Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above!

Stefan Lorenz & Jürgen Reis

Take off with us into the vast world of aviation – from cockpits to control towers, and from real pilot life to behind-the-scenes stories of those who keep aviation running. Hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is your gateway to inspiring conversations, expert insights, and untold aviation journeys. Whether you're a student pilot, seasoned professional, sim enthusiast, or simply aviation-curious – our podcast covers it all: • Flight training & pilot careers • ATC communication & safety topics • Aircraft maintenance & engineering • Flight simulation, aviation media, and more Jürgen, an aviation mental performance coach and former glider and motorglider pilot, teams up with Stefan, an active Airbus A320 First Officer and flight sim creator, to bring authentic, unfiltered conversations straight from the world above the clouds. Tune in, learn, laugh — and share the passion for flight. 🌐 Learn more about the podcast, the hosts, and exclusive aviation coaching opportunities at www.Aviation-Quest.cc

  1. 3d ago

    Colton Sedlak – From Military Service to Civilian Aviation

    Episode 53 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above Recorded on July 19, 2026 In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Colton Sedlak, Certified Flight Instructor, commercial pilot, and former U.S. Navy officer. The conversation begins with Colton describing what a typical flying week currently looks like before reflecting on the journey that brought him into professional aviation. Unlike many pilots who dreamed of flying from childhood, Colton discovered his passion for aviation later in life while serving in the U.S. Navy, ultimately deciding to pursue an entirely new career. A central part of the interview focuses on this career transition. Colton explains how his years in military service shaped his leadership, discipline, and decision-making before taking the leap into an accelerated civilian flight training environment. He shares what surprised him most during that transition and how adapting to a completely different style of aviation challenged and strengthened him as a pilot. Another highlight of the conversation explores the role of a flight instructor. Drawing from his own experience, Colton discusses the qualities that define an effective instructor. Together, they discuss: - Discovering aviation later in life - Lessons learned during military service - Transitioning into civilian flight training - Surprises and challenges during flight training - The qualities of an effective flight instructor - Advice for aspiring pilots - Guidance for career changers entering aviation - Long-term goals and future aspirations Throughout the episode, Colton shares practical experiences, thoughtful reflections, and well-structured advice for listeners considering a career in aviation. Many of his answers are remarkably detailed and invite a second listen, making this an episode full of valuable insights for aspiring professionals. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is designed for aspiring pilots, career changers, flight instructors, and aviation enthusiasts interested in the realities of entering professional aviation, developing as a pilot, and building a long-term career in the cockpit. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  2. Nov 1

    Professional Drone Aviation & Wildlife Conservation – Insights from Wanele Dlamini

    Episode 52 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Wanele Dlamini, Senior Conservation Pilot, Team Leader, RPAS (Drone) Instructor Rating Candidate, and licensed Remote Maintenance Technician from South Africa. The conversation begins with Wanele explaining how aviation first entered his life, what fascinated him about drone flying, and the path that led him to earning both his Remote Pilot Licence and his Remote Maintenance Technician Licence. Wanele discusses the skills required of a professional drone pilot, the importance of thorough mission preparation, and how much of his work actually involves flying compared with other responsibilities. Together, they discuss: - Becoming a professional drone pilot - Remote pilot and maintenance training - Mission preparation - Aerial surveillance - Wildlife conservation - Anti-poaching operations - The successful cheetah rescue mission - Advice for future commercial drone pilots - Goals for the coming years Throughout the conversation, Wanele provides practical insights into professional drone operations and explains how aviation technology supports conservation work in South Africa. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is designed for aspiring drone pilots, student pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the growing role of professional drone aviation in conservation and aerial operations. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  3. Oct 25

    Law Enforcement, EMS Flying & a Life-Saving Mission with Steve C. Powell

    Episode 51 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Steve C. Powell, ATP helicopter pilot, veteran air medical aviator, and former Texas Department of Public Safety police pilot. Recorded on June 24th, 2026, this conversation follows the major chapters of an extraordinary aviation career spanning more than five decades, over 10,000 flight hours, law enforcement aviation, electronic news gathering, aviation management, and EMS helicopter operations. Steve begins by guiding listeners through his aviation journey, including how he first entered flying and how helicopters became a central part of his professional life. The discussion then moves into his years as a police pilot, the responsibilities of law enforcement aviation, and the lessons learned from public-service flying. The episode also explores his chapter in news helicopter operations before turning to air medical flying. Steve explains what EMS helicopter work looks like in practice, how a typical shift unfolds, and why professional relationships and networking can play an important role in an aviation career. A central highlight is Steve’s account of a remarkable mission involving a critically ill baby. He shares what happened during that flight, how the situation developed, and what the mission still means to him many years later. Together, they discuss: - The major chapters of Steve’s aviation career - Law enforcement flying and public-service aviation - News helicopter operations - The transition into air medical flying - What EMS helicopter work looks like today - The importance of professional relationships in aviation - A life-saving mission involving a critically ill baby - Long-term motivation after decades of flying - Advice for young helicopter pilots The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. This episode is for aspiring pilots, helicopter pilots, aviation professionals, and listeners interested in the human side of aviation—where experience, judgment, and service can make a life-changing difference. --- 🚁 Featured Video – Steve C. Powell's Life-Saving Mission In Episode 51, Steve C. Powell shares the remarkable story of an air medical helicopter mission involving a critically ill baby, challenging weather conditions, and a flight that would stay with him for years to come. Steve tells this deeply personal story during our interview, and listeners can also watch a short video about the mission on Vimeo. ▶️ Watch Steve's remarkable story: https://vimeo.com/162839592 ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  4. Oct 18

    Pablo Padrón Sanz – Radio Communication, Confidence & Lessons from the Cockpit

    Episode 50 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes back Pablo Padrón Sanz for a practical discussion focused on radio communication, confidence building, and learning from mistakes in aviation. Recorded on June 22, 2026, the conversation explores one of the most common challenges faced by student pilots: becoming comfortable on the radio. Pablo reflects on his own training journey, the communication difficulties he encountered, and the lessons that helped him develop confidence and competence over time. A major part of the episode is dedicated to real-world communication stories. Through a series of humorous, surprising, and educational examples, Pablo demonstrates why mistakes are a natural part of learning and how valuable lessons often emerge from unexpected situations. Together, they discuss: • Building confidence on the radio • Communication challenges during flight training • Why mistakes are an essential part of learning • Practical tips for improving radio skills • Real-world communication stories and lessons learned • Humility and humor in aviation • Communication errors among experienced pilots • Insights relevant to student pilots and flight simulation enthusiasts Throughout the conversation, Pablo combines practical advice with entertaining examples, offering an honest look at the learning process behind effective aviation communication. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is designed for student pilots, aspiring aviation professionals, and flight simulation enthusiasts seeking practical insights into communication, confidence, and continuous learning in aviation. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🛫 Want to follow Pablo's aviation journey? Find him on Instagram: @pablo.pdrn 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  5. Oct 11

    The State of Aviation in 2026 with A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz – Pilot Hiring, Opportunities & the Road Ahead

    Episode 49 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis is joined by his co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz for a timely look at the state of the aviation industry and European pilot market in 2026. Recorded on September 20th, 2026, the conversation brings a firsthand perspective from inside European airline operations to a market that has become increasingly competitive for pilots seeking their next opportunity. Stefan shares his view of where the industry stands today, what has changed over the past year, and how the situation looks specifically across Europe. Particular attention is given to airline hiring, why selection has become more competitive, and what this means for pilots trying to enter the professional cockpit. Together, they discuss: - How Stefan sees the aviation industry in 2026 - What has changed during the past year - The current situation in the European aviation market - Why airline hiring has become more selective and competitive - Why technical and flying skills alone may no longer be enough - The growing importance of soft skills, personality, and mental performance - How the situation differs for new and experienced pilots - Why aspiring and newly qualified pilots need flexibility and strong overall preparation - Where Stefan currently sees opportunities across Europe - What gives him confidence about aviation’s future despite the uncertainties - How the European market could develop over the next few years The conversation also moves into mental performance, with Stefan inviting Jürgen to share perspectives from his work as a professional mental performance coach focusing on pilots. The discussion explores why performing as a complete candidate—technically, personally, and mentally—has become an increasingly important part of succeeding in a competitive airline assessment environment. Alongside the main topics, Stefan and Jürgen explore several related aspects of today’s industry, creating a wide-ranging conversation about both the challenges and opportunities facing pilots. For student pilots, newly qualified pilots, and those currently looking for their next cockpit position, Episode 49 offers an especially relevant look at the realities of the European aviation market—and why being ready for opportunity means bringing more than technical competence alone. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  6. Oct 4

    Training Future Airline Pilots – Insights from Aimal Sherzoy

    Episode 48 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Aimal Sherzoy, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Aimal Sherzoy, flight instructor, compliance auditor, and mentor. The conversation begins with a look at Aimal's current role and what a typical week involves as both a flight instructor and compliance auditor. He explains what he enjoys most about flight instruction and reflects on the decision that led him to leave medical studies and pursue a career in aviation. The discussion then explores the pathway from student pilot to airline-ready first officer. Drawing on years of experience working with aspiring pilots, Aimal shares his perspective on what flight schools should teach beyond passing exams and what qualities help students stand out throughout their training. A central theme of the episode is safety culture. Aimal explains why safety culture begins long before airline training and discusses how compliance and safety management work hand in hand to support high training standards and professional development. Together, they discuss: • Becoming an airline pilot in today's environment • The role of the flight instructor • What makes exceptional students stand out • Safety culture in flight training • Compliance management and daily operations • Situational awareness and human factors • Challenges student pilots commonly face • Professional development and career preparation Throughout the conversation, Aimal offers practical insights into pilot training, professionalism, decision-making, and the mindset required to succeed in a demanding aviation environment. The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, adding an active airline pilot's perspective. This episode is designed for aspiring pilots, student pilots, flight instructors, and aviation professionals interested in understanding how future airline pilots are developed long before they enter an airline cockpit. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  7. Sep 27

