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, costly, and growing.
We’ll explore why planes sit idle, how this workforce shortage is costing billions, and what the aviation industry is doing to fight back.
Tune in to discover the invisible threat that could affect every flight you take—and why the solutions could reshape the future of flying.
AeroExploration:
Check out the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 misconceptions, and what future pilots need to know before enrolling.
🎓 Do you really need a 4-year degree to fly for the airlines? Patrick shares his take on what the industry truly values today.
🔧 Thrust Flight’s bold expansion — how the launch of their new aircraft maintenance schools will open even more doors for those looking to build aviation careers.
Whether you’re a student pilot, career-changer, or simply fascinated by how airlines build their pilot pipelines, this conversation will give you insider perspective on what it takes to succeed in aviation today.
Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most talked-about training models in the industry — and the people behind it.
Check out Thrust Flight: Thrust Flight.
AeroExploration:
Check out the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 evac, and gunship close air support—he also shares the heavy cost of war: trauma, addiction, moral injury, and what it takes to find meaning after service.
If you’re fascinated by aerial warfare, helicopter rescue, AC-130 operations, or the human stories behind veterans’ journeys, this episode is for you. Learn what it’s like to fly rescue missions under fire, to carry the memories home, and to build a new “why” in peacetime.
Get Anthony’s Book:
On Amazon → [Moon Child - Amazon] Amazon
On Barnes & Noble → [Moon Child - Barnes & Noble] Barnes & Noble
Winter Merch is HERE!
Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. For a limited time, you can score 20% off your order with code Cold20—but hurry, this offer only lasts until October 1st. Gear up now and head into the season in style!
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 to becoming a professional pilot.
We cover:
Collin’s early farm life and unexpected introduction to aviation
How a party bus encounter sparked his desire to fly
His pilot training process and how he built flight hours
The steps that led to flying with NetJets.
What a corporate pilot lifestyle really looks like
Why corporate aviation can be a rewarding career path for aspiring pilots
This episode is perfect for:
Anyone interested in corporate aviation careers
Aspiring pilots curious about the NetJets pilot life
Aviation fans who love unique and unexpected career stories
Winter Merch is HERE!
Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. For a limited time, you can score 20% off your order with code Cold20—but hurry, this offer only lasts until October 1st. Gear up now and head into the season in style!
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 attendants, and mechanics to air traffic controllers, airport operations staff, and the flying public. We’ll examine the creation of the TSA, the dramatic expansion of the Federal Air Marshal Service, and how general aviation faced restrictions and scrutiny that still influence operations today.
We’ll also explore the evolving impacts: the lasting influence on airline economics and hiring, challenges for general aviation airports near metropolitan areas, and how security mandates continue to affect the balance between safety and accessibility.
More than a story of loss, this is also a story of resilience. Aviation professionals adapted, rebuilt, and found new ways to move the world forward—under the shadow of one of the most defining days in modern history.
Join us as we reflect on the past, analyze the present, and look ahead at how the legacy of 9/11 continues to shape the future of flight.
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 of the night to the demanding world of Part 135 charter operations, Joe opens up about the lessons learned, the resilience it takes, and the payoff of finally landing in the right seat of his dream career.
Whether you’re a student pilot, career changer, or someone who simply loves hearing the human side of aviation, Joe’s story is a testament to perseverance and passion.
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 and outs of airport ground leases, we break down every phase of the process.
We’ll cover how to approach due diligence, what to look for during inspections, how to navigate financing, and the essential insurance coverage that every hangar owner needs. You’ll also hear strategies for maintaining your investment and even generating income by leasing space.
Whether you’re actively searching or just want to understand what goes into securing hangar space, this episode gives you the knowledge and tools to navigate the hangar shortage with confidence.
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 pilots can expect from Initial Operating Experience (IOE), the unique challenges and rewards of moving into the left seat, and what it means to evaluate and mentor pilots as a line check airman. It’s an inside look at airline training, leadership, and growth that every aspiring airline pilot will want to hear.
Join us as we launch the next chapter of AeroExploration with a conversation about careers, confidence, and the journey of becoming a captain.
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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, and I hope you will be as excited for the change as I am.
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Caleb Green’s Journey from Army Officer to Corporate Jet Pilot
In 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 career to the dynamic world of professional aviation. With encouragement from his wife and a deep-rooted passion for flight, he not only earned his wings but also launched his own flight school, all while playing a key role in the safety program of his current corporate flight operation.
