Podcast
Discover Virginia Podcast
Hosted by Joseph Trahan · EN
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!
14episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How to succeed in one of the most hated industry... ft Dan Rochon and his new book Teach to Sell
1w ago00:36:04Tap to summarizeWhat 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 rapportAsk better questionsListen for pain, desire, and hesitationHelp people gain clarityUse systems without losing the human connectionLead prospects toward the best decision for themCreate more consistent income without pressure sellingWe 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/
Transcribe →How Do We Talk to Our Children About Death: Faith, Family, and Healing ft Author Jenny Powers
2w ago00:15:31Tap to summarizeDisclaimer: 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
Transcribe →The Best Business Woman In Real Estate Closings - EVER. The Ace Marie Story
3w ago00:08:27Tap to summarizeGuys 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
Transcribe →Discover Virginia LIKE NEVER BEFORE ft. The A.I. Brothers
4w ago00:23:36Tap to summarizeYou 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: 757-509-1518PSS: 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.
Transcribe →Build It to Last: Eric Svedberg on Mastering Operations in Any Service Business
Dec 2400:40:30Tap to summarizeIn 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 showDiscover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204 Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach
Transcribe →Sam Riggs on Seaplanes, Aviation, and Building a One-of-a-Kind Experience for Virginia Aviation
Dec 2201:01:39Tap to summarizeFor 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 experienceWhat makes water-based aviation uniquely challengingThe logistics behind landing at premier destinations like The Tides InnWhy experiential businesses are redefining how people explore VirginiaHow bold, local ideas can create national-level attentionThis 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 showDiscover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204 Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach
Transcribe →Local Stories, Global Stages: Dr. Ashlie on Writing Fiction That Wins Awards
Dec 1900:41:48Tap to summarizeIn 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 showDiscover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204 Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach
Transcribe →Win Online in 2026: How Smart Branding & Websites Help Separate YOU from the Noise
Dec 1501:01:13Tap to summarizeIn 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 trends for trend’s sake — it’s about building a digital presence that earns trust, communicates value fast, and turns attention into action.We talk about:Why most business websites fail before the first scrollThe difference between “pretty branding” and profitable brandingHow consumer expectations are changing — and what businesses must do to keep upCommon mistakes business owners make when DIY’ing their brandWhat a high-performing online presence must include moving forwardWhether you’re a local business, service provider, or founder scaling your brand, this conversation will challenge how you think about your website, your messaging, and how customers experience your business before they ever speak to you.If you want to win online in 2026, this episode is your blueprint.Who should we interview next? Support the showDiscover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204 Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach
Transcribe →From Court to Character: The Excel Basketball Story with Lance Hurdle
Dec 1100:37:44Tap to summarizeIn 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 player to coach, the philosophy behind Excel’s development system, and how structure, accountability, and mentorship shape the next generation both on and off the court.This conversation breaks down:Personal — Lance’s story, the lessons that shaped him, and why he chose to build Excel in the 757Business — how Excel Basketball Academy designs athletes from the foundation up—skills, mindset, work ethicCommunity — the ripple effect of developing leaders, not just hoopers, and the impact Excel is having across Hampton RoadsWhether you're a parent, an athlete, or a leader invested in youth development, this episode gives a real look at what it takes to build champions who excel beyond the game.Who should we interview next? Support the showDiscover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204 Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach
Transcribe →The Power of Who You Know: Brad Furman on Local Impact & Opportunity
Dec 500:31:46Tap to summarizeIn 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 shares insights from his work supporting local entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and regional leaders—plus how platforms like PingPong.Gives and Payteva are helping reshape how the community rallies around charity, technology, and sustainable giving.We explore:Personal — the life experiences that shaped Brad’s commitment to connectionBusiness — how partnerships, platforms, and people create real opportunityCommunity — why giving back through PingPong.Gives and modern payment technology matters more than everThis is a conversation about using your network for good, unlocking hidden opportunities, and building a stronger Hampton Roads—one relationship at a time.Perfect for business owners, community leaders, and anyone looking to connect with more purpose and intention across the 757.Who should we interview next? Support the showDiscover Virginia Beach Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206204 Discover Virginia Beach Fb Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovervirginiabeach
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