The Ultimate Jet Guide Podcast
by Tom Lelyo
Tom is a husband, father, and lover of aviation. When he first started learning about private jets, he noticed there wasn’t a lot of content available for people who wanted real, down to earth, information without any fluff or pomp. He knew that many people were curious before they buy a private jet, and he wanted to be a guide for the curious to the serious and those in between. Tom pulls back the curtain on private aviation to help individuals buy sell or charter jets without wasting time or losing money. In 2021 & 2022 Tom was the top producer of his former agency completing over 20 sales each year. In 2023 he started his own agency, Jet Life Aero where he looks to inspire the next generation of private jet brokers. As a former youth pastor, Tom wants to share his experience as a jet broker with others who aspire to change their lives through private aviation, like he did.
Episodes
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The Aviation Sales Mindset - Interview with Joe Peebles
What does it really take to move from turning wrenches on helicopters to closing high-stakes aviation deals? We sit down with Joe, a former Army maintainer and crew member, to unpack the gritty, unfiltered path from technical mastery to building a business in a safety-first industry. The story...
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From Gym Memberships to Private Jets: A Charter Broker's Journey
The journey into private aviation sales isn't what most people imagine. Behind the glossy TikTok videos and Instagram posts lies a world of 2AM logistics calls, complex problem-solving, and relentless attention to detail. Cameron Carey, co-founder and vice president of AvSky Charters, pulls back...
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Aviation Insurance Sales - The Hidden pathway into AvSales with Samantha Money
Aviation insurance provides a unique entry point into private aviation sales, offering both rewarding career opportunities and essential services to ultra-high-net-worth aircraft owners. Samantha Money shares her journey from traditional insurance into aviation specialization, revealing the…
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Getting a Job as a Market Analyst
🤝 Join our FREE Private Online Community for aspiring Jet Brokers: https://theprivatejetbrokercommunity.com ✈️ Want to get the early heads up on our podcast releases? Join AvBuzz today for podcast previews and business aviation thought leadership. www.avbuzzSMS.com Being a Private Jet Broker is…
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The Insurance Gotchas That Catch 90% of Jet Brokers
In this video, I break down the critical insurance mistakes that destroy most jet brokerage careers before they even get started. From demo flight disasters to coverage gaps that leave you exposed, I'll show you exactly what to watch out for and how to protect yourself. **What You'll Learn:** ✈️...
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Jet Broker Code: Elevate Your Professionalism
In today's episode I break down "The Jet Broker Code" which is an outgrowth of the Core Values I've tried to instill in myself over the past 2 years. This is an important first step when deciding to enter into the world of Private Aviation. 🤝 Download The Jet Broker Code:...
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Jet Brokers, Is AI Coming for Your Job? & Other FAQs
🎥 In today’s episode, Tom Lelyo, your Ultimate Jet Guide, answers your questions about becoming a Jet Broker and the future of the industry! ✈️ In this episode, we dive into your frequently asked questions: ✈️ How to become a jet broker (no license required!) 💰 How much money you can make as a...
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She Started An Aircraft Brokerage in Her Early 20's 🤯
Sierra Lund, Founder and Broker at Sierra Bravo Aviation, joins this week’s episode of The Ultimate Jet Guide. She takes us through her journey—from beginning flight training at just 16 years old to launching her own successful aircraft brokerage in her early 20s. While her career path may be...
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Mindset for Jet Brokers: Staying Up When You're Down...
In this podcast I'm going to share tips to help aspiring brokers (and current brokers) deal with disappointment and challenges that private aviation brings. 🤝 Join our FREE Private Online Community for aspiring Jet Brokers: https://circle.jetlifeaero.com Episode Highlights: - Facing...
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Pushing Yourself & Failing Forward As a Jet Broker
Ultimate Jet Guide's Tom Lelyo shares times when he failed and provides tips on how you can fail forward to find success as a Jet Broker! This episode covers how to push yourself as a Jet Broker and analyze failures in your sales process to course-correct moving forward. Episode Highlights: 😵💫...
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Aviation vs Real Estate: Which Career is Best for YOU?
Considering a career pivot? In this week's episode of The Ultimate Jet Guide, Real Estate Broker Noah Ward and Jet Broker Tom Lelyo dive into the core differences and advantages of the aviation and real estate industries to help you decide your next career move. PLEASE show some love to Noah by...
