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PODCAST

Aero Exploration

Flying Midwest Media

The AeroExploration Podcast explores aviation’s past and the paths people are taking in the industry today. Join host Jim Schilling for stories of historic flights, modern aviation careers, and the passion that keeps us looking to the skies. Aviation has a past worth remembering, destinations worth exploring, and people worth meeting. This is AeroExploration.

leisure aviation

All Episodes

01:12:34

Episode 52 - This Listener Reached Out… Now He’s...

Aero Exploration ·

2025/04/20

✈️ From Listener to King Air Captain: Curt's Journey from Playing It Safe to Soaring HighIn this episode of Fly the Transition, we bring you a story that hit close to home—and reminded us why this podcast exists in the first place.Curt first reached out after listening to our very first episode. He was searching for direction in his aviation journey, and something about the story he heard resonated deeply. That single episode connected him with our first guest, sparked meaningful mentorship, and

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01:01:39

Episode 51 - Built for Flight: Engineer, Pastor,...

Aero Exploration ·

2025/04/06

After a brief break, Fly the Transition is back with all-new episodes—and we’re kicking things off with an aviation story that’s as rich and inspiring as it is unexpected.In this episode, Jim sits down with a true aviation renaissance man—someone whose journey spans engineering, software development, global humanitarian work, pastoral leadership, and now, professional aviation. From growing up on a Mississippi farm surrounded by aircraft (thanks to his Apollo-era NASA engineer dad), to crop dusting

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01:12:25

Episode 50 - Inside the Tower & the Cockpit: Opposing...

Aero Exploration ·

2025/02/15

What does it take to pivot between multiple careers in aviation? In this episode of Fly the Transition, we welcome Romeo Hotel (RH), co-host of the Opposing Bases Podcast and a seasoned aviation professional with a career spanning multiple roles. RH shares his unique journey from consulting to regional pilot, then to air traffic controller, and ultimately returning to the skies as a first officer with a major carrier, humorously referred to as Penguin Airlines on OB. This episode offers a rare look

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00:13:13

Episode 49 - Is Commercial Aviation Still Safe? The...

Aero Exploration ·

2025/02/02

In this episode of Fly the Transition, we tackle a pressing question on the minds of many: Is commercial aviation still safe? With the recent mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., some may be feeling uneasy about flying or even questioning whether they should pursue a career in aviation.But here’s the reality: Flying is safer than ever before. Join me as I break down: How long it has been since a fatal commercial airline crash in the U.S The astonishing safety statistics that prove just how

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00:32:04

Episode 48 - Best Flight Training Options: Renting,...

Aero Exploration ·

2025/01/19

Thinking about learning to fly but not sure where to start? In this episode of Fly the Transition, we dive into the pros and cons of the top flight training options: renting, flying clubs, flight schools, partnerships, and even sole ownership. I share my personal story of navigating these choices, with detailed cost breakdowns and practical advice to help you decide what’s best for your aviation journey. Whether you’re a brand-new student pilot or exploring ways to reduce costs, this episode has

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00:53:15

Episode 47 - Full Throttle: Bryan Turner’s Journey to...

Aero Exploration ·

2025/01/08

In this episode of Fly the Transition, I welcome back Bryan Turner, the guest from our very first episode of the podcast relaunch over a year ago! Since then, Bryan’s journey to the airlines has been nothing short of remarkable. After his IT company went out of business, Bryan went full throttle in pursuit of his aviation dreams.We’ll dive into his experiences as he worked toward earning his 1500 hours, the mentors who guided him, his time in ATP training, and his recent interview with a regional

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00:21:28

Episode 46 - From Deferrals to Denials: How FAA...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/12/22

In this episode of Fly the Transition, we’re diving deep into the FAA’s 2024 medical certification changes and what they mean for pilots at every stage of their aviation journey. With new rules aimed at reducing processing delays, pilots now face a different landscape—one where incomplete medical applications can result in initial denials rather than lengthy deferrals. We’ll break down the specifics of these changes, explore why they’ve been implemented, and share actionable advice to help you

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00:18:26

Episode 45 - Soaring for a Cause: How Volunteer...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/11/20

n this episode of Fly the Transition, we dive into the powerful impact volunteer flying can have on your aviation career. Whether you're looking to build flight hours, expand your network, or simply give back to the community, flying for charity offers unique opportunities to achieve all three. From disaster relief missions to medical transport and veteran assistance, volunteer pilots are at the forefront of making a difference.We explore the key organizations involved in volunteer flying, such

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01:11:56

Episode 44 - Breaking the Cycle: Behind Freedom...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/11/16

Episode Description In this episode, we explore how pilots are stepping into a new kind of mission: fighting human trafficking from the skies. Our guest, Stephanie Lamar, shares her journey from a 15-year hiatus in aviation to becoming a regional airline first officer and the driving force behind Freedom Aviation Network. Stephanie share her journey from an extended break in aviation, to CFI, and eventually a regional carrier. She will also talk about some of the barriers and challenges she faced

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00:56:15

Episode 43 - Building a New Career: A Realtor’s Path...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/11/11

