Pilot to Pilot

Ryan Graves, a former F-18 pilot and Executive Director of Americans for Safe Aerospace, joins us to delve into the intriguing and often perplexing world of UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena). We kick off the conversation by exploring Ryan’s journey from aviation novice to military aviator, discussing the intense training and experiences that shaped his career. He shares some mind-boggling encounters with mysterious objects during his service, including near misses that raise eyebrows and questions about airspace safety. Our discussion also touches on the growing concerns surrounding autonomous aircraft and AI in aviation, and how these technologies might impact the future of flying. As we wrap up, Ryan emphasizes the importance of transparency and reporting in addressing UAP sightings, inviting listeners to engage with their own experiences through his organization.

Check out Ryan’s organization Safeaerospace.org

In Episode 339 of the Pilot to Pilot Podcast, host Justin Siems chats with Leah Froehlich, a passionate flight instructor and Instagram content creator. Leah shares her unexpected journey into aviation, sparked by a flight with her stepdad after pursuing physical therapy. She opens up about overcoming early confidence struggles, the realities of CFI life, the importance of humility in flying, and how she balances instructing with creating motivational videos that inspire aspiring pilots. From tips on starting flight training to navigating career paths beyond the airlines, this episode is packed with relatable insights for anyone in aviation. Don't miss Leah's rapid-fire answers and her take on building a fulfilling flying career. Follow Leah on Instagram @Leahthal_inflight for more CFI adventures!

Flying High with Charlie Gasmire: Lessons from the Cockpit and Beyond

Join us as we soar into the world of aviation with Charlie Gasmire, the brain behind Airplane Academy. With a family legacy of aviators, Charlie’s journey from a young boy inspired by his grandfather and father to a successful pilot and entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, we dive deep into Charlie's experiences, discussing the ups and downs of becoming a pilot, the importance of mentorship, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives him to create valuable content for aspiring aviators.

Charlie shares his insights on what it takes to own an aircraft, the process of buying a 182, and the joys and challenges of flying with family. From the thrill of soloing on his 16th birthday to the practicalities of aviation ownership, Charlie's story is a testament to the dedication and passion required in this field. We also touch on the importance of creating community and encouraging others to pursue their dreams of flying, making this episode a must-listen for anyone with a passion for aviation.

Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just starting out, Charlie's experiences and advice provide a wealth of knowledge and encouragement. Tune in to discover how you can embark on your own aviation journey and perhaps find your own place in the skies.

Takeaways:

• Becoming a pilot is a journey filled with adventure, and it's essential to embrace the process, taking actionable steps towards your dream, just as Charlie did from a young age.
• Owning a plane like the Cessna 182 provides flexibility and freedom, allowing spontaneous trips and memorable family adventures, reinforcing the joy of aviation.
• The transition from renting to ownership comes with unique financial realities, where the unexpected costs can be daunting, but the rewards of flying make it worthwhile.
• Charlie emphasizes the importance of sharing mistakes in aviation to help others learn, showcasing the value of community and support among pilots.
• Airplane Academy is not just a business; it's a passion project aimed at inspiring others to pursue their aviation dreams, emphasizing that anyone can become a pilot.
• Having a mission, whether it's flying for fun or taking friends up, helps maintain enthusiasm for flying, even when busy schedules try to hold you back.

Evan Luft joins us on the podcast today, and he's here to share his unique journey through the world of aviation as a contract pilot. One of the standout points we discuss is that you don't have to follow the traditional path of becoming an airline pilot to enjoy a fulfilling and lucrative career in aviation. Evan's experiences flying over the stunning landscapes of Canada, from the Rocky Mountains to sunny Mexico, showcase the adventures that await outside the airline cockpit. We dive into the importance of networking, building relationships, and how being personable can open doors to incredible opportunities in the flying world. Whether you're just starting out or looking to carve your own niche in aviation, Evan's insights will inspire you to embrace the journey and explore the vast possibilities that come with it.

Takeaways:

• Evan Luft emphasizes the importance of networking and building relationships in aviation, as many opportunities arise from personal connections.
• He shares that flying in Canada offers unique adventures, with stunning scenery and diverse flying experiences not typically found in the U.S.
• The podcast highlights that you don't need to be an airline pilot to have a fulfilling and financially rewarding career in aviation.
• Evan discusses the flexibility of contract flying, allowing pilots to enjoy their work while exploring incredible destinations like Banff and Mexico.
• Justin and Evan agree that being a personable and friendly pilot can significantly impact job opportunities and client relationships.
• The episode showcases how technology, particularly Garmin avionics, enhances safety and efficiency for pilots flying in challenging weather conditions.

Erin and Paul, the dynamic husband-wife pilot duo, have taken their passion for aviation to new heights by building their very own Bearhawk 5. In this episode, they share the incredible journey of finding the perfect aircraft, navigating the world of airplane kits, and the challenges of construction, all while balancing their personal and professional lives. Their story is not just about the mechanics of building a plane; it's also about the adventures that flying brings, including their recent experience at Oshkosh, where they celebrated the culmination of their hard work. Along the way, they discuss the importance of community and support in aviation, the exciting features of their new plane, and their plans for a nomadic lifestyle in the skies. Join us as we dive into their inspiring journey and discover the joys and challenges of becoming owners of a custom-built aircraft.

Takeaways:

• Building your own airplane can be a rewarding experience, especially with a supportive builder assist program to guide you through the process.
• The journey of becoming pilots has opened up new adventures and opportunities for Erin and Paul, allowing them to explore their passion for aviation.
• Their Bearhawk 5 is designed to be versatile, capable of fast cruising and slow landings, making it suitable for various flying experiences.
• The couple plans to transform their Bearhawk into a modular camping setup, allowing for a nomadic lifestyle filled with travel and exploration.
• Leveraging advanced avionics like Garmin and Sirius XM enhances safety and situational awareness when flying, particularly during challenging weather conditions.
• Support from the aviation community, including mentors and friends, plays a crucial role in navigating the challenges of building and flying an aircraft.