AeroExploration explores aviation’s history and the people shaping the industry today. Host Jim Schilling shares stories of historic flights, modern aviation careers, and the passion that keeps enthusiasts looking to the skies. The show blends aviation nostalgia with conversations about where the field is heading. It is for listeners interested in flight, career paths, and the enduring appeal of aviation.
Episodes

Episode 87: Testing Air Cargo Containers With Fire | Inside IATA
What happens when something catches fire inside an aircraft's cargo compartment?And how do you know that the equipment designed to contain that fire will actually work?In Episode 87 of the Flying Midwest Podcast, Jim continues his conversation with Tom Brodowski, this time exploring his work with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the complex world of air cargo safety.We ta

Episode 86 - The Hidden Logistics Network Behind Every Airlin
You see the airplane. You check your bag. You board your flight. But have you ever wondered about the massive logistics operation happening behind the scenes?Every day, major airlines move thousands of pieces of baggage and enormous amounts of cargo through a global network of airports, aircraft, people, and technology. Keeping all of that moving takes a tremendous amount of coordination—and when

Episode 85: From Fear of Flying to a Top Aviation Creator - With Sarah Daniels
If you follow aviation on social media, chances are you've seen Sarah Daniels — better known by her channels and social media as Sarahnautics.But Sarah's journey into aviation is anything but ordinary.Before becoming a pilot and one of aviation's most recognizable content creators, Sarah was an actress, performer, and even a Disney Princess. And perhaps most surprisingly, she was once

Episode 84 - How Aviation Changed His Life: A Sun Country Captain's Story
Every pilot has a story, but few are as remarkable as Mark's.Before becoming a respected captain at Sun Country Airlines, Marc was a young man searching for direction. That path led him to the U.S. Navy, where he served on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier during the Vietnam War—an experience that instilled the discipline and work ethic that would shape the rest of his life.After leaving

Episode 83 - Your Ultimate Guide to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
Whether you're flying into Oshkosh, driving through the gates for the first time, or simply wondering what all the excitement is about, this episode is your complete guide to EAA AirVenture.We're covering everything a first-time visitor needs to know—from planning your trip and navigating the massive grounds to finding the best exhibits, forums, daily airshows, the legendary Night Airshow,

Episode 82 - From Aerospace Engineer to Ground School Pioneer: The Unexpected CEO of Part-Time Pilot
What if you could dramatically cut your flight training costs and accelerate your progress simply by understanding how to study smarter? Nick Smith, a former aerospace engineer turned flight training coach, reveals the insider secrets that helped him finally conquer the challenging private pilot course—despite years of costly setbacks. His story isn’t just about flying; it’s a blueprint for overco

Episode 81 - PlaneWX: Better Weather Decisions, Safer Flights
After a bit of a break, AeroExploration is back—and we've got an incredible lineup of episodes coming your way!To kick things off, I'm joined by Mark Wolfgang, founder of PlaneWX, for a fascinating conversation about aviation, technology, and weather.Mark shares his unique journey from a successful career in technology and cybersecurity to becoming an avid pilot. After earning his ratings

Episode 80 - Flight Sim Kid Becomes Air Traffic Controller | W/ @PropHatCat
What if the voice you hear at 35,000 feet started with a kid behind a computer screen playing flight simulator?This week on AeroExploration, we sit down with @PropHatCat—an air traffic controller and viral aviation creator who’s pulling back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood roles in aviation.From running “imaginary traffic” in 8th grade on flight sim to working real aircraft at a Cente

Episode 79 - We're All WRONG about the FAA: Inside the FSDO with Nick Matlock
What really happens behind the scenes at the FAA?In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we sit down with FAA Inspector Nick Matlock (@incommand0) to break down one of aviation’s most misunderstood roles. From his journey as a pilot to his transition into the FAA, Nick shares what it’s actually like working inside a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).We dive into the stigma surroundin

