Episodes
-
CFI ACS Task D Explained: Student Evaluation, Assessment, and Testing | FOI Series Ep. 4
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, we continue our deep dive into the Flight Instructor Airman Certification Standards (CFI ACS) with Area of Operation I, Task D: Student Evaluation, Assessment, and Testing. As a flight instructor, evaluating a learner's performance involves much more...
-
CFI ACS Task C Explained: Lesson Plans, Course Development & Teaching Methods | FOI Series Ep. 3
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, FAA Designated Pilot Examiner Seth Lake continues the CFI Airman Certification Standards (ACS) series with a deep dive into **Area of Operation I, Task C: Course Development, Lesson Plans, and Classroom Training Techniques.** Preparing for your initial...
-
CFI ACS Task B Explained: The Learning Process | FOI Series Ep. 2
In Episode 2 of our CFI ACS series, we work through Area of Operation 1, Task B: The Learning Process. This is the biggest task in the Fundamentals of Instruction — 16 knowledge topics, 3 risk management elements, and 3 skills — all drawn from Chapter 3 of the Aviation Instructor's Handbook. I…
more -
Breaking: 2025 Airman Statistics Reveal a Pilot Pipeline Nobody Expected
The 2025 FAA Civil Airmen Statistics just dropped — and the numbers tell a story that contradicts nearly everything you've heard about the pilot shortage. Seth Lake, FAA Designated Pilot Examiner and airline pilot, digs into the raw data to show why record pilot production and declining airline...
-
CFI ACS Task A Explained: Human Behavior & Communication Made Simple
This episode focuses specifically on Area of Operation I, Task A of the CFI ACS: Effects of Human Behavior and Communication on the Learning Process We're not covering all of the FOIs here. Instead, this is a targeted breakdown of how human behavior and communication directly impact your...
-
Illegal Charter, Operational Control, and Protecting Your Certificate – with Attorney Edward Hadley
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth sits down with aviation attorney and pilot Edward A. Hadley of AeroLegal Advocates to talk about the legal traps commercial pilots face—especially around illegal charter, operational control, and holding out. Edward walks through what actually...
-
Legal or Illegal? The Real Rules Behind Pilot Compensation
In this episode of The VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth lays the groundwork for understanding one of the most confusing topics in aviation: pilot compensation and illegal charter operations. He breaks down key definitions like operator vs. pilot in command, commercial activity vs. commercial operation,...
-
Professionalism and Culture in Aviation: Building a Safer Cockpit Environment
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives into two closely connected themes: professionalism and culture in aviation. Using relatable analogies like libraries and football stadiums, Seth explores how environment shapes behavior and why developing a professional safety culture…
more -
Bird Strikes: Lessons, Tools, and Survival Strategies
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake shares a live seminar from the North Little Rock Airport on the realities of bird and wildlife strikes. Drawing from Arkansas accident cases, military and airline experience, and FAA safety resources, Seth explores the history of bird...
-
More Than Skin Deep: Enhanced Preflight Inspection for GA Pilots | Seth Lake Safety Seminar
In this detailed safety seminar, DPE and CFI Seth Lake walks pilots through an enhanced preflight inspection process—going beyond the surface-level checks most pilots perform. Using real NTSB accidents from Arkansas, Seth highlights how minor oversights—like frayed throttle cables, loose spark...
-
Live Q&A: CFI Renewals, MEI Training Tips, Wet vs Dry Leases, Aircraft Ownership & More
In this live Q&A session of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth Lake tackles a wide range of pilot questions from Discord, Instagram, and YouTube. Topics include: CFI Gold Seal renewals and FISDO processing Understanding static pressure and pitot systems Preparing for Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)...
-
Checkride Insights Ep. 4 — Jeremy Lashbrook on Airworthiness, Checkride Errors, and CFI Rolls
In this episode, Seth sits down with Jeremy Lashbrook, a seasoned pilot and Designated Pilot Examiner with over 26 years of U.S. Army aviation experience. Jeremy brings unique insight from his extensive background flying both rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft, EMS helicopter operations, and type...
-
High Altitude Ops: Oxygen Systems & Pressurization Explained
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth takes a deep dive into high altitude operations, breaking down FAA requirements, oxygen systems, and cabin pressurization from both a technical and checkride prep perspective. Whether you're a Commercial, CFI, or ATP applicant, you'll gain…
more -
Checkride Insights Ep. 3 — Nick Adcock on Preparation, Common Pitfalls, and Checkride Mindset
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake interviews Nick Adcock, a designated pilot examiner (DPE) with a rich background in military and commercial aviation. They discuss common pitfalls applicants face during checkrides, including logbook issues, airworthiness checks, and the...