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First Year Expectations as a Jet Broker | Guest Alex Strohmeier
Let's talk about what you can expect your first year as a Jet Broker! 🤯 In this episode of The Jet Life Podcast, host Tom Lelyo celebrates a major milestone with Alexander Strohmeier, one of the original brokers at Jet Life Aero, who recently completed his first year of selling Private Jets....
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Engine Programs Explained | Special Guest Zach of Honeywell
In this episode of the Jet Life Podcast, Tom Lelyo is joined by Zach Ungerleider, MSP Sales Manager at Honeywell Aerospace, to explore the ins and outs of engine programs in private aviation. They discuss common misconceptions, coverage levels, transfer protocols, and essential considerations for...
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Choosing a Market to Sell In ✈️
Today, we break down the differences between general aviation (GA) and business aviation, examining turboprops versus jets, and light, mid-size, and heavy jets. From cost considerations to unique features, we share invaluable insights into deciding which segment of the market is best for you!...
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Step In & Level Up Your Aviation Career Ft. Sarah Kalmeta
Special Episode Re-release from the Jet Life Podcast Vault ✈️ Host Tom Lelyo dives deep into the dynamic world of business aviation with special guest Sarah Kalmeta, an aviation expert and professional speaker. Together, they explore the possibility of making a career switch to private aviation,...
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I Failed as a Jet Broker... What I Wish I Knew
Check out Alex's original video here from the Aircraft Broker Academy: https://youtu.be/hNvYzQohry0?si=oJ-bMR9r9JbXnh6v WHY do new Jet Brokers Fail?? In this video, Tom Lelyo reacts to Alex's "Top 5 Mistakes New Aircraft Brokers Make." He discusses key challenges in the industry and offers...
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Interview in an Abandoned 737 Ft. Jimmy's World
Today, we're interviewing Jimmy from Jimmy's World inside a beautiful 373 ✈️ about everything from abandoned aircraft to the Elvis Jet! Jimmy shares his story about how he got into aviation, got his first GA aircraft, and became the airplane enthusiast we know today. We get Jimmy's perspective on...
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Q4 Must-Know Jet Buying Tax Strategies | Interview KJ McCarter, CPA
Want to save tens of thousands $$$ buying a jet in Q4? This is the episode you need to hear! Join Tom Lelyo and aviation tax expert KJ McCarter, CPA as they dive into the intricacies of buying a private jet and maximizing tax benefits in 2024! In this episode, they explore critical topics like...
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19-Year-Old Sells a Private Jet!? 🤯✈️
In today’s episode, we’re celebrating a HUGE milestone: 19-year-old Jet Broker Gabe just sold his very first private jet—only FOUR months after joining the industry! Join Tom Lelyo as he chats with Gabe and his teammate Kevin Walsh about this remarkable achievement and the journey that led him...
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Are There Too Many Brokers? & Your FAQs
🎥 In today’s episode, Tom Lelyo, your Ultimate Jet Guide, answers your questions about becoming a Jet Broker and the future of the industry! ✈️ In this episode, we dive into your frequently asked questions: ✈️ How to become a jet broker (no license required!) 💰 How much money you can make as a...
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Making the Most of Your Network as a Broker | Interview with Jackson Wiebler
Welcome to the Ultimate Jet Guide. In this episode, Tom Lelyo chats with Jackson Wiebler, an experienced broker who shares his journey from charter broker to working in aviation sales. Jackson provides valuable insights into the key differences between charter and sales brokering, the importance…
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Are You ACTUALLY Covered? Breaking Down Aviation Insurance with Matt White
In this episode of the Jet Life Podcast, host Tom Lelyo sits down with Matt White, CEO of BWI Aviation Insurance Agency, to break down the often-overlooked world of private aviation insurance. Matt shares stories about the real importance of having the right coverage, like the $275,000 aircraft...
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Want a Career in Aviation? Get Plugged In! ✈️ An Interview with Catherine Wren
In this episode of the Jet Life Podcast, I sit down with Catherine Wren, NBAA Top 40 Under 40 & NTBAA Board of Directors, to talk all about breaking into the world of private aviation. Catherine shares her story of growing up in a small New Mexico town, knowing nothing about aviation, and how she...
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Passion vs. Money: Do You Have to Choose? | Hosted by Allan Draper
In this episode, Allan Draper and Tom Lelyo dive into a conversation about finding the sweet spot between making a good income and chasing your passions. Tom shares his journey of wanting to help people who, like him, have a servant's heart but just never found the right vehicle for success......
