Business of Boating w/ Merrill Charette

In this insightful episode of our podcast, we delve deep into the marine industry's current landscape and future prospects with Gus Blakely, Vice President of Marine Sales at Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. Gus brings to the table decades of experience, spearheading initiatives that have not only propelled Suzuki Marine to new heights but also paved the way for innovation and sustainability in...

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the world of boat rentals and charters with Matt Ovenden, the visionary founder of Borrow A Boat. As the architect behind what's often referred to as "the Airbnb of boats," Matt shares his journey from a seasoned mechanical engineer to a trailblazing entrepreneur revolutionizing the marine industry. We'll explore how Borrow A Boat has...

In this episode of The Business of Boating podcast, we sit down with Mike Carlson, the entrepreneurial force behind 26 North Yachts, a premier yacht brokerage known for redefining luxury yachting experiences. Mike shares his insights on navigating the competitive waters of yacht sales and charter services. He discusses the innovative strategies that have propelled 26 North Yachts to the forefront...

In this episode of the Shipshape Podcast, we dive into an engaging conversation with Joe Quirk, President of the Seasteading Institute, who shares his vision for the future of floating nations. Joe delves into how autonomous ocean communities could address global challenges such as environmental sustainability, political autonomy, and technological progress. He provides insights into the movement&...

In this episode of the ShipShape Podcast, we're joined by Richard Strauss, the CEO of Teakdecking Systems (TDS), to discuss his rise to CEO and his vision for the future of marine decking. Richard outlines the strategic moves that have placed TDS at the forefront of the marine market, including navigating the pandemic, expanding into Europe, and launching new products. He highlights his appro...

In this captivating episode, we sit down with Scott Kidd, a seasoned Yacht Captain with over 25 years of maritime experience, ranging from managing new builds and refits to mastering the high seas across various global destinations. Scott shares his unique journey, blending his passion for the yachting industry with savvy real estate investments. As a licensed USCG Master of 1600 US Gross tonnage...

Josh Valoes, a distinguished figure in the yachting industry, brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the ShipShape Podcast. Originally from Brazil and raised in Boca Raton, FL, Josh's journey in the world of yachting began early, with his passion for boating evolving alongside a keen interest in marketing and technology. His career highlights include pioneering roles at Rybovich Super...

In this captivating episode of the ShipShape Podcast, we welcome David Holley, a towering figure in the marine vessel transport industry with over two decades of experience steering through its complex waters. As the esteemed President and Owner of Legend Yacht Transport, and a former CEO of two of the world’s premier yacht logistics companies, David brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into t...

In this episode of the Shipshape Podcast, we explore Vincent's inspiring transformation from a newcomer struggling with language barriers in Canada to a leading yacht sales professional. Vincent details his journey, highlighting the crucial role of perseverance, strategic learning, and the mastery of sales and marketing tactics in the marine industry. He shares insights from his experience co...

In this episode of the Shipshape Podcast, we meet Matt Foster, founder of Mobile Motorboat Mechanics. He shares his journey from a mechanical engineer to an entrepreneur revolutionizing the boat service industry. Matt explains how he identified the need for faster, more convenient boat repairs and how his company brings mechanics directly to the customer, significantly reducing wait times. He disc...

In this captivating episode of our podcast, we dive deep with Paul Flannery, the seasoned mariner and Executive Director of the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA), exploring his remarkable journey from a dock boy to a pivotal figure in the yacht brokerage industry. With a life dedicated to the seas, Paul shares invaluable insights into the evolution of yachting, revealing how the indus...

Welcome to the Shipshape Podcast, where we navigate the vast and often uncharted waters of the maritime world, bringing you stories of adventure, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. In this special episode, we're thrilled to introduce a truly inspiring figure in the world of yachting, Captain Kelly J. Gordon. Known affectionately as "Cap" to friends and colleagues,...

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Christophe Lavigne, a visionary leader whose unparalleled expertise has steered Beneteau American brands and Highfield, two of the most prestigious names in the boating industry, towards unprecedented success in the U.S. market. With over 25 years of experience in marine engineering, operations, and management, Christophe shares...

