Aviation Mentors

🎙️ Strap in as Brandon and Carson take a nosedive—intellectually—into the wild world of Reddit aviation questions. From mastering radios and taming turbulence to debating AI air traffic controllers and the shocking realities of multi-engine training (yes, you actually turn the engine off mid-air), this episode is a rollercoaster of pilot wisdom, real talk, and just the right amount of sarcasm. Whe...

🎙️Ever wonder what really happens behind the badge at big airports? ✈️ In this episode, Brandon shares his first-hand adventure getting SIDA badged at Long Beach — from intimidating security tests to why you might get stuck behind a gate (yikes!). Tune in and get the inside scoop on taxiing, security zones, and what GA pilots need to know before wandering into the wrong part of the ramp. Trust us…...

🎙️In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast , host Carson flies solo as he interviews Ryan Bliss—commercial pilot, certified flight instructor, and founder of the Vermont Aviators Association. Ryan shares his inspiring journey into aviation, which began at age 40, and how he turned his passion into a mission to make flying more accessible in Vermont and beyond. Learn how the Vermont Aviators...

🎙️In this episode of The Aviation Mentors , Brandon and Carson flip the script, get a little heartfelt, and crack each other up while diving into another round of listener questions! From mastering night flight like a ninja in the dark to turning road trips into ATC drills using phonetic license plates, this is one wild and surprisingly educational ride. They'll share how to stay sharp during flig...

🎙️Looking for the best aviation headset for your cockpit? In this episode of AviationMentors, Brandon and Carson unbox the Lightspeed Delta Zulu and give you a pilot’s-eye view of its most talked-about features — from built-in carbon monoxide detection to in-app audio recording. They also compare it head-to-head with popular models from Bose and David Clark, breaking down comfort, clarity, tech in...

Is America’s air traffic control system stuck in the past? 🎙️In this episode of Aviation Mentors , Brandon and Carson take a grounded look at the challenges facing U.S. air traffic control — from outdated technology (yes, floppy disks are still in use) to ongoing staffing shortages, especially at contractor-run facilities like those operated by Serco. They break down the Department of Transportati...

🎙️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors podcast, we dive into another round of listener questions—and things get entertaining fast. From navigating unexpected weather to decoding ATC conversations, Brandon and Carson share real-life stories, expert tips, and one hilarious email involving a bald eagle and some unexpected radio banter. It’s part practical, part ridiculous, and fully worth the lis...

🎙️ In this episode of Aviation Mentors, Brandon dives into three of the biggest questions pilots are asking: How can you finance your flight training without racking up overwhelming debt? Are flight simulators really worth the hype—or do they cause more harm than good? And what are the best ways to manage cockpit workload during solo flights? It’s real talk, packed with practical tips, and it’s Av...

🎙️ Strap in for the thrilling conclusion of our CFI debate trilogy! In Part 3, Brandon and Carson dive into the eternal battle between FAA minimums and true proficiency, debate scenario-based vs. maneuver-based training, and settle the score on whether being a CFI is a career or just a stepping stone. With sharp insights, laughs, and a few strong opinions, this finale delivers a smooth touchdown t...

🎙️Buckle up for another round of aviation arguments as Brandon and Carson dive 🛬 headfirst into the go-around gospel, engine-out realism, and the age-old question: when should a CFI actually take the controls? From sneaky gear failures to simulated chaos mid-flight, this episode balances edge-of-your-seat scenarios with big laughs and sharp wisdom. Part 2 brings even more altitude and attitude—ju...

🎙️ 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...

🎙️ 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...