Lightning in a bottle: Entrepreneurial journeys from idea to exit

Episode 36: Private Aviation Playbook – When It Makes Sense and How to Do It Right

Join host Josh Pottinger and Greg Sydor of Guardian Jet for an inside look at the world of private aviation—when it makes sense, how it works, and where investors can go wrong. The conversation breaks down the full spectrum of options—from charter to fractional to full ownership—along with the real costs, trade-offs, and decision frameworks behind each path. Greg also highlights the risks in an unregulated market, offering guidance on how to evaluate providers, avoid costly mistakes, and align aviation with broader financial and business goals. Whether viewed as a strategic tool or a lifestyle upgrade, this episode provides a clear, practical roadmap for navigating private aviation.

Episode 35: A New Year, A New Lens on Pre Sale Planning (Plan Early or Pay Later)

Join hosts Josh Pottinger and Jason Chirogianis as they kick off the year with a deep dive into pre-sale planning for business owners. Joined by Deborah Phares, Senior Strategist – UBS Family Advisory and Jennifer Lan, UBS Senior Wealth Strategist – UBS Advanced Planning Group, the conversation explores why planning early—well before an LOI—is critical to optimizing tax outcomes, preserving legacy, and avoiding post-sale regret. The episode goes beyond technical strategy to examine the emotional and family dynamics of a liquidity event, including governance, communication, and philanthropy.

Episode 34: Admiral Jonathan Greenert on Geopolitics and Leadership in Uncertain Times

Join us as we welcome Admiral Jonathan Greenert, four-star admiral and 30th Chief of Naval Operations, for a candid conversation on today’s geopolitical and leadership challenges. Admiral Greenert shares his perspective on the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, the China–Taiwan dynamic, and the broader forces shaping global stability. The discussion also turns to executive leadership and trust—from how institutions can maintain credibility in a polarized environment to the attributes that define successful leaders. Drawing from his experience leading the U.S. Navy and mentoring more than 250 flag officers, Admiral Greenert offers timeless lessons for decision-makers in business, government, and beyond.

Episode 33: Inside Washington – OBBB, Trump, Tariffs & Everything in Between

After 44 years in Washington, John Savercool, former UBS Senior Lobbyist and Head of the U.S. Office of Public Policy at UBS—offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how the gears of American politics are turning right now. In this episode, we discuss what Congress is focused on heading into the fall, and what the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) means for business owners now that it’s officially law. John also shares his take on Elon Musk’s call for a third party, updates on the Middle East and Ukraine, and the outlook for tariffs through year-end. With deep experience in both public service and the private sector, John brings thoughtful perspective to some of today’s most pressing policy questions.

Episode 32: The Shift to Family Office 3.0

Mark Tepsich, UBS Family Office Design & Governance Strategist, returns to Lightning in a Bottle to unpack the concept of Family Office 3.0—the next phase in the evolution of wealth management for the ultra-affluent. We look back at how the family office model has changed over the years and dig into why a more robust, resource-rich approach is taking hold. From families managing wealth outside the $500M+ tier to those navigating life after a liquidity event, we’ll break down how investment opportunities, governance structures, and strategic planning are shifting. We also explore how the rise of Family Office 3.0 is reshaping the investor landscape—not just for families, but for the portfolio companies they back.