More Right Rudder

National Association of Flight Instructors

If you are a flight instructor, you understand how challenging it can be to stay up-to-date with the latest aviation trends and advances. With constantly changing regulations and a rapid pace of technology, staying informed is a must. But how do you keep up when you’re on-the-go?  

More Right Rudder has the solution! Hosted by the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI), More Right Rudder is an informative podcast that caters to the needs of busy flight instructors. With each episode being packed full of content, More Right Rudder is the perfect way to stay informed, while you’re on-the-go.

Join NAFI: www.nafimentor.org

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20 episodes
Updated July 22

Episodes20

Newest first

More to the Story: Comparing Flight Training and Musical Mastery | More Right Rudder Ep. 155
Join NAFI today to gain access to exclusive content, mentoring opportunities, and a community of dedicated CFIs. Join here: https://nafimentor.org/become-a-member/ What do flight instruction, medical education, and professional music have in common? More than you might think. In this episode of More Right Rudder, Beth Stanton sits down with Ed Stefan, Gold Seal CFI, accomplished musician, and principal timpanist with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, to explore the surprising parallels between mastering music and mastering aviation. The conversation expands on Ed's Mentor magazine article, Instrument Approach: Comparing Flight Training and Musical Mastery, and complements the July/August 2026 Mentor feature, Teaching for Judgment: Shared Lessons from Medical Education and Flight Training, by Erin Dabney and the late Dr. Victor Vogel. Together, they discuss: - Why great instructors do far more than teach technical skills - How deliberate practice builds lasting expertise - The importance of finding the right instructor and developing a productive student-teacher relationship - What aviation can learn from music and medical education about judgment, feedback, and continuous improvement - The concept of "mastering mastery" and why learning how to learn is one of the most valuable skills any pilot can develop - How experienced professionals transfer lessons between seemingly unrelated disciplines Whether you're a flight instructor, student pilot, aviation mentor, or lifelong learner, this conversation offers practical insights into becoming a better teacher, a better learner, and ultimately a better aviator. #FlightTraining #FlightInstructor #CFI #Aviation #LearnToFly #ProfessionalDevelopment #NAFI #MoreRightRudder
July 22 · 34 min
Is AI Your Student’s Shadow CFI? w/ Kauai Mansur | More Right Rudder Ep. 154
Join NAFI today to gain access to exclusive content, mentoring opportunities, and a community of dedicated CFIs. Join here: https://nafimentor.org/become-a-member/ Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday life, and many student pilots are already using tools like ChatGPT to study, ask aviation questions, and even help plan flights. The question isn't whether they're using AI. It's whether they're using it safely. In this episode of the More Right Rudder Podcast, host Sarah Staudt sits down with Kauai Mansur, a private pilot, cybersecurity professional, and AI developer specializing in high-risk industries, to explore the growing role of AI in flight training. Together they discuss: Why today's students are already relying on AI as a "shadow CFI" The biggest risks of trusting AI without instructor oversight How AI can confidently provide incorrect or fabricated information Why flight instructors should establish "AI personal minimums" with their students Practical ways AI can improve studying, flashcards, and knowledge retention How to use FAA publications as trusted sources instead of relying on general internet responses Why AI should remain a learning tool, not a decision-making tool for flight operations The FAA's approach to AI and personification How CFIs can embrace AI without compromising safety AI isn't going away, and neither are the students using it. This conversation offers practical guidance for flight instructors, student pilots, and aviation educators who want to understand both the opportunities and the limitations of today's AI tools. Guest Resources AI Study Guide & Handout from Kauai Mansur: https://nafimentor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AI_Study_Tool_Guide_for_CFIs.pdf Watch Next Interested in another perspective on AI in flight training? Watch our previous episode on how flight instructors can use AI to create lesson plans, training scenarios, and educational materials while understanding the technology's limitations: https://youtu.be/BlGd5TolzgM
July 7 · 30 min
Do's and Don'ts of Applying for Flight Instructor Jobs w/ Rick Miller
The aviation hiring market has shifted, and for many newly certificated flight instructors, finding that first instructional position can feel more challenging than ever. In this episode of More Right Rudder, NAFI’s program development manager and host Sarah Staudt sits down with Rick Miller, Chief Flight Instructor at Lunken Flight Training Center, to discuss what flight schools are really looking for when evaluating instructor candidates. Drawing on years of hiring experience, Miller shares practical advice for every stage of the application process, from building a strong resume and cover letter to navigating phone screenings and in-person interviews. He highlights common mistakes that cause applications to be overlooked, discusses ways candidates can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, and explains why networking remains one of the most valuable career-building tools available to aspiring instructors. Whether you're a newly certificated CFI searching for your first position or an experienced instructor looking for your next opportunity, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you present yourself professionally, communicate your value, and improve your chances of landing the job. In This Episode Building a resume that highlights measurable accomplishments Common cover letter mistakes and AI-generated application pitfalls How to stand out in a crowded applicant pool Effective networking strategies for flight instructors What to expect during phone screenings Questions flight schools may ask during in-person interviews Appropriate interview attire and first impressions Understanding flight school culture and evaluating potential employers Why continuous professional development matters Maintaining perspective during industry hiring slowdowns If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Thank you to Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
