This live stream features Gregory Q. Jenkins, founder and CEO of Quintasia Studios, interviewing Donvil Collins, founder and CEO of VeeKast, on the Quintasia podcast. The conversation explores Collins’ inspiring entrepreneurial journey from a 13-year-old church TV producer to running a 30-person media company. The discussion covers key business lessons, including the importance of staying curious, asking questions, and pivoting during challenges. Collins shares how COVID-19 forced his company to reinvent itself, leading to significant growth through virtual event production services.

Guest Biography:
Donvil Collins is the founder and CEO of VeeKast, a media production company specializing in engaging emotions through video production and audio-visual event services. Collins started his journey at age 13 when he became a certified TV producer for his church’s television program. He registered his business while in college and has grown it into a team of nearly 30 people, with 10 core employees and 20 project-based contractors. Collins is known for his expertise in nonprofit event production and corporate video work, having transitioned away from wedding videography early in his career.

Key Topics Discussed:

Early Career and Unexpected Opportunities

Collins’ story demonstrates how curiosity and readiness can lead to unexpected opportunities. His journey began when his church needed a TV producer and he volunteered at age 13. By staying curious and asking questions while observing the previous producer, he positioned himself for success. This early experience taught him the value of being present and inquisitive, leading to his eventual role as head of a 20-person broadcasting team reaching 100 million viewers worldwide before he turned 18.

Business Pivoting and Adaptation Strategies

The conversation highlights the critical importance of business pivoting, particularly during COVID-19. Collins transformed his company from primarily in-person video production to virtual event services. He emphasized the power of asking clients direct questions about their pain points and challenges. This approach led to the development of “Vert Event Pro,” a virtual event production service that more than doubled his company’s revenue and established them as a leading provider nationwide.

The Psychology of Business Urgency

Collins shared a powerful lesson about operating with urgency and necessity. When his wife left her job and he became the sole income provider, his business income more than doubled within a year. This experience taught him to “run your business like it’s the last day” – functioning with the mindset that survival depends on maximum effort. He stressed that when entrepreneurs think they’re doing enough, they’re typically not pushing hard enough.

Client Relationship and Value Creation

The discussion emphasized building deep client relationships through understanding their emotional needs. VCast positions itself as experts at “engaging emotions through media,” particularly for nonprofits and corporate events. Collins highlighted receiving thank-you messages from clients whose gala attendees were moved to tears, demonstrating the company’s success in creating emotionally impactful experiences that drive results and client loyalty.

Team Building and Accountability Systems

Collins stressed the importance of surrounding yourself with people who hold you accountable and keep you grounded. He specifically mentioned his wife and first employee Daniel as individuals who provide straightforward, unfiltered feedback. The company maintains a clear vision board and video explanation for all new hires, ensuring team buy-in to long-term goals. This approach helps employees self-correct and work toward shared objectives without constant management oversight.