Backcountry Aviation Radio

This episode follows up on Dave's recent YouTube video where he chronicles his crash in Hells Canyon last summer.  I recommend starting with Dave's video, then returning here for the background story. We also talk about Spring plans into SUN'n FUN! If you haven't yet listened to Dave's previous episode I also recommend listening to the first go-around.  Watch Part 1 of Dave's video HEREThanks for listening to the podcast! This episode wraps up Season 3! More to come as I already have episodes booked for Season 4...coming in May.  Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

Jackie Burch has been a longtime supporter of the podcast and connected me with a lot of the guests I've interviewed.  I finally convinced her to come on the podcast and talk about her aviation story and how she got started.  This is a fun listen that explores new pilot fears and how she handled piloting a Taylorcraft to Alaska as a new tailwheel pilot.  We also talk about her time with CubCrafters as their Programs and Events Manager and she talks about her love of the Cessna 150 she takes everywhere!Follow Jackie on Instagram Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is with the voices of National STOL Cam and Ryan.  We talk about what they've been up to since the last episode, the 2026 National STOL calendar, and then dive DEEP into eSTOL.  You'll love this episode because the energy this group brings and the fun along the way.  Get the light-up chart we discuss HEREFollow Ryan on Instagram and YouTubeFollow Cam on InstagramLearn more about the National STOL Series HEREWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is a really fun look at what the Carbon Cub platform is capable of in extreme cases with a professional aerobatics champion at the controls.  Do NOT try this at home...professional pilot at work.  Luke talks about the models he's flown and about the Red Bull projects he's been a part of since joining Red Bull.  He also talks about getting started in aviation and what it takes to complete these stunts...spoiler alert, a LOT of hard work, research and development.  Follow along here or on the podcast platforms to listen along.  Follow Luke on InstagramWatch the Helipad VideoWatch Mike Patey's Recap VideoWatch the F1 Track VideoWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

Tanmoy, or Tan, is one of the RAF's state liaisons for Michigan.  He's known as the guy who feeds the crowds of volunteers who show up and work at airstrip work parties.  Many a volunteer has asked if he's bringing the kabobs! Tan's infectious energy brings you quickly into his story and even though his airplane has wheel pants, he gets to those backcountry strips you wouldn't think would be possible.  He takes an analytical approach to flying and does his homework before taking his RV off-airport.  He has quickly jumped into the backcountry as a new pilot and is an active advocate for off airport operations and what Michigan has to offer.Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

Dave Wyckoff from Kansas started a YouTube channel to meet backcountry pilots in Kansas and beyond! That endeavor has created a local community that builds local strips, host events, and exports beyond the state.  His proximity to opportunities in Missouri and Arkansas has enabled his community to grow and explore.  This is a fun listen at what it means to build a group around aviation and proves that you don't need extreme backcountry or high-end equipment to be backcountry pilots.  Follow Dave on YouTubeWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is with with Matt Dearden, a UK-based pilot who was featured in the UK TV program titled "Worst Place to be a Pilot" that followed the adventures of UK pilots building flight time with Susie Air in Indonesia. Matt later wrote a book titled "Flying from Shangri-La" that is an amazing read and recap of his time there.  It follows his beginning days in a Cessna Caravan and later in the Pilatus Porter.  We talk a lot about those experiences and some not mentioned in the book.  I wanted to know how Matt's experiences relate to every pilot in the backcountry, regardless of where in the world the airstrip happens to be located.  Get Matt's book on AmazonFollow Matt on InstagramWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is pure Arkansas from one of the pilots who knows the network and builds events to highlight the state's backcountry beauty. Rusty Coonfield is an Arkansas pilot that helped build the ArkanSTOL event at Byrd's Adventure Center.  He has unique insight into how the event began and the aspects that went into creating a unique and challenging competition course for the best backcountry pilots.  He also shares some of his favorite Fly Oz destinations and helps me pick a few to hit in a progression.  This is a fun look at Arkansas flying that you won't want to miss prior to visiting. Follow Rusty on InstagramFollow his SeaBee on InstagramA great map from Fly Oz for context HERE Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is with Tres Clinton from Burnet, Texas and C3 Air.  Tres teaches a wide range of aviation students but loves to teach backcountry flying in tailwheel aircraft and float planes.  He has some amazing stories and insight in flying in central Texas and provides some insight into getting prepared for off-airpot operations from training and equipment.  You'll enjoy hearing how Tres runs things in his operation and will certainly be looking him up when passing through central Texas!C3 Air LINKWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