June 9 · 39 min
More to the Story: So I Called TOPGUN Back w/ Xavier Piar
What happens when a curious flight instructor candidate decides to “call TOPGUN?” In this episode of More to the Story, host Beth Stanton, NAFI’s director of publications and editor, talks with Mentor author Xavier Piar about the story behind his two-part article series: “So I Called TOPGUN,” which appeared in the March/April issue, and “So I Called TOPGUN Back,” which appeared in the May/June issue. What started as a few emails to The Fighter Pilot Podcast led Piar to conversations with four former TOPGUN aviators: Vincent “Jell-O” Aiello, Craig “Crunch” Snyder, Greg “Hoser” Hansen, and Dave “Bio” Baranek. Together, Stanton and Piar explore: What civilian CFIs can learn from TOPGUN instructional philosophy Why debriefing may be one of the most overlooked tools in flight training The humility and honesty shared by elite military aviators How curiosity turned into two Mentor magazine articles and enhanced digital content From CFII struggles to Tomcat stories, this episode is packed with insight for instructors, students, and aviation enthusiasts alike. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us for access to more great content and a network of professional flight instructors. It's quick and easy online at https://nafimentor.org. Thank you to Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
May 26 · 34 min
Pilot Mental Health: What’s Changing at the FAA? w/ Dr. Tony Reed
On this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt, NAFI’s program development manager, talks with Dr. Tony Reed, aviation medical examiner, healthcare executive, aircraft owner, and NAFI board member, about the latest developments in aeromedical certification and pilot mental health initiatives. They discuss recent FAA efforts to modernize the medical certification process, including expanded guidance for AMEs, updated medication policies, and changes that make it easier for pilots to seek help for common mental health concerns without automatically jeopardizing their medical certificate. The conversation also explores ADHD certification challenges, how safety management systems concepts can play a role in the future of pilot wellness, ways flight instructors can better support students, and why early communication with an AME can be beneficial for aspiring pilots. Whether you’re a student pilot, instructor, or professional aviator, this episode offers practical insight into the evolving intersection of aviation safety, medical certification, and mental health. Find the AME Guide here: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership.
May 12 · 35 min
Teaching Pilots to Think | More Right Rudder Ep. 150
In this episode of More Right Rudder, NAFI program development manager Sarah Staudt talks with retired U.S. Air Force instructor navigator and CFI Mark Pierce about how aviation acronyms can be used as more than just memory aids. From PAVE and the 3P model to real-world aeronautical decision-making (ADM), this conversation focuses on helping pilots move beyond rote memorization and into true understanding. Pierce shares his journey from military instruction in the F-15E Strike Eagle and T-39 Sabreliner to teaching in general aviation, and how those experiences shaped his approach to instruction. They also discuss how instructors can better prepare students for checkrides, scenario-based training, and real-world flying decisions. Guest Bio Mark Pierce is a retired U.S. Air Force navigator and former instructor in the F-15E Strike Eagle and T-39 Sabreliner. He now instructs in general aviation and is the author of Eleven Acronyms Every Pilot Should Know, a guide to understanding the “why” behind common aviation acronyms. You can find Pierce’s book online here: https://www.amazon.com/Eleven-Acronyms-Every-Pilot-Should-ebook/dp/B0GKW39J5Y Thank you to Pilot Institute for sponsoring this episode! If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership.
April 28 · 31 min
Flight Instructor Insurance Explained w/ Kim Skipper
CFI and non-owners insurance is an endless source of questions in the CFI community. In this episode, Sarah Staudt, NAFI’s program development manager, sits down with Avemco Insurance Company’s Underwriting Manager Kim Skipper to break down the essentials of flight instructor insurance. From liability limits to common misconceptions, they unpack real-world scenarios and answer questions pulled straight from the NAFI community. If you’re a CFI, this episode will help you better understand what your policy actually covers—and where the gaps might be. What you’ll learn: The difference between liability coverage and aircraft (hull) damage Why legal defense coverage might be your most valuable protection What it really means to be “at fault” in an insurance claim Common situations that are NOT covered (and surprise a lot of instructors) How non-owner policies differ from owner coverage Why your policy likely doesn’t protect the aircraft owner The importance of selecting the right aircraft categories in your policy How ownership structures (like LLCs) can impact coverage The little-known “31-day rule” that could void a claim Why you should consider keeping your policy even after you stop instructing How past instruction coverage can protect you years later Why clearly defining your role in the cockpit matters—for more than just safety Don’t miss Skipper’s entertaining and informative episode from last year: https://youtu.be/faqbtn-ooTc If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today! Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership at https://nafimentor.org.
April 14 · 21 min
Automation, Assumption, and Young Pilots w/ Mary Bender
What happens when a generation raised on seamless tech steps into the cockpit? In this episode of More Right Rudder, host Sarah Staudt sits down with Mary Bender, a PhD candidate in human factors at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, to explore how Gen Z pilots are learning, using, and sometimes misunderstanding automation in modern flight decks. Bender shares insights from her research on Gen Z student pilots and CFIs navigating advanced systems like the G1000. The conversation reveals a fascinating tension: some students overestimate what automation can do, while others feel undertrained on how to use it effectively. This is where effective training becomes critical. Understanding how students learn plays a large role in training outcomes. Bender’s study revealed that Gen Z learners prefer to learn by observing a demonstration followed by hands-on practice - and that early experiences matter. Students who have positive interactions with automation are more likely to trust and use it, while negative experiences can have the opposite effect. As automation becomes more integrated and accessible earlier in training, the role of the pilot continues to evolve from operator to manager of systems. Instructors and learners alike must be ready to adapt. You can read Mary’s study here: https://nafimentor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bender-et-al.-2025.pdf If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today! Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership at https://nafimentor.org. Thank you to Avemco for sponsoring this episode.
