In this episode of The Fervent Four Show, hosts Tim Ryan and Zack Miller sit down with Jeff Merritt, Market Vice President of Cox Communications Virginia, for a deep, wide-ranging conversation on innovation, connectivity, workforce evolution, and the future of technology in Hampton Roads.
Merritt shares his roots as a Chesapeake native, his 26-year journey rising through Cox, and how the company has continually reinvented itself from a newspaper founded in 1898 into a national leader in broadband, telecommunications, automotive services, and emerging industries like controlled-environment agriculture and sustainable plastics.
The discussion dives into how Cox prepares its network for massive growth in streaming, connected devices, and two-way communication, including doubling data consumption year over year, COVID-era infrastructure demands, and the company's push toward five-nines reliability. Jeff explains why true innovation requires continuous reinvestment, adaptation, and a commitment to community — from supporting military families to strengthening broadband resiliency.
The conversation also explores workforce shifts, competition in a remote-first hiring world, company culture, leadership vs. management, and why hands-on roles remain essential even as automation and AI accelerate. Merritt also highlights Cox Charities, employee-driven community investment, and the internal culture that fuels long-term success.
If you're interested in big-company innovation, economic development in the 757, the future of connectivity, or what it takes to lead thousands of employees across a complex service ecosystem, this episode delivers a powerful, insider look.
(0:00) Jeff Merritt's background and ESPN partnership challenges
(2:54) Introduction of guest Jeff Merritt
(4:07) Jeff Merritt's upbringing and ties to Hampton Roads
(7:16) Jeff Merritt's career journey at Cox Communications
(9:54) Overview of Cox Enterprises and innovation strategies
(17:27) Technological advancements and AI at Cox Communications
(19:03) Supporting military families and network reliability during COVID
(24:54) Data consumption trends and streaming service rise
(26:07) Connected devices' impact on network traffic
(29:11) Remote communication challenges and company culture
(32:05) Connected device statistics per household
(34:15) Network reliability and restoration efforts
(35:10) The relevance of internet speeds today
(37:04) Enhancing customer service and engagement
(43:17) Workforce evolution and job competition
(45:49) Technology's role in customer interactions and workforce
(47:45) The future role of hands-on employees
(50:01) Data centers and ISP services discussion
(51:34) Differences between managing and leading
(53:43) Company culture and fostering employee relationships
(57:22) Cox Charities and community involvement initiatives
(59:35) Spotlight on local businesses and community projects
(1:01:31) Closing remarks and reflections
- Continuous reinvention and investment in new areas are crucial for long-term business growth and relevance.
- The ability to offer remote work has expanded job opportunities while also increasing competition, emphasizing the need for companies to be employee-centric and progressive.
- A strong company culture that values employee connections and community involvement can significantly enhance team cohesion and overall job satisfaction.
Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.
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