25 Jul 2025

The Dream, Struggle and Victory with Donvil Collins | Episode #221

This live stream episode of the Master Connector Show focused on achieving success through vision, resilience, and community support. Hosts Rob Genovesi and Steve Spiro interviewed Donvil Collins, CEO of VeeKast, about navigating the journey from dream to victory. The discussion emphasized the importance of writing down clear visions, maintaining momentum during struggles, building strong support systems, and expressing gratitude for those who help along the way. Collins shared personal experiences about growing his video production company, including how he leveraged opportunities during COVID-19 to triple his business.

 

Guest Biography:
Donvil Collins is the CEO of VeeKast, a video production company. He started his first tech business at age 12 and became the youngest certified TV producer at BronxNet. With over 25 years of production experience, he has collaborated with top commercial brands, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations, broadcasting to over 80 million viewers. Collins is a recipient of the 40 under 40 Rising Star Award and 914 Inc. Wunderkind Award. He holds a BA in film and video and serves as a youth leader, musician, and production director at his church. He is married with four children.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Power of Written Vision

Writing down your dreams and visions creates clarity for both leaders and their teams. Collins shared how a drawing he made as a teenager of his future company, preserved by his mother, now hangs in his office to guide every team member. This written vision helps with decision-making because when goals are clear, team members can evaluate opportunities against the bigger picture without constant leadership input.

Building Resilience During Struggles

Success requires embracing difficulties as necessary steps toward achievement. The key is making your vision big enough to overshadow inevitable challenges. When facing setbacks, focus on what you can control rather than external circumstances. Collins emphasized that great things require great sacrifice, and the struggle makes eventual victory more meaningful.

Recognizing and Creating Momentum

Identify current market demands and position yourself to serve urgent needs. Collins demonstrated this during COVID-19 when major contracts disappeared, but he pivoted by asking clients about their biggest problems. This approach led to 3x business growth by riding the wave of new opportunities. Success favors speed – keep moving and adjust direction rather than stopping to overthink.

The Critical Role of Support Systems

Your inner circle provides essential perspective and accountability during both struggles and success. Collins credited his wife with supporting him through early financial difficulties and later recognizing when he was heading toward burnout. Strong support systems offer honest feedback, emotional stability, and help maintain focus on the vision when leaders become overwhelmed.

Expressing Authentic Gratitude

Genuine appreciation for supporters involves emotional honesty and regular acknowledgment of their contributions. People who truly care about your success value heartfelt thanks more than material rewards. Gratitude also prevents leaders from developing ego and reminds them that success comes through blessings and community support, not individual achievement alone.