Think Like an Owner

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

In this episode of Think Like an Owner, I sit down with Eric Legvold and Trey Darr of Davinci Jets to explore the business of private aviation management and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services. We dive into how Davinci Jets was built from the ground up, the evolution of private jet management, and why the company has remained profitable every year since its founding. Eric shares how the company pivoted from its original single-seat charter concept to full-service aircraft management, bootstrapping the business while maintaining a lean and disciplined approach to growth. Trey brings insights from his experience in aircraft maintenance and explains how Davinci is balancing fleet management with third-party MRO services, ensuring efficiency while expanding their customer base. We also discuss: Why more Fortune 500 companies are turning to third-party flight management How vertical integration in aviation can reduce costs and increase control The challenges of hiring and scaling in the MRO industry How Davinci has stayed profitable in an industry where many companies struggle If you’re interested in private aviation, business strategy, or the complexities of running a capital-intensive operation, this episode is full of insights from two experienced operators navigating an evolving industry. 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: Davinci Jets Trey Darr on LinkedIn Eric Legvold on LinkedIn Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:03:58) - Starting Davinci Jets (00:09:09) - Growth constraints (00:11:44) - Ventures before Davinci (00:13:46) - The upside to MRO (00:17:31) - Prioritizing your own fleet vs. external customers (00:18:28) - Growth plans (00:20:56) - MRO & Management compliments (00:22;59) - What do you do differently to maintain profitability? (00:27:16) - The Charlotte market (00:29:22) - MRO Growth (00:31:46) - Process improvements (00:33:30) - Market growth (00:40:29) - The slowdown in Jet Cards (00:43:35) - What are you most excited about in the industry?

David Neeleman is a legendary aviation entrepreneur known for founding JetBlue and Breeze Airways. He shares insights on building customer-obsessed airlines, emphasizing the importance of exceptional service and hiring great people. David discusses the significance of effective communication in team dynamics and the challenges of navigating profitability in a competitive market. He recounts a personal flight experience that shaped his views on the industry and offers valuable advice for aspiring CEOs in aviation and beyond.

Discover the essential steps for effective interviewing and the importance of defining clear job expectations. Learn how to establish critical first-year goals for leadership roles through a fascinating case study. Explore the evolving role of CEOs in talent acquisition and the significance of cultural alignment. Gain insights into crafting culture-driven interview questions that reflect organizational values. Finally, uncover strategies for closing candidates with transparency and peer interaction to enhance decision-making.