Business of Boating w/ Merrill Charette

This week on the Shipshape podcast, we catch up once again with Wilhelm Schurmann, skipper at the helm of the round-the-world sailing expedition, ‘Voice of the Ocean. In this second installment of his phenomenal story, our focus is on nothing less than the topic of the future of the oceans – covering the challenges of plastic pollution, extreme weather, the importance of technological innovation a...

This week on the Shipshape podcast we meet Wilhelm Schurmann, skipper at the helm of the round-the-world sailing expedition, ‘Voice of the Ocean.’ Currently on his third global circumnavigation after first sailing all around the globe as a child, we learn about the highs and lows of his adventures so far, his ‘Swiss Family Robinson’ style maritime childhood – and how he first got bitten by that no...

Dive into the vast ocean of maritime history and sailing with us this week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast as we converse with the multifaceted Eric Wiberg. Not just a ship captain, Eric is a beacon in the world of maritime insights, having penned numerous books that offer a maritime perspective on various sea adventures. His YouTube endeavors, showcasing sailing construction videos and tutorials, have m...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we embark on a maritime journey with Steve, the mastermind behind the "Acorn to Arabella" YouTube channel. With a dedicated following and a plethora of Acorn to Arabella videos, Steve and his team are bringing traditional boat building techniques to the digital age. Broadcasting from his historic family farm in Granby, Western Massachusetts, Steve delv...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we navigate the digital seas with Taylor Francis, the dynamic personality behind the popular "Taylor's Travels" YouTube channel. With a subscriber base exceeding 200,000, Taylor's Travels has become a beacon for adventure vlogs, Caribbean travels, and insightful boat fixes. Broadcasting from Ontario, Canada, Taylor takes us on a journey from...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we set sail into the world of liveaboard sailing and sustainable energy with Robert Carpenter Shook. A professional sailor, liveaboard enthusiast, and tech aficionado, Robert embodies the essence of the sailing lifestyle. From his mother's inspiring tales of the sea to his own sailboat living experiences, Robert's journey is a testament to the allure o...

Meet the woman shaking up the yachting industry! With over a decade of experience and knowledge gathered across 11 countries, she's revolutionizing the way we think about the yachting industry. From dock logistics to corporate strategy, she's leaving her mark and making waves in the industry. Based in Dubai, she's exploring the yachting world from a new perspective and sharing her s...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we dive deep into the realm of marine education and training with Megan Piggott, the esteemed Director of Workplace Development of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida. Megan, with her vast experience in maritime education and marine ecosystem studies, offers a treasure trove of insights for young enthusiasts eager to make a mark in the boating ind...

Dive into the world of maritime vlogging with the creators behind the hit YouTube channel, "NautiStyles." This episode offers a deep dive into the strategies and insights that have propelled them to YouTube stardom in the boating niche. We kick off with a discussion on the power of consistency in content creation. The "NautiStyles" team reveals how a regular posting schedule ha...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we set sail into the vast ocean of ship design, guided by the expertise of the acclaimed boat designer, Clifford Denn. Born amidst the architectural wonders of Malawi, Clifford's journey into the realm of naval architecture was almost predestined. His profound understanding of maritime design consultancy and engineering has led to the creation of some of th...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, join us as we delve into the captivating world of superyacht photography with the renowned Tom van Oossanen. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands and now traversing the globe, Tom has carved a niche for himself in the luxury yacht photography sector. With credits that can be seen on premier platforms like Yacht Charter Fleet and Charter Wor...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we were delighted to speak to former charter chief stew, and founder of the yachting clothing brand, Nautilus Yachtwear, Deirdre Colgan. With Colgan kindly taking our hands along the way, we navigate the thorny topic of size inclusivity in yachting and the judgements still faced by many crew who don’t fit the usual mold. Thankfully, however, the industry is begi...

Prepare to embark on a captivating voyage with the SHIPSHAPE podcast as we delve into the world of Bruce Schwab, a true luminary in offshore sailboat racing. Hailing from a lineage of American sailors, Bruce's passion for the ocean is evident in his remarkable achievements. With two circumnavigations on his Open 60 racing yacht under his belt, he's not just an adventurer but a trailblaze...

