The Future in Flight Podcast

Creative Relay Media
  • 5.0 (5)
  • AVIATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Ready to explore the skies and unlock your potential in aviation? The Future in Flight Podcast is your go-to weekly show for inspiration, education, and empowerment. Produced by Creative Relay Media and AviNation USA, this engaging podcast connects young adults, teens, and their families with the tools and insights they need to pursue fulfilling aviation careers and hobbies. Each episode features captivating stories, expert interviews, and practical advice, blending family-friendly entertainment with cutting-edge industry insights. From highlighting young achievers to diving into the latest aviation technology, The Future in Flight Podcast is your roadmap to discovering the endless possibilities in the world of flight. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a pilot, exploring aerospace engineering, or simply curious about the aviation industry, this podcast equips you to take off toward your goals. Subscribe now and join a growing community of future aviators ready to soar to new heights!

  1. 1D AGO

    From Hollywood to the Flight Deck: J.J. Madison’s Second Takeoff

    🎧 Episode Summary In this episode of the Future in Flight podcast, host Shawn Starker interviews J.J. Madison, a Harvard-educated writer, safety advocate, and author of "Yikes! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did." J.J. shares his circuitous path to aviation, which began with a childhood fascination with helicopters and eventually led him to mentorship from the Tuskegee Airmen. He discusses the importance of mentorship, community, and continuous learning in aviation, as well as his mission to make aviation safer and more accessible through storytelling and the Victor Kelo Fund, which provides flight scholarships for under-resourced communities. The conversation delves into J.J.'s experiences in various aircraft, from 19-seat turboprops to 737s, and his commitment to aviation safety, inspired by his time on an airline's aviation safety committee. J.J. emphasizes the value of sharing mistakes and learning from others' experiences, highlighting the role of NASA reports in promoting safety. He also touches on the future of aviation, including the potential of electric and hybrid aircraft and the increasing need for skilled aviation professionals from all backgrounds to maintain the integrity of the national airspace system. ✨ Key Points 🚁 J.J. Madison's unconventional journey into aviation, fueled by childhood dreams and mentorship from the Tuskegee Airmen. 📚 The importance of storytelling in aviation safety and education, as highlighted by J.J.'s book, "Yikes!" 🤝 The role of community and mentorship in supporting aspiring pilots, especially those from under-resourced communities. 💰 The Victor Kelo Fund's mission to provide flight scholarships and make aviation more accessible. ✈️ The future of aviation, including the potential of electric and hybrid aircraft and the need to address the skilled labor shortage. 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 — 0:14 | Introduction to J.J. Madison 0:15 — 1:17 | Shawn Starker introduces the podcast and J.J. Madison's background 1:18 — 3:50 | J.J. Madison shares his early experiences and path to aviation 3:51 — 5:13 | Discussion about the opportunity to be mentored by the Tuskegee Airmen 5:14 — 7:25 | Preparedness meeting opportunity and J.J.'s aviation experiences 7:26 — 10:16 | Advice for people transitioning into aviation later in life 10:17 — 11:09 | Importance of seeing representation in the pilot community 11:10 — 13:35 | J.J. discusses the impact of living examples and the need for diverse representation in aviation 13:36 — 14:05 | The skilled labor issue in aviation and the need for broadening the talent pool 14:06 — 16:17 | J.J.'s interest in aviation safety and his work with NASA reports 16:18 — 18:22 | The inspiration behind J.J.'s book and the Victor Kelo Fund 18:23 — 19:07 | Show supporter: Flight Sunglasses 19:08 — 20:18 | Details about the Victor Kelo Fund and flight scholarships 20:19 — 21:11 | How to get involved with the Victor Kelo Fund 21:12 — 23:07 | The power of stories in conveying messages about aviation safety and community building 23:08 — 23:54 | Emphasis on the word "Yikes!" and expressive language in the cockpit 23:55 — 26:48 | J.J. shares stories and experiences from his aviation career 26:49 — 30:00 | More aviation stories and the importance of aeronautical decision-making skills 30:01 — 31:15 | Discussing NASA reports and sharing "Yikes" moments 31:16 — 31:29 | How to connect with J.J. Madison 31:30 — 34:19 | The future of automation in aviation and the importance of jobs that AI can't replace 34:20 — 35:33 | J.J.'s favorite in-flight snacks and the story behind the banana 35:34 — 36:26 | J.J.'s dream aircraft 36:27 — 37:50 | Who J.J. would choose to fly with 37:51 — 40:01 | Closing remarks and takeaways 🔗 Links & Resources Yikes! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did: http://www.yikesthebook.com/ Victor Kelo Fund: http://www.yikesthebook.com/ Aviation Safety Reporting System (NASA Reports): https://aviationsafetyreportingsystem.gov/ FLYTE Sunglasses: http://FLYTE.Aero/ AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/ Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