Episode 78 - Saving Airports from SNOWMAGEDDON: Airport Snow Operations
How do airports stay open during massive snowstorms?When a blizzard hits, pilots aren’t the only ones fighting the weather. Behind the scenes, an entire operation is working nonstop to keep runways open, aircraft moving, and passengers safe.In this episode of AeroExploration, we take you inside the world of airport winter operations—from the high-stakes decisions inside the Snow Desk to the incred

Episode 77 - What It Takes to Livestream MSP Airport: With Alex Redding
What does it take to livestream one of America’s busiest airports?In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we sit down with Alex Redding, the creator behind MSP Airport LIVE, the popular plane-spotting livestream focused on Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP).Alex grew up just minutes from the airport, where a lfascination with airplanes eventually collided with a career in v

Episode 76 - Beyond the Airlines: Careers in Aircraft Management
Episode 76 – Finding an Aviation Career Through Aircraft ManagementNot every aviation career follows the traditional airline pipeline.In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, Jim sits down with Ellen, a CFI, CFII, and Part 135 commercial pilot working in the specialized world of aircraft management.Aircraft management companies help non-pilot aircraft owners handle the many responsibilities

Episode 75- The Second Take: Erik Fletcher's Charter Pilot Life
Two years ago, Eric Fletcher joined us to share his incredible journey from Hollywood camera operator to corporate pilot. After years behind the lens capturing iconic moments in shows like Dexter and True Blood, Eric traded red carpets for runways and began a bold second chapter in aviation.Now he’s back.In this follow-up conversation, we revisit Eric’s transition story — but this time from 35,000

Episode 74 - Aviation Year in Review '25: Under Pressure
In this Aviation 2025 Year in Review episode, we examine a year defined by pressure, scrutiny, and silent success. From the DCA mid-air collision and aviation near misses to Air Traffic Control staffing challenges, infrastructure strain, and the impacts of a government shutdown, the aviation industry faced unprecedented attention. This episode looks beyond the headlines to highlight the profession

Episode 73 - Stuck in Flight Training? You’re Not Alone
In this episode of AeroExploration, Jim opens up about his long, winding journey toward the CFI certificate — a path filled with delays, job changes, health setbacks, family obligations, and everything in between. If your own training has stalled, stretched out, or taken an unexpected detour, this episode is designed to be the encouragement and practical guidance you need.We talk through why delay

Episode 72 - Just Plane Silly, Just Got Serious- with Airline Pilot Bryan Turner.
In this episode of AeroExploration, we’re joined once again by aviation YouTuber Bryan Turner to close out his Fly the Transition journey. Two years ago, Bryan shared his goals and early steps toward a career in professional aviation. Today, we pick up that story as he reflects on the final push—finishing training, navigating the ups and downs of hiring cycles, and ultimately landing in the right

Episode 71 - U-2 Spy Plane: The Aircraft, The Missions, and The Pilots Who Fly It
The U-2 “Dragon Lady” remains one of the most iconic and mysterious aircraft ever flown—designed in secrecy, flown at the edge of space, and still serving critical intelligence missions nearly 70 years after its first flight. In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we expand on the recent YouTube feature with additional insights, extended storytelling, and the full interview with Gogo, who

Episode 70 - FAA Written Tests and Lesson Plans
In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we kick things off with a practical deep dive into FAA written test prep—how to study smart, avoid common pitfalls, and use solid test-taking strategies on exam day. More importantly, we break down what to do after you’ve completed the test. Your score report isn’t just a number; it’s a targeted roadmap for checkride prep. We’ll cover how to interpre

Episode 69 - MOSAIC Unlocked: What the FAA Rule Means for Pilots
In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, I dive deep into the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rule — a landmark change from the Federal Aviation Administration that expands what pilots can fly, how aircraft are certified, and how our aviation world is evolving.We’ll start with the history — how we got here from the original Sport Pilot and Light‑Sport Aircraft

