Making Connections Through Your Local Chamber

As the advocate for businesses across Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, James City County, and York County, Bob has a wealth of insights into fostering economic growth through the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. Discover the unique market challenges they address, how they connect communities, and the exciting developments, including their recent move to Newport News City Center.

(0:00) Introduction and opening banter
(3:33) Introducing Bob McKenna and discussion on the rebranding of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber
(7:52) Bob McKenna's 5 C's: Connector, Convener, Collaborator, Conduit, Champion
(14:43) Comparing schooling opportunities, cost of living, and traffic challenges in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads
(20:16) Bob McKenna's decision to return to Hampton Roads and views on regionalism
(26:08) Bob McKenna's Charleston story and the importance of storytelling in promoting a region
(30:23) Discussion about naming the region and the decision to use the 757 branding
(35:10) Why there are so many chambers in Hampton Roads and discussion on potential mergers
(39:56) What to do in the region: Suggestions for a 5-day visit and discussion on local food and drink
(49:19) Challenges facing the region: Public transit, entertainment offerings, public safety, and public schools
(1:00:08) Discussion on the new location of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber and details on their strategic plan
(1:06:14) Reflections on job security and the need for change in the region and conclusion

About The Virginia Peninsula Chamber:

A business association, with over 1000 members and partners that "Connects Business with Opportunity!"

Learn more: https://www.virginiapeninsulachamber.com/

About the hosts:

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. 

Zack Miller is a serial entrepreneur and author of Anomaly, a guide on differentiating yourself and your business from the crowd.

Enjoy the show? Watch the Fervent Four Show LIVE every Thursday at 11 AM.

Live: https://www.innovate757.org/live/
Watch past episodes: https://www.innovate757.org/fervent-f...
Listen to past episodes: https://fathom.fm/podcast/fervent-four  

The Fervent Four 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. Check them out Live every Thursday at 11 AM.

Social Media:

Tim Ryan
https://www.innovate757.org/

X (personal): @ryantnt ( 

 / ryantnt  )

X: @Innovate757 ( 

 / innovate757  )

Instagram: @InnovateHamptonRoads:  

 / innovatehamptonroads  

LinkedIn (personal):  

 / ryantnt  

LinkedIn:  

 / innovate757  

Facebook:  

 / innovate757  

Zack Miller
https://www.zackmillersays.com

X: @zackmillersays ( 

 / zackmillersays  )

Facebook:  

 / zackmillersays  

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Innovate Hampton Roads – https://www.innovate757.org/