    39 min

  2. FEB 10

    From the Heart of OK to Airlines Worldwide, Help Stop ADSB Abuse, and Pilot Uniforms

    🎧 Episode Summary This episode of "The Future in Flight Podcast" explores Riverside Flight Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a flight school that has been quietly revolutionizing pilot training for 25 years. The episode highlights the school's impressive 90% completion rate, cost-effective vocational program, and unique approach to training, which emphasizes real-world conditions and a strong focus on student success. Yuri Milner, the founder, shares his philosophy of incorporating the best practices from other flight schools while eliminating the negatives. The podcast also delves into a concerning trend in general aviation: the monetization of ADS-B data. It discusses how companies are tracking aircraft landings and charging fees, potentially penalizing pilots for safety-conscious decisions like aborting landings. Don Frano from StopADSB Abuse warns that this practice could lead to increased congestion, safety risks, and ultimately, the decline of general aviation, mirroring the situation in Europe. Finally, the episode explores the historical origins of the commercial airline pilot uniform, tracing its roots back to Pan American World Airways and the desire to instill trust and professionalism in early aviation.   ✨ Key Points - 🚀 Innovative Flight Training: Riverside Flight Center's unique approach to pilot training, emphasizing real-world experience and student success, leads to a 90% completion rate and faster career paths. - 📡 Safety-First Approach: Riverside Flight Center prioritizes safety by bringing maintenance in-house, using simulation strategically, and teaching students to accept feedback, ensuring competent and responsible pilots. - ⚙️ ADS-B Data Concerns: The monetization of ADS-B data raises concerns about penalizing safety and potentially leading to the decline of general aviation, highlighting the need for pilot advocacy. - 🛩️ Legacy of Flight: The commercial pilot uniform's nautical roots reflect a desire to convey trustworthiness and authority in the early days of aviation, a tradition that continues to influence the industry.   🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 — 0:30 | Introduction to Riverside Flight Center 0:31 — 2:06 | Yuri Milner's Philosophy and Riverside's Success 2:07 — 2:57 | Location Advantages and Real-World Training 2:58 — 4:28 | Cost-Effective Training and Discovery Flights 4:29 — 6:00 | Safety Standards and Feedback 6:01 — 7:22 | Riverside's Impact and Yuri's Reward 7:23 — 9:18 | Conclusion of Riverside Segment and Introduction to ADS-B Concerns 9:19 — 10:50 | ADS-B Data Monetization and its Impact 10:51 — 12:24 | Consequences of ADS-B Fees and Safety Risks 12:25 — 13:41 | The Future of Aviation and Pilot Advocacy 13:42 — 14:46 | Conclusion of ADS-B Segment and Introduction to Cockpit Culture 14:47 — 15:55 | Early Aviation and the Need for Trust 15:56 — 18:00 | Pan Am's Naval-Inspired Uniforms 18:01 — 19:46 | Meaning of Pilot Stripes and Conclusion   🔗 Links & Resources Riverside Flight Center: https://riversideflightcenter.com/ StopADSB Abuse: https://stopadsbabuse.com/ AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/ Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

