Aviation Mentors
Aviation Mentors is a weekly podcast for aviation enthusiasts, pilots, and students. Hosted by Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez, it covers a wide range of aviation topics, from flying tips to industry insights. The show aims to create a community for aviators to share their passion for flying. Episodes are released every Friday.
Episodes
Why Student Pilots Stall on FAA Regulations and How to Actually Learn Them with Caressa Bray
✈️ Excited to start flight training, then hit a wall of FAA regulations? You’re not the only one.This week on Aviation Mentors, Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez sit down with Caressa Bray, founder of Aero Pathways, part of the E3 SkyPath ecosystem. Caressa explains why so many student pilots quietly stall out once the regulations show up, and how understanding the “why” behind the rules builds t
Don't Change Your Fuel Plan Mid-Flight: Why I Regretted It Twice in One Weekend (Part 2)
⛽ What happens when everything's going right, so you skip the fuel stop you planned?In this episode, Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez finish the story of Brandon's ferry flight in an ICP Savannah S light sport airplane from Texas to California. With the right tank still not feeding, Brandon walks through how he replanned every leg, how they got fuel at an airport that had none, and the moment he
Fuel Planning in an Unfamiliar Airplane: Why the Owner's 5 GPH Estimate Was Wrong
⛽ What happens when the fuel burn you were promised isn't the fuel burn you get?In this episode, Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez break down part one of Brandon's ferry flight in an ICP Savannah S, a light sport airplane he had never flown, from Georgetown, Texas toward California. Brandon walks through how he planned fuel for an unfamiliar aircraft, why he didn't trust the owner's numbers, and
What Actually Happens in a 2-Year Flight Review, From Stalls to Steep Turns
✈️ Flight review coming up? Brandon walks through his 2-year flight review in a twin, from stalls to steep turns to one very human radio mistake.Co-host Carson Vasquez is out this week, so Brandon Martini takes the mic solo for an episode built around his own flight review. He covers what he practiced, what felt rusty, and what it taught him about staying proficient.What a 2-year flight review loo
How Much Fuel Reserve Do You Actually Need?
Fuel starvation kills more pilots than mechanical failure ever will, so why do so many still skip the fuel stop? ⛽In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down real fuel exhaustion accidents pulled straight from recent aviation news, then share a personal story of nearly running dry over the desert in an Icon A5. They unpack the exact planning mistakes that turn a
Plan for the Unexpected: A Real-World Cross Country Flight in a New Light Sport Aircraft
✈️ What does it take to plan a cross-country flight when almost nothing is certain?In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon shares his in-progress cross-country trip to Austin, Texas to pick up a brand-new-to-him ICP Savannah light sport aircraft, flying it home to California with his friend Herb. Brandon and Carson break down the real-time decision-making that goes into a flight l
Flight School Rate Hikes, Checkride Delays & Crosswind Limits: Pilot Q&A
Should you switch flight schools if your rates just went up? Is 45 hours without a checkride sign-off normal, or a red flag? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle four listener questions that hit close to home for every student pilot working through primary training. From navigating rising flight school costs to knowing when a CFI's caution is protecting you
From Glider Pilot to Flight Test Engineer: Adriana on Soaring Records, Gulfstream, and the FlyORKA App
✈️ What does it take to flight test a brand-new aircraft before it's ever earned its wings?In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson sit down with flight test engineer and glider champion Adriana, who holds 34 soaring records and built the FlyORKA app. She shares her path from reading test pilot biographies as a teenager to flight testing prototypes for Gulfstream, plus w
Can AI Get You Through Your Checkride?