Episode Description In this episode of Fly the Transition, we sit down with Corporate Pilot Sean Crow, whose unique journey from real estate to aviation will resonate with anyone considering a career change. Sean’s passion for flying began in his teens, but life initially took him down a different path into real estate. Years later, with his customer service expertise and problem-solving skills, Sean decided to take another look at aviation as a profession. Through networking with friends in the

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00:15:32

Episode 42: FAA Knowledge Test Dos and Don’ts: What...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/11/05

Episode Summary: In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim guides listeners through the essential steps to prepare for the FAA Knowledge Test. Sharing insights from both his own study journey and the FAA Fundamentals of Instructing, Jim covers everything a student pilot needs to know to feel confident on test day. He dives into common anxieties and fears students face, including test-day nerves and the risk of over-studying, while providing practical strategies to manage these challenges. Jim also

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00:53:59

Episode 41 - From Construction Sites to Captain's...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/10/27

In this episode, we sit down with a captain who transformed his career from building on solid ground to soaring through open skies. After years in construction and masonry, he knew the physical toll the trade was taking on his body would only get harder to bear. With a passion for flying that had started as a hobby, he found himself prepared in ways he hadn’t realized for a life-changing pivot to aviation. But the journey wasn’t easy—between balancing his family’s big move from their peaceful

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00:18:04

Episode 40: What I Learned About Flying While Working...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/10/22

Episode Summary:In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim shares a personal update on his professional journey, balancing the challenges of transitioning into a new role at his full-time job while continuing his pursuit of becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). He dives deep into his CFI journey, reflecting on the key lessons he's learned—patience, a deeper understanding of aerodynamics, and the importance of clear communication with students. Jim also opens up about how the process of

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00:22:40

Episode 39 - Mastering the Aviation Job Interview:...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/10/22

Episode Summary:In this episode of Fly the Transition, we break down everything you need to know about preparing for a job interview. Whether you’re transitioning into aviation or brushing up on your interview skills after years away, Jim shares his best tips from both personal experience and his role as a hiring manager. Learn about handling interview nerves, practicing responses, and standing out in a competitive field like aviation. Key Topics: Managing interview nerves Effective interview

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00:14:10

Episode 38 - The FAA Wants YOU: How to Become an Air...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/10/02

In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim dives into the exciting career of Air Traffic Control (ATC) and the FAA's Fall 2024 hiring window, which opens soon. If you’re interested in becoming a controller or looking for a rewarding non-pilot role in aviation, this episode is for you. Jim covers everything from qualifications to the application process, and how to prepare for the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (AT-SA). Discover the challenges and rewards of guiding flights safely through the skies

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00:16:00

Episode 37 - Should I FIRE my CFI: Handling...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/09/27

Episode Description: In this solo episode of Fly the Transition, Jim addresses the challenges and frustrations that can arise from working with a less-than-ideal flight instructor. Learn strategies for handling these issues, adapting effectively, and accessing resources to support your flight training journey. Key Topics Covered: Identifying the signs of a bad instructor Strategies for handling and adapting to a challenging instructor Resources for finding and evaluating flight

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01:06:11

Episode 36- Grounded in Business, Soaring into...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/09/24

In this episode of Fly the Transition, we sit down with CFII JD Parsons, a helicopter pilot, flight school owner, and the founder of On the Ball Coffee, an aviation-themed coffee company. JD’s journey into aviation is anything but ordinary—before taking to the skies, he was a successful entrepreneur running a trucking company, a street sweeping business, and several gas stations. But despite his accomplishments, JD felt unfulfilled and yearned for something more. Tune in as JD shares how he made

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00:16:28

Episode 35 - Building a Career in Aviation: Key...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/09/18

Episode Title: Opportunities in the Aviation Industry for Non-Pilots In this episode of Fly the Transition, Jim explores the wide range of career opportunities in the aviation industry for those who aren’t eligible or interested in becoming pilots. From air traffic control to aircraft maintenance, discover the many ways to be part of the aviation world without flying the planes. If you’re passionate about aviation, this episode will open your eyes to the exciting possibilities. Understanding the

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00:12:43

Episode 34: Financing Your Flight Training: Managing...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/09/11

Episode Title: Financing Your Flight Training: Managing Costs and Avoiding Financial Pitfalls Episode Description: In this solo episode of Fly the Transition, Jim addresses the fear of financial instability and the significant costs associated with flight training and a midlife career change into aviation. Learn practical strategies for budgeting, saving, and financing your aviation journey while managing the psychological impact of financial uncertainty. Key Topics Covered: Understanding the

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00:43:49

Episode 33- From Welding to the Cockpit: Nick...

Aero Exploration ·

2024/09/08

Episode Title: Description:In this episode of Fly the Transition, we sit down with Nick Antilla, a first officer at a major airline, who shares his inspiring journey from metal fabrication and welding to the cockpit. After losing his job during the Covid cutbacks, Nick transitioned into aviation, overcoming misinformation and learning the importance of communication with his partner. Tune in to hear how every flight has been a learning opportunity for Nick and his advice for others looking to make

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76 results

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