Richard Asp
Serial Entrepreneur | Problem Solver | Lifelong Learner
At 77, I'm not slowing down—I'm diving into AI and building solutions that matter.
About Me
At 77, I'm proof that curiosity and courage don't have an expiration date. My journey from chemistry labs to AI development spans six decades of continuous learning and adaptation.
From my cPanel days - where I discovered my greatest joy comes from helping others master technology
From Chemistry to Innovation
My foundation began with a chemistry degree and Army service—disciplines that taught me precision, problem-solving, and the value of systematic thinking. These skills became the bedrock for everything that followed.
Breaking Ground in Real Estate
In the 1980s, I joined my father's real estate company and spotted an opportunity that would change everything. I pioneered the first Fannie Mae tax-exempt securities project—a breakthrough that opened new financing pathways for affordable housing. This wasn't just about business; it was about creating solutions that helped people achieve their dreams.
The Web Awakening
When I discovered the internet through Total Gym's first website, I saw the future. The web wasn't just technology—it was a new way to connect, serve, and build. This moment of recognition would shape the next three decades of my career.
Building AOSoft: From Zero to Success
I started AOSoft.com with nothing but determination and a vision. We grew to serve 450 customers managing over 1,100 domains—not through aggressive marketing, but by solving real problems and building genuine relationships. When we sold the company, it wasn't just a business exit; it was validation that helping others creates lasting value.
Nine Years at cPanel: The Learning Chapter
At cPanel, I dove deep into software development, technical support, and training. I learned Agile methodologies, taught others, and discovered that my greatest satisfaction comes from helping people succeed. These years reinforced my core belief: technology should serve people, not the other way around.
Current Chapter: AI and SilverSupport
Now, at 77, I'm diving into artificial intelligence and developing SilverSupport—a platform designed to help seniors navigate the digital world with confidence. I'm not slowing down; I'm accelerating into the future, using technology to bridge generational gaps and create meaningful connections.
Beyond Business: Family and Faith
My 58-year marriage and two successful daughters remind me daily that the greatest achievements aren't measured in dollars or deals. My Christian faith and church leadership work keep me grounded in what truly matters—serving others and building community.
My Philosophy
I'm a helper, not a hustler. I'm motivated by solving problems and helping people succeed, not by accumulating wealth. I've learned that the best opportunities come from spotting patterns early, staying curious, and having the courage to try new things—even when they seem impossible.
Today, I'm combining decades of business experience with cutting-edge AI technology to create solutions that matter. Because at 77, I'm not done learning, growing, or making a difference.
Experience
Four decades of spotting opportunities and building solutions
First Fannie Mae Tax-Exempt Securities Project
In the early 1980s, when commercial mortgage rates soared above 20%, I initiated and developed the very first Fannie Mae tax-exempt securities backed multi-family mortgage project in the United States. This groundbreaking financial instrument provided a solution when traditional financing was nearly impossible.
Impact:
This distinction opened doors to similar projects across the country, establishing a new pathway for affordable housing development during one of the most challenging interest rate environments in modern history.
Created an entirely new financial product category
Built and Sold AOSoft.com
After discovering the potential of websites while working at Total Gym, I took a leap of faith and started AOSoft.com in 1996. I built the web hosting company from absolute zero to 450 customers hosting over 1,100 domains—during the early days of the commercial internet.
The Journey:
Eight years of learning everything from customer service to server management, building systems, and growing a real business in an industry that was being invented as we went along.
The Exit:
Successfully sold the company for significant value, proving that with persistence and customer focus, you can build something valuable from nothing.
First successful exit - learned what it takes to build and scale a technology business
Technical Mastery & Teaching at cPanel
After selling AOSoft, I wanted to deepen my technical knowledge, so I joined cPanel—the leading web hosting control panel company. Over nine years, I worked in Technical Support, Customer Support, and Technical Training.
What I Learned:
Deep exposure to Agile development processes, software development lifecycle, and the art of teaching complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. Discovered my passion for helping others solve problems and learn new skills.
Teaching Impact:
Trained hundreds of customers and colleagues, developing training programs that made complex hosting concepts accessible to beginners.
Mastered the intersection of technology and human communication
AI Explorer at 77
In this latest chapter, I'm diving headfirst into artificial intelligence and exploring what I call "vibe coding"—using AI tools to solve real problems without traditional programming expertise. My current focus is SilverSupport, a project designed to test whether a non-coder can build meaningful solutions using AI assistance.
The Experiment:
Can decades of business experience, combined with AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Cursor, create valuable software solutions? The early results are promising.
Philosophy:
Age is just a number when curiosity and determination drive you forward.
Proving that reinvention and learning are possible at any age
Recognition & Press Coverage
External validation of a lifetime of innovation
"Richard Asp Named SOM"
Early recognition for leadership and excellence during military service, establishing a pattern of achievement that would continue throughout Richard's career.
Fannie Mae Financing Coverage
Regional press coverage of Richard's groundbreaking tax-exempt securities project, highlighting the innovative solution that opened new pathways for housing development nationwide.
Current Projects
I'm just getting started with AI
SilverSupport
A platform designed to help seniors navigate the digital world with confidence, bridging generational gaps through AI-assisted technology.
Mission:
Testing whether decades of business experience, combined with AI tools, can create meaningful software solutions without traditional programming expertise.
Vibe Coding
Exploring the intersection of AI assistance and natural language programming - creating solutions through conversation and intuition rather than traditional coding.
Innovation:
Developing a new approach to software creation that leverages AI tools to translate business experience into functional solutions.
AI Learning Platform
A comprehensive platform to help others learn AI tools and techniques, sharing knowledge gained through hands-on experimentation.
Vision:
Creating accessible learning resources that demystify AI technology and empower others to explore its potential, regardless of age or technical background.
Personal
The foundation that guides everything else
Family & Faith
58 Years of Marriage
I've been married to my incredible wife for 58 years—madly in love and grateful for every day. Together, we raised two daughters who have become independent, successful women of faith. Our family is my greatest achievement and source of joy.
Faith Foundation
My Christian faith guides every decision I make. Daily prayer and Bible reading aren't just habits—they're the compass that keeps me grounded. I've served as a church elder and find deep fulfillment in one-on-one discipleship, helping other men grow in their faith journey.
Life Philosophy
My motivation has always been simple: help people, not make money. While I understand the need for financial success, what drives me is making a positive difference in others' lives, one conversation at a time.
Sarasota Lifestyle
Life in Paradise
Based in beautiful Sarasota, Florida, where the coastal lifestyle perfectly matches my approach to life—relaxed but purposeful, sophisticated but approachable. The beauty of this place reminds me daily to appreciate the good things in life.
Staying Active
In this stage of life, I'm more curious and engaged than ever. Whether I'm exploring AI, working on SilverSupport, or mentoring others, I believe the best chapters are still being written.
Let's Connect
Coffee's always on in Sarasota
The Invitation
I'm a one-on-one person who believes the best conversations happen over coffee. Whether you're curious about entrepreneurship, interested in AI exploration, or just want to chat about life's adventures, I'd love to hear from you.
My goal is simple: After visiting this site, I want you to think, "I'd like to have coffee with Richard—he seems like a real person."
Contact Information
Preferred Contact: Email for initial contact, then let's set up a time to talk.
What to Expect
- Genuine conversation about your interests and challenges
- Practical insights from 50+ years of entrepreneurship
- Encouragement to pursue your own curious pursuits
- Coffee (or tea) and good company