Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , your host Halsey Schider interviews Nick Sinopoli from Icarus about their innovative view-limiting device for helicopter and airplane pilots. They discuss the inspiration behind the device, its creative application of new technology, as well as the challenges of entrepreneurship and the different markets they serve. Nick shares his personal experience with the limitations of traditional view limiting devices and how Icarus aims to provid...
Apr 30, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 74
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider engages in an insightful conversation with Amber Harrison, a commercial-rated helicopter pilot he crossed paths with at the Robinson R66 Safety Course this past spring. As they talk through Harrison's aviation journey, listeners are treated to her perspective on flying not as a job, but as a passion. Harrison shares her firsthand experiences in aviation and provides intriguing insights into the world of UAS delivery d...
Apr 23, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 73
Send us a text Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In this Vertical Helicasts Mash-Up episodes with Jon Gray from The Helicopter Podcast and Jason Quinn from the Real ResQ Podcast, the group introduces the newest Vertical host, Val Medved, who will be hosting the new Vertical MRO Podcast —the first episode drops today. The Vertical MRO Podcast explores the world of helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The episodes feature helicopter technicians, mech...
Apr 18, 2024•54 min•Ep. 72
Send us a text This episode is brought to you interruption-free by Airbus Helicopters ! In this in-person episode of The Helicopter Podcast, recorded live at HAI Heli-Expo 2024, host Halsey Schider speaks with Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. In addition to sharing insights into his past, Even talks through the current projects, priorities, and successes of the company, as well as its future plans. Tune in for this fast-paced and exciting episode of The Helicopter Podcast!...
Apr 16, 2024•24 min•Ep. 72
Send us a text Join host Halsey Schider in a special edition of The Helicopter Podcast as he sits down with Sparrow Tang, the owner of Cascade Helicopter Services and Advanced Helicopter Services. Recorded live at this year's HAI Heli-Expo, Tang shares his remarkable journey from helicopter mechanic to successful business owner. In a candid discussion, they delve into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in the aviation industry. Sparrow also shares his latest venture into entrepreneu...
Apr 09, 2024•52 min•Ep. 71
Send us a text In this captivating episode of The Helicopter Podcast , Halsey has the pleasure of sitting down with Max Lyons, the visionary owner and CEO of Hillsboro Aviation. From Halsey: “This conversation held a special resonance for me, as Hillsboro Aviation is not just any company—it's where I got my start in the aviation industry and called home for seven years. Despite knowing Max well from my time at Hillsboro Aviation, this conversation peeled back layers of his story that were new to...
Apr 02, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 70
Send us a text This episode is brought to you interruption-free by Robinson Helicopter Company ! In this first ever in-person podcast episode of The Helicopter Podcast , Join host Halsey Schider as he speaks once again with David Smith, the new CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company! With the excited ambiance of HAI Heli-Expo in the background, Smith takes us on a journey through the past, present, and future of not only his career, but the helicopter manufacturer's as well. For a deep dive into the...
Mar 26, 2024•59 min•Ep. 69
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider engages with Keith Campbell, owner of Utah Helicopter. Campbell’s journey from security sales to helicopter piloting and flight school ownership is both inspiring and informative. Together, they dive into crucial topics like instructor safety, employee retention, pilot pay structures and the challenges of entrepreneurship in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or an aspiring aviator, this episode offers valu...
Mar 19, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 68
Send us a text In this thrilling episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider is joined by the intrepid Darcy Hoover, a seasoned helicopter pilot with tales to captivate any aviator. Together they embark on an exhilarating journey through Hoover’s history, with a look into some amazing stories from his career. Hoover, a first-generation pilot, shares his flying journey from mastering the iconic Bell 47 to flying Sikorsky SH-3 Sea Kings and Airbus H225 Super Pumas. The two also reflect...
Mar 12, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 67
Send us a text In this special episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider sits down with Jess Burch, a meteorologist and helicopter pilot, in celebration of Women in Aviation Week. Explore Burch's fascinating journey as she navigates the skies and airwaves, from her start with ROTC, to flying Blackhawks in the Army, to working as a meteorologist for NBC and flying in the California National Guard. Burch shares insights into the rigors of Army Flight School, the intersection of milit...
