Aviation Mentors

Is there really a DPE shortage, or is aviation facing an efficiency problem? And how is technology transforming flight training and check rides? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson sit down with Adam Shimmens, CEO of PilExOS and 20-year private pilot, to explore the intersection of aviation technology and flight training. From the DPE scheduling crisis to AI-powered cockpit tools, this conversation digs into what's really happening behind the scenes in general aviation: 🚀 Whether you're a student pilot preparing for your first check ride, a flight school owner improving operations, or a general aviation enthusiast curious about where aviation technology is headed, this episode delivers real-world insights and expert perspectives you won't want to miss. 🔗 Connect with Adam Shimmens & PilExOS: 🌐 Website: https://pilexos.com 💼 Adam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-shimmens-0895ab113/ 💼 PilExOS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pilexos/ 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired in aviation.

Should CFIs stay silent or intervene? Paper charts or electronic flight bags? When's the right time for turning stalls? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson debate the most controversial topics in flight training. From stall techniques to tailwheel timing, the hosts challenge conventional wisdom and share strong opinions about how pilots should really learn to fly, including: 🚀 Whether you're a student pilot navigating training decisions, a CFI refining your teaching approach, or a general aviation pilot interested in safety and technique, this debate episode challenges the status quo with practical insights about flight training methods, risk management, and what really makes better pilots. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired in aviation.

Should student pilots pay extra for glass cockpit trainers, or stick with steam gauges to save money? What about learning Class Bravo procedures early? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson answer critical listener questions that every student pilot and low-time pilot faces during their first 250 hours. The hosts tackle real-world training decisions and share lessons learned about: 🚀 Whether you're deciding between flight schools, managing training costs, or planning your path from student to private pilot, this Q&A episode delivers practical guidance based on real experience. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired in aviation.

FAA medical certification—what every pilot needs to know before their first (or next) aviation medical exam. ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson welcome Dr. Daniel Monlux, FAA Senior HIMS AME, board-certified in family medicine and aerospace medicine, and former F-18 naval aviator with 3,500+ flight hours. Dr. Monlux, medical director of Wingman Med, breaks down the FAA medical certification process and dispels common myths that keep pilots grounded: 🚀 Whether you're a student pilot preparing for your first medical exam, renewing your certificate, or dealing with a complex medical situation, this episode delivers expert guidance to help you navigate the FAA medical process with confidence. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired in aviation.

Aviation history was made—but should it have been? The first real emergency Autoland sparks massive debate. ✈️ On December 20, 2025, Garmin's Emergency Autoland system completed its first-ever real-world emergency landing when a Beechcraft King Air 200 experienced rapid depressurization at 23,000 feet. But here's the controversy: the two pilots were fully conscious, wearing oxygen masks, and capable of flying—yet they chose to let the computer land the plane. In Episode 208 of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Carson breaks down this groundbreaking and controversial event that's dividing the aviation community: What happened:The technology:The controversy:The debate:The future:The investigation:Buffalo River Aviation CEO Chris Townsley defended the crew's decision, citing IMC conditions, mountainous terrain, active icing, and unknown failure causes. But critics argue Garmin explicitly states Autoland is "designed ONLY for pilot incapacitation"—and these pilots weren't incapacitated. So what do YOU think? Was this smart use of certified safety technology, or automation dependency gone too far? 🎙️ This deep dive explores the technical details, pilot decision-making under pressure, the role of automation in modern aviation, and what this precedent-setting event means for the future of flight. Whether you're a pilot, student pilot, aviation professional, or technology enthusiast—this episode raises critical questions about human judgment vs. machine capability in emergency situations. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—subscribe to join the conversation and stay current on the biggest stories in aviation.

Flight training costs, career timelines, and generational wisdom—what does it really take to make it as an airline pilot? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon sits down with Captain Curt, a third-generation airline pilot and current Gulfstream captain, in Curt's brand-new podcast studio. They dive deep into the realities of building an aviation career, including: 🚀 Whether you're a student pilot deciding on flight school financing, a CFI building hours, or aspiring to fly corporate jets, this episode is packed with honest advice and real-world career strategies from someone who's lived it. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired in aviation.

Winter flying, icing, fog, and cold-weather decision-making—how do pilots actually manage the risks when temperatures drop? ❄️✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive deep into winter flying realities, sharing real-world stories, hard lessons learned, and practical guidance every pilot should know. From scraping frost off windshields to flying IFR through icing conditions, this episode covers: • The dangers of frost, ice, and snow on aircraft before takeoff • Real pilot experiences with in-flight icing and how to escape it safely • The difference between FIKI-certified aircraft and non-approved airplanes • Deicing systems explained: boots, heated wings, fluids, and carb heat • Why “just a little ice” can quickly become a life-threatening problem • How cold weather affects engines, oil viscosity, and aircraft starting • Fog types, winter METARs, ceilings, and visibility considerations • Decision-making, get-there-itis, and winter risk management for pilots 🎯 Whether you’re a student pilot, private pilot, or instrument-rated aviator, this episode provides clear answers and actionable insights to help you fly smarter—and safer—during winter operations. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday. Join Aviation Mentors and stay confident, informed, and prepared for real-world flying challenges.

Navigating thunderstorms, aircraft maintenance, and in-flight decision-making—what really happens behind the controls when things get tense? ⚡✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dig into real-world scenarios that every pilot can learn from. From forecasting convective weather to navigating point-of-no-return decisions over the Rockies, the hosts break down: • How to determine if a forecasted thunderstorm is safe to navigate around • What really happens when you get too close to convective activity • Brandon’s intense near-storm experience with family onboard—and what he’d do differently today • Key external pressures that quietly influence your aeronautical decision-making • The most overlooked pre-buy inspection items for first-time aircraft owners • How to handle aircraft logbooks, AD compliance, and title/registration pitfalls • Recovering from radio mistakes (and why ATC isn’t as scary as new pilots think) Whether you’re a student pilot, a new aircraft owner, or a seasoned flyer looking to sharpen your safety mindset, this episode is packed with practical, experience-based aviation insights. 🚀 Tune in and elevate your pilot decision-making, weather awareness, and maintenance knowledge—one episode at a time. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday. Stay inspired, stay safe, and keep chasing your aviation dreams.

Pearl Harbor, aviation history, and real lessons for today’s pilots—how does a two-hour attack from 1941 still shape the way we fly today? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into the aviation side of the Pearl Harbor attack, exploring how 353 Japanese aircraft caught the U.S. by surprise and what modern pilots can learn from the event. From warbirds like the P-40 Warhawk, B-17 Flying Fortress, the Dauntless, and the Japanese Zero, to breakdowns in communication and readiness, the hosts connect one of history’s most significant aviation-driven moments to general aviation today. They discuss: • How the attack unfolded and the timeline of the first and second waves • Why only a handful of U.S. aircraft were able to get airborne • The roles of Zeros, Kates, and Vals—and their impact on the fleet • Situational awareness lessons student pilots can apply today • Communication breakdowns, ATC parallels, and traffic awareness • Aircraft limitations, density altitude, V_NE, and pilot decision-making • How warbirds demonstrate performance, energy management, and aircraft handling • Personal insights, travel stories, and the importance of readiness in GA 🚀 Whether you’re a student pilot, history buff, or general aviation enthusiast, this episode blends real aviation knowledge with one of the most dramatic moments in military history—offering practical flying insights, safety takeaways, and a fascinating warbird breakdown. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired on your aviation journey.

What’s the right way to tell your CFI you’re confused? Should student pilots buy their own headset early? And is it normal to feel like you’re getting worse before you get better? ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into real student-pilot frustrations and answer top questions pulled from Reddit and listeners, including: • Why regressing during flight training is completely normal—and how to push through it • How to stop overthinking your landings and build true pilot instinct • Whether to trust school-provided headsets or invest in Bose, Lightspeed, or David Clarks early • How to confidently tell your CFI you don’t understand something (without feeling embarrassed) • The best weekly flight-training schedule for faster progress and lower overall cost They also share personal stories—from Brandon learning instrument scan embarrassingly late to Carson’s early headset upgrade and even a tangent about parachutes, spins, burnout, and staying healthy enough to stay current. 🚀 If you’re a student pilot, a new private pilot, or someone trying to learn smarter—not harder—this episode is packed with practical tips, relatable training struggles, and humor from the cockpit. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—follow, subscribe, and keep leveling up your aviation journey. — Sponsored by Stratus Financial, supporting the next generation of pilots.