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Overall Sales Process for Jet Brokers
In this episode, I cover the entire sales process, from getting a listing to closing the deal, and share tips on working with buyers and navigating pre-buy inspections. Today we breakdown what actually goes into selling a Private Jet. Here is a quick list for what we will cover in today's…
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Serious Considerations for Investing in Private Jets | Hosted by Hard Money Bankers
Thank you to our friends Jason and Ian at Hard Money Bankers for inviting me onto their podcast to chat about investing in real estate versus private jets. Make sure to check out their channel for some really solid investment content. www.youtube.com/@hardmoneybankers In this podcast episode, I...
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How I Made $100,000+ My First Year | Jet Broker Training
In today's podcast, I’m diving deep into the art of professional persistence in private aviation. Whether you’re buying or selling a jet, following up is crucial to sealing the deal. Today, I’ll share essential principles and actionable steps to master the follow-up process, ensuring you never…
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Four Ways to Get Paid as a Jet Broker
How do you get paid as a Jet Broker? In today's episode, we break down the actual process of how aircraft are sold and the crucial role you play in these transactions as a broker. We explore various ways aircraft brokers can maximize their earnings, including: 🔸Traditional Brokerage Commissions...
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Stop & Read the Directions! The Story of My Career Journey
In today's episode - we dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship and personal growth. We discuss how the choices you make at a young age, and even early in your career, can give you the springboard you need to find success as an entrepreneur. If you are just getting started in your career…
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Failing Forward as a Jet Broker
Sharing times where I failed and tips on how you can fail FORWARD to find success as a Jet Broker! Today, I'm pulling back the curtain on failure. In this episode, I'll share my personal experiences with failure and disappointment. We'll explore how to manage our expectations—of ourselves…
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Commission Agreements & Getting Paid for Jet Brokers
💰 How to Get Paid as a Broker and Protect Yourself 🛡️ In this video, we dive into essential strategies for brokers to ensure they get paid and protect themselves in various scenarios. Whether you're dealing directly with buyers and sellers or navigating interactions with other brokers and...
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How to Buy a Jet Under a Million Dollars | Sun N' Fun Workshop
Welcome to The Ultimate Jet Guide! In this episode we'll dive into the world of light jets, specifically focusing on jets available for under $1 million. We'll cover crucial aspects to help you find the perfect jet for the mission profile. Video Available on YouTube Here is what we cover!…
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Profitable Plane Leasing & Now Jet Broker? | Guest Zach Purvis
✈️ Zach Purvis is a long-time aviation professional, and in today's interview, we find out how Zach recently got started as a broker - and ask about advice he might have for fellow brokers who are also getting started! Connect With Zach on LinkedIn:...
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No Experience Needed Guide for Future Jet Brokers | Sun N' Fun 50th Workshop
🛩️ Tom Lelyo leads a workshop at the Sun N' Fun 50th Anniversary event, tailored for individuals eager to enter the world of Jet Brokering without prior experience. At Jet Life Aero, we believe in "pulling back the curtains" on aviation so you can fully embrace your Jet Life. In this workshop…
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Hired! What Brokerages really want to see in a Resume
Today we're joined by Jenny Showalter of Showalter Business Aviation Career Coaching and we'll be going over tips for crafting the perfect resume to make a lasting impression on your future employer! For more information on her services visit -...
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CRITICAL Info Prior to Closing on a Jet! 💵 Guest Aviation Tax Consultants
If you're considering buying a private jet, today's episode is a MUST-watch. ✈️ We had the experts from Aviation Tax Consultants on board, discussing what you need to know before purchasing a private jet. They're here to provide future jet owners with information that will save them from…
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Starting Your Career as a Jet Broker | ABCI Roundtable
Hosted by Paula Williams of ABCI, this book club discussion covers a range of topics from navigating the complexities of the aviation industry to understanding the needs of high net worth individuals. From the importance of establishing oneself as a trusted authority to the value of content...
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Story of The Ultimate Jet Guide ✈️ Flying With Big Ern
Thank you Ernie (@FlyingWithBigErn) for having me on as a guest on your Podcast! Go check Ernie's channel out if you haven't already. 🛩️ Join host Ernie as he sits down with Tom Lelyo, author of "The Ultimate Jet Guide," for an insightful conversation about how the book and the channel came to…
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What Airports WANT You to Know | Guest Richard Wittels
Here is what airports WANT you to know! 📊 Data, Stats, and Years in the Industry inform Richard's approach to crafting a truly personalized air travel experience. ✈️ With a focus on creating a premier customer journey, we gain valuable insights into what constitutes a successful FBO. Thank you…
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Aviation & Sales Insights from a Seasoned Pro | Guest Barry Lambert
Barry Lambert shares his journey from aircraft salesman to becoming Executive Vice President of Southern Sky Aviation. In this episode, he shares the career choices that allowed him to transition from a newcomer to a seasoned professional! 🚀 Thank you to VREF for sponsoring this video. Get 10%…
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Which Private Aviation Option Is Right for You? | A Comprehensive Comparison
Which Private Aviation Option Is Right for You? | A Comprehensive Comparison Check out our latest episode of the Jet Life Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of Private Aviation. Join hosts Daniel and Austin from IronBird Partners as they guide you through the various Private Aviation...