Episode 68 - Trading Badges for Boarding Passes: A State Trooper's Flight to the Airlines
In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we meet Matt Peschong, a North Dakota Highway Patrol veteran who traded his patrol car for a cockpit.After 15 years in law enforcement, Matt decided it was time to chase the dream he’d held since childhood — becoming an airline pilot. From earning his CFI, CFII, and MEI ratings in between patrol shifts to now flying as a First Officer at a regional a

Episode 67 - The Invisible Crisis Grounding America’s Flights
Every delay, every grounded plane, every canceled flight has a story behind it—one you don’t see. In this episode of AeroExploration, we dive into the hidden crisis in aviation maintenance: a rapidly aging workforce, broken training pipelines, and a shortage of skilled mechanics that is grounding aircraft across the country. From major airlines to your local flight school, the impact is real, cost

Episode 66 - From Zero Time to Airline: Inside Thrust Flight’s Approach to Accelerated Pilot Training
In this episode of AeroExploration, we sit down with Patrick Arnzen, airline pilot, FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and CEO of Thrust Flight. Patrick has spent his career guiding aspiring aviators through the challenges of pilot training, and he’s now leading one of the nation’s premier accelerated flight schools.Together, we dig into:✈️ Accelerated flight training — the real advantages, the common

Episode 65 - From AC-130 to Healing: Anthony Dyer’s Story of War & Finding Purpose
Join us on AeroExploration as we sit down with Anthony Dyer, a former USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator whose career includes flying AC-130 gunships and Pave Hawk rescue helicopters on dangerous missions that saved lives. In Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator, Anthony doesn’t just chronicle the adrenaline and action of combat search-and-rescue, casualty ev

Episode 64 - Trading Farm Life for Flying Jets
In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, Jim sits down with Collin, a corporate jet pilot with NetJets, to explore his unconventional path into aviation.Collin didn’t grow up with a headset in hand or a lifelong dream of flying. Instead, his early life revolved around farming. But a chance meeting with a pilot on a party bus changed everything. That single conversation set him on the path t

Episode 63 - 9/11 and The Hidden Impacts on the Aviation Industry
On September 11, 2001, the aviation industry changed forever. While most remember the immediate shutdown of U.S. airspace and the introduction of tighter airport security, the ripple effects of that day continue to shape aviation more than two decades later.In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we take a deep dive into how 9/11 reshaped every corner of the industry—from pilots, flight at

Episode 62 - From Factory Floor to Flight Deck: Joe’s Aviation Journey
In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we have another Fly the Transition story. We sit down with Joe, a pilot whose career path proves that chasing your dream job in aviation isn’t always a straight line. Joe takes us from his days on the factory floor to his first aviation gigs, sharing how he and his family sacrificed to keep his flying dream alive.From check run flights in the middle

Episode 61 - The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Hangar
Hangar space has become one of the most competitive and confusing parts of the industry, and getting it wrong can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we deliver the step-by-step playbook for hangar ownership. From finding hidden opportunities that never hit the market, to deciding between sole ownership and partnerships, to understanding the ins

Episode 60 - What New Airline Pilots Can Expect: Training, IOE & the Captain’s Seat
Welcome to a new era of the AeroExploration Podcast! To kick things off, we’re catching up with a familiar voice — Christy Shaffer, who first joined us during her transition into the airlines. Since then, Christy has upgraded to captain and now serves as a line check airman, guiding the next generation of pilots through their first days on the line.In this episode, Christy shares what new airline

Episode 59 - Change is in the Air
This episode comes with a big announcement!In this episode I get personal, I get reflective, and I tell you what big things I learned this year at Airventure that will change my world of content creation, hopefully for the better. Airventure '25 gave me a good deal of time to assess my content creation and reflect on how I provide that content to all of you. I'm making some changes moving ahead, a