    23 min

  3. JAN 28

    Airline or Corporate? Choosing Your Pilot Path + Learning from “YIKES!” Moments

    🎧 Episode Summary What’s the difference between flying a packed Boeing 737 on a fixed schedule and launching a Gulfstream on a moment’s notice for a CEO? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker breaks down the real-world differences between airline aviation and corporate aviation—from lifestyle and pay to schedules, autonomy, and long-term career flexibility. The episode then shifts to safety, storytelling, and learning from mistakes with a deep dive into YIKES! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did Yet Lived to Tell About Them by airline pilot and author J.J. Madison. Drawing from thousands of NASA Aviation Safety Reports, Shawn explores how pilots truly learn—through human error, honest reflection, and shared experience—and how one book is now funding real-world flight scholarships for underserved students. The episode wraps up with a Vintage Aircraft Spotlight on the Bell X-1, the bright orange rocket plane that shattered the sound barrier in 1947. From Chuck Yeager’s broken ribs and broom-handle ingenuity to the sonic boom that changed aviation forever, this segment reminds us that progress comes from curiosity, courage, and pushing past the impossible. This episode is about choices, consequences, and courage—whether you’re choosing a career path, learning from a mistake, or daring to fly faster than anyone ever had before. ✨ Key Points Airline vs. Corporate Pilot Careers Airline pilots operate under Part 121 with structured schedules, seniority-based bidding, and union protections. Corporate pilots fly under Part 91 or 135, handling everything from flight planning to catering and customs. Airline flying offers predictability and long-term job security; corporate flying offers flexibility, autonomy, and variety. Airline pilots can earn up to $475,000+ at major carriers; top corporate pilots can earn $250,000+ at established operators. Many pilots transition between the two paths over their careers—no choice is permanent. Lessons from YIKES! by J.J. Madison Pilots learn best through stories, not just procedures. NASA Aviation Safety Reports allow pilots to share mistakes anonymously so others can learn without repeating them. Fatigue, distraction, and human factors—not lack of skill—cause many incidents. A go-around is never a failure; it’s good decision-making. YIKES! turns real mistakes into safer skies and funds flight scholarships through the Victor Kilo Fund. Aviation Access & Scholarships YIKES! book sales have funded $5,000–$10,000 flight scholarships. Scholarships support organizations like Eagle Flight Squadron and under-resourced flight and STEM programs. Representation and mentorship play a critical role in bringing new voices into aviation. Vintage Aircraft Spotlight: The Bell X-1 First piloted aircraft to exceed Mach 1 in level flight (October 14, 1947). Flown by Chuck Yeager, despite two broken ribs. Rocket-powered, bullet-shaped design based on .50-caliber ballistics. Reached Mach 1.06 on its first supersonic flight and Mach 1.45 in later missions. Laid the groundwork for modern supersonic and experimental aircraft. 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 – 5:30 | Airline vs. Corporate Aviation: Lifestyle, schedules, and pay 5:31 – 7:59 | Choosing your aviation path & career flexibility 8:00 – 13:20 | YIKES!: Learning from mistakes & NASA safety reports 13:21 – 17:30 | Scholarships, mentorship, and aviation access 17:31 – 18:54 | Why mistakes make better pilots 18:55 – 25:00 | Vintage Aircraft Spotlight: The Bell X-1 and breaking the sound barrier 🔗 Links YIKES! The Book: https://www.yikesthebook.com AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com

    28 min

  4. JAN 20

    Coast to Coast in 31 Hours to Raise $1M: w/Charlie Duffie & Chris Holder

    🎧 Episode Summary What happens when a lifelong passion for aviation, speed, and service collides with a legendary cross-country challenge? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Chris Holder of Concord Battery and Charlie Duffie of CJ Aviation to unpack an ambitious and heartfelt mission: a 31-hour Cannonball Run across the United States to raise $1 million for the Tango 31 Aero Club. Chris and Charlie dive into the history of the Cannonball Run, the engineering and performance behind Charlie’s hand-built Factory Five Type 65 Coupe, and the logistics of attempting a coast-to-coast drive at speed—all while honoring the legacy of Kevin Lacey, founder of Tango 31. The conversation highlights how Tango 31 has transformed the lives of underserved youth by teaching them to build, maintain, and fly aircraft, producing pilots, A&P mechanics, and aviation leaders now working across the industry. Beyond the car and the run, this episode is about giving back, sustaining aviation education, and creating a future pipeline of skilled professionals. With industry-wide support, major sponsors, and a growing wave of momentum, this Cannonball Run is more than an endurance challenge—it’s a mission to ensure Kevin Lacey’s vision lives on and expands nationwide. Thank you to everyone supporting this effort and helping keep aviation dreams alive for the next generation. ✨ Key Points The Cannonball Run for Tango 31 Aero Clube A 31-hour coast-to-coast Cannonball Run honoring Tango 31 Southern Route: Jacksonville Beach, FL to San Diego, CA Goal: Raise $1 million to ensure long-term sustainability for Tango 31 Aero Club The Mission Behind Tango 31 Founded by Kevin Lacey, aviation icon and mentor Youth rebuild donated aircraft from the ground up, then learn to fly them Alumni now include corporate pilots, A&P mechanics, and industry professionals Funds will support insurance, travel, aircraft operations, and program growth The Car & The Build Hand-built Type 65 Factory Five Type 65 Coupe 480 horsepower, ~2,740 lbs, built for speed and endurance Inspired by Carroll Shelby’s aviation and racing legacy Designed for performance, safety, and long-distance comfort Industry & Community Support Sponsors include Concord Battery, Michelin, Lightspeed Aviation Headsets, and more Strong backing from aviation manufacturers and distributors Early commitments already exceeding $70,000 What’s Next Teaser videos and updates rolling out on Concord Battery’s social platforms Planned stop at Tango 31 in McKinney, Texas, with youth aircraft escorting part of the run Car appearance (and possible drag race!) at Sun ’n Fun 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction & the 31-hour Cannonball concept 0:45 – 4:39 | History of the Cannonball Run & route selection 4:40 – 11:41 | Tango 31 Aero Club, Kevin Lacey’s legacy, and youth impact 11:42 – 16:29 | Record times, strategy, and modern-day challenges 16:30 – 22:30 | The Factory Five Type 65 Coupe: design, power, and performance 22:31 – 27:30 | Logistics, fuel strategy, comfort, and endurance 27:31 – 31:24 | Sponsors, fundraising, and how to get involved 31:25 – End | Final reflections, legacy, and the future of Tango 31 🔗 Links Tango 31 Aero Club (Donations via Zeffy): https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/31-hours-for-tango-thirty-one Concord Battery: https://www.concordebattery.com/ AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/ Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/ BULBag: https://bulbag.com/

