Riding the Currents: Mike Giordano’s Path Without a Compass

Michael Giordano’s journey through the private aviation industry is anything but conventional. Over the past 23 years, he has carved out a niche for himself by staying true to his strengths and embracing the unexpected twists and turns of life. Starting on Wall Street, Mike's career took a significant turn after 9/11, when he decided to leave the trading desk behind. Guided by mentorship and a willingness to explore new horizons, he found himself in the private aviation sector, where he now manages a fleet of 37 private jets based in Las Vegas.

Life, as Mike's story illustrates, is rarely a straight line. Despite our best-laid plans and diligent efforts, the paths we end up on often defy our expectations. Reflecting on his own experience, Mike says,

From a young age, society teaches us to follow a predetermined path: study hard, go to school, choose a major, and pursue a career in that field. Success is often portrayed as a logical progression from education to career to retirement. But Mike’s journey reminds us that life doesn't always adhere to this linear narrative. Instead, it flows in unpredictable ways, often evolving through a series of unplanned opportunities and chance encounters.

This perspective is especially relevant in today’s rapidly changing world, where industries are evolving, and new opportunities are constantly emerging. The traditional notion of working your entire life toward a predetermined future is becoming less applicable as the job market shifts. Careers are no longer defined by a single trajectory but by adaptability, openness to new experiences, and the willingness to embrace the unexpected.

The idea that "your career kind of chooses you" resonates with the notion that while we can prepare and plan, we must also be flexible and ready to seize opportunities as they arise. Mike’s experience encourages us to recognize that life’s unpredictable nature is not a barrier to success but a key component of it. By letting go of the need to control every aspect of our careers and embracing the opportunities that come our way—whether by luck, timing, or circumstance—we can find ourselves in places we never imagined, doing work that is more fulfilling and aligned with who we are.

This unpredictability also aligns with current concerns about AI and the future of work. Mike's insights on AI reveal both its potential to drastically change the employment landscape and the challenges it poses. He likens AI to a double-edged sword—while it enhances efficiency and productivity, it also threatens traditional jobs. AI can handle mundane tasks with incredible speed and accuracy, but it raises ethical and economic questions about the future. As more tasks become automated, the challenge will be finding new ways to employ people whose jobs have been displaced.

Reflecting on the early days of the World Wide Web, Mike recalls how it revolutionized access to information and communication. However, AI is different; it doesn't just provide access—it actively learns, adapts, and makes decisions that can have far-reaching consequences. "What’s scary," he says, "is like, this AI eliminates... it answers. The internet didn’t do that." This distinction highlights the transformative potential of AI, which is not just a passive tool but an active participant in the processes it automates.

Mike’s concerns extend beyond job displacement to the broader societal implications of AI. As AI systems become more integrated into various industries, they will not only displace jobs but also alter how we think, work, and interact with technology. This shift will require a reevaluation of how we approach education, skills development, and employment in the future.

The discussion on AI in the podcast serves as a reminder that while technology can drive progress, it also comes with challenges that need to be carefully managed. Mike’s insights underscore the importance of approaching AI with both optimism and caution. As AI continues to reshape the world of work, society will need to find a balance between embracing technological advancements and safeguarding the livelihoods of those who may be affected by these changes.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Mike Giordano’s business approach is his decision to build and sustain his business without the use of social media. In an age where social media is often seen as a vital tool for marketing and brand-building, Mike’s success without it is both remarkable and thought-provoking.

In the podcast, Mike mentions,

Despite acknowledging that embracing social media could potentially benefit his business, he has deliberately chosen to remain private.

This choice reflects a deep understanding of his clientele and the unique nature of his industry. In the world of private aviation, where discretion and privacy are often valued above public exposure, Mike’s decision to avoid social media aligns with his clients’ expectations. By not engaging with social media, Mike preserves the privacy of his clients and maintains an air of exclusivity around his services. This approach not only differentiates him from competitors who might use social media to gain visibility but also builds a level of trust with his clients, who know that their confidentiality is a top priority.

Moreover, building a business without relying on social media requires a strong focus on traditional relationship-building and word-of-mouth referrals. Mike’s success demonstrates that while social media can be a powerful tool, it is not the only path to success. For businesses that cater to a niche market or where privacy is paramount, alternative strategies can be equally, if not more, effective.

Mike Giordano’s journey challenges the conventional wisdom of today’s business environment. His commitment to personal relationships and his decision to forgo social media underline the enduring value of trust, discretion, and genuine human connection in business. These elements, often overlooked in the digital age, are at the core of his success and offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to build a business in a world increasingly driven by technology.

Embrace the unexpected and find success on your own terms.

Listen to Ep 1 of Season 2 of Uncharted with Michael Giordano here.

Michael Giordano: 23-year private aviation veteran, instrumental in launching XOJet, WheelsUp, and BLADE. Currently manages 37 private aircraft, the largest fleet in Las Vegas, with plans to expand operations to Austin or Dallas, TX. Former Wall Street trader, now focused on private aviation, capital markets, and "ancillary" VC investments in the travel and leisure sector. He's also exploring a hotel investment in Fredericksburg and has co-launched a skincare line targeting private jet clientele.

Natalie Peyton: Peyton studied theatre and film in Australia, New York and LA and performed stand-up on the “three coasts.” She honed her podcast executive skills over the last 4 years developing and producing dozens of podcasts and even hosts a children’s mindfulness bedtime program

Leon Vanstone: Leon brings his curiosity and sharp interviewing skills to the table, facilitating insightful discussions with our mentors, extracting valuable lessons and insights to empower listeners on their own path to growth and achievement.

Dan Dillard: Dan, with his thoughtful approach and engaging style, delves into the minds of our mentors on the podcast, crafting compelling interviews that uncover the wisdom and experiences driving their success and impact.

This blog was written by Anais Schmidt, one of the hosts of the Uncharted Podcast. Anais is also an aspiring musician. When not in her studio, she tours Europe with Monte Mai.

If you would like to join the conversation email us at anais@foundingup.com

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