Think Like an Owner

In this conversation, Dave Whorton, founder of Tugboat Institute and author of Another Way, shares his insights on building evergreen companies that prioritize permanence and purpose. He discusses why he transitioned from a career in venture capital to focus on long-term, sustainable growth. Dave highlights the seven core values of evergreen businesses and the importance of family governance. He also explains how purpose-driven companies can outperform others and offers strategies for fostering multi-generational success in business.

My guest today is Henry Schuck, founder and CEO at ZoomInfo, one of the most successful data businesses in recent times with a market cap today around $12B. I've been looking forward to this podcast for a long time because Henry has proven to be an effective founder, acquirer, and public CEO capital allocator, which is a rare combination of skills to find in a single CEO. He's thought very deeply about building high performing organizations, sales functions, and how his own role needs to evolve as the company grows. We talk through lessons learned building vs acquiring capabilities, M&A and integration lessons learned, fixing problems with a process vs culture approach, and how data businesses will succeed in the future Listen weekly and follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Breaker, and TuneIn. Learn more about Alex and Think Like an Owner at https://tlaopodcast.com/ I want to tell you about the audience survey we are currently running. These surveys help us create the best content for listeners and better understand your needs and interests. Thank you in advance for sharing your feedback, we greatly appreciate it. Take the survey here: https://bit.ly/3QLBB1N Links: Zoominfo Henry on X Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:03:49) - What would you focus on if you were running Boeing? (00:07:26) - How have you seen other CEOs solve culture vs. process problems? (00:12:47) - How do you approach hiring? (00:20:28) - How can you incentivize employees to buy into company values? (00:23:11) - What have you learned working with investors and other CEOs to be a great founder and M&A executive? (00:26:52) - How do you incorporate new tools or partners into Zoominfo? (00:33:53) - What have you learned about integrating acquired companies? (00:36:24) - How do you get a conviction when doing due diligence on a potential acquisition? (00:38:49) - What skills around M&A are you looking to improve? (00:41:19) - How will data companies in the future succeed? This episode was originally released on April 9th, 2024

In this engaging conversation, aviation expert Erika Armstrong reveals the hurdles facing new pilots, including high washout rates and evolving training methods. She shares insights into the declining respect for pilots due to low pay and lack of amenities. Armstrong emphasizes the need for mentorship in nurturing the next generation, particularly women. The discussion also highlights strategies to rekindle community interest in aviation through fun, family-friendly events, while addressing the environmental challenges facing the industry today.

In this engaging discussion, Erika Armstrong, a seasoned pilot and aviation expert, shares her captivating journey from corporate jets to major airlines. She highlights the evolution of aviation safety and training, emphasizing the shift towards real-world decision-making skills for pilots. Erika also discusses the impact of technology on flying, the need to inspire future aviators, and how simple community initiatives could reignite interest in aviation. Her passion shines through as she sheds light on the challenges and opportunities facing the next generation of pilots.

The podcast delves into how AI is revolutionizing the distribution sector, enhancing efficiency and decision-making with tools like ChatGPT. It emphasizes the necessity for agile responses to market changes. Additionally, it examines AI’s role in simplifying software needs while pushing for rapid assessments. Wearable technology is also discussed, showcasing its advantages in unobtrusive data collection, which boosts personal awareness and decision-making.

Kathryn Poehling Seymour, President and CEO of First Supply, leads a fifth-generation distribution giant with over 700 employees. She shares her journey of taking the helm during COVID and the challenges of transitioning to a centralized distribution model. The discussion includes the integration of AI for operational efficiency and evolving customer expectations shaped by e-commerce. Kathryn also highlights the importance of family governance and relationships in a multigenerational business, offering insights into thoughtful leadership and cultural alignment.

Hill Hamrick, a guest speaker and leadership expert, dives into the art of relentless prioritization and effective leadership. He stresses the importance of setting clear, unified goals for teams and evaluates the impact of technology on decision-making. The discussion highlights the structured IDS process for tackling issues, ensuring focus on strategic objectives. Hamrick also reflects on the significance of time management, urging listeners to reconsider their priorities in the context of life's brevity, ultimately aiming to enhance both personal and professional fulfillment.

In this discussion, Hill Hamrick, Co-CEO of Central Storage & Warehouse, shares insights from running a high-volume cold storage operation. He emphasizes the importance of trust with frontline employees and lessons learned from the Marine Corps, particularly the difference between wartime and peacetime leadership. Hill discusses using data for decision-making and the need for decentralized problem-solving. He delves into scaling culture and priorities while maintaining operational efficiency, all while navigating the complexities of their dynamic business.

From Episode 262 of Think Like an Owner. Watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Think Like an Owner, I sit down with Trey Bryson, an aviation industry veteran with deep experience across business aviation, commercial MRO, and aircraft completions. Trey shares how his career has spanned everything from customizing luxury VIP jets—including designing in-air hot tubs and modular gyms—to founding Jet Works, an independent MRO business. We dive into: The major differences between commercial and business aviation maintenance How speed and efficiency drive profitability in aircraft operations The complexities of aircraft modifications, from dance floors to structural repairs Lessons learned from building and selling an MRO business through economic downturns Trey also offers advice for ambitious CEOs, emphasizing the importance of financial strategy, team-building, and adapting to industry shifts. Whether you're in aviation or simply love hearing how businesses are built and scaled, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and hard-earned wisdom. Listen weekly and follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Breaker, and TuneIn. Learn more about Alex and Think Like an Owner at https://tlaopodcast.com/ Links: Aviation Technical Services Trey on LinkedIn Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:02:18) - Trey's Career Journey in Aviation (00:03:47) - Differences Between Business and Commercial Aviation (00:06:02) - Unique Requests in Aircraft Interiors + Challenges and Innovations in Aircraft Maintenance (00:36:57) - The Impact of Economic Downturn on Business Aviation (00:46:25) - Advice for Ambitious CEOs (00:47:34) - Conclusion