Keeping an airplane clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s a key part of aviation safety, professionalism, and building trust with students and passengers. ✈️✨ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson dive into the critical but often overlooked world of aircraft cleanliness. They break down why a clean airplane matters, how it impacts safety and perception, and what every pilot, renter, CFI, and aircraft owner should expect from a well-maintained fleet. They cover: • Why aircraft cleanliness directly affects safety, visibility, and first impressions • Which parts of an airplane are neglected most—and why they matter • Proper techniques for cleaning windshields, belly panels, static ports, and leading edges • The best products, tools, and materials for safely cleaning general aviation aircraft • What high-quality flight schools do to maintain their airplanes • Major red flags in aircraft care—and when it’s time to switch schools 🚀 Whether you’re a student pilot, private pilot, or aircraft owner, this episode is packed with practical, real-world insights to help you fly safer, protect your aircraft, and uphold the standards of aviation professionalism. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—learn, improve, and stay inspired with Aviation Mentors.

Flying for currency, reconnecting with your flight school roots, and keeping safety at the center of aviation growth—this episode covers it all. ✈️ In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson kick things off with fresh flying stories: short-approach fun in the ICON A5, a post-office moment that turned into an impromptu A5 fanboy encounter, and getting the RV back in the air after months on the ground. From taxiing tips to hangar-shuffling adventures, the hosts share what real general aviation days look like. Then, they dive into the featured topic: scaling a flight school without sacrificing safety standards. Drawing from years of experience running a busy training environment, they break down: • Why a solid operational foundation matters before you scale • What preflight, post-flight, and cleanliness standards should never be skipped • How safety documents and clear minimums protect pilots and schools • The role of a dedicated safety manager as student numbers grow • Real-world examples of training deficiencies—and how to fix them early • The hidden costs schools face, from insurance to maintenance cycles Whether you’re a student pilot, an instructor, a flight school operator, or simply passionate about safe flying, this episode delivers practical insights on building aviation programs the right way—without cutting corners. 🚀 Perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about flight school operations, aviation safety systems, and what it truly takes to run a high-quality training environment. 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us, learn, and stay inspired in aviation.

In this special milestone episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez celebrate 200 episodes of inspiring stories, mentorship, and aviation community growth. 🥂 From humble beginnings recording in a noisy RV at Oshkosh to becoming one of aviation’s most engaging podcasts, Brandon and Carson reflect on their journey, share behind-the-scenes stories, and revisit their favorite moments and guests. 💬 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: • How the podcast started — from scripted beginnings to genuine hangar talk • The inspiration behind Aviation Mentors and the power of mentorship in aviation • Favorite moments, guests, and community stories from the past 200 episodes • Lessons learned about podcasting, persistence, and connection • A heartfelt message to listeners and fellow aviators around the world 🎙️ Aviation Mentors Podcast is where pilots, student pilots, and aviation enthusiasts come together to learn, laugh, and share their passion for flying. Whether you’re just starting flight training or deep into your aviation career, there’s always something new to discover. 🌎 Join us every Friday as we share real stories from the cockpit, the classroom, and beyond. Subscribe, leave a comment, and celebrate 200 episodes with us! 🛫 Listen to more episodes: www.aviationmentors.com 🎟️ Check out Stratus AeroSummit: www.stratusaerosummit.com 💼 Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance

Flying VFR? Understanding IFR traffic is critical for safety even at non-towered airports. In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon Martini and Carson explore IFR approaches, shared airspace, and practical VFR safety tips. Using examples from Corona Airport (KAJO) and nearby VORs, they explain how VFR and IFR operations coexist, how to anticipate faster instrument traffic, and what to watch for when flying in general aviation environments. Key topics include: IFR approaches and handoff procedures for VFR pilots Recognizing speed and pattern differences between aircraft Airspace awareness and safety strategies for student pilots 🚀 Aviation Mentors Podcast is dedicated to helping pilots and aviation enthusiasts improve skills, safety, and career growth. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, or GA enthusiast, this podcast is for you! 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—tune in and elevate your pilot awareness! www.aviationmentors.com www.stratusaerosummit.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson catch up in their brand-new studio to talk about Brandon’s long-hidden Cessna 120 and the challenges of bringing it back to life. They share stories about aircraft maintenance, the true cost of airplane ownership, and why so many planes end up sitting idle in hangars. Brandon dives into his personal experience with maintenance delays, expensive repairs, and how quickly costs can add up—even for a vintage tailwheel like his. The hosts also discuss risk tolerance, flight readiness, and decision-making when returning to flying after time away. Packed with humor, personal insight, and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for any pilot thinking about owning, maintaining, or reviving their own aircraft. 🚀 The Aviation Mentors Podcast is your space to connect with passionate aviators, learn practical insights, and stay inspired in aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or AvGeek, this episode is packed with knowledge and perspective. 🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying! www.aviationmentors.com www.stratusaerosummit.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson discuss aviation news, insights, and trends shaping the general aviation industry. ✈️ From Brandon’s flight to Camarillo to the Burbank Tower’s temporary ATC shutdown, they cover what pilots need to know to stay safe and confident in non-towered operations. They also break down public reactions to the Mosaic rule changes, debunk cost misconceptions in flight training, and discuss how new regulations could make flying more accessible and affordable. 🚀 The Aviation Mentors Podcast is your space to connect with passionate aviators, learn practical insights, and stay inspired in aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or AvGeek, this episode is packed with knowledge and perspective. 🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying! www.aviationmentors.com www.stratusaerosummit.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez share an inspiring story of resilience, rediscovery, and passion for flight as Carson takes to the skies again after more than two years away from the cockpit. Join Brandon and Carson as they relive Carson’s first flight back on September 19, 2025, in a Cessna 182, marking his return to flying since February 12, 2023. From preflight jitters and rusty radio calls to picture-perfect landings, this episode is packed with lessons for student pilots and general aviation enthusiasts alike. Brandon, speaking from his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) perspective, shares valuable insights on how instructors can help returning pilots rebuild their confidence, while Carson reflects on the emotions, muscle memory, and satisfaction of regaining proficiency after time away. Whether you’re a student pilot taking your first steps, a lapsed aviator thinking about getting current again, or just someone who loves the journey of flight, this episode reminds us that once aviation is in your heart—it never truly leaves. 🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and talk all things aviation. We’re aviators, we’re mentors, and we’re entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AvGeek like us, this is the podcast for you! 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us and be part of the journey. 🔗 www.aviationmentors.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial 💻 www.stratus.finance

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon Martini is joined by two incredible guests: Jacob Peed, founder of Aviation Nation Magazine, and Sean Starker, host of the Future in Flight Podcast. They dive into the power of aviation publishing, podcasting, and youth mentorship programs. Learn how Jacob and Sean are inspiring the next generation of aviators through community engagement, storytelling, and hands-on programs like Tram Talk and American Dream Tours. From the birth of Aviation Nation Magazine to podcasting as a tool for aviation growth, this episode is packed with insights on networking, mentorship, and opportunities in aviation. Brandon also shares personal stories highlighting how relationships in aviation often lead to lifelong partnerships and career growth. 🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and enjoy a wide range of conversations about anything aviation. We're aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs. Whether you're a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AV geek like us, this is the podcast for you! 🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying! Connect with our guests: • Aviation Nation Magazine: aviationusa.com • Future in Flight Podcast: futureinflight.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance www.stratusaerosummit.com

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson dive into Sport Pilot Certificates and the recent MOSAIC rule changes that are making them more accessible than ever. ✈️ They cover everything from eligibility requirements and medical options to flight training minimums and checkride expectations. With MOSAIC updates, Sport Pilots can now fly four-seat aircraft like Cessna 172s, enjoy night flying with endorsements, and expand their privileges—offering a cost-effective, flexible, and approachable path into aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, recreational flyer, or exploring aviation for the first time, this episode provides practical insights into how Sport Pilot certification can open doors to flying while reducing barriers and costs. 🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space for aviators to hang out and explore all things aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, or aviation enthusiast, this is the podcast for you! 🌎 New episodes drop every Friday! www.aviationmentors.com www.stratusaerosummit.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez break down Boeing’s latest 20-year aviation industry forecast—and the numbers are staggering. The industry will need: 660,000 new pilots 710,000 new technicians 1 million cabin crew worldwide From the true cost of pilot training (around $81,000 in the U.S.) to airline signing bonuses of $50K–$150K, Brandon and Carson discuss the market forces, retirements, and global trends shaping aviation careers. They also share why now is one of the best times in history to pursue your dream of becoming a pilot. 🚀 Whether you’re a student pilot, professional aviator, or exploring a career in aviation, this episode offers valuable insights into opportunities, challenges, and why demand for pilots is stronger than ever. We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and enjoy a wide range of conversations about anything aviation. We’re aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AV geek like us, this is the podcast for you! 🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying! www.aviationmentors.com www.stratusaerosummit.com Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance