Episodios

  • Ep. 67: How This CFI Beat Imposter Syndrome and Nailed His Checkrides
    Jul 18 2025

    In this episode of Pilot’s Say What?, CFI Ryan Whitaker returns to share what he’s learned since stepping into the right seat as an examiner. From the mental battles of imposter syndrome to the practical techniques for nailing a power-off 180, Ryan opens up about his growth, setbacks, and how he's preparing for the next big step in his aviation career.

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    48 m
  • Ep. 66: The Truth About Aviation Scholarships in 2025
    Jul 11 2025

    This episode pulls back the curtain on how aviation scholarships really work in 2025. Guest Jamal Larkins has spent nearly two decades traveling the country connecting future pilots with financial opportunities—and he’s not sugarcoating anything.

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    54 m
  • Ep. 65: What’s It Really Like Being a CFI at Thrust?
    Jul 4 2025

    In this episode of Pilot's Say What?, we welcome back Hayden Hayes—one of Thrust Flight’s own CFIs—for a real and raw conversation about what life is actually like as a flight instructor.

    Host Zach digs into how Hayden’s perspective has evolved since becoming a full-time CFI, what it’s like working with students daily, and the biggest technical and emotional challenges of the job. Whether you're a student thinking about instructing or a current CFI looking for a relatable voice, Hayden's insights hit home.

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    49 m
  • Ep. 64: Youngest CFI We've Ever Hired? Hamilton's Fast-Track Journey
    Jun 27 2025

    Meet Hamilton Grant—one of the youngest Certified Flight Instructors at Thrust Flight. In this episode, Hamilton walks us through his accelerated path from high school to the right seat as a CFI. We talk about his time at Rising Aviation High School, how he got started at just 16, the challenges of commercial training, and what it’s like teaching students while still being early in his own career.

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    38 m
  • Ep. 63: Mastering CFI Training & Conquering Cross-Control Stalls
    Jun 20 2025

    In this episode of Pilot’s Say What?, we sit down with CFI Nick, who specializes in training new flight instructors. Nick shares powerful tips for student pilots and future CFIs, including how to overcome the challenges of cross-control stalls, switching to the right seat, and building confidence with complex maneuvers. We also explore the mindset and discipline needed to thrive in aviation. Whether you’re early in flight training or prepping for your CFI checkride, this episode is packed with actionable advice!

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    52 m
  • Ep. 62: She Trained Here. Now She Teaches Here.
    Jun 13 2025

    In this episode, we welcome back a familiar face — a former Thrust Flight student who appeared on one of our earliest podcast episodes. Now, she's returned as a Certified Flight Instructor. We talk about her journey from brand-new student pilot to full-fledged CFI, the challenges she faced along the way, and what it’s like being on the other side of the cockpit now.

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    20 m
  • Ep. 61: Kit Darby on the Future of Airline Hiring – Pilot Shortage in 2025?
    Jun 6 2025

    In this special episode of Pilots Say What?, we sit down with aviation industry expert Kit Darby for a deep dive into the pilot shortage, airline hiring trends, and what 2025 could look like for aspiring and current pilots. Is the shortage still real? Are airlines still desperate to hire? What do pilot retirements mean for your future career? Kit brings decades of insight and data to help you understand where the industry is headed—and whether now is the right time to start flight training.

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    1 h y 4 m
  • Ep. 60: How to Pass Your Stage Check and Be Checkride Ready
    May 30 2025

    We sit down with a seasoned Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) whose primary role involves conducting stage checks. He shares invaluable insights into the stage check process, offering tips to help student pilots prepare effectively. From understanding common pitfalls to mastering the mindset needed for success, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating their flight training journey.

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    38 m