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We sit down with Tim Loulies, a Hampton Roads comic and teacher, to trace his 17-year journey from sticky-note premises to packed clubs, from the Comedy Store’s unforgiving OR to the Apollo’s infamous boo, and into the wild psychology of being a heel in professional wrestling. Tim opens up about stage fright, why you literally lose your breath at the mic, and how “mental cardio” makes or breaks your first minute on stage.

We dig into the craft: writing jokes that travel, building an opener that buys trust, editing tags that snap, and steering a room when chatter threatens the rhythm. Tim breaks down heckler control without punishing the crowd and explains why self-deprecation is a reliable on-ramp to shared laughter. He shares lessons from mentors like Steve Treviño and the late John Witherspoon, showing how consistency and energy turn a practiced act into something that still feels alive.

There’s heart here too. Tim’s work on PBS’s Comedy Boot Camp with the Armed Services Arts Program reveals how stand-up can help veterans facing PTSD take back their stories and connect through laughter. We talk about teaching at the Funny Bone Comedy School, building community, and using nerves as a focus—not a flaw. Plus, details on the new Virginia Beach club opening, upcoming classes, and how to watch Tim’s Amazon special, “Sugar Glider.”

Hit play to learn, laugh, and leave with practical tools you can use on stage or in any high-stakes room. If this conversation sparks something, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more people find it.

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Local stories can change the fate of a city when they’re told with care. Tony B sits down with Al Neely of Neely Media and Councilman Cash Green to chart a people-first media plan that lifts small businesses, reduces stigma, and builds real civic momentum across Virginia Beach. What starts as an origin story—an online inquiry, a community event, and a shared commitment—grows into a roadmap for accessible journalism and community-building that prioritizes human voices over headlines.

We unpack why podcasts and social channels are now the front door for local news, and how Neely Media is scaling responsibly: on-the-ground reporters, consistent event coverage, and a community-focused newspaper slated for early 2026. Councilman Green shares a powerful personal journey from earning a GED to serving in public office, challenging old narratives about success and education while championing entrepreneurship as the backbone of District 7. Together, we highlight practical steps to start telling better local stories—free on-site exclusives for Virginia Beach businesses, weekly mobile visits on Tuesdays, and simple ways to request coverage through nealymedia.com.

Along the way, we spotlight youth development through martial arts and the wider social benefits of disciplined training, mentorship, and belonging. We talk about turning everyday transactions into relationships by revealing the “business behind the business,” and why that kind of context builds trust, supports seniors, and strengthens the local economy. The tone is warm and candid; the mission is clear: people over politics, service over spotlight, and a city that’s ready to see itself—and support itself—more fully.

If you believe local voices deserve a bigger stage, subscribe, share this episode with a neighbor, and leave a review with the name of a small business we should feature next. Your suggestion could be our next story.

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What happens when a decorated Air Force pilot turns his attention to local democracy? Sean Monterio, chairperson for the Virginia Beach Democratic Party Committee and retired Air Force colonel who flew the fearsome A-10 Warthog "tank killer," brings the same precision and purpose to his fight for fair representation in Virginia Beach.

At the heart of our conversation lies the controversial 10-1 referendum - a seemingly technical issue that fundamentally shapes who has power in Virginia's largest city. Monterio breaks down why having council members who live in your neighborhood matters: "They live in your neighborhoods, they drive through your neighborhoods... and you only have one person now to call to advocate for you." This system ensures all communities - not just the wealthy or well-connected - have a voice in decisions about everything from flooding prevention to school funding.

The contrast with the proposed 7-3-1 system reveals what's truly at stake. When three at-large council members could potentially all live in the same zip code, who really gets represented? As Monterio explains, this creates winners and losers among communities, with resources flowing disproportionately to certain areas while others struggle with crumbling infrastructure.

Beyond voting systems, Monterio offers profound insights on community policing, noting that "when you know somebody by their name, you're less apt to be aggressive towards them" - a principle that applies equally to relationships between citizens and their representatives. His perspective as both a military veteran and community leader illuminates how local governance directly impacts quality of life for every resident.

Ready to understand how local democracy really works? This episode delivers practical wisdom for anyone who cares about their community's future. Subscribe now and join the conversation about fair representation!

