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Pilot's Discretion from Sporty's

Sporty's Pilot Shop

Pilot's Discretion brings you authentic conversations with some of aviation's most interesting people. From honest discussions about flight training to fascinating stories from airshow pilots, this podcast is for anyone who loves to fly. Stay tuned for our rapid-fire "ready to copy" segment at the end of every episode, where we go beyond the cliches to find out what each guest really thinks. Brought to you by Sporty's Pilot Shop, training and equipping pilots worldwide since 1961. Have a comment? Email us: podcast@sportys.com

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  • 23 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 42 min
  • English

Episodes 23

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  • S1 · E138
    September 8 · 48 min

    The power of the aviation community, with Justin Siems

    Professional pilot and podcast host Justin Siems says aviation is “a welcoming community that feels like it's not.” He explains why, based on his experience interviewing nearly 400 pilots. Justin also talks about making the transition from fractional flying to the major airlines, why he launched a print magazine in a world dominated by short-form video, and how his background as a Big Ten college football player translated directly to the flight deck. In the Ready to Copy segment, he shares the best advice he’s received from a guest, his humbling experience landing the Boeing 737, and his routine for early morning trips. SHOW LINKS: * Pilot to Pilot podcast and magazine: https://www.pilottopilothq.com/ * Justin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pilottopilot/ * PJ2 GPS Radio: https://www.sportys.com/pj2-gps-radio.html

  • S1 · E137
    August 25 · 44 min

    What an airline pilot job is worth, with Kit Darby

    As a former airline pilot and industry analyst for more than four decades, Kit Darby has seen a lot of job market cycles. In this episode he shares his wisdom, with plenty of practical advice for aspiring professional pilots, including an honest assessment of the job market right now, what airline pilots actually make over a 30-year career, and what COVID changed about the airline business. Kit also talks about some lessons learned from his airline and military career, including mastering full motion airline simulators and flying the unique OV-1 Mohawk in the Army. and In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear about preparing for job interviews, under-appreciated airlines, and helicopters vs. airplanes. SHOW LINKS: * Kit’s website: https://kitdarby.com/ * Airline hiring resources: https://www.fapa.aero/job-hunting-pilots * PilotWorkshops Mastery: https://sportys.com/mastery

  • S1 · E136
    August 11 · 45 min

    The GA maintenance crisis, with Paul New

    The pilot shortage gets a lot of headlines, but longtime A&P/IA Paul New says the shortage of mechanics is much more serious. He explains the causes, what owners can do to work productively with their A&P, and how pilots can take advantage of modern engine monitors to save money. Paul is also a very experienced pilot, so he shares lessons he’s learned from countless post-maintenance flights, including what to watch on the takeoff roll. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll learn how to write a good squawk, Paul’s favorite Cessna, and his advice for new mechanics. SHOW LINKS: Ask the A&Ps podcast: https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/podcasts/podcasts/ask-the-a-and-ps Paul’s articles: https://www.tennesseeaircraft.net/articles/ Savvy Aviation: https://www.savvyaviation.com/ Airplane Engine Operations course: https://pilotworkshop.com/products/airplane-engine-operations/ PilotWorkshops Mastery: https://sportys.com/mastery

  • S1 · E135
    July 28 · 47 min

    Seaplane adventures and challenges, with Steve McCaughey

    Learning to fly seaplanes is a ton of fun, but Steve McCaughey from the Seaplane Pilots Association says it also improves your stick and rudder skills dramatically. He explains what you learn as a seaplane pilot, why amphibs have changed the industry, and his personal rules for safety gear. Steve also talks about the work of the SPA and how pilots can get involved in their local communities. In the Ready to Copy segment, Steve talks about flying antique seaplanes, the differences between flying boats and floatplanes, and his tips for making great aviation videos. SHOW LINKS: * Seaplane Pilots Association: https://seaplanepilotsassociation.org/ * Seaplane Photo Contest: https://www.sportys.com/seaplane * Sporty’s Seaplane Rating Course: https://www.sportys.com/seaplane-rating-course-with-patty-wagstaff.html