-
Checkride Insights Ep. 2 — Adam Boyd on Airworthiness, Instruction, and Checkride Readiness
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth interviews Adam Boyd, a designated pilot examiner (DPE) with extensive experience in aviation. They discuss the importance of preparation for check rides, common pitfalls applicants face, and the significance of briefings and debriefings.…
more -
Checkride Insights Ep. 1 — Tom Guillebeau on Setting Expectations and Avoiding Pitfalls
In the premiere episode of Checkride Insights, Seth sits down with Tom Guillebeau, a seasoned Designated Pilot Examiner and C-130 instructor pilot with the Arkansas Air National Guard. Tom shares his journey from mowing lawns for flying lessons to becoming a military evaluator, and gives…
more -
Personal Minimums, Risk Management, and 135 Checkrides: What You Need to Know
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives deep into the often-misunderstood topic of personal minimums—how to build them, stick to them, and apply them on checkride day. Using FAA guidance and practical examples, he outlines real-world risk management techniques, including when to...
-
Decoding the ACS | Part 5 - Mastering Airspace: Private, Commercial, and CFI-Level Scenarios
This is Episode 5 in the Decoding the ACS series, where we break down the Airman Certification Standards one task at a time. In this episode, we cover Area of Operation I, Task E: National Airspace System. Whether you're preparing for your Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, or CFI checkride, this...
-
CFI Hour Myths, MEI ROI, and Avoiding Illegal Charter: Live Q&A
In this live Q&A edition of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into a wide range of topics submitted by the aviation community. From the myths around required CFI ground training hours to advice on whether getting your MEI is worth the investment, Seth provides practical,...
-
Logging Time, Checkride Tips & Pilot Questions
In this episode, we celebrate new pilot certifications 🎉, tackle common logbook questions 📘, explain how ForeFlight sources winds aloft 🌬, and clarify cross-country time rules 🗺. We also walk through a real listener landing scenario at KVNY 🛬, give a quick weather symbol refresher 🌦, cover...
-
Runway Excursions, Non-Standard Climb Gradients, and Weather Radar Tips
In this week's episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, we dig into three real-world flying topics pilots must know: Runway Excursion Mitigation: A deep dive into Advisory Circular 91-79B, how to avoid overruns, and a real-world discussion led by Ryan Bow about common landing errors and risk factors....
-
Wet vs Dry Leases, Second Opinions, and Manifold Pressure Myths
This week on the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives into three major topics that affect pilots across the training and professional spectrum. First, he breaks down the difference between wet and dry leases — why it's critical to understand operational control, how to avoid illegal charter…
more -
Accidents, Digital Avionics, and Required Equipment: What Every Pilot Should Know
In this episode, Seth dives into three critical areas for every pilot: what to do after an accident, how modern digital avionics like MEMS sensors work, and a practical breakdown of maintenance responsibilities and required equipment. You'll get clear, no-nonsense guidance on pilot…
more -
Runway Incursions, Practical Test Tips, and Live Q&A
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth Lake dives into runway incursion avoidance, a critical focus area for the FAA and a common checkride discussion point. He shares insights from the FAA's From the Flight Deck initiative and explains how this content can help applicants...
-
Don't Log That! FAA Time-Building Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
In this week's VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives deep into three critical topics for pilots and instructors alike. First, he breaks down how to get involved with the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) and make the most of the WINGS Program. Next, he explains the real why behind airspace design—offering a...
-
ADS-B Pitfalls, Mastering Forward Slips, and What CFIs Are Missing
Welcome back to the VSL Aviation Podcast! I'm your host, Seth Lake, a CFI and DPE here to help you navigate checkrides and general aviation topics. This weekly podcast is recorded live on Discord, with additional streaming on YouTube, Instagram, and Twitch. In this episode, we dive into three…
more -
Illegal Charters, Emergency Procedures, and Checkride Prep – VSL Aviation Podcast
VSL Aviation Podcast – Episode Recap In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into key aviation topics, answers listener questions, and shares insights from real-world flying experiences. Topics Covered: Chapters: 02:30 Understanding Part 135 Operators – How to verify if…
more -
Avoid These Pilot Errors! | 2025 FAR Changes, CFI Privileges & TEM Explained
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth Lake covers a variety of key aviation topics and answers listener questions. We kick things off with Threat and Error Management (TEM) and how to apply it in your daily flying. Then we dive into clarifying CFI responsibilities, discuss updates to...
-
Rethinking Commercial Pilot Training
In this episode, we take a deep dive into Jason Blair's recent article, "Things I Propose We Change in Initial Commercial Pilot Certification Standards and Experience Requirements" (🔗 Read it here). I break down his key points, share my thoughts, and discuss why I completely agree with his take....
-
Pilot Logbook: Insights, Emergencies, and Oddities
In this episode of Pilot Logbook, we dive into essential and intriguing topics every pilot should consider. We clarify the nuances of PDPIC and explore the proper ways to log PIC and Cross-Country time as a safety pilot. Next, we tackle the psychology of flying under pressure by analyzing two...
-
Fine-Tuning Your Flight: Landing Speeds, Critical Engines, and CFI Insights
Join professional pilot and DPE Seth Lake as he dives deep into the questions and concerns that pilots, instructors, and aviation enthusiasts bring to the table. Each episode features honest, no-nonsense discussions covering everything from FAA guidance and training best practices to advanced...