His path blends general aviation roots with the professionalism of Part 91 and 135 jet flying, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring pilots, veterans exploring aviation careers, or anyone seeking inspiration to make a major career pivot.
✈️ Special Event at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh!
We hope you’ll join us for The Aviation Podcaster Q&A and Meet & Greet at AirVenture!
📍 Forum Stage 3
📅 July 26th | 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
Ask your favorite podcasters your burning aviation questions, and stick around after the panel to meet the creators, take some photos, and connect with fellow aviation podcast enthusiasts.
🎧 Featured Podcasts:Flying Midwest • Fly the Transition • The Finer Points • AvTalk • The Green Dot • Taking Off • The Pilot Network — and more!
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: facebook.com/flymidwestjim
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Becoming a Career CFI with Jason Miller of The Finer Points
In 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 in the industry.
We dive deep into:
Why Jason chose the path of a career CFI
The origin story and evolution of The Finer Points podcast and brand
Practical tips on how you can become a high-value CFI
Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your CFI journey, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.
🌐 Check out Jason’s courses, podcast, and training tools at learnthefinerpoints.com
✈️ Special Event at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh!
We hope you’ll join us for The Aviation Podcaster Q&A and Meet & Greet at AirVenture!
📍 Forum Stage 6
📅 July 26th | 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
Ask your favorite podcasters your burning aviation questions, and stick around after the panel to meet the creators, take some photos, and connect with fellow aviation podcast enthusiasts.
🎧 Featured Podcasts:
Flying Midwest • Fly the Transition • The Finer Points • AvTalk • The Green Dot • Taking Off • The Pilot Network — and more!
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 works tirelessly to support student pilots, advocate for their rights, and challenge some of the most persistent myths and misconceptions in flight training.
In this episode, we explore:
🚀 Gary’s transition from a tech-heavy career to becoming a flight instructor
🧠 Common misunderstandings in aviation training and how instructors can do better
💬 The importance of student pilot advocacy and building a supportive learning environment for yourself
✍️ Gary’s work as a writer in the aviation space and his mission to change the culture of flight instruction
Whether you're a new student, a seasoned pilot, or someone navigating a midlife career change, Gary brings insight, candor, and a fresh perspective that will leave you inspired.
🔗 Check out Gary’s work and advocacy at: timetoflyplanes.com
Airventure Forum:
July 26th 11:30am
Forum State 6
https://events.rdmobile.com/Sessions/Details/2871110
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 heading to your first 121 carrier or planning your long-term aviation career, this episode will arm you with the tools and mindset you need to excel in the sim.
We break down:
🧑✈️ What Airline Sim Training Is Really Like: From day one in the mock cockpit to your final checkride
🤯 Sim Surprises: What catches most new hires off guard—and how to prepare for it
💡 Tips from a Sim Instructor: How to make progress, manage stress, and build good CRM
👨👩👧 Working with a Sim Partner: What makes a good sim buddy and how to help each other succeed
✅ Checkride Prep: How to approach your LOE (Line-Oriented Evaluation) with confidence
If you're on the path to becoming a regional airline pilot, or making a midlife career change into aviation, this episode gives you the real-world knowledge and actionable advice from someone who has trained countless new hire pilots—many of whom had no previous 121 experience.
🎧 Whether you’re wondering what the sim will feel like, how hard it really is, or how to handle the pressure—this is your insider guide to conquering simulator training and earning your wings.
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 Seth Bunker, a First Officer with a major airline, former regional airline Captain, and simulator, ground, and systems instructor. Seth has helped hundreds of new hire pilots navigate training successfully, and he’s here to share exactly what to expect—and how to thrive.
In Part 1, we’ll cover:
🛫 Indoctrination (Indoc): What it is, why it matters, and how to stand out from the start
📚 Ground & Systems Training: What you'll learn, how it's tested, and what instructors are really looking for
🧠 Study Tips & Mindset: What separates top-performing students from those who struggle
🗣️ Debunking Myths: Common fears and misinformation about regional airline training
✅ Keys to Success: How to prepare before Day 1 and maintain momentum all the way to the sim
This episode is designed for aspiring airline pilots, CFIs about to transition, or anyone curious about what it’s like to start a career at a regional airline. If you want to feel confident, prepared, and ahead of the curve—this is where you start.
🎧 Coming up in Part 2: We’ll dive deep into the simulator phase of training—what to expect in the box, how to approach checkrides, and how to get the most from your sim partner.