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Comedy isn't just about making people laugh – it's about processing life's challenges and speaking truths others can't. That's what local comedian Steve Wills discovered after stepping onto the stage for the first time nearly two years ago.

In this revealing conversation with Al Neely, Steve shares how comedy transformed from a simple bucket list item into a therapeutic outlet that helps him navigate life's complexities. Born in Savannah and raised in Mississippi before settling in Virginia Beach after his Navy service, Steve brings a unique Southern perspective to his performances at venues like Funny Bone, where he's participated in their Clash of the Comics and Roast Battle events.

What sets Steve apart is his unwavering authenticity. Despite working as an insurance broker by day, he doesn't shy away from controversial topics or political commentary in his comedy. "If I lose business because of this, then I'm okay with that," he explains, noting that this honesty actually strengthens his connection with audiences who appreciate his genuine approach. Drawing inspiration from comedians like Dave Chappelle, Anthony Jeselnik, and Shane Gillis, Steve embraces an edgier style that might not always play it safe but remains true to his voice.

Perhaps most fascinating is Steve's personal evolution. Growing up in a conservative Christian household in Mississippi, his worldview expanded dramatically after joining the Navy and encountering diverse perspectives. This journey from sheltered upbringing to open-minded comedian offers powerful insights into how exposure to different people and ideas can transform our understanding of the world.

Whether discussing his comedy career, his family (he's a father of four), or his frustrations with current events like the Epstein case, Steve brings refreshing candor to every topic. Follow him on social media @SteveWillsIsFunny to catch his latest performances and thought-provoking posts.

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What happens when your barber becomes more than someone who cuts your hair? For many young men in College Park, Virginia, the chair at Dreams Barbershop has become a confessional, a counselor's office, and ultimately, a lifeline.

Brothers Derek and Dwayne are transforming their neighborhood through an unexpected hub of mentorship and guidance. Derek, who's been cutting hair at the same location since 2007 and became the owner in 2016, noticed something profound happening in his barber chair. Young men were opening up about challenges he never expected to address as a barber – from online predators targeting them through social media to grief over lost friends and the complexities of navigating a digital world their parents never experienced.

"Kids are dealing with stuff that we didn't have to deal with," Derek explains, describing how today's youth face bullying that follows them home through their phones, exposure to violence, and pressure from social media that previous generations never imagined. Where once confrontations happened face-to-face and stayed contained, now they unfold relentlessly online with potentially thousands of witnesses.

Through their Greater Men Foundation, the brothers have expanded beyond barbershop conversations to organize fishing trips, museum visits, and youth gardens. Their recent expedition took nearly 40 kids out fishing – many experiencing it for the first time. Rather than focusing solely on steering young men away from trouble, they're passionate about exposing them to new possibilities and helping them discover purpose early in life.

The foundation represents something deeper about community responsibility. As Derek plans to open a barber school to teach youth valuable trade skills, he's addressing a gap in American education: "They tell you 'go to college, get good grades, get a good job,' but trades are very important." This philosophy isn't just about cutting hair – it's about empowering young people to build sustainable futures in a capitalist economy that rewards entrepreneurship but rarely teaches the skills needed to succeed within it.

Tune in to hear how two brothers are creating ripples of change through relationships built one haircut at a time, and discover how community businesses can become transformative hubs of support and guidance for our most vulnerable youth.

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What happens when a youth in foster care turns 21? Far too often, the answer is devastatingly simple: they receive a garbage bag with their belongings and face immediate homelessness. Without family support or a safety net, these young adults find themselves in crisis with nowhere to turn.

Meet Clara Wilson and Sean Tull from New Vision Youth Services, a nonprofit organization celebrating 16 years of addressing this critical issue. Based in South Norfolk, Chesapeake, they provide comprehensive support to disadvantaged youth ages 13-21 (up to 24 for those in foster care) who lack the family connections most of us take for granted. Through their custom GED program and transitional housing services, they've helped approximately 500 young people since 2022 alone.

The conversation reveals the stark reality behind youth homelessness and the profound wisdom in Clara's powerful question: "Who was in your circle?" Before judging someone struggling to become self-sufficient, she challenges us to consider who helped us succeed—parents, siblings, teachers, mentors—and then imagine having absolutely no one. This perspective shift illuminates why New Vision's work is so crucial in providing that missing support system.

