Pilot to Pilot

Hangar 22 Coffee

In this episode of the Pilot to Pilot podcast, host Justin Siems chats with Thomas, a 737 airline pilot and the founder of Hangar 22 Coffee Roasters. Thomas shares his inspiring journey into aviation starting at age 4, navigating the challenges of COVID-19 right after flight school, and balancing a demanding flying career with building a thriving aviation-themed coffee business. From commuting between Atlanta and Toronto, to roasting coffee in hangars, partnering with Textron and EAA at Oshkosh, and dreaming of an airport coffee shop, Thomas discusses the highs and lows of pilot life in Canada vs. the...

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 th...

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...

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.

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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...

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...

Avination, welcome back to Episode 335 of the Pilot to Pilot podcast! Host Justin Siems sits down with aviation expert Jim Higgins, a former airline pilot and University of North Dakota professor, and Elise Dominguez, a Certified Financial Planner at Allworth Airline Advisors, for a deep dive into the airline industry and pilot financial planning. They unpack the cyclical nature of pilot hiring—citing 12,000–13,000 pilots hired in 2023–2024, now leveling to a still-strong 4,000–4,500 annually, per FAPA data. Justin shares his journey from a fractional company to a major airline, facing a $120,000 pay cut, while Jim reflects on his wife’s choice to stay a senior F...

The episode features an engaging discussion with Hagai Makov, the Vice President of Business Development at Skypath, a revolutionary application designed to enhance the aviation experience through innovative technology. Makov shares his personal journey, revealing how his aspirations shifted from joining Special Forces to becoming an attack helicopter pilot in the Israeli Air Force. This transition laid the foundation for his subsequent endeavors in the aviation industry, ultimately leading him to Skypath. The conversation provides a compelling narrative on the importance of resilience and adaptability in pursuing one’s passions, as Makov reflects on the pressures and challenges he fa...

The focus of this episode revolves around the captivating journey of Steve, a former F15 pilot and now an accomplished airline pilot, who shares his remarkable experiences, including a harrowing incident involving a forced water landing that tested his mettle and resilience. Steve recounts his transition from military aviation to civilian flying, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and the invaluable lessons gleaned from both successes and failures throughout his career. He articulates the profound influence of early aviation experiences, particularly the initial inspiration garnered from a neighbor's airplane construction project, which ignited his passion for flight. The discussion further...

welcome back to episode 332 of the Pilot to Pilot podcast. In todays podcast episode we talk about the journey of Tom, a commercial pilot transitioning from a successful engineering career to pursue his lifelong aspiration of becoming a professional pilot. Throughout the discussion, we delve into Tom's experiences with aircraft ownership, specifically his acquisition of a Cessna 150 and subsequently a Mooney, highlighting the financial aspects and the unique challenges associated with each. Tom shares valuable insights into his training process, which includes both traditional flight instruction and self-driven initiatives, underscoring the importance of perseverance in the face of uncertainty...

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The salient point of this podcast episode centers on the innovative advancements in turbulence detection and management provided by Skypath, as articulated by its Chief Product Officer, Guy. Throughout our dialogue, we explore Guy's fascinating journey from flying fighter jets to developing software solutions that enhance aviation safety. The conversation delves into the critical role of data in improving real-time turbulence reporting, which significantly contributes to passenger and crew safety. Additionally...

The salient point of this episode revolves around the remarkable journey of Marco Bouw, who transitioned from a career in regional airlines to becoming a major airline pilot while also pursuing his passion for aerobatics. Throughout our discourse, we delve into Marco's early inspirations, including his experiences at the Oshkosh Airshow, which ignited his desire to fly. We share insights into the challenges and triumphs associated with our respective aviation paths, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and perseverance in the face of adversity. Notably, Marco recounts a harrowing incident involving a flat spin that necessitated his emergency ejection from...

Avination, welcome back to episode 329 of the Pilot to Pilot podcast today’s episode is with my buddy, Mike Pardillo. Mike and I were in the same class at our major airline and were a day apart in our 737 training. In this episode, Mike, talks about why he went the military route, what the Growler life was like and how the transition to 121 life has been!

The Pilot to Pilot Podcast dives deep into the current state of the aviation industry, with host Justin Seams engaging in a thorough discussion with Dr. Jim Higgins, a professor of aviation. The conversation begins with a candid update on the challenges faced by the podcast team, including illness and scheduling difficulties, setting a relatable tone for listeners. As they transition into the heart of the episode, Justin and Jim address the evolving landscape of pilot hiring, particularly focusing on regional airlines. Jim shares insights into how hiring practices have shifted, highlighting a trend towards stricter minimum requirements and...

