In this episode of Think Outside the Stocks, host Madhavi Jain sits down with Brandon Marini, co-founder and COO of Stratus Financial, to explore an alternative investment class that helps aspiring pilots finance their training while delivering strong, risk-adjusted returns for investors.

Brandon shares his journey from Navy veteran and airline pilot to entrepreneur, building one of the fastest-growing companies in America. He explains how Stratus Financial bridges a critical funding gap for future aviators, discusses how private credit is becoming a powerful investment vehicle for accredited investors, and dives into risk management, repayment structures, and the long-term global demand for pilots.

Beyond business, Brandon reflects on the importance of diversification — from real estate and Bitcoin to fine art and whiskey — and how he integrates meditation, scuba diving, and giving back through scholarships into his life philosophy.