Épisodes

  • Crisis Management and Culture: Lessons from the FBI

    Crisis Management and Culture: Lessons from the FBI
    Jul 23 2025
    Amy Grubb, organizational development specialist at the FBI joins the Cross-Check to share her journey from psychology to the FBI, the culture of integrity within the Bureau, and the challenges of changing organizational culture post-9/11. Amy shares insights on the importance of communication skills in high-pressure environments like aviation, the significance of listening in crew resource management, and lessons in crisis communication from her FBI experience. The conversation also touches on defining organizational culture, identifying misalignment, and improving employee retention in the aviation industry. Amy concludes by discussing her consultancy, Organizational Insights, and the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Cross Check Podcast 00:08 Amy Grubb's Journey from Psychology to the FBI 01:54 Culture and Integrity at the FBI 03:51 Post 9/11 Challenges and Cultural Shifts 05:12 Transitioning from FBI to Aviation 07:55 Communication Skills in High-Pressure Aviation Environments 10:56 The Importance of Listening in Aviation 14:23 Crisis Communication Lessons from the FBI 14:53 Leading in a Crisis 18:41 Organizational Culture: The Real Story 21:09 Identifying Organizational Culture 23:47 Traits of Effective Leaders 25:50 Employee Retention Strategies 27:27 Personal Achievements and Professional Insights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    35 min
  • Flying Private, Serving Smart: Inside the Life of a Cabin Attendant

    Flying Private, Serving Smart: Inside the Life of a Cabin Attendant
    Jul 10 2025
    In this episode of The Cross Check, hosts Rob Hoffman and Ian Lumpp welcome Lauren Baum, a seasoned cabin attendant, blogger and consultant at Cabin in the Sky. Lauren shares her journey from a background in hospitality to becoming a mentor and resource for aspiring cabin attendants. The conversation explores the differences between 135 and 91 operations, the essential qualities of a great cabin attendant, and the importance of networking and personal branding in the aviation industry. Lauren also discusses her consultancy services, the evolving role of cabin attendants, and the balance between safety and service in private aviation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lauren Baum and Her Journey 05:21 The Differences Between Part 91 and 135 Operations 07:45 Qualities of a Great Cabin Attendant 10:05 The Vision Behind Cabins in the Sky 13:55 Sharing Stories and Building a Personal Brand 19:18 Adapting to Different Environments 20:28 Qualities of an Ideal Cabin Attendant 22:55 Balancing Service and Safety 24:33 Steps to Enter the Aviation Industry 27:12 Consultancy Services for Aspiring Flight Attendants 28:25 Rapid Fire Questions and Memorable Experiences Cabin In The Sky: https://cabinsinthesky.mykajabi.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    29 min
  • Winging It: Lessons in Aviation and Entrepreneurship

    Winging It: Lessons in Aviation and Entrepreneurship
    Jul 3 2025
    On this episode of The Cross-Check, we sit down with Sameer Romani, a seasoned bizav veteran with only five years of industry experience underneath his belt. A commercial rated pilot who went from teaching systems at Mesa Airlines to dabbling in venture capital and launching his own startup, EssenceJet, Sameer’s story is anything but linear. Sameer talks about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, what it’s really like to build something from scratch in this industry, and why mentorship is more than just a buzzword. These days, Sameer is focused on winglets and as it turns out, those little upturned fins on the end of airplane wings are big business and a lot more important than they look. He breaks down how this winglet tech is boosting fuel efficiency and helping aviation take baby steps toward sustainability. While Sameer's business aviation path is unique, his story is both inspiring and educational. Chapters: 00:00 Sameer Romani's Aviation Journey 02:48 Transitioning to Venture Capital 14:09 Teaching at Mesa Airlines 16:55 Founding EssenceJet 19:46 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations 19:52 Meeting Gary Dunn and the Introduction to Winglets 20:33 Understanding Winglets and Their Impact 21:26 The Evolution of Winglet Design 24:05 Performance Benefits of Winglets 26:02 Current Applications and Future of Winglets 27:46 Common Misconceptions About Winglets 28:47 The Importance of Mentorship 29:08 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 31:43 Persistence in Business and Networking 36:38 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Opportunities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 min
  • First Impressions Matter: Rethinking the FBO Experience

    First Impressions Matter: Rethinking the FBO Experience
    Jun 25 2025
    In this episode of The Cross-Check, we sit down with David Buritica, Director of Global Sales Program at Signature Aviation, to explore the evolving role of FBOs in today’s business aviation landscape. David shares his personal journey into the industry and breaks down why FBOs aren’t just fuel stops -- they’re often the first and last impression a customer gets. From redefining customer experience to driving local economic impact, we cover it all. David also gives us a closer look at Signature’s BRAVO initiative, which is focused on leveling the playing field for smaller operators. Plus, a thoughtful discussion on why mentorship and education are key to keeping the industry thriving. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Business Aviation and FBOs 02:09 David Buritica's Journey in Aviation 03:51 The Essence of a Great FBO Experience 05:36 Evolving Customer Expectations in Aviation 07:09 The Economic Impact of FBOs on Communities 10:30 The Importance of Education and Advocacy in Aviation 12:18 Signature Aviation's Bravo Initiative 17:42 Building Loyalty Through Direct Communication 21:43 David Buritica: A Leader in Aviation 27:30 Investing in Future Leaders at Signature Aviation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 min
  • Cleared for All: Inclusion, Mentorship, and the Power of Purpose

