Discover Virginia Podcast

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 th...

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 f...

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 sport...

In a digital world where attention is short and competition is everywhere, looking professional is no longer enough — you need to be strategic, clear, and conversion-focused. In this episode, we sit down with Tania and Courtney, two experts at the intersection of branding, website design, and online positioning, to unpack what actually makes businesses stand out heading into 2026. This isn’t about...

In this episode of Discover Virginia, we sit down with former pro athlete and founder of Excel Basketball Academy, Lance Hurdle, to explore how basketball becomes a vehicle for discipline, mindset, and personal growth. Lance has built more than a training program—he’s created a culture where young athletes learn to lead with character long before they chase trophies. We unpack his journey from pla...

In this episode of Discover Virginia, we sit down with Hampton Roads’ connector-in-chief, Brad Furman, a driving force behind relationship-focused growth in the 757. Brad’s reputation is built on one core belief: opportunity flows through people. Today, he breaks down how meaningful relationships shape business, elevate communities, and create long-term impact far beyond simple networking. Brad sh...

We’ve the past few months taking the show on the road — traveling across Virginia, recording in incredible locations, and discovering so many parts of this amazing state while searching for our new studio. I’m excited to share that we’ve finally found it! To celebrate, we’re wrapping up our traveling episodes and gearing up to move into the new studio for the 2026 season. But don’t worry — there’s...

Host Levi hits the streets of Norfolk for an interview you didn’t see coming — this time with Joseph Trahan from Discover Virginia. 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

Megan Riggs, the visionary founder of Crunchy Hydration, joins us for a very special episode filmed aboard Flohom—right here in Virginia Beach, the same place her journey began. Megan takes us inside the origin story of “Crunchy”, the pivotal milestones that shaped her brand identity, and how she’s built one of the fastest-growing beverage companies in Virginia—now racing toward 1,000,000+ cans so...

What does it take to turn raw passion into an international fashion career, while also building businesses that transform lives through wellness and sustainability? In this episode, Sonya Z. Phillips shares how she went from a self-taught seamstress to showcasing at New York Fashion Week, founding the Volo Fashion Show in Ghana, and co-owning a thriving wellness spa. Sonya’s story is proof that fa...

In this episode of Discover Virginia, Joseph Trahan sits down with two unique voices shaping life on both sides of the water. Christina Kimbrough is rooted in Hampton Roads, where she shares her journey of wellness, sobriety, and helping others live with intention. Eric Hawkins joins us from Cape Charles, where he’s not only the owner of a charming tiny home motel but also focused on building his...

Pagoda Norfolk is a hidden gem of Norfolk, Virginia, which is why we had to feature it on this episode and also share some of the big plans they have alongside, silent disco night, Free Life LLC bottleshop, and the Pagoda Icecream!  In this episode, Christina and Matt of Pagoda Icecream chat about what makes the Pagoda a great place to visit in Norfolk all year round! https://www.instagram.com/pag...

In this episode, we uncover Norfolk's hidden gem The Pagoda. The Pagoda and Oriental Garden is a unique piece of history and a hallmark of Norfolk, Virginia. On today's episode Joseph and Christina sit down with Madelyn Sly the President and one of the founding members of Friends of the Pagoda to talk about it's history and what the Friends of the Pagoda are doing to preserve its le...

🏡 Thinking about buying your first home in 2025? You could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table if you don’t know about city grants and state loan programs designed to help first-time buyers. In this video, we break down the best ways to buy a home in 2025 using local city grants and state-backed loan programs that make homeownership more affordable than ever. From down payment assistance...

What if everything you thought you knew about the Hampton Roads business scene was wrong? 🤯 On this episode, Tim Ryan and Zack Miller pull back the curtain on the biggest myths holding our entrepreneurs back—and reveal how the region is leveling up in a major way. They’re spearheading Virginia’s largest business event in their combined 20+ years in the game: Startup World Cup 2025. This is more t...

We end our Richmond series inside the stunning  ⁨@QuirkHotels⁩ garden. Here we speak with Reamy, the Death Doula, on her career serving those transitioning from this life to the next.  To learn more about Reamy, her services, or resources to navigate end-of-life care see: https://www.crossoverdoulaservices.com/ Who should we interview next? Support the show Discover Virginia Beach Podcast: https:/...

We traveled to Richmond, Va to speak to Colin Chapman for an intriguing conversation about his role as Richmond's entertainer for comedy and Hypnosis. You can learn more and follow Colin ‪@comedyhypno‬ and https://www.hypnosisisamazing.com/ Who should we interview next? Support the show Discover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204  Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: http...

The only thing better than Discovering Virginia is sharing our love of the community with others. Which is why on today's episode we are sharing the spotlight with one of Virginia's Biggest Fans... DRUM ROLLLL PLEASEEEE! Dinnie In Virginnie, yes, you did read that title correctly!  Dinnie the delightful Content Creator has been taking on Chesapeake, Virginia and we wanted to have her sha...

I sit down with the team from Elite Xteriors, a leading roofing and exterior services company serving Virginia Beach and beyond. Discover how this American Dream blossomed into a business and how Gaby and Ahmed have earned a reputation for quality craftsmanship, honest communication, and storm damage expertise.  We explore what sets them apart in the home improvement industry, from their hassle-fr...

Ahyoka Yeshua El is more than a strategist—she’s a movement. As a two-time international best-selling author, dynamic speaker, and CEO of Streamline Success International, she’s on a mission to equip faith-driven entrepreneurs and nonprofits with the structure, clarity, and execution they need to thrive. In this episode, recorded at the historic Northampton Hotel in Cape Charles, we explore how Ah...

In this powerful episode of Discover Virginia, Joseph Trahan sits down with Jean Narcisse to unpack his new book and explore the deeper purpose behind his leadership work. With a clear mission to guide global leaders toward influence over ego, Jean shares the mindset shifts that can prevent well-intentioned professionals from becoming “right” at the cost of being impactful. Together, they explore...

In this episode, we’re rolling into real estate, city life, and why Virginia Beach is more than just a beach town with local agent and content creator Ronnie Sarmiento (@agentronnie757). From skating the boardwalk to helping clients find home, Ronnie shares what makes VB one of the most livable cities in Virginia—and why it’s changing fast. Tap in, learn more, and check out his story. 🎧 Learn mor...

In this episode of Discover Virginia, we sit down with Christine Gustafson, Vice President of Marketing & PR at The Breeden Company, one of Virginia’s leading real estate development firms. Christine shares her incredible journey from psychology major to marketing powerhouse, and how she’s reshaping the way communities are built—one project and one partnership at a time. We explore the evolving wo...

In this episode of Discover Virginia, we sit down with Ashley Causey, founder of Speech at the Beach! A thriving private practice in Virginia Beach. Ashley shares how she turned her in-home therapy service into a full-fledged clinic helping children with dyslexia, feeding therapy, AAC, and gestalt language processing. We also talk about her inspiring community project to install AAC boards in park...

n this episode of Discover Virginia, we sit down with Jay Abella of Investment Partners to talk about the smarter side of money. From the power of long-term investment strategies to the evolving financial landscape in Virginia, Jay brings clarity, experience, and a grounded approach to building sustainable wealth. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a first-time investor, or planning your next bi...