BUSINESS EDU As the owner and CEO of Aggres- sor Adventures, I continually strive to build on our reputation as the leader in adventure travel industry. Since ac- quiring Aggressor in 2007, I ex- panded it to offer global experiences in many more destinations like the Maldives, Red Sea, and Sri Lanka. However, steering a busi- ness of this magnitude through turbulent waters – both lit- eral and metaphorical – has not been without its struggles. As a former Air Force medic and Taco Bell franchise owner, I often lean on a single word to guide me during challenging times: "Focus."
My Use of ‘Focus’ to Navigate Aggressor Adventures – by Wayne B. Brown, author “From Rags to Enrichment” & CEO, Aggressor Adventures
ating Procedures (SOP), supporting affected guests, and enhancing safety protocols across the company. My use of "Focus" also manifests in my hands-on man- agement style. As an avid diver and photographer, I per- sonally engage with guests during "CEO Adventures," gaining direct insights into their experiences. This focus on customer feedback has driven many innovations ensuring Aggressor remains a leader in luxury adventure travel. My focus also extends to sustainability and community impact. In 2012, I founded the Sea of Change Foundation, di- recting 100% of its funds to conservation and scholarships. Our recent 2025 Make A Difference challenge further exem- plifies this, encouraging guests to support a person or fam-
For me, "Focus" is more than a buzzword; it’s a strategic anchor. In my recently published book, From Rags to Enrichment: How I Define Success in Business and in Life (October 2024), I reflect on how this principle has been instrumental in over- coming obstacles. Aggressor Adventures, which began in 1984 as a modest liveaboard diving op- eration, has faced significant hurdles under my ownership, including economic downturns, a pandemic, and the complexities of global expan- sion. One notable challenge we all faced and can relate to was the compete shutdown of the world
ily in need, earning them entry into our exclusive Challenge Coin Club. This initiative reflects focus on long-term societal benefits while navigating business challenges. Focus does not need to be on just your companies immediate needs. Through economic uncertainties and global expansion, my reliance on "Focus" has been a cornerstone of Aggressor Adventures’ re- silience. By zeroing in on safety, customer expe- rience, and sustainability, I am not only able to move the business forward but also redefined
Wayne’s New Book
success in the adventure travel industry, prov- ing that a clear focus can turn struggles into opportunities for your own company’s growth and your own enrichment.
in 2020. In the aftermath, I immediately initiated a focused approach to our future reopening. Rather than going on a all out cost-cutting spree and waiting out the return of in- ternational travel, I focused our priorities on our worldwide operations with a thorough review of our Standard Oper-
email Wayne
Share a Story Make a meaningful impact in someone’s STEP 1 Submit your story and you may win an Aggressor Liveaboard ® vacation! Celebrate Service to Others and WIN! STEP 2 Earn a Challenge Coin Qualifying stories of service Win an Aggressor Adventure for two! STEP 3
life or in your community. Share your story and photo before Dec. 31, 2025.
to others will receive an of昀cial award plaque with your very own beautiful Challenge Coin included!
You may win the liveaboard trip of a lifetime when you help others and share your “Make a Difference” story.
800 348-2628 www.aggressor.com 209 Hudson Trace, Augusta, Georgia 30907 USA
April 2025 Difference Challenge 8.59x2.74 .indd 1 PAGE FOURTEEN | SCUBA DIVING INDUSTRY
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