    Cleared for All: Inclusion, Mentorship, and the Power of Purpose
    Jun 12 2025
    Antonio Ferrara, the Director of Quality Control and Aircraft Appearance at Talon Air joins The Cross-Check to share his lifelong journey in aviation, the importance of mentorship, and his commitment to advocating for autism inclusion in the workforce. He discusses his experiences with mentors, his role as a mentor to others, and the founding of Aviators for Autism, an organization aimed at bridging the gap between the aviation industry and neurodiverse individuals. The conversation highlights the potential for inclusion in aviation and the broader workforce, emphasizing the need for awareness and proactive measures to create opportunities for all. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Antonio Ferrara and His Journey 03:59 The Role of Mentorship in Aviation 07:00 Becoming a Mentor: Antonio's Commitment to Others 08:57 Advocacy for Autism Inclusion in Aviation 12:43 Founding Aviators for Autism: A New Mission 13:18 The Response to Advocacy and Outreach Efforts 16:16 Building Relationships for Inclusion 18:27 Expanding Beyond Aviation 20:17 Understanding the Spectrum of Abilities 20:34 Education and Awareness in Aviation 22:50 Overcoming Stigmas in Aviation Careers 24:09 Creating Opportunities for Youth 24:53 Mental Health and Autism Advocacy 26:12 Vision for the Future of Aviation Inclusion Visit Aviators for Autism at www.aviatorsforautism.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 min
  • The Pilot Pipeline: Training for Tomorrow’s Business Aviation

    The Pilot Pipeline: Training for Tomorrow’s Business Aviation
    May 28 2025
    With a family background in commercial aviation, JK Kenworthy was groomed from an early age to follow a path to the skies. But pilot training is what has truly kept him grounded in his current role as Sales Director for the Americas at CAE. JK joins Ian Lumpp and Rob Hoffman on The Cross-Check to share his thoughts on the current challenges in pilot training along with the innovations shaping the future of business aviation. They explore the dynamics of workforce demand, the impact of technology on training, and the importance of networking and sustainability in the industry. JK shares insights on CAE's competitive edge and the evolving landscape of aviation training, including the potential of advanced air mobility. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Business Aviation and JK Kenworthy 02:27 Career Path and Transition to CAE 04:48 Current Landscape of Pilot Demand 11:20 Challenges in Business Aviation 12:54 Technological Advancements in Training 15:11 Future of Business Aviation and Workforce Development 23:24 The Importance of Training in Aviation 26:16 Networking and Building Connections in Aviation 27:43 Future of Training and Technological Advancements Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 min
  • Breaking Barriers: Women in Aviation with Cat Wren

    Breaking Barriers: Women in Aviation with Cat Wren
    May 9 2025
    In this episode of The Cross-Check, we interview Cat Wren, VP at ENG Organ Recovery, who shares her journey from being a college basketball captain to bizav leader. Cat discusses her passion for aviation, the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry, and her commitment to servant leadership. She highlights the importance of mentorship, especially for women in aviation, and shares insights on the current state of the industry. Cat also elaborates on ENG Aviation's mission in organ transport and her vision for the future of the company. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kat Wren and Her Journey 03:58 From Sports to Aviation: Kat's Unique Path 07:43 Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry 11:41 The Mission of ENG Aviation 15:45 The Importance of Organ Transport in Aviation 31:13 Leadership Style and Servant Leadership 35:10 Advice for Aspiring Professionals 39:09 Future Plans for ENG Aviation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    29 min
  • Do You Really Need a Business Jet? The Art of Aircraft Acquisition

    Do You Really Need a Business Jet? The Art of Aircraft Acquisition
    Apr 25 2025
    In the latest episode of The Cross-Check, Rob Hoffman and Ian Lumpp sit down with Michael Barber, Regional VP of Sales & Acquisitions at Leviate Air Group, to talk about why entrance into private aviation isn’t just about luxury, it’s about leverage. We dig into: ▶️ Why a business jet is ultimately a time-saving tool ▶️ The emotional and strategic layers behind aircraft acquisitions ▶️ How Michael tailors the process to client psychology and business goals ▶️ The current market pulse and what’s next in bizav Whether you're in the deal-making seat or just curious about what moves the world of private aviation, this episode was meant for you. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Michael Barber and His Journey 04:01 Understanding the Aircraft Sales Process 08:18 Common Misconceptions in Aircraft Ownership 10:41 The Emotional Aspect of Buying a Jet 12:49 The Sovereign Jet: A Case Study 15:51 Navigating High Net Worth Personalities 22:46 Building Trust and Closing Deals 26:18 Future Trends in Business Aviation 28:36 Innovating Relationships in Aviation 32:59 The Importance of Personal Connections 37:11 Rapid Fire Fun: Travel and Aviation Preferences Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 min