Episode 58 - How an Army Logistics Officer Built a Career in Aviation.
Caleb Green’s Journey from Army Officer to Corporate Jet PilotIn this inspiring episode of Fly the Transition, host Jim Schilling sits down with Caleb Green, a former Army logistics officer who made a bold leap from a background in agricultural business and military service into the cockpit of a corporate jet.Caleb shares his powerful story of navigating the transition from a structured Army caree

Episode 57 - The Finer Points of Becoming a Sought-After CFI with Jason Miller
Becoming a Career CFI with Jason Miller of The Finer PointsIn this episode of Fly the Transition, I sit down with one of the most recognizable voices in flight training—Jason Miller, creator of Learn the Finer Points. Jason shares his journey to becoming a full-time, in-demand Certified Flight Instructor and how he built The Finer Points into one of the most respected aviation education platforms

Episode 56: How One Man Went from Satellites to a Second Career as a Flight Instructor
This week on Fly the Transition, we're joined by Gary Palmer – Certified Flight Instructor, student pilot advocate, and aviation writer – whose inspiring story proves it's never too late to pursue your aviation dreams.After a successful career in information security for satellite systems, Gary decided to shift gears and chase his lifelong interest in flight. Now, as a passionate CFI, he w

Episode 55 - Conquering Airline Sim Training: Tips from an Instructor
So, you've made it through Indoc and ground school—now it's time for the sim. Are you ready to take the controls?In Part 2 of our Airline Training Series, we sit down again with Seth Bunker, a current First Officer with a major airline, and a former simulator instructor, systems instructor, and regional airline Captain to demystify the airline simulator phase of training.Whether you're

Episode 54 - Inside Airline Training: Myth, Realities, and Keys to Success
Thinking about becoming an airline pilot? Just got hired by a regional? Nervous about indoc, systems, and sim training? This episode is your roadmap to success.In this first installment of a two-part series, we’re cutting through the confusion to give you the straight story on your initial airline training experience — from Day 1 of indoctrination to the final aircraft systems exam.I’m joined by S

Episode 53 - You’re Not Alone: How the Right Mentor Changes Everything
Mentorship can make the difference between staying grounded and taking flight — especially when you're changing careers later in life. In this episode, I reflect on the mentors who helped shape my aviation journey, from my early days in Civil Air Patrol to the seasoned professionals who poured into my personal and professional growth.This isn’t just about finding someone to help you prep for a

Episode 52 - This Listener Reached Out… Now He’s Living His Aviation Dream
✈️ From Listener to King Air Captain: Curt's Journey from Playing It Safe to Soaring HighIn this episode of Fly the Transition, we bring you a story that hit close to home—and reminded us why this podcast exists in the first place.Curt first reached out after listening to our very first episode. He was searching for direction in his aviation journey, and something about the story he heard reso

Episode 51 - Built for Flight: Engineer, Pastor, Pilot—and Always Learning
After a brief break, Fly the Transition is back with all-new episodes—and we’re kicking things off with an aviation story that’s as rich and inspiring as it is unexpected.In this episode, Jim sits down with a true aviation renaissance man—someone whose journey spans engineering, software development, global humanitarian work, pastoral leadership, and now, professional aviation. From growing up on

Episode 50 - Inside the Tower & the Cockpit: Opposing Bases RH on ATC, Airlines, and Career Shifts
What does it take to pivot between multiple careers in aviation? In this episode of Fly the Transition, we welcome Romeo Hotel (RH), co-host of the Opposing Bases Podcast and a seasoned aviation professional with a career spanning multiple roles. RH shares his unique journey from consulting to regional pilot, then to air traffic controller, and ultimately returning to the skies as a first officer

Episode 49 - Is Commercial Aviation Still Safe? The Facts You Need to Know
In this episode of Fly the Transition, we tackle a pressing question on the minds of many: Is commercial aviation still safe? With the recent mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., some may be feeling uneasy about flying or even questioning whether they should pursue a career in aviation.
But here’s the reality: Flying is safer than ever before.
Join me as I break down:
How long it has been si

