E253 Success Mindset — What Aviation & Publishing Teach You About Life

Dr. Michaela welcomes Adam Witty, founder + CEO of Forbes Books, for a conversation that blends publishing, purpose, and aviation (because apparently the coolest people do both).

Adam shares how he fell into the world of books through a summer internship that sparked a lifelong obsession with storytelling—and why he believes literature has the power to genuinely change lives.

Then… we shift into the cockpit.

Adam talks about how a friend’s encouragement nudged him into getting his pilot’s license—and how flying has become a major part of both his business travel and personal life.

Together, they unpack the parallels between flying and living, including:

The power of preparation
Why proficiency matters
How staying calm in an emergency isn’t a personality trait… it’s a practiced skill

Adam also drops a great reminder using the windshield vs. rearview mirror analogy—encouraging listeners to stop living in the past and start focusing on what’s ahead.

Because the windshield is bigger for a reason.

Key Areas

• The behind-the-scenes world of modern publishing
• What separates a dreamer from a finisher
• Why aviation teaches focus, clarity, and emotional control
• How to keep your cool when life gets turbulent
• Why forward motion matters more than perfect conditions

If you’re into books, aviation, and business growth—these are the life lessons that hit different because they’re real.

Thinking of publishing your life story, big idea, or message? Consider Forbes Books—a leader in authority branding and bringing powerful concepts to life.

https://books.forbes.com/

Order your copy of 7 Primal Wounds: https://amzn.to/4a3SvlS

Visit Michaela: http://www.skytalkdoc.com

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelaRenee