The Ways We Move

Nicolas Zart

Here's the version updated to reflect Season 2: 🚀 "The Ways We Move" – Season 2 is the essential podcast for everyone shaping the future of human mobility—exploring cutting-edge solutions across air, land, sea, rail, and space. Hosted by mobility veteran Nicolas Zart, each episode features unfiltered conversations with innovators, executives, engineers, and visionaries driving transformative transportation technologies.  From startups to industry giants, we go beyond the headlines to unpack real-world challenges and breakthroughs. Discover the full spectrum of mobility innovation: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) – eVTOL, vertiports, urban air trafficAutonomous ground vehicles and smart infrastructureSustainable transport – EVs, hydrogen, advanced batteriesHigh-speed rail and hyperloop systemsMaritime electrification and autonomous shippingSpace mobility – launch systems, orbital logistics, interplanetary transport Perfect for: AAM pioneers, autonomous vehicle developers, sustainable transport experts, rail innovators, maritime tech leaders, space mobility engineers, urban planners, policymakers, and venture investors. Why listen? Get insider perspectives on technology roadmaps, regulatory hurdles, commercialization strategies, and the cross-industry collaborations accelerating the global mobility revolution. Subscribe now and join the conversation shaping how humanity will move tomorrow.

  1. 4D AGO

    Beyond the Hype: Can Traditional Pilots Master eVTOL Flight? with Anna Golendukhina

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! As the industry matures into its 2026 reality, the focus has long shifted from visionary concepts to the high-stakes reality of safety, training, and human factors.  In this episode, host Nicolas Zart welcomes Anna Golendukhina, a researcher at Embry-Riddle’s SEARCH Lab and flight instructor qualifier at Flight Safety International, to bridge the gap between aviation’s legacy and its electric future. The "Gold Standard" of eVTOL design is converging, but can the pilots keep up? Anna shares exclusive empirical research on how private and commercial pilots perceive the transition into these highly automated, over-actuated aircraft. Key Insights from this Episode: The Skill Transferability Paradox: Why CFIs and veteran pilots view eVTOL maneuvers with a "moderate" sense of transferability—and why 95% of pilots still feel a uniform sense of uncertainty regarding precision urban landings.Automation vs. Autonomy: A look at the "Monitoring Dilemma" and why more experienced pilots are actually more enthusiastic about higher levels of automation as a safety net.The "Physics Trap": How pilots must adapt to aircraft that function as a "third thing"—a hybrid of fixed-wing efficiency and VTOL hovering capabilities without traditional rudder controls.Training Gaps: Identifying the specific deliberate training required to move pilots from traditional cockpits to the high-density UAM corridors of the near future.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/psJzQbBObjU Chapters: Introduction to the Podcast 0:01 - 0:24 (Take 2) Nicolas introduces the podcast and the guest, Anna Golendukhina.Anna's Background and Experience 0:01 - 0:38 (Take 3) Anna shares her professional background and current role.Research and Inspiration 0:38 - 1:36 (Take 3) Anna discusses her research focus and what inspired her to pursue it.Challenges in Advanced Air Mobility 1:36 - 2:13 (Take 3) Discussion on the challenges faced by pilots in transitioning to eVTOL operations.Pilot Training and Skills Transferability 2:13 - 3:04 (Take 3) Insights into pilot training and the transferability of skills to new technologies.Automation in Aviation 3:04 - 4:10 (Take 3) The role of automation in aviation and its impact on pilot responsibilities.Future of eVTOL and Pilot Adaptation 4:10 - 5:20 (Take 3) Discussion on the future of eVTOL and how pilots can adapt to these changes.Anna's Motivation and Philosophy 5:20 - 6:18 (Take 3) Anna shares her personal motivation and philosophical outlook on her work.Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook 6:18 - 7:15 (Take 3) Final thoughts on the future of advanced air mobility and the role of pilots.Farewell and Gratitude 7:15 - 8:00 (Take 3) Nicolas and Anna express gratitude and share closing remarks.Whether you are a fixed-wing veteran or a rotorcraft specialist, this episode is a "Summary for Professionals" on the human architecture required to make AAM a reality. Join the Conversation: Support the podcast and get 48-hour early access and exclusive "Deep Dive" content on Patreon! 🔗 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewayswemove Support the show

    49 min
  2. FEB 19

    David Merrill Elroy Air: Autonomous Hybrid Cargo VTOL Transforming Middle Mile Logistics

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! Join us as we explore the future of logistics with Dave Merrill, co-founder of Elroy Air.  Discover how Elroy Air is revolutionizing cargo delivery with hybrid electric drones capable of 300-mile missions.  Learn about their strategic pivot from passenger eVTOLs to cargo drones, and how their dual-use approach is transforming military and commercial logistics.  Dave shares insights into the development of the Chaparral drone and the importance of pragmatic engineering in achieving real-world solutions.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the next wave of autonomous delivery and the impact of innovative technology on global logistics.  Time-Stamped Chapters  0:00 - 0:57: Nicolas Zart introduces the podcast and its achievements. 0:57 - 1:22: Introduction of Dave Merrill and Elroy Air. 1:22 - 2:20: Discussion on Elroy Air's pivot from passenger eVTOL to cargo drones. 2:20 - 3:15: The pragmatic approach and human motivation behind Elroy Air's technology. 3:15 - 5:00: Dave Merrill shares his background and the early days of Elroy Air. 5:00 - 10:00: Discussion on the pivot to cargo logistics and the dual-use strategy. 10:00 - 15:00: Insights into customer feedback and the decision to focus on cargo drones. 15:00 - 20:00: Development of the hybrid propulsion system and its advantages. 20:00 - 25:00: Challenges in regulatory pathways and market entry strategies. 25:00 - 30:00: Dave Merrill discusses his transition from CEO and future plans for Elroy Air. 30:00 - 35:00: Discussion on international markets and strategic partnerships. 35:00 - 40:00: The impact of technology on logistics and future outlook. 40:00 - 45:00: Dave Merrill shares personal insights and motivations. 45:00 - 54:00: Final thoughts and closing remarks.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TTn55ejcezI And for previous episodes of The Ways We Move on your favorite platforms, see: ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWaysWeMove 📺  🔊 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-ways-we-move/id1797599255 🔊  🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4V0qe3eZqublwn6dasXWCf 🎧  🎙️ Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cd3349e1-275f-4691-ae38-f1b6a153d5e5/the-ways-we-move 🎙️  📻 iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-ways-we-move-268614085/ 📻  ⚡ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theelectricairmobility 🛩️  🎬 Check out our new Patreon site where supporters can get the podcast 48 hours before and in-depth deep dives: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheWaysWeMove 🔒  📢 Subscribe for more insights into the future of mobility and support the show! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2428454/supporters/new 📡 Support the show

    55 min
  3. FEB 5

    How Bristow Group is Leading the AAM Revolution: Leveraging Existing Infrastructure with David Stepanek on The Ways We Move!

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! Most companies treat infrastructure as an afterthought in Advanced Air Mobility. Not Bristow Group. In this essential episode, Bristow Group EVP David Stepanek FRAeS reveals how one of the world's largest helicopter operators is pragmatically leading the AAM revolution by leveraging what already exists: airports, proven safety cultures, and resilient supply chains. Imagine turning current airports into multi-asset hubs capable of supporting hybrid, battery, or hydrogen-powered aircraft with minimal new infrastructure, then scaling these solutions worldwide with a company that has a proven track record. That's exactly what Bristow is doing. 🎯 WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER: David shares how Bristow's decades of experience in offshore energy, search and rescue, and rugged logistics uniquely position them at the forefront of the AAM revolution. You'll learn why infrastructure costs, energy generation, and safety culture are the three pillars shaping the future of urban air mobility. We break down: ✈️ How existing airports and vertiports can adapt to support multi-vertical aircraft with modular, scalable infrastructure ✈️ The role of hybrid-electric and hydrogen propulsion in reducing operating costs and expanding market reach ✈️ The importance of proven safety cultures and industry-wide collaboration, inspired by offshore safety organizations ✈️ Energy challenges and innovative solutions, including ammonia and hydrogen, that will power next-generation aircraft ✈️ Why the business case is finally aligning for widespread deployment, from regional cargo to urban air taxis 💡 WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERS: The transition to advanced mobility isn't just about new aircraft—it's about transforming our entire infrastructure, energy systems, and safety culture to make flying accessible, affordable, and safe for everyone. If you're passionate about the future of transportation, technology, and scalable solutions—not just theories—this conversation provides pragmatic insights grounded in decades of real-world experience. Perfect for industry innovators, strategic investors, regulators, and anyone eager to understand how existing assets and smart planning will unlock the skies of tomorrow. Bristow's leadership proves that you don't need to reinvent the wheel—just optimize what's already there, with a clear, pragmatic vision. 👤 GUEST: David Stepanek FRAeS, Executive Vice President, Bristow Group 📰 More AAM insights: ElectricAirMobility.news 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Ways We Move for weekly episodes exploring the innovative mobility solutions shaping our future. 💚 SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2428454/supporters/new Support the show

    56 min
  4. JAN 29

    The Ways We Move: From Classroom to Skies with Sarah Nilsson on AAM Education

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! Welcome to The Ways We Move podcast—the channel dedicated to uncovering the innovative mobility solutions shaping our future.  Join Nicolas Zart and Sarah Nilsson, in this special segment of Women in Mobility as they explore the dynamic world of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) education.  Discover how Sarah's innovative teaching at Embry-Riddle is shaping the next generation of aviation professionals. From the intricacies of AAM certification to the future of autonomous flight, this episode delves into the challenges and opportunities in the evolving aviation landscape.  Tune in for an engaging discussion on the intersection of law, technology, and education in the skies.  [00:00] Introduction to The Ways We Move  [02:15] Sarah Nilsson's Journey in Aviation  [10:30] Teaching Advanced Air Mobility at Embry-Riddle  [18:45] The Future of AAM and Certification Challenges  [27:00] Autonomous Flight: Opportunities and Concerns  [35:20] The Role of Law in Aviation Innovation  [45:00] Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lFQ8PeQS5rM For the latest The Ways We Move episodes on your favorite podcast platforms, please see:  ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWaysWeMove 📺  🔊 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-ways-we-move/id1797599255 🔊  🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4V0qe3eZqublwn6dasXWCf 🎧  🎙️ Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cd3349e1-275f-4691-ae38-f1b6a153d5e5/the-ways-we-move 🎙️  📻 iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-ways-we-move-268614085/ 📻  🌱 Buzzsprout: https://thewayswemove.buzzsprout.com/ 🗣️  📢 Subscribe for more insights into the future of mobility and support the show! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2428454/supporters/new 📡 Support the show

    41 min
  5. JAN 22

    The Ways We Move with Don Berchoff from TruWeather - Insights into Aviation's Weather AAM Edge

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! Welcome to The Ways We Move podcast—the channel dedicated to uncovering the innovative mobility solutions shaping our future.  In this episode of 'The Ways We Move,' host Nicolas Zart welcomes back Don Berchoff from TruWeather Solutions - https://truweathersolutions.com/ - to discuss the evolving role of weather in advanced air mobility (AAM).  Together, they explore the challenges and innovations in weather prediction, the impact of the AAM national strategy, and the importance of integrating real-time weather data into aviation systems.  Don shares insights from his military and meteorological background, emphasizing the need for better weather data to enhance safety and efficiency in aviation.  Key Takeaways  - Weather prediction is crucial for advanced air mobility.  - Real-time data integration can enhance aviation safety.  - The AAM national strategy emphasizes weather data.  - TruWeather Solutions is pioneering weather innovations.  - Military experience informs weather prediction strategies.  - Better weather data can reduce aviation costs.  - Weather impacts aviation efficiency and safety.  - The industry needs to modernize weather systems.  - Collaboration is key to weather data integration.  - Weather data is vital for future aviation technologies.  Subscribe now and join us as we navigate the revolution in mobility and create a smarter, greener, and more connected world!  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mellV1C2ps4 For previous episodes, see:  ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWaysWeMove 📺  🔊 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-ways-we-move/id1797599255 🔊  🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4V0qe3eZqublwn6dasXWCf 🎧  🎙️ Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cd3349e1-275f-4691-ae38-f1b6a153d5e5/the-ways-we-move 🎙️  📻 iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-ways-we-move-268614085/ 📻  🌱 Buzzsprout: https://thewayswemove.buzzsprout.com/ 🗣️  📢 Subscribe for more insights into the future of mobility and support the show! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2428454/supporters/new 📡  Support the show