    From Ground Operations to Commercial Pilot – Andersen Indorf's Aviation Journey

    Episode 47 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above In this episode of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above, host Jürgen Reis welcomes Andersen Indorf, a 20-year-old commercial pilot, Advanced Ground Instructor, Business Administration student, and aspiring Certified Flight Instructor from Portland, Maine. Recorded on July 17th, 2026, the conversation follows Andersen's path from discovering aviation at a young age to earning his Commercial Pilot License. He shares the challenges of flight training, memorable flights, lessons learned from outstanding instructors, and how working as a ramp agent and aircraft deicing technician has influenced the way he thinks as a pilot. The discussion also explores Andersen's entrepreneurial background, his decision to combine business studies with aviation, his passion for mentoring future pilots, his long-term career ambitions, and practical advice for young people considering their own journey into aviation. Together, they discuss: - Andersen's journey to becoming a commercial pilot - Lessons from ramp operations and aircraft deicing - Flight training challenges and memorable experiences - The role of teaching and mentoring future pilots - Combining Business Administration with aviation - Long-term career goals and dream aircraft - Advice for the next generation of aviators The episode is framed by an introduction and closing reflections from Aviation-Quest.cc co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. This episode is especially recommended for student pilots, aspiring commercial pilots, and young aviation enthusiasts. Andersen's enthusiasm, professionalism, and thoughtful reflections offer valuable encouragement for anyone beginning a career in aviation. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

  8. Sep 20

    Summer Ops – An A320 First Officer’s Day in Heat and Thunderstorms

    Episode 46 of Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above Summer may be associated with blue skies, holidays and seemingly perfect flying weather. For airline crews, however, high temperatures and powerful summer weather can create an entirely different operational picture. Recorded on August 12, 2026, just hours before a solar eclipse passed close to Stefan Lorenz’s home base in Palma de Mallorca, Episode 46 of Aviation-Quest.cc reunites host Jürgen Reis with his co-host and Airbus A320 First Officer for the seasonal counterpart to Episode 22, “Winter Ops.” This time, the focus is heat rather than ice — and the question of whether summer flying really is easier than winter flying. Together they explore: • how high temperatures affect aircraft performance, runway requirements and takeoff weight • why thermals welcomed by glider pilots can make airline approaches surprisingly turbulent • how extremely hot runways can contribute to floating during landing and even lead to a go-around • why summer thunderstorms can cause major delays and airspace restrictions • why airliners cannot simply fly above or around every thunderstorm • why weather-related delays are ultimately about safety rather than inconveniencing passengers • what it is like conducting a walk-around on an apron exposed to extreme summer heat • how hot an aircraft cabin can become before the air-conditioning system has cooled it down • Stefan’s biggest personal summer challenge and his practical advice for passengers travelling in hot climates Summer operations are a reminder that clear skies and high temperatures do not necessarily mean easy flying. Behind delays, go-arounds and changing flight plans are crews making decisions with one overriding priority: getting everyone safely to their destination. And because somewhere in the world it is always summer, Episode 46 is not only a seasonal listen — it offers a fascinating look at challenges airline crews face throughout the year. --- ✈️ Aviation-Quest.cc – Stay Connected 🌐 Website: https://www.Aviation-Quest.cc 📧 Contact: aviation@aviation-quest.cc ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aviation-quest 💼 LinkedIn (Co-host Jürgen Reis): https://www.linkedin.com/in/juergen-reis Explore all episodes, updates, and aviation stories at Aviation-Quest.cc. Comments and discussions are welcome on our YouTube channel. 🛫 Community & Discussion 💬 Join the Discord Community: https://discord.com/invite/AA3uteT37 Includes the dedicated “aviation-quest-podcast” section for episode discussions. 🎙️ About This Podcast Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is a long-form aviation podcast hosted by Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz. Each episode is designed as a complete listening experience — from the first minute to the last.

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Take off with us into the vast world of aviation – from cockpits to control towers, and from real pilot life to behind-the-scenes stories of those who keep aviation running. Hosted by aviation mental performance coach Jürgen Reis and Airbus A320 First Officer Stefan Lorenz, Aviation-Quest.cc – Stories from Above is your gateway to inspiring conversations, expert insights, and untold aviation journeys. Whether you're a student pilot, seasoned professional, sim enthusiast, or simply aviation-curious – our podcast covers it all: • Flight training & pilot careers • ATC communication & safety topics • Aircraft maintenance & engineering • Flight simulation, aviation media, and more Jürgen, an aviation mental performance coach and former glider and motorglider pilot, teams up with Stefan, an active Airbus A320 First Officer and flight sim creator, to bring authentic, unfiltered conversations straight from the world above the clouds. Tune in, learn, laugh — and share the passion for flight. 🌐 Learn more about the podcast, the hosts, and exclusive aviation coaching opportunities at www.Aviation-Quest.cc

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