🙋 Have a story worth sharing? Want to be part of a future episode?
We’re actively looking for podcast guests who’ve made the leap into aviation—whether as pilots, dispatchers, ATC, mechanics, or in other roles. If you—or someone you know—has a transition story that could help inspire others, I want to hear from you!
Reach out to me on any of my social media accounts, or Flythetransition@gmail.com
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 checkride. It’s about connection, encouragement, and learning the leadership, character, and mindset that create success beyond the cockpit. I’ll share stories of how my mentors challenged, supported, and believed in me — and how you can find (or become) that kind of guide in your own journey.
Whether you're starting flight training at 40, shifting from a long-time career, or wondering if anyone out there "gets it" — this one’s for you.
🎙️ Want to be part of a future episode?Have a story to share, or a question you'd like answered? I’d love to hear from you!
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
✈️ From Listener to King Air Captain: Curt's Journey from Playing It Safe to Soaring High
In 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 resonated deeply. That single episode connected him with our first guest, sparked meaningful mentorship, and helped set him on a path that’s now taken him all the way into the cockpit of a King Air.
But Curt’s journey didn’t begin there. From his early days chasing a music career, to decades spent working in the corporate tech world, Curt followed the “safe” path—until life, COVID, and a longing for something more pushed him to finally chase the skies. Today, he’s flying Part 135 medical and corporate missions, proving it’s never too late to answer the call of the cockpit.
This episode is a powerful reminder that transformation can start with a single conversation—and that it's never too late to pivot, to dream, and to fly.
🎙️ Want to be part of a future episode?
Have a story to share, or a question you'd like answered? I’d love to hear from you!
Support the Show:
If you are looking for early releases, exclusive content, or just want to support the show, consider joining me on Patreon!
There are several levels of support and extra goodies at each level.
Patreon: www.patreon.com/flyingmidwest
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 a Mississippi farm surrounded by aircraft (thanks to his Apollo-era NASA engineer dad), to crop dusting and ferry flying, to flying charter and eventually a Dassault Falcon 2000LXS across the globe, his story is one of continuous evolution and passion for flight.
We talk about, the unique crossroads of faith and aviation, and how making bold career changes—even later in life—can lead to incredible, purpose-driven adventures.
If you’re navigating your own career pivot or looking for inspiration to pursue aviation professionally, this episode is packed with wisdom, perspective, and encouragement from someone who’s truly lived it all.
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:
Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses:
https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 with a major carrier, humorously referred to as Penguin Airlines on OB.
This episode offers a rare look into RH’s career transitions, including what it was like being furloughed from a regional carrier, stepping into the world of air traffic control, and navigating the complexities of airline training in today’s aviation landscape. RH also takes us on an adventure through his current role as a first officer with a major legacy carrier, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of flying internationally.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own aviation career change, interested in the airline pilot lifestyle, or curious about life in air traffic control, this episode delivers an engaging and insightful conversation on the multi-faceted career of an aviation professional.
Opposing Bases - Air Traffic Talk
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts |
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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:
If you’re considering a career in aviation but are feeling uncertain, this episode will put your doubts to rest. Flying remains the safest mode of transportation, and the aviation industry is more committed than ever to keeping it that way.
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
🔗 References & Further Reading:
📌 U.S. Department of Transportation - Air Traffic Statistics: https://www.transtats.bts.gov
📌 National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Reports: https://www.ntsb.gov
📌 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safety Regulations: https://www.faa.gov
📌 Bureau of Transportation Statistics (Annual Flight Volume): https://www.transtats.bts.gov/TRAFFIC
📌 Aviation Safety Network - Commercial Accident Database: https://aviation-safety.net
📌 International Air Transport Association (IATA) Safety Reports: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/safety/
📌 Harvard School of Public Health - Airline Safety vs. Car Safety: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu
🔊 Listen now on:
✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | ✅ [Your Podcast Website]
🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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 journey.
Whether you’re a brand-new student pilot or exploring ways to reduce costs, this episode has the tips you need to get in the air. Tune in and discover which option fits your flying goals and budget!
AeroExploration:
Check out Jim's new YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration
Join our Community:
If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.
Social Media Handles:
Website: www.flyingmidwest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flythetranstion
Jim on Instagram: @flymidwestjim
Email: Flythetransition@gmail.com
Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!
Affiliate Links:
Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101
Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23
Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchase
Fly the Transition Merch:
flyingmidwest.com/merch
Contact Information:
Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at flythetransition@gmail.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.