In this episode, Eden shares the inspiring mission of World Ocean School, an organization that takes learning to the high seas. Aboard the historic tall ships Denis Sullivan and Roseway, students embark on a journey of discovery, learning ocean science and sailing while cultivating essential life skills like resilience and teamwork. With over 22,000 students impacted since 2002, Eden discusses how...

In this episode of the Shipshape Podcast, we dive into the world of competitive sailing with veteran sailor and esteemed coach, Robby Brown. His story unfolds from the docks of a Florida sail loft to the adrenaline-packed regattas where he both competed and coached. Robby offers a glimpse into the dedication required to excel in sailing and the community bonds formed amidst the waves. Robby's...

Join us on the Shipshape Podcast as we delve into the captivating world of ocean conservation with Ashley Sullivan, the dynamic Executive Director of the Rozalia Project.  Ashley shares her inspiring journey from the sunny coasts of Miami to leading one of the most innovative marine conservation organizations in Maine. Discover how the Rozalia Project, aboard the 60-foot research vessel American P...

In this engaging episode of the Shipshape Podcast, we're joined by Alisdair “Ali” Martin, a renowned figure in boating industry marketing. Ali shares his remarkable journey from Cambridge, England, to becoming an influential leader in the U.S. boating world. He discusses the unique challenges and successes he's encountered, particularly his strategic marketing innovations during the Covi...

In this captivating episode of the Shipshape Podcast, we dive deep with Bruno Edwards, the visionary behind Mansion Yachts. Join us as we explore the innovative world of Mansion Yachts, a groundbreaking venture that merges the opulence of a beachfront mansion with the mobility of a yacht. Edwards, a serial entrepreneur with a passion for ocean conservation, shares his journey in creating the first...

In this captivating episode of the "ShipShape Podcast," we dive deep with Randy Bullard, a seasoned Marine Surveyor and US Army Airborne Veteran. With over two decades of industry experience, Randy shares his profound insights and thrilling stories from his time surveying the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and other significant marine incidents. We explore the complexities of ship accide...

In this exhilarating episode of Shipshape, we sit down with the renowned sailor, Rome Kirby, for an intimate look into his life on the high seas. From his early days being inspired by his father, Jerry Kirby, to his monumental victory in the 2013 America's Cup with Oracle Team USA, Rome shares his journey, experiences, and the lessons learned along the way. Dive deep into the world of profess...

Join us in this riveting episode as we explore the fascinating world of marine insurance with Chris Coleman, a seasoned Yacht Insurance Agent and the Commercial Director of Oversea Insurance. Born in Broward County and raised near Georgia's Lake Lanier, Chris’s journey back to South Florida marked the start of his notable career in the marine insurance industry. In this insightful discussion,...

In this captivating episode, we delve deep with Laura Trethewey, the acclaimed author of "The Deepest Map," to explore the monumental endeavor of mapping the ocean floor. Laura takes us on a journey beneath the waves, into a world where only a fraction has been charted, and where the deep sea holds secrets yet to be revealed. Discover the groundbreaking efforts of scientists, investors,...

Are you ready to sail away on a musical journey with Brooke and Nick, an adventurous couple who've made a boat in the picturesque island of Okracoke in North Carolina their home? We invite you to join us as we explore their unique lifestyle, their love for music, and their profound connection with the sea. Discover how their music echoes the rhythm of the waves and how their melodies intertwi...

Join us as we venture into the enthralling life journey of Captain Ray Thackeray. From setting up his company in the UK to relocating to the US during the hard-hitting financial crash of 2008, Ray's life has been nothing short of a thrilling roller-coaster ride. A wave of nostalgia hits, as Ray reminisces about his passion for boating that was sparked in the Lake District. His tales of youthf...

Prepare to embark on a remarkable voyage! What if your guide was Christopher DiVeglio, program manager at NOAA, as he expertly navigates through the ocean of real-time oceanographic data? With him, we uncover how this treasure trove of information is instrumental in maritime safety and efficiency, while simultaneously shaping our understanding of coastal environments. Christopher's personal j...