Pilot to Pilot - Aviation Podcast - podcast cover

Pilot to Pilot - Aviation Podcast

Justin Siemswww.pilottopilothq.com
The Pilot to Pilot podcast is a place for aviators to come for inspiration and encouragement. We aim to help all types of aviators to continue pursuing their aviation dreams, whether that be flying commercially or flying for fun.

Episodes

The Art of Flight: Mastering Aerobatics and Airline Operations

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...

Feb 18, 20252 hr 37 minSeason 1Ep. 330

Transitioning to the 121 World: A Pilot's Perspective on New Challenges

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!

Feb 05, 20251 hr 16 minSeason 1Ep. 329

The State of Aviation: Hiring Trends and Industry Insights

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 focusi...

Jan 28, 20251 hr 21 minSeason 1Ep. 328

The Life of a Thunderbird Pilot: Caroline Blaze Jensen Shares Her Story

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 team...

Jan 17, 20251 hr 26 minSeason 1Ep. 327

Innovations in Aviation: A Conversation with Cirrus CEO Zean Nielsen

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...

Jan 07, 202547 minSeason 1Ep. 326

The Evolution of Flight Training: Insights from Bob Werderich at Spartan Education Group

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 ch...

Dec 24, 20241 hr 15 minSeason 1Ep. 325

Navigating Career Changes: Tips from a 17-Year Airline Pilot

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 p...

Dec 17, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 1Ep. 324

Behind the Scenes of SkyPath: The App Revolutionizing Air Travel

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 tec...

Dec 10, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 323

Flying and Dying: A Pilot's Journey from Cardiac Arrest to Recovery

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 highlig...

Dec 03, 20241 hr 27 minSeason 1Ep. 322

E321 The Good, the Bad, and the Bumpy: Debriefing a Hair-Raising Flight

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 d...

Nov 24, 202450 minSeason 1Ep. 321

E320 - Mastering IFR: Insights from Jason Miller on Becoming an Instrument Pilot

GROUND SCHOOL APP - 10% off 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...

Nov 19, 202458 minSeason 1Ep. 320

E319 - Cheese Pilot's Journey and FAA Challenges

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. Aft...

Nov 12, 20241 hr 21 minSeason 1Ep. 319

Layovers and Lessons: Inside the Life of a United Airlines Pilot

Links referenced in this episode: sportys.com/sxmoffer 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 aviatio...

Oct 29, 20241 hr 13 minSeason 1Ep. 318

Flight Deck Revolution: Exploring the G3000 Prime with Citation Max

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...

Oct 16, 202458 minSeason 1Ep. 317

E316 - Navigating the Skies: The Current State of the Aviation Industry with Dr. Jim Higgins

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 to...

Oct 01, 20241 hr 10 minSeason 1Ep. 316

E314 - Changing Careers - Fly With Henry

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. 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!) Thank you to our sponsors RAA -...

Jul 23, 20241 hr 9 minSeason 1Ep. 314

E313 Why I Left Spirit Airlines for United - Joe Costanza

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!) Thank you to our sponsors RAA - Financial plann...

Jul 16, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 313

E312 - State of the Industry with Dr. Jim Higgins

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 Thank you to our sponsors RAA - Financial planning for pilots Garmin - Check out the aviation watch I wear Sirius XM weather - My favorite weather tool for...

Jul 09, 20241 hr 10 minSeason 1Ep. 312

E311 How to be a Private Pilot with Jason Miller

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! H...

Jul 02, 202455 minSeason 1Ep. 311

E310 How to Become a Student Pilot

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. Thank you to our sponsors Garmin - Check out the aviation watch I wear Learn the Finer Points - Best Ground School app S...

Jun 27, 202444 minSeason 1Ep. 310

E309 - Josh Flowers Aviation101

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 navi...

Jun 20, 20241 hr 26 minSeason 1Ep. 309

E308 - Prada Pilot - Major Airline and Air Force Reserves

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. JON2Z2QOw9ACz5CkZ2uS

Jun 18, 20241 hr 13 minSeason 1Ep. 308

E307 State of the Industry

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!

May 28, 202457 minSeason 1Ep. 307

E306 Pilotnics - Balancing Social Media While Flying Professionally

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!

May 23, 20241 hr 18 minSeason 1Ep. 306

E305 Katy McKee - Pilot training with zero debt

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!

Apr 18, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 305

E304 State of the Industry

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

Apr 09, 202454 minSeason 1Ep. 304

E303 RAA Webinar + State of the Industry

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!

Apr 03, 20242 hr 48 minSeason 1Ep. 303

E302 Marine Pilot + Entrepreneur

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!

Mar 07, 20241 hr 16 minSeason 1Ep. 302

E301- Flying Warbirds

Aviation, what is going on and welcome back to the Pilot to Pilot podcast. Today’s episode is with CFI and Warbird enthusiast, Daniel Worter! Daniel has an awesome story and I can’t wait for you hear it!

Feb 28, 20241 hr 26 minSeason 1Ep. 301