Can an AI really get you through your checkride, or is it setting you up to fail? 🤖✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Carson flies solo to break down the fast-growing wave of AI tools built for checkride and ground school prep. He walks through what's actually useful, what's overhyped, and where trusting the wrong answer could cost you more than a bad grade.How Sporty's new AI suit
When There's No Runway: Beaches, Golf Courses, and the Huntington Beach Mayday
Mayday, Mayday, Mayday — what really happens when the engine quits and there's no runway in sight? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down the real Huntington Beach beach landing that had pilots buzzing, then dig into aviation history to explain why golf courses keep showing up as emergency landing spots. The hosts cover:The real mayday call and engine fail
Buying or Selling a Plane? Here's the $50,000 Mistake to Watch For
Buying or selling a plane? There's a costly mistake hiding in the logbooks that most people never see coming. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down the real process behind buying and selling an airplane, using Carson's recent sale of his Icon A5 as a live example. They cover:Why a pre-buy inspection is non-negotiable, even on a $20,000 airplane, and what
What It's Really Like to Fly Into Oshkosh and Camp Under Your Wing
What does it really cost to experience the biggest airshow in the world? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down everything pilots need to know about EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, from ticket and membership costs to what it's really like to fly in and camp under your wing. With this year's event just days away, the hosts share firsthand stories and answer the que
Part 107 Drone Rules Every Pilot Needs to Know in 2026
Flying a drone near an airport? The rules might surprise you. 🛸In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down Part 107 and what every pilot, student, and CFI needs to know about sharing the airspace with drones. From personal drone stories to real FAA enforcement cases, the hosts cover:The difference between recreational (TRUST test) and commercial (Part 107) drone
You Failed Your Checkride. Now What?
🌍 Failed a checkride? You're not alone, and it's not the end of your aviation journey. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down what a checkride failure or discontinuance actually means for student pilots, plus dig into the differences between Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools, why general aviation airports keep shutting down, and why fewer people are flyi
What Is the Pentagon's 1260H List and Why Is Cirrus On It?
A Chinese-owned aircraft maker just landed on the Pentagon's radar, and Cirrus pilots want to know what it means for them.In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down the news that Cirrus's parent company, Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), has been added to the Pentagon's list of Chinese military-linked companies operating in the US. The hosts walk th
Cirrus Is a Chinese Company? Plus CO Risk and DPE Shortage
Is Cirrus secretly owned by a Chinese company, and could carbon monoxide be hiding in your training aircraft right now? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle a stacked listener Q&A covering the biggest questions general aviation pilots are asking right now. Carson also catches Brandon off guard with breaking news about Cirrus. They cover:Carson asks Brand
The State of Flight Training in 2026: Hiring, Pipeline, and What the Data Actually Shows
Flight training in 2026 — is it still worth it, and what do the numbers actually say? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Carson delivers a data-driven state of the union for flight training in 2026. Real numbers pulled from FAA records, industry surveys, and airline hiring reports. Carson breaks down:The real state of airline hiring in 2026, with actual numbers from American, Unite
Can You Fly Without Aviation Insurance? Skywatch Answers for Students, CFIs, and Flight Schools
Can you fly without aviation insurance and what happens if you do? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson sit down with Tomer Kashi, CEO and co-founder of Skywatch, and Stephanie Kleeberg, head of sales and customer service, to break down everything pilots need to know about aviation insurance. They discuss:What renters insurance actually covers and why every student
AeroSummit 2026 Recap: AI Caught the Instructor Breaking Planes and a $10,000 Scholarship Is Open Now
Putting all your squawks into Claude and comparing it with flight data and seeing who's breaking the planes. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson just got back from AeroSummit 2025 in Miami and break down everything that happened, from a heated on-stage FAA debate to a live $10,000 scholarship announcement. The hosts discuss:How AI is now being used in flight schoo
Why Student Pilots and CFIs Should Attend AeroSummit 2026
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down everything you need to know about AeroSummit 2026, happening May 20 through 22 at the JW Marriott Turnberry in Aventura, Florida. From the session lineup to networking opportunities, here's what's in store:Dedicated tracks for student pilots, CFIs, and flight school ownersKeynote speaker Stephanie Goats and panels on th
Runway Incursions and Airline Collapses: What Happens to Your Pilot Career?