Mar 05, 2024•59 min•Ep. 66
Send us a text In this captivating episode of The Helicopter Podcast , join host Halsey Schider as he sits down with Nick Paladeni, a seasoned helicopter pilot with a broad range of experience. From their shared roots in Oregon, to their formative years at Hillsboro Heli Academy, Paladeni provides a fascinating glimpse into his journey. Paladeni discusses his transition from a corporate job to the exhilarating realm of helicopter piloting, underscoring the importance of embracing new opportuniti...
Feb 27, 2024•59 min•Ep. 65
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider is joined by Eli Bickley, a certified flight instructor (CFI) currently on his path through instruction, with nearly 600 hours of flight time. Together, they explore Bickley's journey, tracing his transition from entrepreneurship in the landscaping industry to a dedicated pursuit of aviation. Bickley candidly shares the intricacies of balancing rigorous flight training with the demands of business ownership. He reflec...
Feb 20, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 64
Send us a text In this episode, the three Vertical HeliCASTS Hosts, Halsey Schider of The Helicopter Podcast , Jon Gray of The Hangar Z Podcast , and Jason Quinn of The Real ResQ discuss their excitement for the upcoming HAI event and the podcast lineups they have planned. They also talk about the networking opportunities and the chance to reconnect with industry colleagues and professionals. Make sure to come visit the trio at HAI Heli Expo this year! They are at booth 5716, with a 'Meet and Gr...
Feb 17, 2024•21 min•Ep. 63
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , Host Halsey Schider speaks with Chris Nelson, a helicopter owner and enthusiast. Nelson shares his background and interest in aviation, including his experiences with helicopters in the military. The two discuss the benefits and drawbacks of Nelson owning his own Robinson R22 for training, and his future plans in aviation. Nelson offers advice for those considering a career change, and highlights the supportive and welcoming nature of th...
Feb 13, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 63
Send us a text In Episode 62 of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Jason Hill, the visionary founder of Hill Helicopters. Together, they delve into the intricacies of navigating the distinctive challenges faced by a new and cutting-edge helicopter manufacturer in today's dynamic landscape. Hill talks about their prototyping methodology, and how to ensure the transition from prototyping to production moves quickly and smoothly. Listen...
Feb 06, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Ep. 62
Send us a text In episode 61 of The Helicopter Podcast , join host Halsey Schider in a captivating conversation with Kenny Keller, the mastermind behind Helicopter Online Ground School (HOGS). As a seasoned pilot and expert in ground training, Keller shares his invaluable insights into the intricacies of pilot training and check rides. Delving into his own experiences, Keller sheds light on the nuances between check rides conducted by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors and those fa...
Jan 30, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 61
Send us a text In this riveting episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider sits down with the legendary Aaron Fitzgerald, renowned Red Bull helicopter stunt pilot. The conversation takes flight as they delve into Fitzgerald’s extraordinary career, from his start in aviation to becoming a prominent figure in the world of aerial coordination and helicopter aerobatics. Fitzgerald shares captivating stories of his most daring stunts and projects, offering listeners a glimpse into the ad...
Jan 23, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 60
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider engages in a conversation with Jack Schonely, co-host of The Hangar Z Podcast . Schonely boasts a diverse and extensive background in aviation and law enforcement, with notable roles as a tactical flight officer (TFO) and Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) pilot. Throughout the discussion, Schonely provides valuable insights into the responsibilities of a TFO, emphasizes the significance of crew resource management ...
Jan 16, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 59
Send us a text Get ready for the first-ever Vertical HeliCASTS mashup! Halsey Schider from The Helicopter Podcast is joined by Jason “Quinny” Quinn from The Real ResQ and Jon Gray from The Hangar Z Podcast . In this captivating episode, the trio delves deep into crew resource management, sharing personal experiences and invaluable insights that offer a unique perspective on this critical aspect of the industry. With their diverse backgrounds, they provide wonderfully broad viewpoints on the subj...
Jan 09, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 58
Send us a text Starting the new year with a bang, this week's guest on The Helicopter Podcast is renowned Aerial Coordinator Kevin LaRosa! LaRosa shares insights into his background as a third-generation aviator, second-generation aerial coordinator, and motion picture stunt pilot. The conversation delves into Kevin's journey, his passion for motion picture aviation, and his profession's unique challenges and rewards. The episode touches on many fantastic films he has participated in, with the r...
