12/06/2025
In 2023 I was a truck driver.
In 2025 I’m running an AI-powered software + events company, teaching workshops, and growing a community here in Hampton Roads and beyond.
The difference?
A mindset shift about AI, coding, and community.
In this video I break down:
Why I embraced AI instead of fearing it
How “vibe coding” with tools like ChatGPT actually supports my business
The exact way I used in-person networking, events, and volunteering to land my first real clients
Why becoming the “tech + community person” in your city can change your career
How Digital Builders went from an idea to a real AI company with clients, workshops, and a growing community
If you’re learning to code in the age of AI (or thinking about starting your own tech company), I want this video to encourage you to raise your hand, show up in real life, and build with what you have.
🔧 Tools I Mention
v0 / vZero – my go-to for fast front-end builds and MVPs
Cursor – where I handle backends, databases, auth, and more with AI-assisted coding
ChatGPT & other AI tools – for vibe coding, prototypes, and speeding up client work
(Not sponsored — just what I actually use every day.)
👥 Work With Me / Join the Community
🌐 My company site: https://digitalbuilders757.com/
📅 1:1 Coaching / Strategy Calls: https://calendly.com/lionel-thebldrs/1-on-1-ai-tech-mentorship?back=1&month=2025-12
💬 Discord https://discord.gg/SJxPHm75
🚀 Upcoming
We’ve got a pitch competition on January 17th here in Hampton Roads with $500 for the winner 🏆
If you’re local (or willing to travel), hop in the Discord or follow on IG so you don’t miss the details.
Timestamps (optional – add after upload)
0:00 – Intro / Who I am
0:25 – From truck driver to AI founder
1:15 – Why I doubled down on AI and vibe coding
2:10 – How in-person networking built my client base
3:15 – Tools I actually use (v0, Cursor, AI)
3:40 – Community invites + pitch competition