March 31 · 34 min
More to the Story: Flight of Understanding w/ Maclyn Stringers
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast: More to the Story series, host Beth Stanton, NAFI’s director of publications and editor, sits down with flight instructor and author Maclyn Stringers to discuss his Mentor magazine article Flight of Understanding. The conversation explores how Maslow’s hierarchy of needs can reshape the way instructors approach flight training. Instead of focusing only on stick-and-rudder technique, Stringers suggests that great instruction begins with meeting a student’s human needs: safety, belonging, confidence, and purpose. From hydration in the cockpit to building confidence in hesitant students, this episode dives into the psychology behind effective flight instruction and why understanding people may be just as important as understanding aerodynamics. Learn more about Stringers and his stories at his website: https://maclynstringer.com/ If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
March 17 · 35 min
Teaching High-Performance Transitions with Matt Speare
Transitioning into high-performance aircraft is more than a horsepower upgrade. It’s a fundamental shift in planning, energy management, and mindset. In this episode of More Right Rudder, host Sarah Staudt is joined by Matt Speare, CFI/CFII (airplane and helicopter), two-time Master Flight Instructor, and President of the Lancair Owners and Builders Organization. Together, they explore the challenges pilots and instructors face when moving from trainer-style aircraft into faster, cleaner, and less forgiving machines. Many modern instructors never encounter high-performance aircraft during their own training. As a result, the first exposure often comes later in a pilot’s career, sometimes without the structured transition training these airplanes demand. Speare and Staudt break down why speed changes everything and how being “five miles behind the airplane” can quickly become a safety issue. Whether you’re an instructor preparing to teach in high-performance aircraft or a pilot considering your next step up the performance ladder, this episode highlights why standardized training, disciplined planning, and deep aircraft knowledge are critical to safe operations. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
March 3 · 29 min
The Digital Native CFI: Gen Z in the Right Seat w/ Clayton Sander
In this episode of More Right Rudder, host Sarah Staudt, NAFI’s program development manager, sits down with Clayton Sander, a Gen Z flight instructor and owner of AeroEdge LLC, to talk about generational differences in aviation training. Social media stereotypes often paint Gen Z instructors as distracted or overly dependent on technology. Sander offers a thoughtful inside perspective, explaining how growing up as “digital natives” shapes how his generation processes information, adapts to new tools, and approaches learning. Staudt and Sander explore how today’s new CFIs face an unprecedented volume of knowledge requirements. Modern instructors must be fluent in legacy instruments, glass cockpits, electronic flight bags, and increasingly complex handbooks and FAA guidance, all before they even begin building real teaching experience. Sander emphasizes that while tools and timelines have changed, the heart of flight instruction has not. Students still learn best through relationships, encouragement, and instructors who understand how to teach, not just how to fly. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
February 17 · 39 min
You Have the Flight Controls: Leadership Transition at NAFI w/ Paul Preidecker and Brian Wynne
This episode of More Right Rudder marks a leadership transition at NAFI. Host Sarah Staudt talks with outgoing president Paul Preidecker and incoming president and executive director Brian Wynne about where the organization has been and where it is headed. Preidecker reflects on key progress made over the past five years to better support flight instructors, while Wynne shares his vision for building on that momentum with fresh energy and strong member collaboration. The conversation highlights the vital role volunteers and engaged instructors play in shaping NAFI’s programs, resources, and impact on aviation safety. It is a forward-looking discussion about community, continuity, and the shared commitment to strengthening flight instruction nationwide. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
February 3 · 34 min
How a New DPE is Made: An 18-Month Journey w/ Lex Crosett
How long does it really take to become a designated pilot examiner? In this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt welcomes Lex Crosett to walk step-by-step through his 18-month path to DPE authorization. From initial application and FAA interviews to Oklahoma City training and observed checkrides, Crosett offers a transparent look at each phase of the process—and explains why patience, professionalism, and preparation are essential. The conversation also sheds light on how DPE availability, geography, and FAA workload affect examiner capacity nationwide. An informative episode for instructors, applicants, and anyone interested in the future of flight training. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Pilot Institute for sponsoring this episode.
January 20 · 40 min
More to the Story: Human Factors in LOC-I w/ Dr. Victor Vogel
Join NAFI Director of Publications Beth Staton as she welcomes guest Dr. Victor Vogel to this episode of the More to the Story series of the More Right Rudder podcast. Vogel is a highly respected physician, CFI-I, NAFI board member, and prolific contributor to NAFI’s publications. In this episode, Stanton and Vogel discuss his contributions to aviation safety focusing on human factors and mental health. Together they explore Vogel’s recent Mentor article on loss of control inflight and his newly published book, A Pilot's Guide to Risk Management and Judgment. The conversation emphasizes the need for better training and awareness of mental health as a human factor in the aviation community to enhance safety and support for pilots. Vogel's new book is available now from your favorite bookseller. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank yo to AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
