Aviation Mentors

🎙️ Welcome to Part 1 of a fiery 3-part series where Brandon and Carson dive into the cockpit controversies that CFIs just can’t agree on. From the automation vs. stick-and-rudder smackdown to whether ground school belongs on the ground (spoiler: it does), nothing’s off-limits. Expect bold takes, FAA shade, and plenty of laughs. This isn’t your average flight school chatter—it’s unfiltered, unapolo...

🎙️ In this episode, Brandon and Carson dive headfirst into four of the most asked questions in aviation: What are the most common checkride mistakes? How do you find a trustworthy flight instructor? When are you really ready to carry passengers? And how do you plug into the aviation community without being that airport bum? It’s candid, it’s packed with real-world advice, and of course—it’s Aviati...

🎙️ Think a “ticket in the sky” sounds dramatic? Wait till the FAA gives you that phone number to call. 📞 In this episode, Brandon and Carson unpack what pilot deviations really are, how to avoid them (hint: fewer iPads, 📱 more common sense), and what to do when you mess up. It’s fast, fun, and full of tips every GA pilot needs—plus, a couple of stories that might make your palms sweat. Buckle up...

🎙️🚀 CFI renewal just got a makeover! Whether you’re a seasoned flight instructor or a student pilot wondering what happens if your instructor forgets their renewal (spoiler: it’s not pretty), this episode unpacks the latest FAA changes, sneaky pitfalls, and the easiest ways to stay certified. Plus, we dive into the FAA Wings program, drone pilot renewals, and why reading dry FAA regulations might...

🎙️ A perfect weekend, a smooth flight, ✈️ and a well-planned trip—what could go wrong? In this episode, Brandon shares a real-life aviation dilemma that put his decision-making skills to the test 😱. From a suspicious gauge reading to a shocking voicemail, this is a classic case of ‘get-there-itis’ knocking at the cockpit door. Did he push forward or play it safe? Tune in to find out how quick thi...

🎙️ Ever wondered how some flight schools dominate the digital space while others struggle to get noticed? 🤔 In this episode, we sit down with Tim Jedrek of Right Rudder Marketing to uncover the marketing magic that helps flight schools soar! From Google’s latest ad shake-ups to AI-driven marketing trends , Tim reveals the game-changing strategies flight schools need to stay ahead. Plus, we dive i...

🎙️ Struggling with perfectionism in flight training? Ever wondered how fighter pilot mindset can boost your flying skills? In this powerhouse episode, Tammy Barlette—retired USAF fighter pilot, mental performance expert, and founder of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training—joins us to dive deep into the mental game of aviation ✈️. Plus hear Tammy’s incredible journey from the cockpit of an A-10 W...

🎙️ Ever thought about what goes into building a hangar—let alone 300 of them? In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon pulls back the hangar doors (literally) to share his ambitious journey of trying to develop 300 aircraft hangars, an FBO, and even a restaurant. From wild ideas to real-world roadblocks, we’re diving into the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way. What does it...

🎙️ In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon shares his experience of getting back into flying for pure enjoyment. 🎉 After a period away from multi-engine flying, ✈️ he takes a refresher flight in the Beechcraft Duchess, performing maneuvers, air starts, and refining his skills. From spontaneous flights with friends to a creative in-air lesson on handling emergencies, this episode is a reminde...

🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson tackle the devastating California wildfires 🔥🚒 and the critical role aviation played in combating the crisis ✈️. From heroic firefighting missions 🧯 to drone-related challenges, they share firsthand insights and bold opinions on how aviation helps save lives and homes 🏠 . This heartfelt episode is dedicated to those affecte...

🎙️ In this installment of the Aviation Mentors Listener Questions segment, Brandon and Carson tackle your aviation dilemmas with expert advice and a dash of humor! 😂 From proving you're ready to solo and navigating the best college options for aspiring pilots to mastering turbulence like a pro, 🌩️ this episode is packed with actionable insights and candid stories. Buckle up for another engaging j...

🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors, Brandon and Carson explore the ins and outs of FAR violations—what they mean, how they happen, and what they can do to your insurance and career. With personal anecdotes, tips for handling those dreaded calls from the FAA, and a few laughs along the way, this episode offers a candid look at turning mistakes into valuable lessons. Don’t miss this entertai...

