PODCAST · business
Aviation Careers Podcast
by Carl Valeri
A Podcast about Achieving Your Aviation Career Goals
Episodes
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ACP472 Creating A Personal Brand With Elliot Mintzer
Private aviation is a business built around multimillion-dollar aircraft—but what if the most valuable asset in your aviation career isn’t an airplane, a company, or even a contract? It’s your reputation. You can buy an aircraft. You can acquire a company. You can inherit a customer list. But you...
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ACP471 What It’s REALLY Like To Be an Airline Simulator Instructor
What is it really like to spend your working day in a full-motion flight simulator preparing airline pilots for some of the most demanding situations they may ever encounter? For many professional pilots, becoming a simulator instructor can open an entirely different chapter of an aviation…
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ACP470 1,500 Hours Without Becoming a CFI
======================================== One on One Coaching: https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/ We will help you define your goals and create a plan to land your dream job. Mentorship: https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/ Receive one month access to the mentorship...
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ACP469 Master the Language of Aviation
Aviation has its own language—and for a new student pilot, mechanic, or aviation professional, that language can sometimes feel overwhelming. Today we talk with Daniel Bezden, private pilot and founder of Keynomen Aviation, a platform designed to help aviation students develop a deeper...
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ACP468 A Midlife Reinvention: Anita Ammon’s Inspiring Career Change
“Am I too old to change careers and become a professional pilot?” Sometimes that question comes from someone in their 30s. Sometimes in their 40s. Sometimes in their 50s. But underneath the question is usually something deeper: Can I really leave the career and life I’ve already built and start...
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ACP467 From Corporate Flight Attendant to Children’s Author — Jessica Chrismer
Jessica Chrismer has traveled to all 50 states and at least 30 countries during a career that has included more than a decade as a corporate flight attendant. But somewhere along the journey, aviation led her toward another career she never expected—becoming an award-winning children’s author....
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ACP466 Kevin McDermott Author of Flight Path: Lessons in Perseverance, Passion, and Laughter
Today we have a special guest Kevin McDermott Author of Flight Path: An Irreverent Aviation Tale. Kevin encourages pilots and non-pilots alike to persevere through setbacks, appreciate the mentors who shape our lives, and never lose their sense of humor along the way. Affiliate Link to book:...
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ACP465 Pilot: The Ultimate Remote Career
Coaching, Courses, and Scholarships. https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/ ========================================= When most people hear the phrase “remote career,” they picture someone working from a laptop at home, sitting in a coffee shop, or answering emails from a beach. But there is...
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ACP464 A Pilot’s Second Act After The Pension Disappeared
Bankruptcy. Merger. A frozen pension. Furlough. These are words every airline pilot hopes they will never hear. Today’s guest has experienced all of them—and still managed to rebuild, reinvent himself, and come out on top. Paul Horsley is a retired airline pilot and the author of “Why the Rich...
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ACP463 Hours vs.The Right Hours with Elliot Mintzer
Today we have a returning guest Elliot Mintzer to discuss Building the Right Hours. Sponsor: https://pilotcounsel.com/ Talking Points: 1. Every Hour Is Not Created Equal 2. Chase Responsibility Before You Chase Aircraft 3. Learn the Business, Not Just the Airplane 4. Seek Mentors Who Challenge…
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ACP462 Changing Careers in Your 50s: Doug Wolfe’s Journey to Corporate Aviation
Is it too late to become a professional pilot in your 50s? Today’s guest, Doug Wolfe, proves that age does not have to prevent you from pursuing your aviation dreams. Doug changed careers in his 50s and is now living his dream as a corporate pilot. In this episode of the Aviation Careers Podcast,...
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ACP461 Young Aviation Entrepreneur Ethan Lin
Most 15-year-olds are just beginning to think about their future careers. Today’s guest says he is already working in aircraft sales and representing a Polish light-sport aircraft in California Sponsor: https://PIlotCounsel.com Links https://linktr.ee/ekolotcalifornia...