-
Kicking Off the New Weekly Format
Welcome to the revamped weekly edition of the podcast! In this episode, I tackle listener questions about MEI (Multi-Engine Instructor) privileges and share tips for preparing for a multi-engine add-on rating. I also dive into a couple of engaging discussions from r/Flying Reddit threads that…
more -
Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 4
In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake dives into Cross Country Flight Planning, a critical task in the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS). Seth breaks down the 2024 ACS updates, including the use of electronic flight bags (EFBs) like ForeFlight, and how to...
-
Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 3
Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series, where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 3 of our series, we'll dive in-depth into Task C - Weather Information. This...
-
Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 2
Welcome back to VSL Aviation's series where we delve into the intricacies of the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS)! I'm Seth Lake, your guide on this journey to mastering aviation standards. In Part 2 of our series, we'll continue unraveling the complexities of Airworthiness...
-
Decoding the Private Pilot ACS | Part 1
Welcome to the first episode of our new series at VSL Aviation! I'm Seth Lake, an experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, and in this video, I'm going to break down the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS) like never before. This series aims to provide detailed insights and...
-
DPE Ultimate Pilot Q&A: Mastering Check Rides, STCs, ACS vs PTS, and More!
Join Seth Lake, a designated pilot examiner, in this comprehensive Q&A session where we delve into key topics every aspiring pilot needs to know for their check ride and beyond. Packed with insights from my extensive experience, this video is an invaluable resource for pilots at all levels....
-
Mastering FAA Ramp Inspections: Your Step-by-Step Guide
In this highly informative video, we equip you with the essential know-how to confidently navigate an FAA ramp inspection. Whether you're a private pilot, commercial aviator, or part of an aviation team, understanding the FAA's ramp inspection checklist is crucial for a successful evaluation.…
more -
Airworthiness Directives - An Introduction
Join Seth Lake and Josh Campbell from @FreePilotTraining in a discussion on FAA Airworthiness Directives. This topic is a stumbling block for many new pilots, and our discussion will help you understand ADs better. Check out @FreePilotTraining for a ton of great free content! Check out the…
more -
Multi Engine Basics - Part 2
Join me as I continue the multi-engine add-on series. In this episode, I continue the discussion of the commercial ACS and how I use it to conduct the commercial multi-engine add-on checkride. Check out the podcast website to find the interactive ACS for both commercial and instrument....
-
Multi Engine Basics - Part 1
Join me as I start the multi-engine add-on series. In this episode, I cover the training required for the multi-engine rating. I also get into the commercial ACS and how I use it to conduct the commercial add-on checkride. Check out the podcast website to find the interactive ACS for both...
-
What Happens If You Fail A Checkride?
Join me as I discuss the disapproval process, more commonly known as failing your checkride. Failure is always a significant cause for concern; however, I think the more you know about something, the less scary it is. No one wants this outcome, but it happens and is simply a part of being a…
more -
Commercial Pilot ACS Review - Part 4
Join me as I complete the Commercial Pilot ACS Series. The commercial pilot checkride is just like any other FAA practical test and uses the Airman Certification Standards. This test evaluates your knowledge and skills as a pilot to make sure you have what it takes to fly for compensation. In the...
-
Commercial Pilot ACS Review - Part 3
Join me as I continue the Commercial Pilot ACS Series. The commercial pilot checkride is just like any other FAA practical test and uses the Airman Certification Standards. This test evaluates your knowledge and skills as a pilot to make sure you have what it takes to fly for compensation. In the...
-
Commercial Pilot ACS Review - Part 2
Join me as I continue the Commercial Pilot ACS Series. The commercial pilot checkride is just like any other FAA practical test and uses the Airman Certification Standards. This test evaluates your knowledge and skills as a pilot to make sure you have what it takes to fly for compensation. In the...
-
Commercial Pilot ACS Review - Part 1
Join me as I start the Commercial Pilot ACS Series. The commercial pilot checkride is just like any other FAA practical test and uses the Airman Certification Standards. This test evaluates your knowledge and skills as a pilot to make sure you have what it takes to fly for compensation. In this...
-
GPS/WAAS/RNAV/RNP - An Introduction
Join me as I discuss the alphabet soup of terminology surrounding the world of GPS/RNAV. I know these terms can cause more than a little confusion for the new instrument pilot. I'm hoping that this short explainer helps introduce the new instrument pilot. Checkout Max Trescott's excellent podcast...
-
TERPS – Obstacle Departure Procedures (Instrument Checkride Prep)
Join me as I discuss non-standard takeoff minimums, ODPs, and TERPS. It's also a topic that might come up in your instrument checkride, and being prepared to answer questions on non-standard takeoff minimums and ODPs is a must! Check out the VSL Aviation YouTube videos! Email: [email protected]
-
ForeFlight and your Instrument Checkride
Join me in this episode, where I discuss how you can use ForeFlight to help you be successful during your Instrument Checkride! Did you know the FAA doesn't produce the FAR/AIM? Did you know that ForeFlight has a cloud-based server containing everything the paper commercial FAR/AIM does? Learn…
more -
Instrument Pilot ACS Review - Part 3
This is part 3 of a 3 part series on the Instrument Pilot ACS. Join me as I take a deep dive into the ACS from an examiner's perspective and discuss how I use this document to conduct an instrument checkride. If you plan to take your instrument practical test, you don't want to miss this!...