Flying Midwest Podcast
by Flying Midwest Media
Welcome to the Flying Midwest Podcast! Connecting aviators from across America's Heartland.Join your hosts Jim, Madi, and Badger Pilot (Andrew) right here every month. We will share the latest and greatest in Midwest aviation news, events, hangar talk, and aviation history. Welcome aboard!
Episodes
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Episode 109 - Cirrus TRAC10 Rethinking the Training Aircraft
Cirrus TRAC10: Rethinking the Training Aircraft What should a modern flight training aircraft look like? In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, Jim sits down with Ivy McIver of Cirrus Aircraft to take a closer look at the Cirrus TRAC10, a clean-sheet aircraft designed specifically around...
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Episode 108 - By Gosh, It's OSH '26: With EAA's Dick Knapinski
Episode 108: By Gosh, It's OSH 2026 AirVenture is almost here, and that means it's time for our annual pre-Oshkosh tradition! We're joined once again by EAA Director of Communications Dick Knapinski to get you ready for the world's greatest aviation celebration. Dick looks back at the incredible...
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Smoke Over OSH | A Flying Midwest QuickCast
In this Quickcast, Badger breaks down the impact of all this smoke hanging over the upper midwest. With just days before the start of EAA's Airventure, current air quality is incredibly poor, and visibility is at or near minimums in the region. Don't forget to come say hello at our Meet and Greet...
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AirVenture Webcams Are LIVE and Your Productivity Is Done
The Airventure Webcams are LIVE! We know the show is getting close when they turn on the cams and your productivity at work grinds to a halt! Don't forget to come say hello at our Meet and Greet Monday, July 20th from 1:00PM to 2:00PM EAA Blue Barn
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Still here, still flying | A Flying Midwest QuickCast
The Flying Midwest podcast returns. Catch up with Jim as he addresses the hiatus and shares updates on the future of the show.
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Episode 107 - Warbird Wizard: With Dan Wotring
As we begin to wind down our special run of Oshkosh episodes, this week’s Flying Midwest Podcast features a conversation you won’t want to miss with warbird aficionado Dan Wotring. With a deep passion for historic aircraft and years of hands-on experience, Dan takes us through his personal flying...
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Episode 106 - Mist Approach: The Finest Regional Aviation Podcast
It’s that time of year again! The Flying Midwest Podcast proudly presents our annual April Fools’ episode, packed with satirical aviation news, absurd events, and plenty of laughs. We love bringing you these stories every year as a way to kick back, let loose, and celebrate the lighter side of...
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Episode 105 - CFI Checkride Debrief: The Student Becomes the Teacher
After a short hiatus, Flying Midwest is back — and for good reason. In this episode, Jim sits down for a full, honest debrief of his CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) checkride. What was covered? What surprised him? What was harder than expected? And how did he actually perform when it mattered...
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Episode 104 - What it Takes to Fly The Blimp: with Goodyear Chief Pilot Jerry Hissem
For more than a century, the Goodyear Blimp has been one of the most recognizable aircraft in the world—quietly floating over sporting events, cities, and historic moments in aviation history. But what’s it really like to fly an airship? In this episode, we sit down with Jerry Hissem, Chief Pilot...
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Episode 103 - Savings Live Through Flight with Wings of Hope
In this inspiring live interview from EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, we sit down with two amazing guests from Wings of Hope, the Missouri-based humanitarian aviation nonprofit that’s been changing and saving lives through the power of flight since 1963. Join us as we explore how Wings of Hope uses…
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Episode 102 - The Holiday ATIS: INFORMATION SANTA
Information SANTA is current. In this holiday edition of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we tune into The Holiday ATIS — where festive NOTAMs, Midwest aviation trivia, and New Year aviation goals all share the same frequency. We talk about the lighter side of aviation during the holidays, including…
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Episode 101 - Mentors Making Mentors: With Sarah and Bob from NAFI
This week, we’re fully immersed in CFI world. With both Jim and Badger neck-deep in studying, it couldn’t be a better time to bring you an interview that fits right where we are in our flight instructor journeys. Recorded live at AirVenture, we sat down with Sarah and Bob from the National...
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Episode 100 - One Hundred Episodes, One Amazing Community
Celebrate a major milestone with us — Episode 100 of the Flying Midwest Podcast. In this special edition, we hand the mic to our listeners, friends, and past guests who share their favorite memories, funniest moments, and the stories that kept them coming back. We reflect on how far this little...
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Episode 99 - A More Efficient Way: Creating Tools for Today's Instructors
On this episode we sit down with Nate Ehlers, United Airlines pilot, Air Force Reserve C-17 veteran, and creator of Backseat Pilot — an innovative platform designed to help flight instructor candidates elevate their training experience. Nate takes us through his aviation journey to the airlines,...
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Episode 98 - Turning Heartbreak into Hope: The Uphaven Story
When most people think about aviation, they imagine travel, adventure, or innovation — but for some families, aviation means something much more personal: hope. In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we sit down with Ben, founder of Uphaven, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families reach...
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Episode 97 - Generationally Loved: The Legacy of a Family and Their Beechcraft Staggerwing
In this special AirVenture episode, we sit down with Gayle, the proud owner of a stunning Beechcraft Staggerwing with a remarkable family story. This beautiful vintage aircraft has been passed down through generations, and Gayle and her family have been bringing it to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh for...
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Episode 96 - There's No Party Like THE Pirate Party
Inside the Pirate Party – AirVenture’s Legendary North 40 Tradition 📅 Recorded Live at AirVenture 2025 – Oshkosh, WI Episode Description: If you’ve ever camped in the North 40 at AirVenture, chances are you’ve heard whispers (or maybe laughter) about the Pirate Party. It’s not on the official...
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Episode 95 - Gotta Snap 'Em All: Photos and Laughs with Brian From Uretsky Aviation
Episode Show Notes We’re back with another AirVenture ’25 packed episode! This week we sit down with professional pilot and aviation photographer Brian Uretsky, who shares his journey from working in IT to flying cargo on the Boeing 767. Brian talks about his path through general aviation, the…
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Episode 94 - Aviator Fuel: The Story Behind the Legendary Cheese Curd Taco
It’s the moment our listeners have been waiting for! In this special AirVenture 2025 episode, we sit down with Ritchie, the culinary mastermind behind the Cheese Curd Taco—the unofficial fuel (and obsession) of the Flying Midwest Podcast. We dive deep into the origin story of this legendary...
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Episode 93 - Purple Airplanes and Purpose: A Lifetime of Passion in Aviation with Mary Latimer
📅 Recorded Live at AirVenture 2025 – Oshkosh, WI Episode Description: In this special live episode from EAA AirVenture 2025, we sit down with Mary Latimer, a trailblazing aviator, educator, and advocate for women in aviation. Mary’s career spans from her first solo in 1972 to earning her ATP…
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Episode 92 - Lighting up the Skies: The Magic Behind Drone Light Shows with Starlight Aerial Productions Matt Quinn
We’re live from AirVenture 2025 with a stunning conversation you won’t want to miss. We timed this one to release after their Saturday Night Production at Osh. So after you take in the show, you can hear how it all comes together. We sits down with Matt Quinn, CEO and founder of Starlight Aerial...
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Airventure ' 25 Touch and Go - Information Kilo
Another wonderful day at Airventure, another mini-sode of Touch and Go! We are through day 5 of the show and have knocked out over a dozen interviews for you all. Jim and Badger will recap their interviews with Goodyear, Starlight Aerial Productions who put on the incredible night shows, and a...
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Airventure '25 Touch and Go - Information Juliet
With Madi and "Madi's Dad" departing, Jim and Badger found some riff raff to tag along on this mini-episode. We catch up with a few of our most loyal listeners and supporters, and recap the Wednesday Night Airshow. Jim also talks about a post-Night Show skill challenge and how he will push those...
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Airventure '25 Touch and Go - Information India
Day Three, the Night Air Show, and we bid Madi farewell. Believe it or not, Jim has done the entire audio edit, changed the thumbnail, and published this episode and is STILL in the parking lot waiting to leave. All jokes aside, we had another productive day. We offer you this quick wrap up as we...
