce evolution, and the future of technology in Hampton Roads. Merritt shares his roots as a Chesapeake native, his 26-year journey rising through Cox, and how the company has continually reinvented itself from a newspaper founded in 1898 into a national leader in broadband, telecommunications, automotive services, and emerging industries like controlled-environment agriculture and sustainable plastics. The discussion dives into how Cox prepares its network for massive growth in streaming, connected devices, and two-way communication, including doubling data consumption year over year, COVID-era infrastructure demands, and the company's push toward five-nines reliability. Jeff explains why true innovation requires continuous reinvestment, adaptation, and a commitment to community — from supporting military families to strengthening broadband resiliency. The conversation also explores workforce shifts, competition in a remote-first hiring world, company culture, leadership vs. management, and why hands-on roles remain essential even as automation and AI accelerate. Merritt also highlights Cox Charities, employee-driven community investment, and the internal culture that fuels long-term success. If you're interested in big-company innovation, economic development in the 757, the future of connectivity, or what it takes to lead thousands of employees across a complex service ecosystem, this episode delivers a powerful, insider look. (0:00) Jeff Merritt's background and ESPN partnership challenges (2:54) Introduction of guest Jeff Merritt (4:07) Jeff Merritt's upbringing and ties to Hampton Roads (7:16) Jeff Merritt's career journey at Cox Communications (9:54) Overview of Cox Enterprises and innovation strategies (17:27) Technological advancements and AI at Cox Communications (19:03) Supporting military families and network reliability during COVID (24:54) Data consumption trends and streaming service rise (26:07) Connected devices' impact on network traffic (29:11) Remote communication challenges and company culture (32:05) Connected device statistics per household (34:15) Network reliability and restoration efforts (35:10) The relevance of internet speeds today (37:04) Enhancing customer service and engagement (43:17) Workforce evolution and job competition (45:49) Technology's role in customer interactions and workforce (47:45) The future role of hands-on employees (50:01) Data centers and ISP services discussion (51:34) Differences between managing and leading (53:43) Company culture and fostering employee relationships (57:22) Cox Charities and community involvement initiatives (59:35) Spotlight on local businesses and community projects (1:01:31) Closing remarks and reflections - Continuous reinvention and investment in new areas are crucial for long-term business growth and relevance. - The ability to offer remote work has expanded job opportunities while also increasing competition, emphasizing the need for companies to be employee-centric and progressive. - A strong company culture that values employee connections and community involvement can significantly enhance team cohesion and overall job satisfaction. Learn more about COX: https://www.cox.com/residential/home.html 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

What happens when you mix 1,100 skydives, a near-fatal crash, a family business handed down from a legend, and the grit to rebuild an entire industry from the inside out? You get Jay Prock, President of Tidewater Staffing, one of the most influential workforce leaders in the Port of Virginia. In this episode of The Fervent Four Show, we sit down with Jay for a raw, high-energy, no-filters conversation about: • How skydiving shaped his mindset as a CEO • The accident that nearly killed him—and what he learned about risk, recovery, and humility • The evolution of Tidewater Staffing and the reality of running a second-generation business • How the company supports 3,000–4,000 families across the 757 • The future of ship repair, AI, automation, and skilled trades • Building a culture of upward mobility, training, and long-term workforce development • His endurance sport era (including sub-5:00 half-Ironmans) • What blue-collar America is really facing—and why the trades are on a massive comeback Jay doesn't hold back. He goes deep on risk management, leadership, workforce transformation, the "blue-collar revenge," and the discipline required to grow one of the region's most vital staffing engines. If you're into 757 business stories, entrepreneurship, ship repair, skilled trades, leadership, risk-taking, triathlon training, or just love hearing from people who live at one speed—this episode is for you. - Entrepreneurs and skydivers share a similar mentality of taking risks, learning from failures, and getting back up to try again. - Managing risk and understanding the potential consequences of decisions are crucial lessons that translate between extreme sports like skydiving and the business world. - Tidewater Staffing focuses on community service by providing employment opportunities and support, emphasizing the importance of local impact and employee well-being. (0:00) Jay Prock on skydiving and entrepreneur mentality (2:23) Jay Prock's skydiving background and worst accident (7:16) From skydiving accident to business focus (11:00) Parallels between skydiving and entrepreneurship (14:17) Jay Prock's entry into Tidewater Staffing (17:38) Role of mentors and family in business (22:44) Preparing the next generation for business leadership (24:01) Financial literacy and the role of trades in education (25:25) Impact of AI and technology on ship repair industry (30:00) Leveraging AI for social media in staffing (32:23) Defining Tidewater Staffing's community impact (34:41) Recruiting and training in the 757 area (38:00) Growth and evolution of Tidewater Staffing (41:05) Lessons from triathlon training (48:52) Favorite local cuisine in the 757 area (50:32) Episode closing and reflections https://www.tidewaterstaffing.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

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

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

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