    38 min

  5. JAN 13

    Aviation in Motion: Purpose, Props, and Safety

    🎧 Episode Summary What happens when a hand-built Shelby Daytona Coupe, a cross-country Cannonball Run, and a youth aviation nonprofit collide? In this episode, host Shawn Staerker takes listeners on an unforgettable journey where speed meets purpose and aviation becomes a force for generational change. The story begins with Chris Holder (Concorde Battery Corporation) and Charlie Duffie (CJ Aviation)—two lifelong aviation enthusiasts undertaking a bold mission: driving a 408-horsepower Shelby Daytona Coupe coast-to-coast in just 31 hours to raise funds for Tango 31 Aero Club, a youth aviation program that has transformed dozens of young lives. Their run honors the legacy of Kevin Lacey, Tango 31’s founder, whose passion for mentoring underserved youth through aircraft restoration and flight training continues to inspire the aviation community after his passing. From there, Shawn shifts gears—literally and figuratively—into aviation innovation, spotlighting Hartzell Propellers and their new Falcon Series, which brings century-old engineering expertise into the affordable aviation market by cutting propeller weight in half without sacrificing reliability. The episode closes with a fascinating deep dive into one of aviation’s most important safety tools: the phonetic alphabet. Shawn unpacks its wartime origins, international testing, and why words like Alpha, Bravo, and Niner are carefully engineered to save lives in noisy cockpits and across language barriers. This episode is about legacy, persistence, and community—and how aviation thrives when people refuse to let good ideas, or good people, be forgotten. ✨ Key Points 🏁 31 Hours for Tango 31 Chris Holder and Charlie Duffie attempt a Southern Cannonball Run from Jacksonville Beach, FL to San Diego, CA. Goal: 31 hours, symbolizing Tango 31 Aero Club. Mission: Raise $1M to make Tango 31 self-sustaining after the loss of founder Kevin Lacey. Tango 31 students rebuild donated aircraft and learn to fly them—many go on to aviation careers. Over $70,000 in commitments pledged immediately after the mission was announced. Ultimate vision: Expand Tango 31 into a nationwide model for youth aviation education. 🛩️ Giving Back Through Aviation Kevin Lacey’s legacy lives on through the students he mentored. Over 40 youth have gone through Tango 31 since 2017. Alumni now work as pilots, A&P mechanics, and for companies like Cirrus Aircraft. “No pressure, no diamonds” becomes the guiding philosophy of the mission. ⚙️ Hartzell Propellers & Affordable Aviation Hartzell Propellers has been innovating since 1917. The Falcon Series is designed for engines like the Rotax 916. Weight reduced from ~40 lbs to ~20 lbs—major performance gains. Mission-specific prop design supports LSA, kit aircraft, and modern sport flying. OEM partnerships (CubCrafters, Van’s) can reduce costs for builders and pilots. 📡 The Aviation Phonetic Alphabet Developed through WWII and finalized internationally by ICAO and NATO. Designed to eliminate confusion across languages, accents, and poor radio quality. Examples: Alpha (ALFA) for global pronunciation Tree, Fife, Niner for clarity Used worldwide by pilots, ATC, emergency services, and beyond. One of aviation’s most successful safety innovations. 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 – 1:30 | Introduction: Speed, purpose, and aviation community 1:31 – 9:40 | 31 Hours for Tango 31: The Cannonball Run mission 9:41 – 11:00 | Honoring Kevin Lacey & the legacy of Tango 31 11:01 – 16:20 | Hartzell Propellers: Century-old innovation meets modern flying 16:21 – 22:30 | Propeller evolution, weight savings, and mission-based design 22:31 – 33:30 | The aviation phonetic alphabet: History, safety, and global impact 33:31 – End | Final reflections, community call-to-action, and closing thoughts 🔗 Links & Resources Tango 31 Aero Club: https://www.t31aeroclube.com/ Concorde Battery Corporation: https://www.concordebattery.com/ CJ Aviation: https://www.mcfarlaneaviation.com/cj-aviation/ Hartzell Propellers: https://www.hartzellprop.com/ AviNation USA / Aviation Magazine: https://www.avinationusa.com/ Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

    26 min

  6. JAN 6

    Servant Leadership and Breaking Barriers in Aviation with Michelle Leon

    🎧 Episode Summary In this high-energy interview, Michelle Leon, Operations Manager at Levil Aviation, discusses the common thread that links her diverse career background: people. From her early days in hospitality and dentistry to leading operations in aviation and manufacturing, Michelle explains how the philosophy of servant leadership has guided her success. We explore how Levil Aviation is disrupting the avionics market with affordable, safety-enhancing equipment and the specific strategies Michelle uses to build a paperless, highly efficient workplace. The conversation also tackles the critical need for workforce development and how early exposure to trades can change the trajectory of students' lives. ➡️ Be sure to check out our newest show sponsor: BULBag USA! ⭐ Key Points Servant Leadership: Being in the trenches with your team and focusing on their growth leads to a more resilient culture. The Appreciation Gap: Utilizing the 'Five Languages of Appreciation' to recognize employees in the way they actually want to be seen. Women in STEM: Overcoming industry biases by maintaining credibility and leading with knowledge. Early Exposure: The importance of introducing middle schoolers to CNC machining and robotics before they choose a career path. NORSEE Approval: A breakdown of how the FAA allows safety-enhancing equipment to reach pilots faster. 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction and Michelle's diverse career journey 00:54 - Servant leadership lessons from the dentistry world 03:54 - Why workforce development energizes the team 04:54 - Moving toward paperless and digital-first operations 06:11 - Boosting morale through the Five Languages of Appreciation 08:04 - Earning respect as a woman in aviation and manufacturing 13:06 - Why middle school is the 'sweet spot' for trade exposure 19:32 - Introducing Levil Connect: The future of data collection 22:12 - Deep dive into the FAA's NORSEE approval process 28:29 - Advice for building a professional network 🔗 Links & Resources Levil Aviation Official Website Creative Relay Media AviNation BULBag USA