    54 min
  6. JAN 15

    The Ways We Move Speaks with Steve Rush: Insights from AeroAuto Global

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! Welcome to The Ways We Move podcast—the channel dedicated to uncovering the innovative mobility solutions shaping our future.  In this sponsored episode of "The Ways We Move," host Nicolas Zart interviews Steve Rush, CTO of AeroAuto Global, about the future of advanced air mobility and the infrastructure needed to support it.  They discuss the challenges and opportunities in building eco-friendly, scalable infrastructure for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the role of technology in transforming the industry.  Steve shares insights from his extensive experience in the aviation and technology sectors, highlighting the need for innovation and collaboration to drive the industry forward.  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1NZ_TUBKclU And for more episodes of The Ways We Move, see:  ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWaysWeMove 📺  🔊 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-ways-we-move/id1797599255 🔊  🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4V0qe3eZqublwn6dasXWCf 🎧  🎙️ Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cd3349e1-275f-4691-ae38-f1b6a153d5e5/the-ways-we-move 🎙️  📻 iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-ways-we-move-268614085/ 📻  🌱 Buzzsprout: https://thewayswemove.buzzsprout.com/ 🗣️  📢 Subscribe for more insights into the future of mobility and support the show! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2428454/supporters/new 📡 #AdvancedAirMobility #eVTOL #AeroAutoGlobal #SustainableMobility #Innovation #AAM #eVTOL #eSTOL #vertiport #estolport #infrastructure #aaminfrastructure #uam #electricairmobility #Airports #Heliports #EV #EVs #eboat #railroads #railways Support the show

    50 min
  7. JAN 8

    The Ways We Move, Season 2: A Deep Dive with Rex Alexander, 2025 and what's ahead in 2026!

    Tell us more about yourself and what you would like to hear! Welcome to The Ways We Move podcast—the channel dedicated to uncovering the innovative mobility solutions shaping our future.  In this first episode of the second season of 'The Ways We Move,' we welcome back Rex Alexander, a frequent guest and expert in aviation and Advanced Air Mobility.  Together, we dive deep into the intricacies of the aviation industry, exploring the latest advancements and challenges in the field of advanced air mobility (AAM).  This episode is a call to action for the industry.  Rex shares his insights on the future of air mobility, discussing how technology is reshaping the way we think about transportation.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of aviation and the innovative ways we are moving forward.  00:00:00: Introduction and Welcome  00:03:00: Rex Alexander's Background and Expertise  00:09:00: Trends in Advanced Air Mobility  00:15:00: Technological Innovations in Aviation  00:21:00: Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry  00:27:00: The Future of Air Travel  Takeaways:  - Rex Alexander discusses the latest trends in Advanced Air Mobility.  - The future of aviation is being reshaped by technology.  - Challenges in the aviation industry are explored in depth.  - Rex shares his insights on the future of transportation.  - The role of innovation in air mobility is highlighted.  - The importance of safety in Advanced Air Mobility is discussed.  - Rex talks about the impact of regulations on aviation.  - The potential of electric aircraft is examined.  - Rex shares his vision for the future of air travel.  - The episode provides a comprehensive overview of the aviation industry.  See it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8_jTOYhEaZQ For previous The Ways We Move episodes, see:  ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWaysWeMove 📺  🔊 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-ways-we-move/id1797599255 🔊  🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4V0qe3eZqublwn6dasXWCf 🎧  🎙️ Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cd3349e1-275f-4691-ae38-f1b6a153d5e5/the-ways-we-move 🎙️  📻 iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-ways-we-move-268614085/ 📻  🌱 Buzzsprout: https://thewayswemove.buzzsprout.com/ 🗣️  Subscribe now and join us as we navigate the revolution in mobility and create a smarter, greener, and more connected world!  📢 Subscribe for more insights into the future of mobility and support the show! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2428454/supporters/new 📡 #AAM #eVTOL #eSTOL #vertiport #estolport #infrastructure #aaminfrastructure #uam #electricairmobility #Airports #Heliports #EV #EVs #eboat #railroads #railways Support the show

    56 min

About

Here's the version updated to reflect Season 2: 🚀 "The Ways We Move" – Season 2 is the essential podcast for everyone shaping the future of human mobility—exploring cutting-edge solutions across air, land, sea, rail, and space. Hosted by mobility veteran Nicolas Zart, each episode features unfiltered conversations with innovators, executives, engineers, and visionaries driving transformative transportation technologies.  From startups to industry giants, we go beyond the headlines to unpack real-world challenges and breakthroughs. Discover the full spectrum of mobility innovation: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) – eVTOL, vertiports, urban air trafficAutonomous ground vehicles and smart infrastructureSustainable transport – EVs, hydrogen, advanced batteriesHigh-speed rail and hyperloop systemsMaritime electrification and autonomous shippingSpace mobility – launch systems, orbital logistics, interplanetary transport Perfect for: AAM pioneers, autonomous vehicle developers, sustainable transport experts, rail innovators, maritime tech leaders, space mobility engineers, urban planners, policymakers, and venture investors. Why listen? Get insider perspectives on technology roadmaps, regulatory hurdles, commercialization strategies, and the cross-industry collaborations accelerating the global mobility revolution. Subscribe now and join the conversation shaping how humanity will move tomorrow.