Runway incursions, airline bankruptcies, and what it all means for your future in the cockpit. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down the latest aviation headlines and what student pilots and aspiring airline professionals need to understand about a rapidly shifting industry. From a shocking runway collision at LaGuardia to Spirit Airlines ceasing operatio
Is an Aviation Degree Still Worth It? Plus Drones and Flight Fear
Do you really need a degree to fly for a major airline, or is that advice completely outdated? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle a packed listener Q&A covering some of the most common questions student pilots are asking right now. From airline hiring requirements to managing fear between lessons, this one hits close to home for anyone in flight traini
The Smelly Cockpit Problem
Hygiene in the cockpit — it's the conversation nobody wants to have, but every pilot, CFI, and flight school owner eventually faces. 🛩️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle the awkward, hilarious, and surprisingly serious topic of cockpit hygiene — and it goes both ways. From smelly students to unprofessional instructors, the hosts break down:How smelly student
War, Fuel Prices, and GPS Spoofing
War, fuel prices, and GPS threats—how is global conflict reshaping general aviation right now? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down the real-world impact of rising fuel costs and geopolitical conflict on pilots, flight training, and the GA community. From Middle East airspace closures to GPS jamming over the US, this episode connects the headlines to you
Are Pilots AI-Proof? Answering Your Biggest Flight Training Questions
Are pilots truly safe from AI replacing their jobs — and how do you actually make flight training work in real life? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle some of the most pressing questions student pilots are asking right now. From the debate over AI and automation in aviation to the real costs of learning to fly, the hosts cover:Why pilots remain AI-proof a
Pizza Delivery to Phenom 300: Shaun Dawson's Pilot Story
From delivering pizzas as a teenager to earning a Phenom 300 type rating — Shaun Dawson's pilot journey is one every GA pilot needs to hear. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon sits down with San Diego-based software engineer, GA pilot, and NFlight owner Shaun Dawson to talk about what it really takes to grow from student pilot to type-rated aviator. The conversation covers:
Flight Training Is Hard: Here's How to Handle the Obstacles Most Students Face
Flight training costs, location choices, and bouncing back from bad lessons—your biggest questions, answered. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle a fresh round of listener questions for student pilots navigating the realities of flight training today. From rising instructor rates to post-lesson frustration, the hosts share honest advice and real-world persp
Mayday in a Warzone: When ATC Can't Save You
Mayday calls, closed airspace, and no place to land — what do you do when ATC tells you "I don't know what to tell you"? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down a real-world airline crew's nightmare flight during the Middle East airspace crisis triggered by the Iran conflict. A routine 30-minute trip turned into a fuel emergency with nowhere to land, and th
From $7,300 in 9 Months to $100K: The Real Airline Pilot Salary Story
From $7,300 in 9 months to breaking $100K. What does the real airline pilot career path actually look like? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon sits down with Chad Freeman, a major airline pilot with 7 type ratings and founder of MHP Investors, a mobile home park investment company focused on building passive income and financial stability outside the cockpit. Chad shares hi
The Real Reason 80% of Student Pilots Never Finish Training
Flight training is tough — but are student pilots set up to fail before they even start? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle the most pressing student pilot concerns of 2026, answering real listener questions about the financial and practical challenges of learning to fly. The hosts break down:Why 80% of student pilots quit — and why funding may be the real
Do You Actually Need an ATP to Fly Commercially? The Answer Might Surprise You
Do you actually need an ATP to fly commercially? The answer depends on how you're flying — and it might surprise you. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down one of the most misunderstood regulatory questions in aviation after a real JSX flight from Scottsdale sparks the debate. They cover:Why Part 121 requires both pilots to hold an ATP, Part 135 requires
Is the DPE Shortage a Myth? PilExOS CEO Adam Shimmens Reveals What's Really Happening
Is there really a DPE shortage, or is aviation facing an efficiency problem? And how is technology transforming flight training and check rides? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson sit down with Adam Shimmens, CEO of PilExOS and 20-year private pilot, to explore the intersection of aviation technology and flight training. From the DPE scheduling crisis to AI-power
You Know You're A CFI When... (Part 5)
Should CFIs stay silent or intervene? Paper charts or electronic flight bags? When's the right time for turning stalls? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson debate the most controversial topics in flight training. From stall techniques to tailwheel timing, the hosts challenge conventional wisdom and share strong opinions about how pilots should really learn to fly,
Listener Questions (Part 13)
Should student pilots pay extra for glass cockpit trainers, or stick with steam gauges to save money? What about learning Class Bravo procedures early? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson answer critical listener questions that every student pilot and low-time pilot faces during their first 250 hours. The hosts tackle real-world training decisions and share lesson
FAA Medical Certification with Dr. Daniel Monlux: What Every Student Pilot Needs to Know
FAA medical certification—what every pilot needs to know before their first (or next) aviation medical exam. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson welcome Dr. Daniel Monlux, FAA Senior HIMS AME, board-certified in family medicine and aerospace medicine, and former F-18 naval aviator with 3,500+ flight hours. Dr. Monlux, medical director of Wingman Med, breaks down t
Garmin Autoland's First Real Emergency: Right Decision or Dangerous Precedent?