Episode 48 - Best Flight Training Options: Renting, Clubs, Schools, or Ownership?
Thinking about learning to fly but not sure where to start? In this episode of Fly the Transition, we dive into the pros and cons of the top flight training options: renting, flying clubs, flight schools, partnerships, and even sole ownership.
I share my personal story of navigating these choices, with detailed cost breakdowns and practical advice to help you decide what’s best for your aviation

Episode 47 - Full Throttle: Bryan Turner’s Journey to the Airlines
In this episode of Fly the Transition, I welcome back Bryan Turner, the guest from our very first episode of the podcast relaunch over a year ago! Since then, Bryan’s journey to the airlines has been nothing short of remarkable. After his IT company went out of business, Bryan went full throttle in pursuit of his aviation dreams.
We’ll dive into his experiences as he worked toward earning his 1500

Episode 46 - From Deferrals to Denials: How FAA Medical Changes Impact You
In this episode of Fly the Transition, we’re diving deep into the FAA’s 2024 medical certification changes and what they mean for pilots at every stage of their aviation journey. With new rules aimed at reducing processing delays, pilots now face a different landscape—one where incomplete medical applications can result in initial denials rather than lengthy deferrals.
We’ll break down the specifi

Episode 45 - Soaring for a Cause: How Volunteer Flying Helps You Build Time, Connections, and Purpose
n this episode of Fly the Transition, we dive into the powerful impact volunteer flying can have on your aviation career. Whether you're looking to build flight hours, expand your network, or simply give back to the community, flying for charity offers unique opportunities to achieve all three. From disaster relief missions to medical transport and veteran assistance, volunteer pilots are at the f

Episode 44 - Breaking the Cycle: Behind Freedom Aviation Network’s Mission - With Stephanie Lamar
Episode Description
In this episode, we explore how pilots are stepping into a new kind of mission: fighting human trafficking from the skies. Our guest, Stephanie Lamar, shares her journey from a 15-year hiatus in aviation to becoming a regional airline first officer and the driving force behind Freedom Aviation Network.
Stephanie share her journey from an extended break in aviation, to CFI, and

Episode 43 - Building a New Career: A Realtor’s Path to Becoming a Corporate Pilot
Episode Description
In this episode of Fly the Transition, we sit down with Corporate Pilot Sean Crow, whose unique journey from real estate to aviation will resonate with anyone considering a career change. Sean’s passion for flying began in his teens, but life initially took him down a different path into real estate. Years later, with his customer service expertise and problem-solving skills, S

Episode 42: FAA Knowledge Test Dos and Don’ts: What Every Student Should Know
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim guides listeners through the essential steps to prepare for the FAA Knowledge Test. Sharing insights from both his own study journey and the FAA Fundamentals of Instructing, Jim covers everything a student pilot needs to know to feel confident on test day. He dives into common anxieties and fears students face, including test-day nerves a

Episode 41 - From Construction Sites to Captain's Seat: A Pilot's Journey from Masonry to the Flight Deck
In this episode, we sit down with a captain who transformed his career from building on solid ground to soaring through open skies. After years in construction and masonry, he knew the physical toll the trade was taking on his body would only get harder to bear. With a passion for flying that had started as a hobby, he found himself prepared in ways he hadn’t realized for a life-changing pivot to

Episode 40: What I Learned About Flying While Working Towards CFI
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim shares a personal update on his professional journey, balancing the challenges of transitioning into a new role at his full-time job while continuing his pursuit of becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). He dives deep into his CFI journey, reflecting on the key lessons he's learned—patience, a deeper understanding of aerodynamics,

Episode 39 - Mastering the Aviation Job Interview: Tips for Career Changers
Episode Summary:In this episode of Fly the Transition, we break down everything you need to know about preparing for a job interview. Whether you’re transitioning into aviation or brushing up on your interview skills after years away, Jim shares his best tips from both personal experience and his role as a hiring manager. Learn about handling interview nerves, practicing responses, and standing ou