Caroline Blaze Jensen, a former Thunderbird pilot and accomplished fighter pilot, shares her incredible journey through aviation, including her experiences flying combat missions and performing in air shows. She emphasizes the importance of determination and resilience, highlighting that success often comes from overcoming failures and learning from them. Caroline discusses the unique pressures of being a military pilot, transitioning from combat to the Thunderbirds, and the significance of teamwork in high-stakes environments. She also reflects on her role as a mentor and inspiration for the next generation of pilots, especially women in aviation. With insights into her personal experiences...

Zean Nielsen, the CEO of Cirrus, joins Justin on the Pilot to Pilot podcast to discuss the evolving landscape of general aviation and the exciting innovations at Cirrus, including the recently launched G7. Nielsen emphasizes the significant investment Cirrus is making in research and development to enhance safety and customer experience. He shares insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the current aviation market, particularly in light of regional travel needs exacerbated by the pandemic. The conversation also touches on the potential of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with Nielsen expressing cautious optimism while highlighting the...

Bob Werderich, a professional pilot and executive vice president of Spartan Flight Operations, shares his inspiring journey into aviation, emphasizing the importance of personal connections in flight training. He discusses how his early experiences with his father, a pilot for North Central Airlines, shaped his love for flying, leading him to a career he never initially intended to pursue. As he reflects on his transition from sports to aviation, Bob highlights the significance of adapting to challenges and the value of teaching in a personalized manner. The conversation delves into the evolution of his flight school, Illinois Aviation Academy...

Darren Byrd, a dedicated airline pilot with nearly two decades of experience, recounts his inspirational journey into the aviation industry, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Starting with a childhood fascination for flight simulators, Darren's desire to become a pilot was initially stifled by self-doubt regarding his math skills and eyesight. It wasn't until his wife pushed him to pursue his dream that he embarked on the rigorous training required to become a commercial pilot. The discussion covers the intricacies of his flight training experience, emphasizing the need for commitment and the sacrifices made along the way...

Maya Shpak, CEO of SkyPath, shares her journey from a military helicopter pilot to leading an innovative aviation technology company focused on turbulence reporting. With a unique app likened to "Waze for turbulence," SkyPath empowers pilots by harnessing real-time data to enhance flight safety and comfort. Maya discusses her passion for flying, the thrill of helicopter aviation, and the importance of teamwork in the cockpit. The conversation also highlights the challenges of introducing new technology to the traditional aviation industry, emphasizing the need for collaboration among airlines to share valuable turbulence data. As the episode unfolds, listeners gain insight...

Tom Heidema, an experienced American Airlines pilot, shares his incredible journey from becoming a flight instructor to navigating the highs and lows of his aviation career, including a life-altering cardiac arrest. He discusses the importance of maintaining health and fitness as a pilot, emphasizing that flying is just one part of a more significant identity. The episode details his near-death experience and the profound insights he gained about family and life beyond aviation. Tom also highlights essential qualities sought in pilot candidates during the hiring process, such as technical proficiency, interpersonal skills, and the ability to advocate for others...

Josh Flowers and Justin Seams reflect on their recent flight adventure to Olathe, Kansas, highlighting critical lessons learned from navigating challenging weather conditions. The main takeaway emphasizes that a good outcome does not equate to good decision-making, as they encountered severe turbulence and convective weather that tested their flying skills and judgment. As they delve into their pre-flight planning mistakes and the complexities of flying a small aircraft in a busy airspace, the discussion underscores the importance of humility and thorough preparation in aviation. The pair share their personal experiences, revealing the value of debriefing and learning from every fl...

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This episode of the Pilot the Pilot Podcast features Jason Miller as he delves into the essentials of becoming an IFR pilot. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparation, stressing that aspiring instrument pilots should complete their written exams early and be ready for the complexities of IFR flying. Miller shares valuable insights on the significance of understanding the “why” behind instrument flying procedures and the need for pilots to recognize their saturation points during training. The conversation also touches on the differences between flying light aircraft versus larger jets, highlighting how thes...

The Pilot the Pilot podcast welcomes Cheese Pilot, an aviation enthusiast and simulator instructor, who shares his unique journey into aviation and the challenges he has faced along the way. The conversation dives into Cheese Pilot's early fascination with flying, sparked by a memorable air show event during his childhood. Despite the initial setback of financial barriers that deterred him from pursuing a pilot's license, Cheese Pilot's path took a dramatic turn when he enlisted in the Army. After serving, a serendipitous discovery of using his GI Bill for flight training led him to a successful career in aviation...