    36 min

  7. 12/31/2025

    Aviation at the Crossroads: What 2026 Means for Pilots, Planes, and the Path Forward

    🎧 Episode Summary What does the future of aviation really look like as we head toward 2026—and how can today’s pilots, students, and aviation dreamers prepare for it? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker takes listeners on a forward-looking journey through the biggest shifts shaping aviation’s near future. From airline industry pressures and evolving airport experiences, to revolutionary changes in flight training and the FAA’s new MOSAIC rule, this episode is all about opportunity at a moment of pivot for aviation. Shawn then spotlights hands-on innovation with a deep dive into the Silverlight Aviation Recon, a versatile, trailerable experimental aircraft designed to solve real-world ownership challenges like hangar shortages and rising costs—without sacrificing performance or fun. The episode wraps with expert insight from Lou Mancuso, “The Landing Doctor,” whose unconventional training philosophy has helped produce safer pilots and buttery-smooth landings through a return to fundamentals. This episode is about innovation, accessibility, and mastery—and why the next generation of aviators has more paths into the sky than ever before. ✨ Key Points Aviation Outlook: 2026 and Beyond Airlines face mounting pressure from costs, staffing, safety, and fuel—creating a crossroads moment. Airports are embracing biometrics and tech, but empathy and human connection are becoming key differentiators. Travelers want seamless, tech-enabled experiences without losing the human touch. Flight Training & Careers Global pilot demand remains strong due to retirements and fleet growth. Flight schools are integrating VR, AR, AI-powered tracking, and digital logbooks. Modular and accelerated training paths could get students job-ready in as little as 12 months. FAA MOSAIC Rule Explained Removes weight limits for new Light Sport Aircraft designs. Expands LSA to allow up to four seats. Enables more advanced aircraft systems with proper endorsements. Opens new, more affordable pathways into flight training and ownership. Silverlight Aviation Recon Kit-built experimental aircraft with folding wings—deployable in 10–15 minutes by one person. Trailerable design solves hangar waitlists and storage costs. Configurable with nosewheel or tailwheel landing gear. Engine options from 100 hp to 160 hp turbocharged. Excellent visibility, backcountry capability, and real-world versatility. The Landing Doctor Method Taught by Lou Mancuso of Sebring Flight Academy. Focuses on slow flight down the runway to master sight picture. Emphasizes fundamentals over instruments—sometimes covering the panel entirely. Resulted in zero accidents, incidents, or insurance claims in eight years. Training resources available free online for pilots and instructors. 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 – 1:00 | Introduction & aviation’s crossroads heading into 2026 1:01 – 2:50 | Airports, biometrics, and the importance of empathy 2:51 – 5:16 | Flight training evolution & FAA MOSAIC rule breakdown 5:17 – 7:14 | Why 2026 is a turning point for young aviators 7:15 – 12:56 | Silverlight Aviation Recon: design, performance & ownership innovation 12:57 – 14:58 | Why the Recon makes aircraft ownership more accessible 14:59 – 17:57 | The Landing Doctor: mastering landings through fundamentals 17:58 – End | Final reflections on skill, simplicity, and the joy of flying 🔗 Links Silverlight Aviation Recon: https://silverlightaviation.com/ The Landing Doctor: https://thelandingdoctor.com/ AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/ Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