Episode 38 - The FAA Wants YOU: How to Become an Air Traffic Controller
In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim dives into the exciting career of Air Traffic Control (ATC) and the FAA's Fall 2024 hiring window, which opens soon.
If you’re interested in becoming a controller or looking for a rewarding non-pilot role in aviation, this episode is for you. Jim covers everything from qualifications to the application process, and how to prepare for the Air Traffic Skil

Episode 37 - Should I FIRE my CFI: Handling Frustrations of a Bad Instructor
Episode Description:
In this solo episode of Fly the Transition, Jim addresses the challenges and frustrations that can arise from working with a less-than-ideal flight instructor. Learn strategies for handling these issues, adapting effectively, and accessing resources to support your flight training journey.
Key Topics Covered:
Identifying the signs of a bad instructor
Strategies for handlin

Episode 36- Grounded in Business, Soaring into Aviation: One Entrepreneur's Bold Leap
In this episode of Fly the Transition, we sit down with CFII JD Parsons, a helicopter pilot, flight school owner, and the founder of On the Ball Coffee, an aviation-themed coffee company.
JD’s journey into aviation is anything but ordinary—before taking to the skies, he was a successful entrepreneur running a trucking company, a street sweeping business, and several gas stations. But despite his

Episode 35 - Building a Career in Aviation: Key Non-Pilot Opportunities
Episode Title:
Opportunities in the Aviation Industry for Non-Pilots
In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim explores the wide range of career opportunities in the aviation industry for those who aren’t eligible or interested in becoming pilots. From air traffic control to aircraft maintenance, discover the many ways to be part of the aviation world without flying the planes. If you’re passiona

Episode 34: Financing Your Flight Training: Managing Costs and Avoiding Financial Pitfalls
Episode Title:
Financing Your Flight Training: Managing Costs and Avoiding Financial Pitfalls
Episode Description:
In this solo episode of Fly the Transition, Jim addresses the fear of financial instability and the significant costs associated with flight training and a midlife career change into aviation. Learn practical strategies for budgeting, saving, and financing your aviation journey while

Episode 33- From Welding to the Cockpit: Nick Antilla’s Journey to Becoming an Airline Pilot
Episode Title:
Description:In this episode of Fly the Transition, we sit down with Nick Antilla, a first officer at a major airline, who shares his inspiring journey from metal fabrication and welding to the cockpit. After losing his job during the Covid cutbacks, Nick transitioned into aviation, overcoming misinformation and learning the importance of communication with his partner. Tune in to h

Episode 32: Balancing Flight Training with Life: Strategies for Success
Episode Title:
Balancing Flight Training with Life: Strategies for Success
Episode Description:
In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim tackles the challenge of balancing flight training with work, family, and other responsibilities, especially for those making a midlife career change into aviation. Jim shares personal strategies and practical tips to help you find that elusive balance, ensuri

Episode 31: Navigating Career Change Challenges in Aviation (An Introduction to Solo Episodes)
Episode Title:Navigating Career Change Challenges in Aviation
Episode Description:In this special solo episode of Fly the Transition, Jim introduces the concept of solo episodes, where he dives deep into the unique challenges and opportunities of pursuing a midlife career in aviation. Jim shares his personal journey, including his 10 years as a private pilot, his current pursuit of a CFI rating, a

From Paramedic to Aircraft Mechanic and Instructor
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
On this episode, we talk about another area of aviation that is facing a shortage in workers, aviation maintenance. We will talk with Steven, a former scuba instructor and paramedic who now teaches A&P courses in florida. We talk about his career path, his love of aviation, and how to get on the aviation maintenance career

Transitioning from Police Instructor to Flight Instructor
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
On this episode, I am welcome Tyler Smith, former police officer turned CFI. Tyler had early dreams of aviation, but the finances of college and training put that dream out of reach.
He would become a police officer, training officer, and SWAT Operator with his department. His exposure to a nearby airport reignited his passio

