Behind some of the most innovative defense technology companies stands a talent scout with an unusual background. Peterson Conway uses his experience as a back-country bush pilot to “deliver special people to hard-to-reach places” in the tech world. His distinctive recruitment approach, combining aviation precision with powerful storytelling, has made him key to building foundational teams for companies associated with the PayPal Mafia, including Palantir, Mach Industries, and Fuse.

Behind every fighter pilot’s radio call sits a nickname with a story—usually marking an embarrassing mishap rather than a heroic feat. These call signs aren’t self-selected but given by squadron mates during informal ceremonies that resemble good-natured roasts. From “Puddles” (who spilled a drink on a commanding officer) to “Wolfman” (Robin Olds’ reference to his regulation-defying mustache), these nicknames become permanent identifiers that follow pilots throughout their careers, building squadron unity and preventing anyone from taking themselves too seriously.

For millions of travelers, the prospect of boarding an aircraft creates reactions ranging from mild unease to paralyzing terror. Aerophobia affects approximately 25 million Americans alone, leading many to completely reorganize their lives to avoid flying. The physical symptoms—racing heart, sweating, shortness of breath—can begin days before a scheduled flight, while the psychological distress often stems from feelings of confinement, lack of control, or previous negative experiences with turbulence.