🎙️ In this episode of Aviation Mentors , Brandon and Carson take on your top listener questions with their signature blend of humor and expertise! They dive into the challenges of finding hangars, decoding aviation weather like a pro, and even share tips on overcoming the fear of stalls. ✈️ Plus, they unpack the essentials of maintenance logbooks and minimum equipment lists. Packed with practical...

🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into your burning🔥 questions! From conquering mental blocks and motion sickness to tackling in-flight emergencies and navigating busy airspace's, the duo shares practical tips, personal stories, and plenty of laughs 😂. Get ready for an engaging session of listener questions—buckle up and join the ride! ✈️ 🚀 We are the A...

🎙️ In this special holiday episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast , we’re all about Christmas cheer and making an impact through aviation. Brandon kicks things off by sharing fun and meaningful ways pilots can bring joy this season, like giving kids their first flight or stuffing planes with toys for charity. 🧸 We’ll also dive into the ultimate gift guide for pilots, from top-tier headsets 🎧 to...

🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors podcast, we’re soaring ✈️ through some exciting topics! First, we’ll share all the details about the $10,000 #FlyToSuccess Scholarship from Stratus Financial—an incredible opportunity for aspiring pilots to fund their training. 💵 Then, we’ll talk about the upcoming AeroSummit and why it’s a must-attend event for aviation enthusiasts. And of course, we’ll...

🎙️ In Part 2 of this Aviation Mentors Podcast episode, Brandon and Carson continue their deep dive into the economics of airlines, focusing on how ancillary fees, competitive pricing, and revenue management systems shape the industry. From tips on navigating baggage fees to the surprising ways airlines maximize profits, 💵 this episode uncovers more hidden strategies airlines use to stay in the sk...

🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast , Brandon and Carson dive into the fascinating economics of the airline industry, ✈️ exploring how airlines generate revenue beyond just 🎟️ ticket sales. From dynamic pricing 💵 strategies to ancillary revenue streams like baggage fees and inflight ads, they uncover the secrets behind keeping the big names in the sky profitable. With personal stor...

🎙️ Prepare to be inspired! In this episode of Aviation Mentors, ✈️ we’re breaking barriers and diving into the world of disabled pilots—where determination takes flight and innovation knows no bounds. From incredible aircraft modifications to the pilots redefining what’s possible, this is a story of grit, adaptability, and sky-high ambition. Buckle up; this one’s going to soar! ✈️ 🚀 We are the Av...

🎙️ Ready to elevate your standards in the cockpit? In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, ✈️ we’re uncovering the secrets of true professionalism in general aviation and flight instruction. From navigating tattoos and dress codes to setting the gold standard in safety and ethics, we’ll explore how CFI's lead by example, one flight at a time. Buckle up for insights, laughs, and a few tale...

🎙️ In this special Aviation Mentors episode, we take off with guest Jonathan Bastien, whose unexpected journey led him from the cockpit to the vineyards of Napa. 🍷🍇 Join us as Jonathan shares the thrill of flying, ✈️ the art of fine wine, 🍾 and how aviation can unexpectedly intersect with the wine industry in fascinating ways. From uncovering vineyard health from above to scoring the best wine...

🎙️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into listener questions that cover everything from finding the ideal flight instructor (hygiene and all!) to navigating cockpit camaraderie with headstrong personalities. ✈️ Packed with laugh-filled insights and aviation truths, they share real stories, candid advice, and a few rants—particularly about audio gear misadventu...

🎙️ In Part 2 of our special series, we continue our conversation with Dave Granville, as he shares more thrilling and emotional stories of his father, Vietnam War hero Joe Conley. In this episode, we dive deeper into Joe’s post-Vietnam flying adventures, his time as a civilian pilot, and unforgettable moments like flying a Huey helicopter along the Colorado River. Join us as we celebrate the incre...

🎙️ In this special two-part series of the Aviation Mentors podcast, we welcome Dave Granville, a long-time family friend and son of Vietnam War hero Joe Conley. Dave shares incredible stories of his father’s heroic service as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, including heart-pounding rescue missions and near-death experiences. 🤯 In Part 1, we dive deep into Joe’s first tour, the Tet Offe...

🎙️ In this thrilling episode of the Aviation Mentors podcast, Brandon and Carson are back with more banter, big news, and a topic they've never covered before—blimps! Ever wondered what it’s like to fly one of these elusive air giants? ✈️🎈 The hosts dive into the mechanics, a dramatic recent blimp crash in Brazil, 🤯 and why blimps are the unicorns of the sky. 🦄 And did Brandon really say he's p...