Aviation history was made—but should it have been? The first real emergency Autoland sparks massive debate. ✈️On December 20, 2025, Garmin's Emergency Autoland system completed its first-ever real-world emergency landing when a Beechcraft King Air 200 experienced rapid depressurization at 23,000 feet. But here's the controversy: the two pilots were fully conscious, wearing oxygen masks, and capabl
Captain Curt's Journey: From Working 3 Jobs to Flying Gulfstreams | Aviation Success Story
Flight training costs, career timelines, and generational wisdom—what does it really take to make it as an airline pilot? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon sits down with Captain Curt, a third-generation airline pilot and current Gulfstream captain, in Curt's brand-new podcast studio. They dive deep into the realities of building an aviation career, including:Why every yea
Winter Flying Safety for Pilots: Frost, Icing, FIKI Aircraft, and IFR Considerations
Winter flying, icing, fog, and cold-weather decision-making—how do pilots actually manage the risks when temperatures drop? ❄️✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive deep into winter flying realities, sharing real-world stories, hard lessons learned, and practical guidance every pilot should know. From scraping frost off windshields to flying IFR through icing co
Listener Questions (Part 12)
Navigating thunderstorms, aircraft maintenance, and in-flight decision-making—what really happens behind the controls when things get tense? ⚡✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dig into real-world scenarios that every pilot can learn from. From forecasting convective weather to navigating point-of-no-return decisions over the Rockies, the hosts break down:• How t
The Aviation Side of Pearl Harbor: Surprises, Warbirds, and GA Takeaways
Pearl Harbor, aviation history, and real lessons for today’s pilots—how does a two-hour attack from 1941 still shape the way we fly today? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into the aviation side of the Pearl Harbor attack, exploring how 353 Japanese aircraft caught the U.S. by surprise and what modern pilots can learn from the event. From warbirds like the
Listener Questions (Part 11)
What’s the right way to tell your CFI you’re confused? Should student pilots buy their own headset early? And is it normal to feel like you’re getting worse before you get better? ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into real student-pilot frustrations and answer top questions pulled from Reddit and listeners, including:• Why regressing during flight training
Overlooked Aircraft Cleaning Tips That Improve Safety
Keeping an airplane clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s a key part of aviation safety, professionalism, and building trust with students and passengers. ✈️✨In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into the critical but often overlooked world of aircraft cleanliness. They break down why a clean airplane matters, how it impacts safety and perception, and what every
Ep 201 - The Hidden Risks in Flight Schools—and How to Fix Them Before You Scale
Flying for currency, reconnecting with your flight school roots, and keeping safety at the center of aviation growth—this episode covers it all. ✈️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson kick things off with fresh flying stories: short-approach fun in the ICON A5, a post-office moment that turned into an impromptu A5 fanboy encounter, and getting the RV back in the air
Celebrating 200 Episodes – Aviation Mentors Reflect on Growth, Stories & the Journey Ahead
In this special milestone episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez celebrate 200 episodes of inspiring stories, mentorship, and aviation community growth. 🥂From humble beginnings recording in a noisy RV at Oshkosh to becoming one of aviation’s most engaging podcasts, Brandon and Carson reflect on their journey, share behind-the-scenes stories, and revisit t
S02E63: VFR Safety & IFR Traffic Awareness – Non-Towered Airport
Flying VFR? Understanding IFR traffic is critical for safety even at non-towered airports.In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon Martini and Carson explore IFR approaches, shared airspace, and practical VFR safety tips. Using examples from Corona Airport (KAJO) and nearby VORs, they explain how VFR and IFR operations coexist, how to anticipate faster instrument traffic, and what
S02E62: Hidden Airplanes, Tailwheel Flying & The Real Cost of Aircraft Ownership
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson catch up in their brand-new studio to talk about Brandon’s long-hidden Cessna 120 and the challenges of bringing it back to life.They share stories about aircraft maintenance, the true cost of airplane ownership, and why so many planes end up sitting idle in hangars. Brandon dives into his personal experience with ma
S02E61: Reacting to Your Comments Part 1: MOSAIC, GA Costs & Burbank Tower
