The Future in Flight Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

In our PREMIER episode of the Future in Flight podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Mike Salmon, who transitioned from military service to a successful career in aviation maintenance and entrepreneurship. His story highlights the importance of finding purpose and embracing unexpected opportunities. We also delve into the Tennessee Tree Toppers, a community dedicated to paragliding and hang gliding in the beautiful Sequatchie Valley, showcasing the thrill of flight and camaraderie among aviation enthusiasts.

• Mike Salmon's journey began with a chance decision at a military recruitment office.
• His military experience taught him the importance of purpose in aviation maintenance.
• Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging but rewarding.
• Mike found purpose again as an air ambulance mechanic, saving lives.
• He emphasizes the critical role of homegrown mechanics in aviation safety.
• Mike's entrepreneurial spirit led him to help found Aviation Design and Supply.
• Helping transitioning veterans find their place in civilian life is fulfilling for Mike.
• Young people should be open to opportunities in aviation; timing is key.
• The Tennessee Tree Toppers offer a welcoming community for aspiring pilots.
• The Sequatchie Valley is a stunning location for paragliding and hang gliding.

The Future in Flight Podcast connects young aviators (14-25) to the exciting world of flight! 🚀

• in-depth reporting on youth aviation trends
• honest product reviews
• compelling interviews with industry leaders, students, and creators

Your gateway to aviation's possibilities launches Spring 2025 on all major podcast platforms.

Get ready for takeoff!

The Future in Flight Podcast is coming soon in early 2025. Join us as we explore the exciting world of aviation, from soaring through the clouds to engineering the future of flight. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and entertained. Subscribe now and be the first to know when we launch!

Coming March 2025!!

***BONUS EPISODE***

Thank you for the wonderful response to our premier episode! Since you enjoyed that one so much, we thought we'd offer this INCREDIBLE show as a bonus.

It's our small way of saying "thank you" for listening and supporting! 

Summary 

In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Starker takes us on an exhilarating journey into the world of seaplane aviation with special guest Steve Guetter, General Manager of Advanced Flight Training and Leasing. Steve shares his lifelong passion for aviation, from childhood dreams of flight to becoming a seaplane pilot and instructor. We explore the unique challenges and thrills of landing on water, the vital role of seaplanes in fire suppression and emergency response, and the crucial environmental efforts led by the Seaplane Pilots Association.

But that’s not all—this episode also delves into the future of sustainable aviation, discussing game-changing innovations such as hydrogen propulsion and electric aircraft. With organizations like NASA and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) leading the charge, we uncover how aviation is evolving to reduce its environmental footprint. Buckle up as we soar through these exciting topics!

• Steve Guetter's childhood fascination with aviation led him to become a seaplane pilot.
• Seaplane aviation offers unique experiences and challenges compared to traditional flying.
• Seaplane pilots often serve as environmental stewards, protecting waterways.
• The skills learned in one type of flying can be applied to others.
• Seaplanes connect remote areas, demonstrating the versatility of amphibious aviation.
• Seaplanes are used for various purposes, including air ambulances and firefighting.
• Sustainable aviation is a growing focus within the industry, with initiatives like NASA's AACES 2050.
• Electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft are becoming a reality for the future of flight.
• Airports are also adopting sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact.
• The future of aviation is not just about speed, but also about sustainability and community.

***We’re growing!***

Due to the overwhelmingly positive response to our first two shows, we’re making them a little longer moving forward! 

Summary

In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker interviews pilot and creator Nick Henderson, whose extraordinary aviation journey spans from childhood in Indonesia to military service and a thriving career as an offshore helicopter pilot for the oil industry. Nick shares insights on his unique path, the realities of the profession, and the future of automation in aviation.

The episode also features an in-depth look at Wisk Aero's autonomous air taxi and its potential to revolutionize urban air travel.

Plus, the Vintage Aircraft segment highlights the iconic Beechcraft Model 18, a staple in aviation history.

• Nick Henderson’s early aviation passion – Growing up in Indonesia and traveling globally fueled his love for flight.
• Military service influence – Nick’s time in the Army post-9/11 instilled a lifelong commitment to service.
• Life on an oil platform – A structured, high-tempo work environment requiring precision and endurance.
• Challenges of a pilot’s lifestyle – Long time away from home despite flexible work schedules.
• Misconceptions about helicopters – They glide effectively in emergencies, contrary to common belief.
• Automation’s growing role in aviation – Advanced tech, like Airbus H-160’s TCAS-2, is revolutionizing flight safety.
• Advice for aspiring pilots – Define clear goals and be prepared for a tough but rewarding journey.
• Wisk Aero’s air taxi vision – Aiming for autonomous, affordable urban air travel.
• Passenger convenience features – Charging ports, Wi-Fi, and wheelchair accessibility enhance the experience.
• Affordability goals – Wisk Aero is targeting pricing similar to UberX to make air travel accessible.
• Beechcraft Model 18 history – A versatile aircraft that played a key role in both civil and military aviation.

The intersection of tradition and innovation in aviation takes center stage as this episode explores Purdue University's online aviation programs and the timeless utility of the windsock. The narrative culminates with the compelling story of Bessie Coleman, whose pursuit of a pilot's license in segregation-era America exemplifies the ongoing journey toward making aviation more accessible to all.