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Airventure '25 Touch and Go - Information Hotel
Day Two is in the books and what a day it was! Today's Touch and Go was recorded live at the North 40 Pirate Party. A great people, great food, great vibe. We are joined by Nick Smith of the Part-Time Pilot podcast, who is spending some time with us at the Flying Midwest Crash Pad, and Badger...
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Airventure '25 Touch and Go - Information Golf
We are Back At OSH! Welcome back to the best week of the entire year, EAA Airventure. We are so excited to bring back our daily Touch N' Go series of mini-episodes, where we give you a recap of our day and what we will be up to tomorrow. In this mini-episode, we talk about our trips to the show,...
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Episode 91: 2025 Airventure Call-in Extravaganza, Spectacular, Extraodinare, run-up
Welcome to our Fourth Annual Airventure Call-in Extravaganza, Spectacular, Extraodinare, Run-Up Episode. This is one of our favorite episodes to record each year. In this episode, we take some call-ins from you our listeners. We will talk about what people are excited for at the show, who they…
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Episode 90: By Gosh, It's Osh '25 - With EAA's Dick Knapinski
Another Airventure is upon us! We are getting pumped up for yet another exciting year at Airventure. We are joined once again by EAA's Director of Communicaitons, Dick Knapinski. We talk about all that EAA has in store for this year's big show. From new camping and parking areas, to aircraft like...
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Episode 89: Insight Into The Jet Life
On this episode, we sit down with our own Madi to hear the story of her into the right seat of a corporate jet. Madi pulls back the curtain on what her first few weeks in a Part 135 corporate flying gig has been like. We will pepper her with all the questions you are dying to know the answers...
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Episode 88: Flying with Heart - Using Your Pilot Certificate for Good , with Alyssa Miller
In this episode of The Flying Midwest Podcast, we sit down with Alyssa Miller, a passionate and driven pilot who logged an impressive 1,000 flight hours in just three years. But her story goes far beyond the numbers—Alyssa has used her pilot certificate as a tool for good, dedicating her time and...
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Episode 87: Night Moves - All Things Night Flight
In this episode of The Flying Midwest Podcast, we’re shedding some light on what it’s like to fly in the dark. Night flying offers a unique blend of beauty, tranquility, and challenge, and we’re diving into all of it—from the stunning city lights below to the crucial planning and gear that make…
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Episode 86: Pilots Under Pressure - Mental Health Reform in Aviation
Episode Description: In this powerful episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we're joined by Chris Hastings and Brian Bomhoff, board members of the Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC). Together, they shine a light on the mental health crisis facing pilots across the aviation industry and the…
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Episode 85: Check Ride Deep Dive - ATP and Type Ratings
Episode Description: On this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast we dive deep into one of the biggest milestones for aspiring professional pilots: the ATP and Type Rating Checkrides. We walk through everything you need to know—from the key differences between an ATP certificate and a type…
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Episode 84: Fool Me Once...You Can't Get Fooled Again
It’s that time of year again! The Flying Midwest Podcast proudly presents our 4th annual April Fools’ episode, packed with satirical aviation news, absurd events, and plenty of laughs. We love bringing you these stories every year as a way to kick back, let loose, and celebrate the lighter side…
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Episode 83: Standing in the Hall of Fame
In this episode of The Flying Midwest Podcast, we take a deep dive into Minnesota’s rich aviation history with Brandon Montanye, Chair of the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame (MAHOF). Since 1988, MAHOF has been dedicated to recognizing and preserving the legacy of legendary pilots, aviation...
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Episode 82: What WE Learned about Flying (The Hard Way)
In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we’re flying solo—but with a purpose. Inspired by our last conversation with airshow legend Rob Reider, we decided to turn the mic on ourselves and reflect on some of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned in the cockpit. From equipment failures and...
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Episode 81 - The Golden Mic Drop: Rob Reider's Farewell Tour
After decades behind the mic, legendary airshow announcer Rob Reider has officially retired—but not before one unforgettable farewell tour. From heart-pounding performances to a celebratory soaking by the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds, Rob shares stories from his incredible career in airshow...
