The Interview – John Shaak
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
I’m a husband married to Lisa for 31 years, father to Audrey 28, Allie, 24 and Andrew 19, Commercial airline pilot and serial entrepreneur having started and operated many businesses over the years. Lisa and I own 15 Perry Street, a coworking complex offering virtual offices, meeting rooms, private offices and workspaces in downtown Newnan.
Best piece of business advice you’ve received.
Do your best.
If I had it to do over …
I would have applied to Delta earlier.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Music is hard to narrow down. Playlists or automated “stations’ are how I listen now and as for books, 1) the NIV Bible, any John D MacDonald, Travis McGee novel and Lee Child, Jack Reacher novel. Preferably, an iPad with all of my books and music, ha.
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know
I’m a native of the Jersey Shore.
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why
My spouse, Lisa Shaak (living, and best when she is with me).
My dad, Dr. Phil Shaak (no longer alive, because he was a very wise man and I miss him).
Nikola Tesla (deceased, because he invented darn near everything. Amazing mind).
Richard Branson (very alive, great energy and what an inspiring entrepreneur).
Steve Jobs (deceased, invented technology that has changed our lives. Love to hear his story)
Elvis Presley (deceased, because he’s the king of Rock ’n’ Roll!)
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream
Retire to a big catamaran in the BVI
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
A physician. I was a paramedic and loved it. Medicine just made sense to me.
Your go-to food.
Greek Gyro
Favorite movies(s)
Just Friends, Top Gun, Airplane, Joe Dirt
Dogs or cats?
Dogs
Your favorite quote and why
Change your thoughts and you change your world. Norman Vincent Peale. Because it’s the truth!
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished
Became a pilot
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own
Hang in there. No-one said this would be easy.