Recent funding cuts have created unprecedented challenges for organizations like New Vision. With the reversal of "Housing First" policies and substantial reductions in federal funding, they've had to adapt quickly while watching other nonprofits close their doors entirely. Despite these obstacles, they remain committed to their mission, emphasizing that even small contributions—like their "$5 Friday" initiative to provide bus passes—can make meaningful differences in young people's lives.

The preventative approach New Vision champions not only transforms individual lives but also prevents the much higher societal costs of incarceration and emergency services that often result when homeless youth turn to desperate measures to survive. Join them at their upcoming 7th Annual Gala in November or visit newvisionyouthservicesinc.org to discover how you can become part of their critical support circle for youth who have no one else.

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Suzanne Richmond's doesn't just understand Virginia Beach—she embodies its spirit. As a native daughter who was raised in the heart of Kempsville, Suzanne brings a unique perspective to her candidacy for Commonwealth Attorney, one shaped by deep community roots and professional expertise.

The daughter of a federal prosecutor, Suzanne grew up in a household where truth was non-negotiable and doing the right thing was expected. These values formed the foundation of her approach to both life and law. With 17 years of legal experience, including significant time as a prosecutor, she carries forward her father's legacy of public service while bringing her own compassionate perspective to the role.

What sets Suzanne apart is her balanced philosophy toward criminal justice. "We can walk and chew gum at the same time," she explains, advocating for tough approaches to violent crime while implementing thoughtful reforms for issues like addiction, mental health, and veterans' needs. Her proposal for a veterans docket reflects this nuanced understanding—recognizing that those who've served our country may need specialized support rather than traditional prosecution when they encounter the justice system.

As a mother of three boys, Suzanne views everything through the lens of parenthood. When she heard a Virginia Beach mother describe her eight-year-old daughter being afraid in their own home due to neighborhood violence, it struck a deep chord. This is precisely why she's running—to ensure every child in Virginia Beach feels safe and protected.

For the first time in twelve years, Virginia Beach voters have a choice for Commonwealth Attorney. Suzanne wants residents to understand that this crucial position isn't appointed or inherited—it's elected by the people. She envisions a prosecutor's office that's accessible, collaborative, and responsive to community needs across all districts of the city.

Ready to learn more? Visit suzanne4vb.com and join Suzanne Richman's campaign to bring a fresh perspective to Virginia Beach's justice system—one that honors our community's values while meeting today's challenges.

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Virginia's housing crisis, education challenges, and tax burdens are crushing everyday families, and Tim Anderson has a plan to tackle them all. Running for delegate in the 97th District, Anderson draws from his previous experience in the General Assembly where he learned that effective governance demands reaching across the aisle.

During his earlier term, Anderson evolved from partisan legislator to becoming "the most bipartisan legislator in the entire General Assembly." This collaborative approach yielded significant victories, including extending the statute of limitations for sexual assault victims and environmental initiatives to improve the Chesapeake Bay. Now he's focused on practical solutions that directly impact Virginia families struggling with affordability.

The heart of Anderson's platform addresses what he's hearing at doorsteps throughout his district: people using credit cards for groceries and unable to afford basic necessities. His bold proposal to eliminate the car tax on vehicles valued under $40,000 would return approximately $1,000 annually to typical households. "Nobody ever has the money. It hits them right in summertime when they want to go on a family vacation," Anderson explains, noting Virginia's consistent budget surplus could fund this relief without cutting essential services.

On housing, Anderson identifies how regulatory burdens incentivize developers to build only high-end homes while creating barriers to affordable housing construction. His education plan focuses on giving parents options within the public school system, allowing children to attend better-performing schools regardless of zip code. For veterans, he champions both tax relief and innovative treatments for PTSD including therapeutic use of psilocybin in clinical settings.

Perhaps most refreshing is Anderson's call to move beyond political tribalization. "We've got to stop talking about each other like we're evil or bad," he insists, advocating for a focus on the 80% of issues where compromise is possible rather than the 20% where fundamental disagreements exist. Visit timforva.com to learn how people-focused politics can make Virginia more affordable and responsive to everyday citizens.

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