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ACP460 A Trip To The Emergency Room Grounded Me : Lessons Learned One Year Later
One year ago I sat in my car outside the urgent care knowing I should go due to my medical condition but also knew that my career as a pilot may end. This is the story of what I did and what I learned one year later. Before I get started, full disclosure: my attorney … Continue reading ACP460 A...
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ACP459 Using Your 529 For Flight Training with Paul Wynns
Today, we have a special guest, Paul Wynns, to discuss using your 529 for flight training. Paul is the co-founder of FlexAir Flight, recently received his PhD, and is a volunteer with The Flight Training Alliance, an organization key to advancing this new legislation. Sponsor:...
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ACP458 Starting a Part 135 with Elliot Mintzer
Today we have a special guest Elliot Mintzer, a former operator of two multimillion dollar PC-12 focused part 135 operations. We are excited to discuss what it takes to start and operate a successful Part 135 operation. Mentorship…
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ACP457 “Nice Jewish Boys Don’t Fly Airplanes” Author Irwin Wenzel
Today we have a special guest Irwin Wenzel Author of Nice Jewish Boys Don’t Fly Airplanes : A sharp, funny, and heartfelt memoir about defying expectations—and finding your own flight path. Sponsor: https://pilotcounsel.com/ Talking Points: How he developed his passion for aviation. Growing up in...
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ACP456 What does Spirit shutting down mean for new pilots?
The most common question I get after publishing my last episode about surviving a furlough is “What does Spirit shutting down mean for new pilots?” Today, I will also answer the question of how this affects all pilots at all levels. Talking Points:...
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ACP455 Getting Started with FAA Medical Certification
Today we have a special guest Chris Pezalla to discuss getting started with FAA Medical Certification. Sponsor: https://pilotcounsel.com Talking Points: Steps before you apply -Read the user guide -Have your medical information ready -Application process (MedExpress) and AME visit -Be accurate…
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ACP454 How To Survive A Furlough
If you have been furloughed, are facing a furlough, or want to know what a furlough is, this podcast is for you. I know what it is like to be furloughed and have been assisting furloughed pilots for over 25 years. Today I am going to share with you proven steps that work in surviving … Continue...
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ACP453 Why I Retired Early As An Airline Pilot
Do you ever wonder why some airline pilots retire early, even though we have heard this is a dream job? Today we have a special guest, Max Kohnke, who recently retired early as an airline pilot, and he shares why he retired early and what he misses and doesn’t miss about the job one year ……
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ACP452 Cleared for Takeoff! IHart Flying. Supporting Women In Flight.
I Hart flying scholarships have been in our scholarships guide since their inception. Don’t forget through the generous support of our listeners and sponsors you can get a scholarship guide for free by visiting https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/free/. Rachelle from I Hart is joining us today...
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ACP451 Brooke Campbell Falcon 50 Pilot at 24 years old.
Today we have a special guest who is living her dream flying a Falcon 50 to exotic and exciting airports. Talking Points: What fueled her passion for aviation? Schools attended including college Funny story from her training. Tips for student pilots. Why did you choose corporate aviation? Advice...
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ACP450 Is Becoming A PIlot Still Worth It?
Trying To Decide What Direction You Should Take In Your Career? Contemplating Changing Your Career? Preparing For An Airline Interview? Can’t Decide If A Career Is Right For You? We can help with our career coaching: https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/ Our Career Coaching Services…
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ACP449 Is Flying Safe As A Career?
Is flying safe as a career? Due to recent news I have received questions from people in our coaching community asking if flying is safe. First, if you have reached this video and are wanting to discover if flying is safe as a mode of transportation the answer is yes. Flying is the safest mode …...
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ACP448 Career Update FlyGirl Detailing Obtains Commercial Pilot Certificate
In episode ACP406 FLYGIRL DETAILING : HOW A PASSION FOR AVIATION TURNED INTO A LUCRATIVE BUSINESSwe spoke with Claire Maher about her entrepreneurial journey into the aviation business. Now, over a year later, she has accomplished an important aviation milestone, the commercial pilot certificate....
