
Think Like an Owner
Exploring how the most ambitious CEOs grow great companies. Each week we dive into the strategies and tactics that build transformative businesses with the operators doing it firsthand. Learn more at https://tlaopodcast.com/
Latest episodes

8 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 9min
Cory Bengtzen on Customer Journeys and Aircraft Management in Private Aviation
In this discussion, Cory Bengtzen, an expert in private aviation, explores the intricate world of customer journeys. He outlines various options such as charter, fractional, and full ownership, revealing how different flying habits influence client choices. The conversation then shifts to the pros and cons of fractional versus full ownership, emphasizing the convenience of fractional options like reduced maintenance responsibilities while highlighting the owner's role in decision-making. A must-listen for aviation enthusiasts!
6 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 44min
The Economics of Flying Private - Cory Bengtzen - Ep. 256
Cory Bengtzen, Founder and CEO of SkyShare, shares his thrilling journey from the auto industry to the skies. He discusses the economics of private aviation, revealing the secrets behind his vertically integrated business model. Hear about his adventures ferrying aircraft for a TV show, and the challenges of navigating complex private aviation transactions. Cory emphasizes the practical benefits of private flying for business efficiency and explains how strategic acquisitions fuel growth in the aviation sector.

22 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 11min
Savneet Singh on Equity Comp and Incentives
Savneet Singh, an expert in equity compensation and incentive programs, dives into the strategic use of these incentives in modern workplaces. He discusses how evolving compensation structures can help attract and retain talent. The conversation highlights board dynamics in shaping equity plans amid industry pressures. Singh also explores innovative models like phantom equity and aligning performance metrics with bonuses, emphasizing the need for targeted goals to enhance organizational success.
57 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 56min
Savneet Singh - Urgency and Culture - EP.255
Savneet Singh, CEO of PAR Technology, shares his expertise on urgency and organizational culture. He reveals how creating a sense of urgency drives decision-making and aligns teams. The discussion covers innovative compensation models that retain talent and ensure culture evolves effectively. Savneet also dives into M&A strategies, emphasizing synergy through product integration, and discusses lessons learned from design missteps. Plus, he highlights the role of AI and data in shaping the future of PAR.

4 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 8min
Internal Communication Best Practices & Aligning Leadership Teams - Tim Wade
Tim Wade, an expert in aviation safety and communication, shares his insights on enhancing internal communication within diverse workforce environments. He discusses the importance of tailoring safety messages using innovative channels like video and audio to engage all generations. Additionally, Wade emphasizes the critical need for visual aids in aviation training, underlining their role in facilitating safety and understanding between pilots and maintenance crews. Collaboration between safety teams and leadership is key to implementing effective safety protocols.
7 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 40min
Tim Wade - Ensuring Safety at FlexJet - EP.254
In this engaging discussion, Tim Wade, Director of Environmental Health and Safety at FlexJet, shares his expertise in aviation safety and the evolution of industry standards. He highlights the drastic improvements in safety protocols since the 60s and emphasizes the shift towards a resource-oriented approach. Tim dives into the significance of effective communication, innovative technology for safety enhancement, and the importance of aligning leadership teams with safety goals. His insights on the challenges faced by safety teams and the role of historical lessons are both enlightening and thought-provoking.
38 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 1h 10min
M&A Highlights from Ambitious CEOs - EP.253
Roland Lessard and Tom Klein, Co-CEOs of Morningside, share invaluable M&A strategies focused on value creation and leveraging debt. Jeff Homer, CEO of Ensemble, discusses successful roll-up strategies and brand integration. Henry Schuck, founder of ZoomInfo, offers expert insights on M&A in the software industry, emphasizing team transition and integration. Together, they explore the complexities of M&A success, integration strategies, and the practical aspects of structuring deals and managing client relationships.

9 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 48min
Savneet Singh - Leading a Public Turnaround at PAR Technology - Ep.252 [Replay]
Savneet Singh, the CEO of PAR Technology, is known for his impressive turnaround of the publicly traded company. He reveals insights on managing crises in leadership, emphasizing urgency and adaptability. Savneet discusses innovative incentive models and the importance of structured communication within teams. He highlights his evolving view on mergers and acquisitions and stresses the core role of education in leading effectively. His unique management techniques foster a collaborative and data-driven corporate culture, essential for navigating software transformations.

Nov 26, 2024 • 58min
Richard Emery - Building Private Jet Sales Teams - EP.251
Richard Emery, a veteran of business aviation sales, has held prestigious roles at Canadair, Bombardier, Gulfstream, and Hawker Beechcraft. He shares insights on structuring high-performing sales teams and the nuances of selling private jets to unique clients. Richard dives into the importance of understanding customer motivations and emphasizes servant leadership as a way to empower teams. His engaging anecdotes and practical advice offer valuable lessons for CEOs and anyone interested in optimizing sales strategies in competitive industries.

Nov 19, 2024 • 58min
Craig Fuller - Acquiring Flying Magazine and Building a Media Playbook - Ep.250 [Replay]
Craig Fuller, founder of FreightWaves and recent acquirer of Flying Magazine, shares his remarkable journey from a family trucking business to the forefront of media and data in freight. He delves into the birth of FreightWaves, discussing the vital role of unique content and networking in building a successful media brand. Fuller reveals his plans to revitalize Flying Magazine, emphasizing the significance of engaging storytelling in today’s digital landscape and the important balance between journalism and marketing.