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The discussion with Paul Holte explores not only his professional journey as a pilot but also the personal sacrifices and adjustments he and his family had to make along the way. He reflects candidly on the financial struggles of starting at Continental, where he earned a meager $25 an hour, contrasting it with the more lucrative opportunities available today for new pilots. Volti's experiences illustrate the broader narrative of the aviation industry, including the evolution of pay structures and job opportunities over the years. He emphasizes the value of...

Garmin Aviation has unveiled their latest innovation, the G3000 Prime avionics, and in this episode, we dive deep into its features and functionalities. Citation Max and I traveled to Garmin's headquarters to experience this cutting-edge technology firsthand. We discuss the significant advancements that make the G3000 Prime a game-changer for pilots, including enhanced touchscreen interfaces and intuitive safety features like auto land and underspeed protection. Our time in the simulator brought both excitement and a few humorous moments, showcasing how the new system operates in real-time. Join us as we explore the future of aviation technology and share our...

The aviation industry is currently facing significant challenges, primarily due to a shortage of aircraft and engine deliveries, which has slowed hiring across airlines. Dr. Jim Higgins and I delve into the state of the industry, discussing the implications of these shortages and how airlines are managing their workforce amid ongoing demand. We explore the impact of mergers, such as Alaska Airlines' acquisition of Hawaiian, and the cultural shifts that accompany such changes. Additionally, we touch on the evolving landscape for regional airlines and the importance of networking for aspiring pilots navigating this competitive environment. Join us as we...

Avination, what is going on and welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today's episode is with Carson Stilson aka Wairworthy. In this episode we talk about why Carson wanted to start Wairworthy, how he got into aviation and why he decided to build his own airplane!

Avination, what is going on and welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today's episode is with @FlywithHenry. Henry, comes on the podcast to talk about why he decided to leave his law firm to pursue aviation full time. We also touch on his decisions process in buying airplanes and how he has a love for the odd ball airplanes.

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Aviation, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today is episode 313 with Joe Costanza aka Bananasssssssss. In this episode we do a deep dive of why Joe decided to leave Spirit Airlines. And although it might seem like a no braininer to leave Spirit, it’s tough when you have spent 12 years of your life there.

Dont forget to enter our Hat giveaway on our website! All you have to do is subscribe to our future newsletter (it’s going to be epic!)

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Aviation welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is a state of the industry with Dr. Jim Higgins. In this episode we talk about the hiring slowdown, furloughs at Mesa and Spirit and Jim and I answer some questions from you the listener! If you want to ask a question make sure you head to our website! Pilot to Pilot Website

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Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Todays episode is part 2 of the How to be a pilot series. Last week we talked about how to become a student pilot, if you missed that episode I highly recommend going back to listen. Jason Miller and I talk about what you need to be a Private pilot, from resources, to what struggles to look out for when training and how to know you're ready for your solo.

If you enjoy this episode make sure you subscribe follow Pilot to Pilot on Instagram!

Happy Flying...

Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today's episode is the first part of our "How to Become a Pilot" series withJason Miller from  @TheFinerPoints . Ep 1 of this series Is just as you would imagine, How to become a student pilot. In this episode we cover everything from how to pick a flight school, should I get a first class medical and much more.

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Avination, what is going on and welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today, I have the honor of talking with, Josh Flowers from Aviation101. Want to give a huge shoutout to Garmin for making this episode happen. Garmin flew me out to DAL where I linked up with Josh to fly his 172 up to Olathe, Kansas. We spent time with the Garmin Aviation team and had a blast, make sure to look out for Josh's video coming out some time soon! Also be on the look out for the terrible weather we had to navigate around on...

Avination, welcome to episode 308 of the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today's episode is with Wade aka Prada pilot. Wade is current major airline pilot and flying in the Air Force Reserves.

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Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is another State of the Industry. Where Dr. Jim Higgins from the University of North Dakota comes on to update us on anything and everything aviation. We recorded this a few weeks ago and somehow I forgot to publish it lol. So even though it says E306 in the episode it is really E307!

Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is with Nic Silva. Nic who you might know from his Instagram account @Pilotnics comes on to talk about his aviation journey. Find out why he started flying, what his goals are and the reason behind him posting on social media. If you enjoy this episode make sure to follow Pilot to Pilot on Instagram!

Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is with Kaity McKee. Find out how Kaity completed her ratings with ZERO debt and a fun way she figure out to to be a CFI with 150 hours!

Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is all about the aviation industry, which is changing by the day.

Avination, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s, episode is from a live webinar I hosted for RAA. In this episode we talk about what has changed in the aviation industry and sprinkle in a few financial tips from the experts at RAA!

Aviation, welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is with Marine Pilot and creator of @teamswingsesh. Check out the pathway to becoming a Marine Pilot, F35 test pilot and how someone decides to build the ultimate swingset/workout platform!