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ACP447 2026 Instructor Job Projections with Spartan CEO Rob Polston
Today we discuss the workforce projections for 2026 from an aviation training perspective with CEO of Spartan College Of Aeronautics and Technology, Rob Polston. https://www.spartan.edu Mentorship: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching Use the coupon code...
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ACP446 What Airline Pilots Really Make
What Airline Pilots Really Make and Why Sharing Your Pilot Paystub Is A Bad Idea We have seen an increase in pilots sharing their end of year paystubs online. Let me tell you why I think this is a bad idea with both good and bad intentions. Talking Points: What pilots really make:...
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ACP445 Pilot Hiring Outlook 2026
Should you become a pilot in 2026? Today we dive deeper into the hiring outlook for 2026 and beyond. If you want monthly updates and access to the pilot interview course and mentorship community visit https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching Pilot Hiring Outlook 2026...
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ACP443 Are Accelerated Flight Programs The Best Option In 2026?
I am currently touring flight schools with the intent of becoming an airline pilot. I came across your podcast on YouTube. I listened to a great episode on the benefits of becoming an airline pilot in 2025. Thanks for sharing such valuable information. I’m reaching out with question/s regarding...
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ACP443 The Pilot’s Bookshelf: Master Your Career & Safety (2026 Edition)
Take one step today to enhance your career goal with the gift card you received this holiday! Welcome to our annual recommendation on how to spend your Gift Card and Enhance your career! Questions, comments, or inspirational stories; please write to us at [email protected]. Our...
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ACP442 How To Pass IOE
Recently hired or simply wondering if you can pass IOE at an airline? Today joining me is Derek Lagasse, a former check chairman with a regional carrier and now 737 first officer at a major airline. We’ll discuss how to successfully pass your Initial Operating Experience (IOE). Introduction What…
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ACP441 Professional Balloon Pilot with Craig Elliott
Have you ever looked skyward at the floating bubble of peaceful artwork and wondered what it would be like to be a balloon pilot? Well today we have with us Craig Elliott, author of The Balloonatics – Memoir of a Professional Hot Air Balloon Pilot. Talking Points: How Craig got involved in...
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ACP440 Land Your Dream Job
Are you dreaming of landing your ideal pilot job in 2026, but feel overwhelmed by the competition and changing hiring landscape? We’re breaking down exactly what it takes to stand out, offering insider insights and a clear roadmap to secure those highly sought-after positions. Don’t let your…
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ACP439 Paying For Flight Training
There are many ways you can pay for your flight training, but what is best for you? In today’s episode, we will dive into the many methods of funding your flight training with a few hacks you may never have thought of. Pay Cash Family and friends....
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ACP438 The Elusive Airline Interview: Pilot Persistence Pays
Ever wonder what it really takes to land that dream airline pilot job? It’s far more than just flying skills. Join me as I pull back the curtain on the grueling, often frustrating, yet ultimately rewarding journey of the airline interview – a test of dedication and resilience that few truly...
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ACP437 Debunking the Myth: It’s NOT Too Late For An Aviation Career Past 30
I was sold on the myth that you could not have an aviation career in your 30’s,boy where are they wrong! I did it and so can you. Now I help people of all ages transition to a career in aviation whether they are in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and more. Are you wondering if … Continue reading ACP437...
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ACP436 The Wealthy Pilot
During our coaching sessions we discuss a financial plan towards reaching your goal as a pilot. But now that you have achieved success in your career what is next? How do we have a more fulfilling life as an airline pilot but also how do we build wealth to help our family and others. This …...
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ACP435 Don’t Let Anyone Steal Your Dream
Social media and our friends can be full of negativity and bad advice so how do we navigate our way through this gauntlet of adversity? In this episode we will discuss how to prevent people you don’t even know or care about from stealing your aviation dream. Mentorship:...
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ACP434 Is A Jet Charter Broker Career Right For You?