January 6 · 30 min
Mutual Support: CRM Beyond the Cockpit w/ Brandon Williams
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Brandon Williams, a former fighter pilot and current airline captain, explore the role of mutual accountability and professional support within the flight instruction community. The conversation reframes accountability as a collaborative practice rooted in trust, respect, and a shared commitment to safety rather than enforcement or criticism. Sarah and Brandon discuss the value of effective debriefing as a cornerstone of continuous improvement, emphasizing how thoughtful reflection and constructive dialogue can enhance both instructional quality and pilot performance. They also address strategies for navigating challenging conversations, highlighting the importance of strong professional relationships in facilitating clear, productive communication. The episode further examines the role of openness and gratitude in receiving and delivering feedback, underscoring how a positive feedback culture supports instructor development and reinforces safety at every level. Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on the broader purpose of feedback in aviation: advancing professionalism, strengthening instructional standards, and promoting safer outcomes for the aviation community. Join NAFI today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Dec 23, 2025 · 44 min
Navigating Student Engagement During Winter Weather w/ Nate Ehlers
Weather, holidays, and real life can bring flight training to a halt—but learning doesn’t have to stop. In this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt sits down with instructor and airline pilot Nate Ehlers to share practical ways CFIs can keep students engaged during training disruptions. From chair flying and simulators to scenario-based training and creative ground lessons, this conversation offers real-world strategies to maintain momentum when flying isn’t possible. Ehlers also explains how flight schools can build camaraderie, use downtime to knock out knowledge tests, and even turn bad weather into valuable weather training. If you want your students to stay sharp, motivated, and progressing—even when the airplane isn’t moving—this episode is for you. Learn more about Nate and Backseat Pilot here: https://thebackseatpilot.com/ Thank you to Sporty's and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.
Dec 9, 2025 · 35 min
Stop Memorizing - Start Deciding: Building Better Scenarios with AI w/ John Boos
DPE John Boos and NAFI Program Development Manager Sarah Staudt dive into the power of scenario-based training to strengthen student judgment and decision-making. They discuss why rote memory—while valuable—is only the starting point, and how realistic simulations help students apply knowledge in meaningful ways. The discussion includes how AI can support instructors by generating scenario ideas, variations, and trigger events, all while emphasizing the importance of CFI curation to ensure accuracy, realism, and safety. This episode offers practical strategies for building stronger pilots through intentional scenario design, thoughtful evaluation, and smart use of AI as a creative tool—not a replacement for instructor expertise. Join NAFI at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Nov 25, 2025 · 37 min
More to the Story: Musings of a Retired DPE w/ Larry Bothe
Host Beth Stanton, NAFI’s director of publications and editor, interviews Larry Bothe, retired designated pilot examiner (DPE), flight instructor, and longtime Mentor magazine contributor, for an in-depth look at the world of checkrides and flight training. Bothe expands on his recent Mentor article “Musings from a Retired DPE, Things you might like to know.” He shares his perspective on what examiners look for, tells a few checkride tales, and provides guidance on how instructors can better prepare their students for success. The conversation explores the evolution of DPE guidance and information, opportunities for professional development, and how effective instruction directly impacts aviation safety. Packed with real-world insights from decades in the cockpit, this episode is a must-listen for flight instructors, student pilots, and anyone passionate about aviation education. Join NAFI today at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Nov 11, 2025 · 36 min
DPE Availability: Making the Most of a Limited Resource w/ Jason Blair
In this episode, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Jason Blair, a DPE and aviation author, discuss the ongoing DPE shortage in aviation, exploring its causes, implications, and potential solutions. They delve into the data surrounding DPE activity, the importance of effective communication and scheduling, and the challenges faced by flight training providers. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough preparation for checkrides, understanding experience requirements, and the role of instructors in ensuring student readiness. They also touch on innovative training tools and the importance of being well prepared for checkrides, including experience requirements, documentation, and aircraft airworthiness. Remember, you can save $5 on your NAFI membership with promo code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org Thank you to AOPA and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
Oct 28, 2025 · 47 min
Maintaining CFI Professionalism in Challenging Times w/ Anthony Sypula
In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's Program Development Manager, and Anthony Sypula, the Chief Flight Instructor of a large flying club and NAFI Master Instructor, discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism and readiness among flight instructors during industry slowdowns. They explore the current hiring landscape, the impacts of slowdowns on flight instructors, and techniques to maintain professionalism. The conversation also covers the significance of pass rates, turning slowdowns into growth opportunities, gaining leadership experience, and tips for new CFIs seeking employment. The episode emphasizes that professionalism is a long-term investment in one's career and reputation in the aviation community. You can download your own PDF copy of the presentation discussed in this episode here: https://nafimentor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CFI-Professionalism-Readiness-Presentation.pdf Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.
Oct 14, 2025 · 46 min

