The Calm Cockpit Podcast

Episode 9 In this episode of the Calm Cockpit podcast, we sit down with Sarah Gilbert, a licensed Yoga for All Abilities® practitioner and experienced yoga teacher, who opens up about her personal journey of overcoming severe anxiety.  We explore how pilots can recognize early signs of anxiety before it impacts performance, discuss when and how to seek community support, and learn a simple, scient...

Episode 8 In this episode, we examine the essential connection between physical fitness, cognitive performance, and long-term health for pilots. We’ll discuss the common barriers to maintaining an exercise routine, such as time constraints and motivational challenges, and present evidence-based solutions tailored to the unique demands of a pilot’s career. Key topics include the importance of incor...

Episode 7  In this episode celebrated aviator and Flight Instructor Hall of Fame inductee Greg Brown joins us for a lively discussion about building a fulfilling career. Greg will recount his non-linear career journey and how unexpected pivots often led to new opportunities; including becoming an author, flight instructor, chief pilot, and photographer. Our discussion explores themes of identity c...

Episode 6  Explore the most effective strategies to learn and retain complex information. These tips are designed to help you prepare for FAA exams, refresh knowledge for proficiency checks, or to assist during a new type rating.  Covering topics such as active recall, visualization, interleaved practice, spaced repetition, gamification, and lifestyle strategies like nutrition, physical activity,...

Episode 5  Confronting Imposter Syndrome: Wisdom from Veteran Flight Instructor Robert “Bob” Meder. In this episode of the Calm Cockpit Podcast, veteran flight instructor Bob Meder shares his extensive experience and insights on dealing with imposter syndrome in aviation. The discussion takes listeners through the nuances of balancing confidence and humility, the importance of honest self-assessme...

Episode 5  Want to sleep better tonight? This Bonus Episode presents a guided deep relaxation intended to promote sleep or return to sleep. Hosted solo by Gita, you’ll be easily guided through a natural process that gradually slows down the body and mind, allowing you to drift into a state of peace and rest. There is no pressure, no expectations; just a comfortable and supportive practice that wil...

Episode 4  In this episode hosts Gita and John delve into the crucial, yet often overlooked, topic of sleep and its impact on aviation performance. They tackle common myths, present the latest scientific research, and explore the distinctions between short-term sleep disruptions and long-term sleep deficiencies. Through a detailed discussion, they provide actionable strategies that pilots can star...

Episode 3 In this insightful episode, Tammy Barlette, the founder and CEO of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training , shares her experiences and strategies for using mental performance training to achieve aviation goals. The discussion delves into the perils of perfectionism, the power of positive self-talk, and practical tools for improving cognitive and emotional resilience in high-pressure situ...

Episode 2  In this episode we delve into how to build endurance without burnout. Jon shares insights from his recent around-the-world flight, including crew resource management and maximizing rest. Gita introduces the six key habits that high performers use to enhance endurance and reduce stress. Listen in for practical tips, personal stories, and actionable strategies to balance career and person...

Episode 1  In the first OFFICIAL episode of The Calm Cockpit, John and Gita will share the challenges and successes in their flying lives that led to the creation of the podcast and how you can use the show to develop actionable strategies to mitigate stress, improve your well-being, and fly your best. We fly in a demanding environment that is unforgiving of preparation and lack of mental sharpnes...

Learn how The Calm Cockpit podcast is your new resource to enhance your performance and safety, while also improving your well-being.     We fly in a demanding environment that is unforgiving of preparation and lack of mental sharpness; we all strive for that next level of skill that will help us fly safer. But sometimes the demands of our personal lives, career pressures, or lack of attention to...

Welcome to a quick introduction of The Calm Cockpit: fly smarter and stress less with strategies and techniques to help you stay calm and sharp both in and out of the cockpit.    Join John Niehaus, a professional pilot and flight instructor and Gita, a yoga educator and student pilot, as they share the latest tools in stress reduction, well-being, and high performance mental training.   Subscribe...