The Gstaad Guy Podcast Steve Varsano: Founder of The Jet Business – Aviation, Entrepreneurship, Corporate Jets, & The Art of the Deal
Sep 10, 2025
Steve Varsano, the founder of The Jet Business, shares his unique journey in corporate aviation, from lobbying to closing high-stakes deals. He highlights the transition from friendship to business, emphasizing the importance of authentic connections. The podcast dives into the art of negotiation and the shift towards educating clients in a changing market landscape. Varsano discusses the evolving demographics of corporate jet owners and the influence of ego in business, offering valuable lessons on personal branding and building relationships in this exclusive industry.
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Humble Start To Aviation Passion
- Steve Varsano paid for flying lessons by working as a dishwasher and saving one-hour lessons at age 14.
- That childhood exposure sparked a lifelong aviation career from lobbying to sales.
First Jet Sale Turned Dangerous
- Steve sold his first jet, a $3.2M Westwind II, at 24 and faced a violent extortion attempt midflight.
- He escaped in Miami and kept selling despite the terrifying initiation into jet sales.
Corporate Jets, Not Personal Toys
- Corporate jets are largely owned by companies using special-purpose entities, not individuals.
- Most flights serve employees; true personal use is under 10%.