In this captivating episode of the "Shipshape" podcast, we set sail into the vast waters of marine marketing with the seasoned maritime expert, Carl Blackwell. Carl unveils the intricacies of marine marketing strategies, highlighting the importance of community outreach and the role of digital campaigns in promoting boating experiences. Listeners will be navigated through the marine mark...

Dive deep into the world of yacht design with the latest episode of SHIPSHAPE, featuring the legendary Robert H. Perry. Known for his revolutionary approach to yacht design, Perry has left an indelible mark on the maritime industry. This episode offers listeners an exclusive insight into Perry's journey, from his early passion for yacht design to creating some of the most iconic cruising yach...

Dive deep with us this week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast as we navigate the intricate waters of the submarines and submersibles industry with Bruce Jones, the esteemed CEO of Florida-based Triton Submarines. A pioneer in naval technology, Bruce offers a unique perspective on what it takes for an entrepreneur to not only make waves but also stay buoyant in this specialized market. Bruce's journey...

Set sail with us on the SHIPSHAPE podcast as we dive deep into the world of liveaboards with the delightful duo, Khadija & Mel Grubb. Anchored in Norfolk, VA, aboard their 40ft Hunter Legend, their journey is a testament to the bonds and relationships forged amidst the vast expanse of the ocean. As seasoned sailors and part of the vibrant liveaboard community, they share invaluable insights th...

Set sail with us this week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast as we navigate the bustling waters of Boston Harbor with maritime maestro, Chris Birch. As the visionary founder of Birch Marine and a respected voice in "Points East Magazine," Chris has anchored himself as a true legend of Boston Harbor. With a career spanning decades in the maritime industry, he's witnessed the evolution of the...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we get our imaginations fired up with Aberdeen-based naval architect Marius Popa. With our conversation covering topics as diverse as ocean oil rigs, floating civilisations, sci-fi, space travel, renewable energy and much more – make sure you listen and get inspired by a truly innovative and visionary player in the maritime field (spoiler alert: you’d better get...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE podcast, we set sail into the world of offshore sailing with none other than the legendary British yachtswoman, Jeanne Socrates. Recognized by institutions like the "Offshore Sailing School" and "Yachting Monthly," Jeanne's achievements are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Not only does she hold the record of being the oldest woman to have circumn...

This week on the SHIPSHAPE Podcast we meet long-time Maine resident and Oyster farmer extraordinaire Jordi St. John. Jordi is the Business Engagement Manager of the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), Owner and Operator of Merritt Island Oysters, and one of the Board of Directors of the Maine Marine Trade Association. Listen on to discover all about the incredible 250 wild islands ready to be e...

Ahoy, listeners! Ever thought about trading your cozy Boston apartment for the gentle rock of a boat? Well, this week, we're setting sail with Jimmy from Boston, the guy who did just that! Living aboard a Cal 3-30 Sailboat for 3 years, Jimmy's become the go-to guru for all things "liveaboard" in Beantown. From mastering the art of not knocking over his morning coffee during hig...

Dive deep with us this week on the SHIPSHAPE.PRO podcast as we chat with the renowned Brian LeBlanc. As the Co-Owner of J&B Underwater Services and the Boston Scuba Academy, Brian has made waves in the diving community. His company, renowned for its expertise in underwater hull cleaning, maintenance, and top-tier diving instruction, stands as a testament to Brian's dedication and passion...

In this episode, we set sail with Zach Rollins, the visionary founder of the "Along the Keel Podcast." With a keen focus on top coastal brands and the masterminds behind them, Zach has carved a niche in the maritime podcasting space. But the journey to becoming a beacon for maritime marketing and discussions began in an unlikely place: a modest apartment in Hawaii. Equipped with nothing...

This week we interview Ali Wisch. Ali, has been a liveaboard in Boston Harbor for the past 12 years. What began as a dream of one day living on a boat eventually led to a passion that inevitably turned into a career in the maritime space. Ali has had a multitude of careers in maritime/boating from a professional varnisher to an established writer of several boating magazines. Currently she is the...