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson discuss aviation news, insights, and trends shaping the general aviation industry. ✈️From Brandon’s flight to Camarillo to the Burbank Tower’s temporary ATC shutdown, they cover what pilots need to know to stay safe and confident in non-towered operations. They also break down public reactions to the Mosaic rule chan
S02E60: Back in the Left Seat – Carson’s First Flight in Two Years
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez share an inspiring story of resilience, rediscovery, and passion for flight as Carson takes to the skies again after more than two years away from the cockpit.Join Brandon and Carson as they relive Carson’s first flight back on September 19, 2025, in a Cessna 182, marking his return to flying since February 1
S02E59: Mentorship, Aviation Publishing & Inspiring the Next Generation
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon Martini is joined by two incredible guests: Jacob Peed, founder of AviNation Magazine, and Sean Starker, host of the Future in Flight Podcast.They dive into the power of aviation publishing, podcasting, and youth mentorship programs. Learn how Jacob and Sean are inspiring the next generation of aviators through community engagement, storytel
S02E58: Sport Pilot Certificates & MOSAIC Updates – Making Aviation More Accessible
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson dive into Sport Pilot Certificates and the recent MOSAIC rule changes that are making them more accessible than ever. ✈️They cover everything from eligibility requirements and medical options to flight training minimums and checkride expectations. With MOSAIC updates, Sport Pilots can now fly four-seat aircraft like
S02E57: Pilot Demand Is Soaring – Boeing’s 20-Year Forecast and What It Means for Aspiring Aviators
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez break down Boeing’s latest 20-year aviation industry forecast—and the numbers are staggering.The industry will need:660,000 new pilots710,000 new technicians1 million cabin crew worldwideFrom the true cost of pilot training (around $81,000 in the U.S.) to airline signing bonuses of $50K–$150K, Brandon and Car
S02E56: Brandon Martini Named NBAA 40 Under 40 – Celebrating Aviation Milestones
In Episode 56 of the Aviation Mentors Podcast 🎙️, Brandon Martini celebrates being named one of NBAA’s 2025 “40 Under 40” award recipients, an incredible milestone for Brandon and the Stratus Financial team!Brandon and Carson reflect on the journey to this recognition, the importance of networking and mentorship, and exciting opportunities at NBAA-BACE 2025. They also highlight Stratus Financial’s
S02E55: Pilot Currency vs. Proficiency: What Every Pilot Should Know
In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast 🎙️, Brandon and Carson share their recent flying adventures and the lessons that came with them. From splash-and-go landings in an Icon A5 near Long Beach Harbor to touch-and-gos at Chino and Riverside, they dive into what it really means to be a current—and proficient—pilot.This isn’t just about logging the FAA’s minimums. Brandon and Carson explore
S02E54: Oshkosh 2025 (Part 3)
🎙️ From humble beginnings to milestone moments. We’re proud to announce Sean Galloway as the winner of our $10,000 Stratus Fly to Success Scholarship. His passion and creativity reminded us why we love supporting the next generation of aviators. In this episode, Brandon reflects on his first podcast recording at Oshkosh in 2016, the same year he also started his flight school. What began under the
S02E53: Oshkosh 2025 (Part 2)
🎙️ The FAA just dropped a game-changer—and we’re diving straight into it. In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon and Carson break down the long-awaited MOSAIC rule and why it’s about to shake up general aviation in the best way possible. From flying a 172 with just a driver’s license to new privileges that make becoming a pilot easier (and cheaper!) than ever, this isn’t just another update—
S02E52: Oshkosh 2025 (Part 1)
🎙️ From European castles to Oshkosh slip ‘n slides — this episode’s got it all. Brandon spills the highs, lows, and downright bizarre moments from a month-long adventure across Europe, capped off with a wild, rain-soaked return to the world’s biggest aviation gathering. Just when you think it’s over, a huge Oshkosh announcement looms… but you’ll have to wait for Part 2 to find out.🚀 We are the Avi
S02E51: Answering your Questions on Reddit (Part 11)
🎙️ What do student pilots really need—fancy flying clubs or structured schools? How can you build cross-country time without wrecking your wallet? In this high-energy episode, Brandon and Carson tackle the top aviation questions from Reddit, challenge conventional wisdom, and drop gold nuggets on discovery flights, syllabi, and digital vs. paper logbooks (spoiler: green ink might be involved). Whe
S02E50: Small Pilot, Big Dreams