Kicking off Season 3 is my conversation with Anitra Goddard from the Sun'n Fun Team.  She's affectionately known in the community as the STOL Queen.  She's pioneered the Bushwheel Basecamp and has everything to do with STOL events far and wide! This is a very fun talk with her about how she got into all this and she shares some PRO TIPS for attending Sun'n Fun this year in Lakeland, Florida! Bushwheel Basecamp LINKWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is with Cayla McLeod, the editor-in-chief of Plane & Pilot magazine.  We talk about her aviation start with what is now called the Ron Alexander Youth Aviation Program, where kids earn flight hours working on vintage aircraft.  We also explore her travels in Idaho and also how she's rebranding a legacy aviation publication.  This is a really fun listen and great opportunity to hear from one of the young voices in aviation! Learn more about the Ron Alexander Youth Aviation Program HERE and donate!Subscribe to Plane & Pilot HEREFollow Cayla on InstagramWatch Cayla's Tribute to Ron Alexander HEREGet Galen Hanselman's Book HERE  Fly Idaho! A Guide to Adventure in the Idaho BackcountryWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This week I talk to Al Clayton, the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) State Liaison for the State of Alaska, who spearheaded the efforts to create the airstrip at Childs Glacier.  This is an amazing story of how the RAF coordinates efforts from multiple state and federal agencies to create a one-of-a-kind experience for backcountry pilots.  His efforts also aided those same agencies to enhance their missions in the Copper River Basin.  You certainly need to start off by going to google maps and searching for this location before you listen.  It will set the stage for this discussion.  Huge thanks to the RAF for making this airstrip a reality and definitely add it to your bucket list!Support the RAF HERERead more about Childs Glacier Airstrip HERE and HEREWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this crazy episode I talk to the voices of the National STOL series, Ryan and Cam.  They bring their announcer energy to the podcast world and talk about the events, their favorite aircraft (J-3 or Champ?) and how they got into the announcer gig for the biggest backcountry event series in the country.  I know you'll love hearing about their backgrounds and more from the personalties that make the events entertaining, educational, and of course, memorable.  Follow Ryan on Instagram and YouTubeFollow Cam on InstagramLearn more about the National STOL Series HEREWatch the Mo-Air Interview with Ryan HEREWatch Ryan interview Cam on SuperAero Live HEREWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is with the Director of Fly Oz, Philip Sneed.  We talk everything that makes up the Fly Oz community from airstrips, social gatherings, and airplane services.  Before you head to Arkansas you'll want to listen to this discussion about all the strips the area has to offer and how to make the most of your time in the Natural State.  Visit Bentonville and make it your home base for tackling the 70+ strips the area has to offer.Learn more at Fly Oz Download the Fly Oz content pack for ForeFlight hereWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This week Matt Williams joins the podcast to talk about his bear encounter in Alaska.  After watching his YouTube recap of the bear attack on his Super Cub I knew he'd be a great guest and I wanted to hear more about it.  This is a great story about preparedness in the backcountry and I know you'll enjoy all the details!  Follow Matt on YouTube and Instagram to keep up with his adventures!Matt on Instagram Chaos CubMatt on YouTubeWe talked about the Alaska Survival website in this episode.  It's linked hereWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Anthony Longobardo…a backcountry pilot and pioneer making backcountry strips possible with dedication, grit, and hard work.  Did you know that Southern California has some hidden gems for backcountry aviation?  Dive into this episode where Anthony shares insider info on private airstrips tucked away in the beautiful Southern Sierras.  Follow Anthony on InstagramWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This week I talk to Cathy Page, an airline pilot, backcountry pilot, and STOL competitor on the STOL and STOL Drag circuits.  She's a regular at STOL events and flies an orange CubCrafters Carbon Cub FX2 numbered "85".  She's got a great story and passion for aviation! This is a great listen as we talk about her getting started in aviation and how she's acquired airplanes over the years.  We also talk about flying the backcountry in Idaho, Arizona, and Nevada. Follow Cathy on InstagramWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This week I talk to Bill McGlynn,  president of the Recreational Aviation Foundation.  Our first episode was a great introduction to Bill and his path into backcountry flying.  In this second episode we focus on the RAF exclusively and you'll learn all about the organization and its impact on backcountry strips around the country.  Bill has such a passion for this mission and after listening to what's going on you'll surely be clicking the link below to see how you can help preserve and expand the network of airstrips!More about The RAF hereWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode covers flying the river bars in Georgia with one of the state's biggest advocates.  Brian Screws, and his YouTube channel OneAV8, highlights all the joys of flying in the backcountry with a Southeast flair.  Here we talk about his getting started in aviation, transition to backcountry style,  aircraft changes, flying to Arkansas and Byrd's, and long haul flying tips.  You'll certainly be hearing from Brian again as we fly together in the near future in very similar airframes!Brian on YouTube OneAV8Brian on InstagramOneAV8 on the web (Georgia Pilot T-shirt)Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This episode is a candid discussion with Don Wade from Patriot Aircraft about his role as pilot during a crash.  He was piloting the Super Patriot Mark II during a demonstration flight for a perspective customer in August 2025 when the engine quit shortly after takeoff.  This interview occurred almost 2 months after the incident and the final report from the NTSB is still pending.  Don discusses several factors that led to the crash and details events shortly after the crash.  It's a great listen for pilots and first responders as he talks about choices he had to make and also what first responders had to deal with in locating the crash site.  Some key links we mention in the podcast:Flight Chops video recapAviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) at NASA.govBack to the CockpitWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This is the best way to start off a second season of Backcountry Aviation Radio...with a big YEE HAWW! I had a great time getting to meet Levi and hearing all about his getting started in aviation and what he's done since then.  You definitely need to follow him on Instagram and YouTube to see what's going on in the Backcountry and STOL communities...because he's there...wherever it happens to be.  Follow Levi on Instagram and YouTubeWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This week I talk to Bill McGlynn,  president of the Recreational Aviation Foundation.  Due to some technical difficulties we didn't get to the really good work being done by The RAF so we're going to do a second episode in the near future.  THIS episode was a fun talk about Bill, how he got started in aviation, and how he came to know and love the mission of The RAF.  We had a great time and I look forward to the second part! More about The RAF hereWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Jon "Jughead" Counsell.  There is so much to talk about with Jughead I had to prioritize backcountry topics.  I plan to do a future episode to talk about more of Jughead's fantastic flying adventures!  In this episode we talk about flying in Washington State, his Cessna 170B, and flying the CubCrafters FX3 for the last month.  This is a fun listen and a taste of what's to come in a follow-on with Jughead!Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Don Wade, from Patriot Aircraft.  He, along with his brother Ron, have been very involved in the Cub business for many years…starting from engines and fabric, to J-3 restorations, and now the super cub variant they call Super Patriot.  We talk about getting started and how the Super Patriot came to be.  Along the way we talk about the airplane's finer details and what they all mean to the company.  Through this look behind the curtain at Patriot Aircraft we get a glimpse at what they're up to and what's coming down the line.  This is a great listen to hear about how the planes are made and the level of detail required to make them successful. Here's a link to the Patriot Aircraft websiteFollow them on InstagramWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Dave Rowe from "Texas Outdoor Ventures" on YouTube.  Dave started flying in 2014 and jumped off-airport in 2021 in Central Texas.  He flies a Highlander and now the social media-famous "Freedom Fox", a Kitfox upgraded and flown by Trent Palmer previously.  This conversation covers how Dave got started flying, how he found the Freedom Fox, and his latest escapades with a group of friends in an attempt to see Alaska.  There is lots to talk about and plenty of twists to this story! Dave on YouTube Texas Outdoor VenturesDave on Instagram Freedom Fox AdventuresWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

This is part 2 of my conversation with Brett Baker.  Be sure to check the previous episode for the first half of the conversation.  In this episode we talk more about Alaska flying, gear to keep you safe, and more about his fleet of backcountry airplanes.  And just a reminder, Brett is donating money to support The Recreational Aviation Foundation for new subscribers on his YouTube channel "Cleared to Adventure" and through sales on his website (both linked below).  He's doing this through the end of August 2025.  Follow Brett on YouTube and Instagram Here are survival gear requirements in AlaskaVisit the Cleared to Adventure websiteWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Brett Baker, a former Air Traffic Control and current pilot who lives in Alaska.  Brett's channel is gaining a rapid following because of his phenomenal storytelling, amazing video quality, and top-notch editing.  Brett has a passion for aviation and endeavors to promote general and backcountry aviation so that it remains a vital resource for pilots of the next generation.  Brett's family fleet includes a Cessna 180, Cessna 170, Beechcraft Bonanza and Piper Pacer.  His videos mostly focus on Alaska but he often finds his way down to the lower 48 so his backcountry experiences are extensive.  He also is donating money to support the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) through his YouTube channel for a limited time. This is a great listen to hear more about flying in Alaska and beyond… tune in next week for part 2 of this great conversation with Brett.  Watch This Flight Explains EverythingFollow Brett on YouTube and Instagram Here are survival gear requirements in AlaskaWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Steve Cox who built his own airplane, a RANS-21, and then flew it to Alaska and back.  Steve is a retired Air Force F-15C pilot and we talk about translating military flying into backcountry flying.  He talks about his crash in his Bonanza and gives an update from a story he recounted on the Pilot to Pilot Podcast.  We talk about his adventures since retiring and he experience building a plane for the first time and completing the FAA Advisory Circular 90-89C…a process he documented on his YouTube Channel.     Follow Steve on Instagram and YoutubeLink to FAA Advisory Circular 90-89CSteve's episode on the Pilot to Pilot Podcast Want to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Trevor Aldridge, known as "Dozen" in the military and on his Instagram and YouTube channels.  Dozen is a former Thunderbird pilot that has turned his attention to the backcountry after the Air Force.  He is the demo pilot for Patriot Aircraft and flies The Super Patriot MkII all around the country, but mostly around the Ozarks.  This is a great look at what the backcountry has to offer in Arkansas and the Ozarks.  Dozen also describes the details Patriot Aircraft put into the aircraft and how it performs off-airport.  Dozen on InstagramDozen Duzit on YouTubePatriot AircraftFly OzDozen's Interview on the Pilot to Pilot PodcastWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.

In this episode I talk to Mike Daniel from Truckee, CA who you might know from his airplane, a CubCrafters FX3 Carbon Cub with a Cheshire Cat logo on the side.  Mike and I talk about flying around Lake Tahoe, learning to fly the CarbonCub and what this means for families and influencing future generations about aviation.  Mike also has a YouTube channel with a unique interview format…his "Backseat Stories" puts people in the backseat and he interviews them while flying over notable or unique locations related to the guest.  It's a fascinating format that it worth the watch! Watch the Cheshire Cat Concept Video HEREYou can find Mike's YouTube Channel HEREWant to support Backcountry Aviation Radio? Shop HERE to get the gear.