Jan 02, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 57
Send us a text In Episode 56 of The Helicopter Podcast , join host Halsey Schider on a captivating journey down memory lane as he reflects on the most impactful moments from the show this year. With a blend of insight, humor, and passion for aviation, Schider shares his favorite highlights that have defined the podcast's remarkable journey. Whether you're a long-time listener or a newcomer to the series, this episode offers a nostalgic celebration of the incredible conversations and experiences ...
Dec 26, 2023•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 56
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider speaks with Travis Patterson, CEO of HALO Flight, and former pilot of Marine One. Learn what it’s like to work in and fly for a not-for-profit helicopter air ambulance company, as well as some pioneering steps HALO Flight has taken regarding instrument flight rules (IFR) flights in the Bell 407. Follow along as Patterson walks through his 29-year career as a Marine Cobra pilot, what it took to become a Marine One pilo...
Dec 19, 2023•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 55
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider interviews Jakob Meyer-Bender, a helicopter enthusiast from Germany. They discuss Meyer-Bender’s background in the helicopter industry, his role as a dispatcher, and his goal to become a pilot. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the importance of flight training and decision making in the helicopter industry. In this conversation, Meyer-Bender discusses his journey to become a helicopter pilot and the challen...
Dec 12, 2023•53 min•Ep. 54
Send us a text In Episode 53 of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider engages in a captivating conversation with guest Devin Bowen. This lively discussion delves into the nuances of helicopter training, and is highlighted with personal stories and insights. Schider and Bowen discuss why it’s important for instructors to set a positive example for their students, and the impact it can have on shaping future aviators. Bowen, who currently flies Bell helicopters, reflects on the balance betw...
Dec 05, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 53
Send us a text In Episode No. 52 of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider speaks with the trailblazing CEO of Rotor Technologies, Hector Xu. Their conversation explores Xu's journey from flight training to leading the charge in helicopter innovation toward fully autonomous helicopter flight. Rotor Technologies recently achieved a major milestone with a successful autonomous flight test in a Robinson R22 helicopter, showcasing its groundbreaking technology for pre-programmed missions and r...
Nov 28, 2023•59 min•Ep. 52
Send us a text In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , Host Halsey Schider talks with Christine Brown, a helicopter pilot with a world-spanning resume in some of the largest helicopters ever built! Listen as Christine shares her experience flying tandem rotor helicopters for Columbia Helicopters, on contracts in Afghanistan, Turkey, and Africa. Halsey and Christine also talk about many of the safety considerations about utility operations, firefighting, and the industry in general, including...
Nov 21, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 51
Send us a text Join the milestone 50th episode of The Helicopter Podcast , where a delightful twist awaits! Jon Gray, the vibrant voice behind the Hangar Z Podcast , takes on the role of Host, turning the tables on Halsey, who becomes the engaging guest in the "hot seat." In this dynamic episode, Jon delves into Halsey's aviation origins, uncovering the roots of his passion and tracing the unique trajectory of his career. The conversation shifts between professional milestones and personal anecd...
Nov 14, 2023•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 50
Send us a text Ever imagined what it would be like to fly a helicopter mere feet away from live high-voltage powerlines? Today on The Helicopter Podcast , Halsey speaks with Brad Isaacs, a utility helicopter pilot and former police pilot. Isaacs shares his insights on the path to becoming a police pilot, as well as what it takes to shift over into the utility side of the industry. Tune in to hear Brad share stories of flying MD 500 helicopters in close proximity to powerlines, and what it’s like...
Nov 07, 2023•57 min•Ep. 49
Send us a text Ever dreamed of flying at high altitude in the Swiss Alps? In Episode 46 of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider talks with Lukas Riva, a pilot in Switzerland having those adventures every day! Learn what the career path looks like, how training is structured in Switzerland, and Schider’s and Riva’s thoughts on how to get your foot in the door with aviation companies. Riva also provides his personal perspective on the mindset of flying at high altitudes with external loads,...
Oct 31, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 48
Send us a text In this exclusive episode of The Helicopter Podcast , host Halsey Schider speaks with David Smith, vice president of operations at Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC). Listen in to gain a first-hand insight into the true nature of low-G mast bumping, and RHC’s recent efforts and discoveries to significantly improve the safety of its aircraft. With modern computer simulation capable of providing brand-new detailed knowledge on an aerodynamic hazard affecting helicopters since the Vie...
Oct 24, 2023•55 min