🎙️ In this 50th episode, Brandon hands the mic to a surprise guest—11-year-old Rex, son of Stratus’ customer service lead and a long-time flight school regular. From hangar hijinks and airshow thrills to his very first flight in a Cessna 172, Rex recounts his aviation adventures with charm and surprising clarity. It’s part nostalgia, part inspiration—and fully delightful. Tune in to witness the jo
S02E49: You Know You’re a CFI When… (Part 4)
🎙️ Power-on or power-off landings? Mandatory flight following or just a “nice to have”? And should spin training REALLY wait ‘til you’re commercial? In this no-holds-barred episode, Brandon and Carson dive into the great aviation training debates—with a dash of sarcasm, golf course confessions, and the occasional jab at Piper aircraft. Whether you’re a student pilot or a seasoned flyer, this episo
S02E48: The Price of Wings
🎙️ Think becoming a pilot means drowning in debt? Think again. In this episode, we break down the real cost of flight training — and how to afford it without selling your soul (or your car).From hidden expenses and smart budgeting to co-borrowers, scholarships, and why “pay as you go” might just ruin your dream — we’re laying it all out. Plus, the truth about pilot salaries, logging hours the righ
S02E47: Listener Questions (Part 10)
🎙️ Flying into chaos? Brandon and Carson are here to navigate it—with zero oil pressure, surprise coyotes, and some FAA test nightmares along the way. In this no-holds-barred listener Q&A episode, they tackle real pilot dilemmas: What to do when your gear won’t go up (or down), how to survive the busiest uncontrolled fly-ins, and why ChatGPT might be your best study buddy. Packed with personal
S02E46: Letter Of Interpretation
🎙️ Ever wondered if you’re logging PIC time the right way—or if your instructor really needs a medical? Buckle up, because in this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon and Carson pull back the curtain on FAA Letters of Interpretation (LOIs). These hidden gems are the FAA’s way of saying, “Here’s what we actually meant…” From spin training without a parachute to using your private pilot hours for y
S02E45: Answering your Questions on Reddit (Part 10)
🎙️ Strap in as Brandon and Carson take a nosedive—intellectually—into the wild world of Reddit aviation questions. From mastering radios and taming turbulence to debating AI air traffic controllers and the shocking realities of multi-engine training (yes, you actually turn the engine off mid-air), this episode is a rollercoaster of pilot wisdom, real talk, and just the right amount of sarcasm. Whe
S02E44: Taxi Here, But Not There
🎙️Ever wonder what really happens behind the badge at big airports? ✈️ In this episode, Brandon shares his first-hand adventure getting SIDA badged at Long Beach — from intimidating security tests to why you might get stuck behind a gate (yikes!). Tune in and get the inside scoop on taxiing, security zones, and what GA pilots need to know before wandering into the wrong part of the ramp. Trust us…
S02E43: Aviation Without Limits
🎙️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, host Carson flies solo as he interviews Ryan Bliss—commercial pilot, certified flight instructor, and founder of the Vermont Aviators Association. Ryan shares his inspiring journey into aviation, which began at age 40, and how he turned his passion into a mission to make flying more accessible in Vermont and beyond.Learn how the Vermont Aviators A
S02E42: Listener Questions (Part 9)
🎙️In this episode of The Aviation Mentors, Brandon and Carson flip the script, get a little heartfelt, and crack each other up while diving into another round of listener questions! From mastering night flight like a ninja in the dark to turning road trips into ATC drills using phonetic license plates, this is one wild and surprisingly educational ride.They'll share how to stay sharp during flight
S02E41: Headset Showdown: Lightspeed Delta Zulu vs. Bose & David Clark
🎙️Looking for the best aviation headset for your cockpit?In this episode of AviationMentors, Brandon and Carson unbox the Lightspeed Delta Zulu and give you a pilot’s-eye view of its most talked-about features — from built-in carbon monoxide detection to in-app audio recording. They also compare it head-to-head with popular models from Bose and David Clark, breaking down comfort, clarity, tech inn
S02E40: From Outdated to Upgraded: The $18B ATC Transformation Plan
Is America’s air traffic control system stuck in the past?🎙️In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon and Carson take a grounded look at the challenges facing U.S. air traffic control — from outdated technology (yes, floppy disks are still in use) to ongoing staffing shortages, especially at contractor-run facilities like those operated by Serco.They break down the Department of Transportation’
S02E39: Listener Questions (Part 8)
🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors podcast, we dive into another round of listener questions—and things get entertaining fast. From navigating unexpected weather to decoding ATC conversations, Brandon and Carson share real-life stories, expert tips, and one hilarious email involving a bald eagle and some unexpected radio banter. It’s part practical, part ridiculous, and fully worth the lis