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Episode 80: The Winter Flying Blues
When the temperatures drop and the skies turn gray, it’s easy to feel stuck on the ground. But just because winter puts a freeze on your flying plans doesn’t mean you can’t stay engaged in aviation! In this live-streamed solo episode, the Flying Midwest Podcast crew sits down for some classic...
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Episode 79: Fly All the Things
n this episode of theFlying Midwest Podcast, we sit down with Nicholas Stoley—an airline pilot whose passion for aviation extends far beyond the cockpit of a commercial jet. When he’s not flying for the airlines, Nicholas is in the air with theCommemorative Air Force, piloting legendary warbirds...
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Aviation in Mourning - Reflections on DCA
The aviation community has been rocked by the recent mid-air collision in Washington, D.C. On this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we pause to acknowledge the human impact of this heartbreaking event. While investigations continue, we focus on honoring those lost, supporting those…
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Episode 77: Livin' the Layover Life - With Paul Holte
In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we welcome Paul Holte from My Layover Life! As an airline pilot and YouTuber, Paul shares a unique blend of aviation insights, airline life, and travel adventures from his layover destinations around the world. We dive into his journey, his content,...
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Episode 76: Flying into the Future - The Switchblade Flying Car
In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we take a look into the future of aviation with a truly innovative concept—the Switchblade Flying Car. Our guest, Sam Bousfield, the visionary creator of the Switchblade, joins us to share the story behind this groundbreaking vehicle. Sam dives into...
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Episode 75: Cheers to Three Years!
n this milestone episode, we celebrate three years of the Flying Midwest Podcast, our 75th episode, and surpassing 50,000 downloads. Jim, Madi, and Badger reflect on the journey so far, revisiting where the podcast started, the connections and friendships built along the way, and the unique...
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Episode 74: THUNDERSNOW - Whacky Winter Weather
Winter flying brings its own set of challenges, from icy runways to turbulent skies, and we’re here to help you navigate them safely. In this live solo episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, Jim, Badger, and Madi dive into the cold-weather topics that every pilot should know. We break down the...
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Episode 73: The Heart of Oshkosh- Stories from AirVenture Volunteers
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we take a heartfelt dive into the dedication and passion of the volunteers who make AirVenture possible. We’re thrilled to welcome Jerry Burke, author of On the Grounds & Up: Without Volunteers, the World’s Greatest Annual Aviation...
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Episode 72: Antique to Avant-Garde- Reimagining Junkers, Waco and More: With Marshall Haglund
Episode Summary: Step into the golden age of aviation with a modern twist in this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast! We’re thrilled to bring you another AirVenture '24 interview , this time with Marshall Haglund of the D’Amore Group. They are the innovators behind the current renditions of…
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Episode 71: Frosty Pilots Only - Essential Winter Flying Tips
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we’re going back to our roots with a return to solo episodes! To mark the occasion, we’re diving into a topic from one of our earliest episodes: winter flying. With winter just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to brush up on...
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Episode 70: Engines Reimagined with Deltahawk
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we catch up with the crew and continue our AirVenture series with another exciting interview! This time, we chat with John and Dennis from Deltahawk. They are revolutionizing the single piston engine game with their cutting-edge...
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Episode 69: See SPOT Save - With SPOT Satellite Communications
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we catch up with the crew and continue our AirVenture series with another exciting interview! This time, we chat with David from SPOT Satellite Communication, exploring how their emergency communication and tracking devices are…
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Episode 68: Get the Lead Out - The Future of Aviation Fuels with Swift Fuels
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we continue our AirVenture series with a deep dive into one of the most important topics in aviation today: fuel. We're joined by Chris D’Acosta from Swift Fuels to discuss the future of unleaded aviation fuel and the steps being…
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About this show
Welcome to the Flying Midwest Podcast! Connecting aviators from across America's Heartland.Join your hosts Jim, Madi, and Badger Pilot (Andrew) right here every month. We will share the latest and greatest in Midwest aviation news, events, hangar talk, and aviation history. Welcome aboard!
Hosted by
Flying Midwest Media