Produced in partnership with AviNation, The Future in Flight Podcast aims to educate, empower and inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

• Purdue University has a long aviation history, being the oldest collegiate aviation program in the U.S.
• The transition to online aviation programs has made education more accessible to aspiring pilots nationwide.
• Purdue Global partners with flight schools to provide rigorous training while saving students money.
• Students can earn their FAA certificates and ratings in an accelerated timeframe.
• The windsock has evolved from military use to a critical safety tool in aviation.
• Modern windsocks are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions and provide real-time data.
• Bessie Coleman became the first African American woman to earn an international pilot's license in 1921.
• Coleman used her fame to advocate for equality in aviation and inspire future generations.
• Her legacy continues to inspire young aviators today, especially in the Black community.

Summary

The journey from aviation outsider to industry pioneer takes center stage as Vanzell Jenkins shares his story of breaking barriers in the world of flight. From his beginnings on Chicago's South Side with no aviation connections to becoming an educator, experimental aircraft builder, and aspiring airshow pilot, Jenkins exemplifies how determination and consistency can open doors in aviation. The episode also explores the science of aircraft cleanliness and delves into the fascinating world of supersonic and hypersonic flight technology, highlighting the continued evolution of air travel.

Produced in partnership with AviNation, The Future in Flight Podcast aims to educate, empower and inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• Vanzell Jenkins pioneered aviation from his community, having no prior connections to the industry before college.
• Despite starting with limited knowledge compared to peers, Jenkins persevered through challenges with his mother's unwavering support.
• After completing his training, Jenkins chose to become an aviation educator rather than an airline pilot to inspire minority youth.
• Jenkins has created a "lineage" of instructors who were once his students, extending his impact across generations.
• Building an experimental aircraft offers financial advantages through the kit-building process, allowing purchases to be spread out over time.
• The aviation industry offers diverse career opportunities beyond piloting, with thousands of people making each flight possible.
• Free online resources make aviation knowledge accessible to anyone curious enough to follow their interests.
• Consistency and commitment are essential to achieving aviation dreams: "Without commitment, you'll never start, but without consistency, you'll never finish."
• Airlines employ various cleaning procedures, from quick turnaround cleaning to deep cleaning, with practices enhanced post-COVID.
• Supersonic flight occurs beyond Mach 1 (767 mph), while hypersonic flight exceeds Mach 5, presenting unique engineering challenges including extreme heat and complex shock waves.

Future in Flight Podcast: Episode Notes

Featured Guest: Josh Cook

Flight Test Director, Founder/Owner Legendary Aviation Coffee Company

Episode Summary

This episode features Josh Cook, a flight test engineer who combined his aviation passion with specialty coffee to create Legendary Aviation Coffee Company, plus segments on aviation careers and pilot jargon.

• Former Flight Test Director for Northrop Grumman
• Managed UAV programs including Global Hawk and Triton
• Role involves testing aircraft systems and ensuring flight safety

• Founded Legendary Aviation Coffee Company in 2019
• Uses air roasting technique (used by top 5% of roasters)
• Coffee blends feature historic aircraft:
  • B-52 bomber (heavy, full-bodied coffee)
  • P-51 Mustang and V-Tail Bonanza

• Official coffee provider for Sun & Fun Aerospace Expo
• Donates portions of sales to Sun & Fun's youth aviation initiatives
• Supports six aviation and veteran-focused nonprofits

• Wildlife Management - "Bird men" who prevent bird-aircraft collisions
• Wingwalkers - Performers who do stunts on biplane wings
• Aircraft Rescue Firefighters - Specialists trained for aviation emergencies
• UAS Pilots - Drone operators for commercial and research applications
• Aviation Environmental Engineers - Develop sustainable aviation solutions
• Aircraft Interior Designers - Create efficient, functional cabin spaces
• Flight Simulator Developers - Build virtual training environments

Operations: "George is flying" (autopilot), "Bingo fuel" (low fuel), "Souls on board" (total people count)

Location Terms: "Feet wet" (over water), "Feet dry" (over land)

Time Reference: "Zulu time" (GMT/UTC)

Communication: "Roger" (understood), "Mayday" (distress), "Pan Pan" (urgency)

Summary

This conversation explores the intersection of filmmaking and aviation through the story of Kyle Newsom, who found purpose in capturing the beauty of flight. It delves into the future of supersonic travel with Boom Supersonic's innovative technology that allows for boomless cruise, and concludes with an educational segment on the science of lift, explaining how aircraft defy gravity.

Takeaways

• Kyle Newsom's journey began on a mountain in Nepal. • His films connect the human element to aviation. • Aviation is about community and shared passion. • Miss Virginia serves as a bridge between past and future. • Boom Supersonic is pioneering boomless cruise technology. • Sonic booms have historically limited supersonic flight over land. • Boomless cruise could revolutionize air travel efficiency. • Lift is generated by the shape of airplane wings. • Understanding lift opens doors to STEM careers in aviation. • The future of aviation is intertwined with sustainability.

• The cost of flight training can be as high as $120,000.
• Stratus Financial offers innovative financing solutions for aspiring pilots.
• Young pilots can potentially earn six figures within three years of training.
• Curanda Airport is a unique aviation sanctuary in Illinois.
• The spirit of aviation thrives in small, community-focused airports.
• Milestones in aviation history inspire future generations of pilots.
• The Wright Brothers' patent laid the foundation for modern aviation.
• Captain Barry's parachute jump proved pilots could escape emergencies.
• The Concorde revolutionized passenger travel with supersonic speeds.