Taking Off into Aviation Media - With Dan Millican
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
On this episode, I am so excited to welcome Dan Millican of the YouTube channel Taking Off. Dan made his career in television, film, and corporate media production. At the rise of the age of drone systems, Dan was able to incorporate his interest in aviation into his job.
Dan began to chase a number of pilot certificates, to include his

Enlisted Aircrew to Major Carrier Pilot: With Seth Bunker
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
On this episode, I am thrilled to welcome my good friend Seth Bunker, a First Officer with a major US Carrier. Seth got his start in aviation as an enlisted aircrew member in the United States Air Force. He served as a boom operator and a flight engineer. He leveraged his flight engineer hours and experience to work his way int

From Silicon Valley to High Flying CFI - With Richard Donaldson
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
In this episode, we are joined by AZ CFI Richard Donaldson. Richard spent over 25 years working in Silicon Valley Tech, building start ups, working in supply chain, and more. As tech took a turn and the world faced a global pandemic, Richard moved to one of the hotbeds of aviation training, Arizona. A discovery flight got Richa

Agricultural Innovation: How Drones Fulfilled One Agronomist’s Aviation Dream
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
In this episode, we are joined by Cory Palm, an innovative agricultural drone spray pilot. Cory originally dreamed of becoming a crop duster pilot but instead pursued a career path in agriculture as an agronomist as well as work as a paramedic. After working as a medic and facing long hours, low pay, and disruptions to his fami

Ministry, Real Estate, and Aviation: A Triad of Transitions (Ep 25)
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Fly the Transition"!
In this episode, we're joined by Jason Reynolds, a multi-faceted individual who has traversed careers in real estate, ministry, and aviation. Jason shares his unique journey, from answering a calling of faith and building a congregation to discovering a new passion in aviation as he transitioned from ministry to a fresh ca

From Tech Consulting to the Cockpit: Escaping the Golden Handcuffs for a Life in the Skies
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
We are joined by Aaron, a pilot with one of the major airlines. He talks to us about early dreams of aviation that were curbed by the events of 9/11, a successful tech consulting career, and breaking the golden handcuffs to chase his dreams of flying.
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the c

Crafting Content, Crafting Pilots: Trent Dyrsmid's Journey in Aviation and Media
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
We're back for another new episode of Fly the Transition
I'm so excited to welcome Trent Dyrsmid of the YouTube channel Fly with Trent. We talk about his success with his content creation, his work as a CFI, and his journey to a career in commercial aviation.
Fly with Trent:
https://flywithtrent.com/
Join our Community:

From Maintenance to Mentoring: A Veteran's Journey from Air Force Ground to Airline Sky
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
After a couple of weeks off, Fly the Transition is back with a new episode. This time around we talk with Legacy Airline Pilot and aviation mentor Kenny Thomas. Kenny grew up in the Bronx with limited access to aviation. After a stint as an Air Force Maintainer, Kenny went back to college, earned his commission and became an Air Forc

The Flight of Numbers: A Mathematician's Journey to Regional Pilot
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
On this week's episode, I talk with Jared, math whiz turned regional pilot. He will tell us about working on building a plane in high school, his careers with numbers, teaching, and eventually landing a job in aviation at a regional airlines.
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the convers

Let's Talk Medical Certificates - With Dr. Keith Roxo of Wingman Med
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
On this week's episode, we sit down with Dr. Keith Roxo, Operations Director with WIngman Med. We discuss the ever important medical certificates, dispel some myths, and what you should know before you go.
Wingman Med : www.wingmanmed.com
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation

Bonus Content: Fields of Valor to Fields of Green: A Marine Rifleman's Aerial Transition to Ag Crop Duster Pilot!
I had a little bit of content from the cutting room floor from our last episode that I thought I would share. Join me for a little more of my conversation with Herve!
On this week's episode, we sit down with Ag-Pilot Herve. He tells us about his time and service in the United States Marine Corps, and his unique journey into the world of aerial application and flying in the agriculture indus

Fields of Valor to Fields of Green: A Marine Rifleman's Aerial Transition to Ag Crop Duster Pilot!
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
On this week's episode, we sit down with Ag-Pilot Herve. He tells us about his time and service in the United States Marine Corps, and his unique journey into the world of aerial application and flying in the agriculture industry.
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, conside

Blue Line to Flight Line: Policing, Tech, and the Journey to Flight School Ownership
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
This time, I welcome aviation podcaster and flight school owner Bobby Doss. Bobby is one of the hosts of the Behind the Prop Podcast. bobby will share his journey of early career exploration. He talks about his time as a police dispatcher and police officer, his move to the tech industry, and chasing his dreams into aviation in his 4

Fueling Dreams: Navigating a Mid-Career Change from Nutrition Specialist to Professional Pilot
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
This time, we're embarking on an inspiring journey with Nutrition Specialist Leila, currently navigating her own career transformation. From a childhood fear of flying to being inspired by her private pilot father. Leila's path to professional aviation was set in motion after a car accident kept her out of the air during her

From Healing to High Altitudes: A Naval Corpsman's Journey as Naval Aviator and Airline Captain
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Fly the Transition!
On this episode, we have a special guest on board – Airline Pilot Jody Brant. A former corpsman in the United States Navy, Jody initially aspired to pursue a career in medicine after earning his degree. However, life had different plans for him. Tune in as Jody takes us through his remarkable journey, from the medical field to the dy

Guiding Wings: With Nik Fialka- Ready 4 Pushback Host, Airline Captain, and Spitfire Elite Coach
Welcome aboard another thrilling episode of Fly the Transition!
In this episode, we're honored to be joined by the remarkable Nik Fialka, a seasoned veteran in the world of aviation. Nik's journey is nothing short of extraordinary – from serving as a naval aviator to commanding the skies as a major airline captain. As if that weren't impressive enough, he also wears the hat of the host

Behind the Lens to Above the Clouds: From Hollywood Camera Man to Capturing Corporate Skies!
Welcome to another episode of Fly the Transition!
On this edition, I'm thrilled to have Eric Fletcher join us. With a rich background as a former Hollywood camera operator, Eric has left his mark on the industry by capturing iconic moments in shows like Dexter, True Blood, and more! Join us for a captivating conversation as Eric shares tales from his extensive cinematography career.
Eric will

Seizing Opportunities: Lessons Learned and Growing Where You're Planted
We are looking back at the first month of the new Fly the Transition Podcast. Join me as I share some key takeaways from recent interviews and exploring the mantra of "grow where you are planted." We talk about the importance of being prepared to seize opportunities so you're ready when opportunity knocks.
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X-Rays to Runways: A Journey from X-ray Tech to Flight Instructing
In this episode, we are talk with Jamie, a former medical X-Ray Technician who is making a career change after working in the medical field through COVID. Jamie talks about his old job, the impacts of the pandemic, and his journey into aviation.
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Logistics to Liftoffs: The Journey to a Major Legacy Airlines, with Chris McLellan
In this week's episode, we are joined by legacy airline pilot, Chris McLellan. He has always had a passion for aviation, and joined the Civil Air Patrol at a young age to be around it. He started down a patch of flying, but made a turn towards a "grown up" job in the logistics sector working in IT. In his 40's the quest for a career in aviation was reignited. Today, he is a pilot

Patrol to Progress: A State Trooper's Soaring Shift to Regional Manager with AOPA!
In this episode, we are joined by AOPA Regional Manager, Kyle Lewis. We hear about his untraditional aviation job advocating in his region with AOPA. Kyle's journey started out exploring aviation before becoming a State Trooper. Aviation would eventually pull Kyle back years later.
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