CJI Podcast #11: Dustin Cordier "Buying an aircraft is more similar to buying a business than it is to buying car"

In this episode, Dustin Cordier - founder of Step Zero, a coaching platform for business owners - shares how he helps leaders grow their businesses with intention, clarity, and long-term purpose. Drawing from his background in the Air Force, banking, and aircraft sales, Cordier now focuses on supporting family-owned and entrepreneurial companies, especially within the aviation industry.

He talks about the importance of planning for the future - whether that means preparing to pass a business on to the next generation or getting ready for a potential sale. Rather than focusing solely on short-term income, Cordier encourages building lasting value through systems, structure, and strong leadership.

Cordier also reflects on the challenges business owners face in areas like succession planning, talent retention, and developing a reliable sales pipeline. He highlights the role of company culture and core values in attracting and keeping the right people. When it comes to buying an aircraft, he advises treating the process more like acquiring a business than a vehicle, stressing the value of working with knowledgeable brokers, attorneys, and accountants.

Throughout the conversation, Cordier’s passion comes through for helping aviation business owners build companies that are both sustainable and resilient - able to grow and succeed well into the future.