S02E38: Listener Questions (Part 7)
🎙️ In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon dives into three of the biggest questions pilots are asking: How can you finance your flight training without racking up overwhelming debt? Are flight simulators really worth the hype—or do they cause more harm than good? And what are the best ways to manage cockpit workload during solo flights? It’s real talk, packed with practical tips, and it’s Av
S02E37: You Know You’re a CFI When… (Part 3)
🎙️ Strap in for the thrilling conclusion of our CFI debate trilogy! In Part 3, Brandon and Carson dive into the eternal battle between FAA minimums and true proficiency, debate scenario-based vs. maneuver-based training, and settle the score on whether being a CFI is a career or just a stepping stone. With sharp insights, laughs, and a few strong opinions, this finale delivers a smooth touchdown t
S02E36: You Know You’re a CFI When… (Part 2)
🎙️Buckle up for another round of aviation arguments as Brandon and Carson dive 🛬 headfirst into the go-around gospel, engine-out realism, and the age-old question: when should a CFI actually take the controls? From sneaky gear failures to simulated chaos mid-flight, this episode balances edge-of-your-seat scenarios with big laughs and sharp wisdom. Part 2 brings even more altitude and attitude—jus
S02E35: You Know You’re a CFI When… (Part 1)
🎙️ Welcome to Part 1 of a fiery 3-part series where Brandon and Carson dive into the cockpit controversies that CFIs just can’t agree on. From the automation vs. stick-and-rudder smackdown to whether ground school belongs on the ground (spoiler: it does), nothing’s off-limits. Expect bold takes, FAA shade, and plenty of laughs. This isn’t your average flight school chatter—it’s unfiltered, unapolo
S02E34: Listener Questions (Part 6)
🎙️ In this episode, Brandon and Carson dive headfirst into four of the most asked questions in aviation: What are the most common checkride mistakes? How do you find a trustworthy flight instructor? When are you really ready to carry passengers? And how do you plug into the aviation community without being that airport bum? It’s candid, it’s packed with real-world advice, and of course—it’s Aviati
S02E33: Pilot Deviation
🎙️ Think a “ticket in the sky” sounds dramatic? Wait till the FAA gives you that phone number to call. 📞 In this episode, Brandon and Carson unpack what pilot deviations really are, how to avoid them (hint: fewer iPads, 📱 more common sense), and what to do when you mess up. It’s fast, fun, and full of tips every GA pilot needs—plus, a couple of stories that might make your palms sweat. Buckle up!🚀
S02E32: F.I.R.C
🎙️🚀 CFI renewal just got a makeover! Whether you’re a seasoned flight instructor or a student pilot wondering what happens if your instructor forgets their renewal (spoiler: it’s not pretty), this episode unpacks the latest FAA changes, sneaky pitfalls, and the easiest ways to stay certified. Plus, we dive into the FAA Wings program, drone pilot renewals, and why reading dry FAA regulations might
S02E31: The Get-There-Itis Trap: A Real-Life Aviation Story
🎙️ A perfect weekend, a smooth flight, ✈️ and a well-planned trip—what could go wrong? In this episode, Brandon shares a real-life aviation dilemma that put his decision-making skills to the test 😱. From a suspicious gauge reading to a shocking voicemail, this is a classic case of ‘get-there-itis’ knocking at the cockpit door. Did he push forward or play it safe? Tune in to find out how quick thin
S02E30: AI and Digital Marketing with Tim Jedrek
🎙️ Ever wondered how some flight schools dominate the digital space while others struggle to get noticed? 🤔 In this episode, we sit down with Tim Jedrek of Right Rudder Marketing to uncover the marketing magic that helps flight schools soar! From Google’s latest ad shake-ups to AI-driven marketing trends, Tim reveals the game-changing strategies flight schools need to stay ahead.Plus, we dive into
S02E29: Flying With Confidence with Tammy Barlette
🎙️ Struggling with perfectionism in flight training? Ever wondered how fighter pilot mindset can boost your flying skills? In this powerhouse episode, Tammy Barlette—retired USAF fighter pilot, mental performance expert, and founder of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training—joins us to dive deep into the mental game of aviation ✈️. Plus hear Tammy’s incredible journey from the cockpit of an A-10 W
S02E28: Planes Need Homes Too
🎙️ Ever thought about what goes into building a hangar—let alone 300 of them? In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon pulls back the hangar doors (literally) to share his ambitious journey of trying to develop 300 aircraft hangars, an FBO, and even a restaurant. From wild ideas to real-world roadblocks, we’re diving into the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way.What does it
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