What happens when a real estate investor decides to buy an airport? In this episode, host Tait and Ryan sit down with Robert DeLaurentis, the “Peace Pilot,” to unpack how he transformed a rundown airport into a thriving hub of aviation and community life. Robert shares how his decades in multifamily real estate funded his passion for flying, why legacy matters more than luxury, and how creative business models can make even airports profitable. From flying over both poles to battling bureaucracy, his story is a masterclass in purpose-driven investing, resilience, and vision.
Robert DeLaurentis is a pilot, real estate entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author known as “The Peace Pilot.” A Gulf War veteran and world traveler who’s flown to 53 countries, Robert combined his real estate success with his passion for aviation to purchase and renovate Oak Harbor Airport on Whidbey Island. Through his foundation, films, and books, he’s on a mission to inspire aviators and entrepreneurs to lead with purpose, build legacy projects, and fund what they love through smart investing.
Show notes:
(0:00) Intro
(4:28) Ryan’s first impression of the renovated airport
(7:05) The decision to buy a failing airport
(11:20) Was it passion or profit?
(13:00) How volunteers and “angels” made it work
(22:29) The state of general aviation airports today
(27:06) How pilots can help protect their airports
(34:22) Finding sponsors and business angels
(35:37) The eight-month polar circumnavigation mission
(41:23) From house hacking to owning multifamily assets
(46:00) Living lean, investing early, retiring young
(52:03) The mentor who changed everything
(55:00) Where to find Robert’s books, film, and foundation
Connect with Robert DeLaurentis:
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Published on 1 month ago
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