    21 min

  8. 12/23/2025

    The Future in Flight Before Christmas & Yearly Recap

    🎧 Episode Summary What happens when a year of aviation inspiration, grit, generosity, and discovery all comes together on Christmas week? In this festive episode, host Shawn Staerker brings you a heartwarming holiday special straight from “a hangar somewhere near the flightline.” Shawn unwraps some of the most powerful, uplifting, and unforgettable moments from the 2025 season—from sparking first-time aviation magic in kids, to stories of perseverance, to veterans being honored from the sky, to life-changing career pathways opening across the country. You’ll revisit: ✨ The spark of aviation awe through paper airplanes… ✨ The butterflies of a flight-test engineer who discovered the beauty behind complex systems… ✨ The power of networking and mentorship for young aviators… ✨ The resilience of those who faced rejection, delays, or setbacks—yet kept climbing… ✨ The generosity of pilots who used their own aircraft to lift up others… ✨ The emotional weight of military flying and the unseen realities of those who serve. Plus—Shawn shares an incredible new Christmas aviation story: “’Twas the Flight Before the Night Before Christmas.” This episode is about gratitude, growth, and the powerful ways aviation brings people together—especially during the holidays. Special thanks to Flyte Sunglasses—light on weight, not on quality! And be sure to join the 25 Days of Flightsmas Giveaway for your chance to win amazing gear this holiday season. ✨ Key Points Inspiring Moments From Our 2025 Guests Sparking the Magic – with Mike Salmon (ADS) Demonstrated paper airplane aerodynamics to children ages 5–13. Witnessed their “first aviation spark” as their eyes lit up with discovery. Reminded us that aviation inspiration starts young. Flight Test Excitement – with Adriana Barragan (FlyORKA) Described the moment complex engineering “clicked” for her. Talked about turning something extraordinary and intimidating into something she could understand—and love. Networking as a Superpower – with Claire Mahr (Fly Girl Aircraft Detailing) Encouraged young aviators to walk into FBOs, join every aviation group they can, and meet everyone possible. Reinforced that opportunity grows through community. Career Pathways – with Mary Lamie (St. Louis Freightway / BSD) Explained aviation career roadmaps showing job options, earning potential, and next-step guidance. Highlighted the importance of clear, accessible paths to high-paying aviation careers. Perseverance – with Brian Kincaid (6 Zero Alpha) Once told his color blindness meant he could never fly fighters—so he quit aviation at 17. Returned years later and earned his pilot certificate at 31. Message: Never let someone else define your limits. Persistence & Funding – with Jamail Larkins (AviationStart) Faced 93 rejections before receiving his first aviation sponsorship. Now helps thousands through free scholarship resources. Giving Back – with Luke Pylypciw (SkyScholar) Flew a Mooney on an East Coast tour to visit veteran centers. Raised $15,000 for Hope for the Warriors. A true example of aviation used for service and meaning. Military Strength & Sacrifice (Jeremy Meyers and Anthony Dyer) Pilots shared emotional stories from combat deployments, including difficult missions, near-empty fuel returns, and the unseen moments that shape the lives of those who serve. 🕒 Chapter Timestamps 0:00 – 0:44 | Welcome from the hangar + Christmas kickoff 0:45 – 1:35 | Sparking aviation magic with paper airplanes 1:36 – 1:55 | Flight test butterflies and discovering understanding 1:56 – 2:34 | Networking advice from Claire Maher 2:35 – 3:00 | Aviation career roadmaps for students 3:01 – 3:30 | Perseverance: Never giving up on flying 3:31 – 3:55 | Jamail Larkins and 93 rejections 3:56 – 4:09 | Break: 25 Days of Flightsmas 4:10 – 5:05 | Luke Pylypciw on “Luke for the Troops” 5:06 – 6:17 | Stories from military pilots and powerful missions 6:18 – End | Christmas story + Year-in-review reflections + closing 🔗 Links & Resources AviNation USA – https://www.avinationusa.com/ Creative Relay Media – https://creativerelaymedia.com/ Flightsmas Giveaway – https://futureinflight.com/flightsmas

    11 min
See All (50)

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Ready to explore the skies and unlock your potential in aviation? The Future in Flight Podcast is your go-to weekly show for inspiration, education, and empowerment. Produced by Creative Relay Media and AviNation USA, this engaging podcast connects young adults, teens, and their families with the tools and insights they need to pursue fulfilling aviation careers and hobbies. Each episode features captivating stories, expert interviews, and practical advice, blending family-friendly entertainment with cutting-edge industry insights. From highlighting young achievers to diving into the latest aviation technology, The Future in Flight Podcast is your roadmap to discovering the endless possibilities in the world of flight. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a pilot, exploring aerospace engineering, or simply curious about the aviation industry, this podcast equips you to take off toward your goals. Subscribe now and join a growing community of future aviators ready to soar to new heights!

Information

  • Creator
    Creative Relay Media
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Future in Flight Podcast