The BreakTurn Podcast

This episode features Jon "Gumby" and Loren "Ox" discussing innovative pathways for military veterans and pilots to transition into civilian aviation careers. They cover flight training, maintenance certification, GI Bill utilization, and industry connections, providing valuable insights for veterans planning their next steps.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you...Sir Nik Fialka. In this episode, hosts discuss recent industry changes, logbook best practices, and strategies for aspiring pilots navigating the airline application process. Featuring insights from Nik Fialka, a seasoned pilot and host of Ready for Pushback, the conversation offers practical advice on time logging, application timing, and contingency plann...

Happy New Year! Our first episode of the year is Landon catching up with Dan. Dan was on another podcast episode 8 months ago where him and Sam went from zero to A320 type complete in only 7 months! This episode goes over where Dan is now, why he made the decisions he made, and how you can strategize to ensure your career is one that fits best for you.

Guests:  Cameron Kenning & Eddie Erdmann, Flex Air In this episode, Landon speaks with Cameron and Eddie from  Flex Air , a veteran-focused aviation training organization offering  SkillBridge opportunities ,  A&P pipelines , and  flight training programs . Both guests share their transition stories, the structure of Flex Air’s mentorship model, and realistic insights on the aviation indus...

🎙️ Breakturn Podcast – Inside Delta Professional Services (DPS) & ATP-CTP Training Episode Overview In this episode, the Breakturn team visits Delta HQ in Atlanta to sit down with Rochelle Kanianthra (General Manager, Atlanta Operations) and Jim Leonard (ATP-CTP Instructor, former Marine Corps and Delta pilot). Together, they dive deep into Delta Professional Services (DPS), the ATP Certificat...

In this episode, retired Army aviator  Shawn Longwell  shares his journey from Blackhawk crew chief to Apache pilot, then to leading Little Birds in the elite 160th SOAR before transitioning into civilian aviation. He talks about moving into Helicopter EMS, the challenges of single-pilot IFR flying, and how timing and persistence led him through JetBlue’s Rotor Transition Program to the airlines,...

Rising Demand: The Crucial Role of A&P Mechanics in Aviation In this episode, we explore the increasing need for A&P mechanics in the aviation industry. Join us as we discuss the factors driving this demand, the opportunities available for skilled mechanics, and how the industry is evolving to meet these challenges. Key Topics: - The current state of the aviation industry and its reliance...

Zero-to-Type in 7 Months: An Unconventional Flight Training JourneySam and Dan embarked on an ambitious flight training path, starting with zero ratings or hours in airplanes and obtaining all their ratings, including an A320 type rating, in just 7 months. They achieved this remarkable feat while still serving active duty and with minimal personal cost. Discover the strategies and key concepts tha...

From Hueys to the Flight Deck: Daniel O’Neil’s 32-Month Journey from USMC to ATP This week on BreakTurn, Landon sits down with Daniel O’Neil, a Marine Corps veteran who pulled off something truly exceptional: earning his Unrestricted ATP and A320 type rating in just 32 months—all while on active duty. Daniel’s story isn’t just about logging hours. It’s about intentional decision-making, raw discip...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Landon from BreakTurn interviews Nick McMillan from Delta Tech Ops to discuss the A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification and career opportunities for transitioning service members. Nick explains that A&P mechanics are certified to work on anything that flies, including airplanes, helicopters, and spacecraft. He highlights that military maintenance per...

Are You Willing to Be Uncomfortable to Achieve Your Dream Aviation Career? | BreakTurn Podcast In this eye-opening episode of the BreakTurn Podcast, host Landon Cheben sits down with James ONieal, founder of Raven Careers, to discuss the realities of the aviation industry and how to land your dream job. James shares his incredible journey from being laid off during the 2008 financial crisis to bui...