Summary In this conversation, Stephen Govel interviews Aaron O'Donoghue, founder of Boatbuy, who shares his journey from leaving school at 15 to becoming a marine mechanic and eventually a marine surveyor. The discussion covers the importance of community in the marine industry, the role of technology in improving boat inspections, and the significance of customer feedback and content marketing in building a successful business. Aaron emphasizes the need for comprehensive reporting systems and the impact of creating valuable content for customer engagement. In this conversation, Stephen Govel shares insights into the marine industry, emphasizing the importance of thorough surveys in boat purchases, building strong customer relationships, and the value of networking. He discusses the unique challenges and experiences faced during sea trials and inspections, and reflects on his journey as a marine professional, highlighting the significance of risk-taking and community building in achieving success. Check out his downloadable Boat Purchase Contract forms here: https://boatbuy.com.au/boat-purchase-contract/ Connect With Steve Govel Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | LinkedIn Connect With Aaron O'Donoghue Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn Takeaways

• The marine industry thrives on community and shared knowledge.
• Grit and perseverance are essential in the marine field.
• Understanding customer needs is crucial for business success.
• Technology can significantly enhance the efficiency of marine surveying.
• Creating content helps educate customers and build trust.
• Feedback from customers is vital for continuous improvement.
• People prefer to buy from relatable individuals rather than faceless companies.
• Being available and responsive sets you apart in customer service.
• Building a network of trusted vendors enhances your service offering.
• Networking at industry events is key to business growth.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Marine Industry and Community Building 02:47 Aaron O'Donoghue's Journey into Marine Mechanics 06:03 Transitioning from Mechanic to Marine Surveyor 08:47 The Role of Technology in Marine Surveying 12:06 Building a Comprehensive Reporting System 15:03 Marketing and Content Creation in the Marine Industry 17:54 Feedback and Customer Engagement Strategies 24:34 The Importance of Surveys in Boat Purchases 30:20 Building Strong Customer Relationships 34:46 Navigating the Marine Industry 39:36 Lessons from Sea Trials and Inspections 43:45 The Journey of a Marine Professional