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First 60 Days As A Jet Broker! Guest Hayden Christie
Ever wonder what getting started as a jet broker looks like? 🛩️ We had the chance to interview Hayden Christie, a newcomer to the industry, sharing the journey of his first 60 days as a broker. Hayden shares the highs and lows of "flying" into the industry as a broker, in addition to some great...
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The Ultimate Guide | 7 Steps to Easily Buy Your First Private Jet
The Ultimate Guide | 7 Steps to Easily Buy Your First Private Jet In today's video, we will be discussing the 7 crucial steps you need to follow when you are buying your first private jet. Are you interested in buying a private jet? We've got you covered. In this video, we'll dive into the...
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Creating Passive Income by Leasing Aircraft! | Guest Zack Purvis
Welcome to the Ultimate Jet Guide! In this video, we delve into the world of private aviation and aircraft leasing with our special guest, Zach Purvis of Aviation Ape. Discover how you can turn aircraft ownership into a lucrative passive income stream with Zach's expert insights. ✈️ Thank you to...
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How to get a job as an Aircraft Broker | Interview with Emily Deaton JetAVIVA
Embark on a journey through the high-flying world of aviation brokerage with our esteemed guest, Emily Deaton from jetAVIVA. Prepare to chart your own course to success as we delve into the vital skills and steps needed to become a master of the skies in private jet sales. Emily generously shares...
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The Crazy Logistics of BizAv Operations Management | Guest Ken Baylor
Dive into the intricacies of Business Aviation Operation Management with Ken Baylor on the Ultimate Jet Guide Podcast. Ken Baylor, a NBAA top 40 under 40 recipient, shares invaluable insights for everyone from prospective aircraft buyers to individuals considering a career in aviation. Thank you…
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The Entrepreneurial Jet Broker: Stories of Success in the World of Private Jet Sales
Prepare to buckle up and navigate the often-untamed terrain of jet brokering with our guest Tyler Holt from AvSkyJets. We soar beyond the conventional flight path to give you an insider's look at an industry where a compass and a handshake chart the course to success. Tyler, who ascended from a...
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Turboprops vs. Jets
🛩️Turboprops vs. Jets✈️We have the ultimate comparison here only on the Ultimate Jet Guide! Thank you to VREF for sponsoring this video. Get 10% off of VREF 3.0 here: Go.TheUltimateJetGuide.com/VREF Welcome to the Jet Life Podcast hosted by Tom Lelyo, your Ultimate Jet Guide. In this episode…
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Jet Sales Insights: Crafting a Winning Marketing Approach
Ever thought about the fine line that divides a successful jet sale from a missed opportunity? Let's fly into the world of jet sales marketing with a unique perspective from my sidekick in the skies, Paula Williams, and myself, Tom Lelyo. Our runway chat brings into focus the crucial role of...
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Choosing the BEST Way to Fly | Cory & Andrew of SkyShare
🛩️ Determine the BEST way to fly private with insights from Cory and Andrew of SkyShare! Join us for an insightful discussion with Andrew and Cory from SkyShare, as we delve into the world of private jet ownership, chartering, and investment opportunities. In this engaging interview, we cover...
About this show
Tom is a husband, father, and lover of aviation. When he first started learning about private jets, he noticed there wasn’t a lot of content available for people who wanted real, down to earth, information without any fluff or pomp. He knew that many people were curious before they buy a private jet, and he wanted to be a guide for the curious to the serious and those in between. Tom pulls back the curtain on private aviation to help individuals buy sell or charter jets without wasting time or losing money.
In 2021 & 2022 Tom was the top producer of his former agency completing over 20 sales each year. In 2023 he started his own agency, Jet Life Aero where he looks to inspire the next generation of private jet brokers. As a former youth pastor, Tom wants to share his experience as a jet broker with others who aspire to change their lives through private aviation, like he did.
Hosted by
Tom Lelyo