More Right Rudder

More to the Story: Comparing Flight Training and Musical Mastery | More Right Rudder Ep. 155

Is AI Your Student’s Shadow CFI? w/ Kauai Mansur | More Right Rudder Ep. 154

Do's and Don'ts of Applying for Flight Instructor Jobs w/ Rick Miller

More to the Story: So I Called TOPGUN Back w/ Xavier Piar

Pilot Mental Health: What’s Changing at the FAA? w/ Dr. Tony Reed

Teaching Pilots to Think | More Right Rudder Ep. 150

Flight Instructor Insurance Explained w/ Kim Skipper

Automation, Assumption, and Young Pilots w/ Mary Bender

More to the Story: Flight of Understanding w/ Maclyn Stringers

Teaching High-Performance Transitions with Matt Speare

The Digital Native CFI: Gen Z in the Right Seat w/ Clayton Sander

You Have the Flight Controls: Leadership Transition at NAFI w/ Paul Preidecker and Brian Wynne

How a New DPE is Made: An 18-Month Journey w/ Lex Crosett

More to the Story: Human Factors in LOC-I w/ Dr. Victor Vogel

Mutual Support: CRM Beyond the Cockpit w/ Brandon Williams

Navigating Student Engagement During Winter Weather w/ Nate Ehlers

Stop Memorizing - Start Deciding: Building Better Scenarios with AI w/ John Boos

More to the Story: Musings of a Retired DPE w/ Larry Bothe

DPE Availability: Making the Most of a Limited Resource w/ Jason Blair

Maintaining CFI Professionalism in Challenging Times w/ Anthony Sypula