Ever dreamed of a high-flying career that doesn’t involve piloting a plane? Imagine a world of private jets, exclusive clients, and limitless possibilities. But is the glamorous life of a jet charter broker truly for you? Joining me today is Lindsey Begnaud of https://justlandedjets.com/ to…
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ACP433 MRO Career Opportunities And Why Choosing The Right Culture Is Important.
With a looming shortage of qualified mechanics, how will MROs and potential employees navigate the future hiring environment. You will be surprised by what you will discover as we discuss this and more with Elliott Aviation CEO Michael Parrish. Elliott Aviation has successfully been providing...
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ACP432 Should I Send My Child To A Top Aviation University If They Want To Become a Pilot?
Hi Carl, We truly enjoy your excellent podcasts and have learned a great deal about the aviation industry through them. As parents, we greatly value your expert insights, which have helped us better understand the pilot career path. Do you feel that airline recruiters value an aviation management...
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ACP431 Why Professional Pilot Is A Great Career with CEO of Thrust Flight Academy Patrick Arnzen
With pilot demand still surging and college alternatives gaining traction, professional flight training has quietly become one of the highest-upside career paths in America as people are rethinking what a “good career” looks like. Joining me today to discuss this is Patrick Arnzen, CEO of Thrust...
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ACP430 Low-Cost Airline Flight Attendant: A Day In The Life
Today Jill Fergusen joins us to discuss a day in the life of a low-cost flight attendant, showcasing the unique challenges and rewards of working for a budget airline. Jill Ferguson provides a realistic glimpse into the demanding yet often fulfilling world of flight attendants. Questions e-mail…
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ACP429 Pilot Shortage or Hiring Spree: Here’s the Truth.
Are pilots truly facing a shortage, or is the aviation industry actually on a hiring spree in 2025? Forget what you think you know about flying careers. We’re cutting through the noise to reveal the surprising truth about pilot jobs and what it means for your future in the cockpit. Question from...
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ACP428 What To Do If You Are Pulled Over For A DUI?
As a career pilot, we try to protect our job through prudent planning, budgeting, and training. I often get asked questions about what to do when pulled over by the police to protect our pilot certificate and career. Should I take the sobriety test or not? To help me answer this question Chris...
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ACP427 Did I Make the Right Choice going to a regional after furlough from a major?
I went direct to a LCC after instructing, had two years of little flying and then furlough… after 9 months furloughed managed to get on with a regional. I have a young family so I wasn’t too keen on cargo as an option, yet didn’t quite have the resume for mainline. Was a regional the … Continue...
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ACP426 Should I Pay For The ATP CTP course at 700 hours?
Question from our Group Coaching Mentorship. https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/ Get one month free using the coupon “CoachItForward” I am currently a CFI, sitting at around 700 TT. I have a friend whom I trained and studied with in flight school, and he wants me to take an ATP CTP...
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ACP425 Deferred Medical: What Next?
Your dream of becoming a pilot has been put on hold due to a deferred medical. This video explores the different paths you can take, from reapplying for your medical to pursuing alternative aviation careers.The experiences I relate in this video come from my over 2 decades of helping pilots...
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ACP424 Pilot Jobs 2025 Mid-Year Review
During our last group coaching mentorship I gave a mid-year hiring update and in today’s episode I wanted to share some information from that session and also give you an update and advice on what you can do to get hired in 2025 and beyond. https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/…
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ACP423 Is Airline Captain Pay Worth the Stress?
Are you thinking of becoming an airline captain either as a career or if you are you considering upgrading to Captain this episode is for you. I will explore the pros and cons of being an airline captain, focusing on the financial compensation and the challenges and stresses associated with the...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Aviation Careers Podcast have?
Aviation Careers Podcast currently has 460 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Aviation Careers Podcast about?
A Podcast about Achieving Your Aviation Career Goals
How often does Aviation Careers Podcast release new episodes?
Aviation Careers Podcast publishes regularly with 460 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Aviation Careers Podcast?
You can listen to Aviation Careers Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Aviation Careers Podcast?
Aviation Careers Podcast is created and hosted by Carl Valeri.
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