  • S1 · E134
    July 14 · 42 min

    Understanding the pilot-controller relationship, with John Krug

    The key to working collaboratively with ATC is to remember that humans are on both sides of the mic, says longtime pilot and air traffic controller John Krug. He offers tips for when to cancel IFR at non-towered airports, how to get that shortcut you want, and what his biggest pet peeve was as a controller. John also talks about how to practice decision-making once you’ve learned basic flying skills and why the checkride isn’t enough. In the Ready to Copy segment, John shares his opinion on when to declare an emergency, landing at St. Barth’s, and building an RV-9A. SHOW LINKS: * What you should never say to ATC: https://pilotworkshop.com/tips/3-things-never-say-atc/ * John’s RV-9A build story: https://www.vansaircraft.com/first-flights/john-krugs-rv-9a/ * IFR Mastery from PilotWorkshops: https://sportys.com/mastery

  • S1 · E133
    June 30 · 46 min

    How to be a thinking pilot, with Rick Durden

    Pilots should aspire to a higher standard than just passing the checkride, according to author and instructor Rick Durden. He explains how to be one of these “thinking pilots,” pursuing excellence while still having fun in the air, with tips for new pilots and pro pilots alike. Rick is unafraid to tackle any subject, so he also weighs in on why shock cooling is a myth and why talking about “real pilots” is foolish. In the Ready to Copy segment, Rick shares tips for landing on taxiways, his least favorite FAR, and the best handling airplane he’s ever flown. SHOW LINKS: * The Thinking Pilot’s Manual: http://www.rickdurden.com/book.html * Screw the Aviation Caste System: https://avbrief.com/the-pilots-lounge-157-screw-the-aviation-caste-system/ * IFR Mastery from PilotWorkshops: https://sportys.com/mastery

  • S1 · E132
    June 16 · 43 min

    Stick and rudder skills for modern pilots, with Rich Stowell

    Master flight instructor Rich Stowell says manual flying skills and decision-making skills are complementary, but they’re often presented as an either/or choice. The spin master explains why that’s wrong and illustrates it with his “power-push-roll” recovery for spiral dives, an overlooked threat in aviation. He also shares a new way to train pilots, which he calls “learn-do-fly,” emphasizing the importance of teaching at the correlation level. In the Ready to Copy segment, Rich talks about the biggest mistake CFIs make during stall training, tips for hand-propping vintage airplanes, and what martial arts taught him about flying. SHOW LINKS: * Learn-Do-Fly Training Standard: https://www.communityaviation.com/standard * Standardizing Roll Recovery: https://www.richstowell.com/standardizing-roll-recovery-in-general-aviation/ * Learn to Turn: https://www.richstowell.com/learn-to-turn/ * IFR Mastery from PilotWorkshops: https://sportys.com/mastery

  • S1 · E131
    June 2 · 43 min

    Using an Eclipse for charitable flights, with Mark Hanson

    Public benefit flying might mean transporting a cancer patient or relocating turtles, but regardless of the mission Mark Hanson says it’s rewarding, fun, and great for keeping your pilot skills sharp. He talks about managing the pressure of these flights, how to get started with a volunteer pilot organization, and why his Eclipse is the perfect airplane. In the Ready to Copy segment, Mark talks about his most memorable passenger, tips for flying into busy airports, and a new aviation weather tool he likes. SHOW LINKS: * Become a volunteer pilot: https://vpoids.aircarealliance.org/join * Air Care Alliance webinars: https://www.youtube.com/@aircarealliance6167 * IFR Mastery from PilotWorkshops: https://sportys.com/mastery

  • S1 · E130
    May 19 · 41 min

    Is GA dying or thriving, with Tom Charpentier

    More new pilots, more flying hours, and fewer accidents—that’s the positive picture EAA’s Tom Charpentier sees when he looks at the latest FAA numbers. He shares how to be an optimist about aviation, why the 1970s are not a fair comparison, and what issues could disrupt the current growth cycle. Tom is deeply involved in EAA’s regulatory work, and he explains the importance of FAA orders and what to expect from MOSAIC. In the Ready to Copy segment, Tom talks about his favorite part of AirVenture, flying the Cessna 170, and wilderness canoeing. SHOW LINKS: * EAA Green Dot podcast: https://www.eaa.org/eaa/news-and-publications/eaa-news-and-aviation-news/eaa-the-green-dot-podcast * Article: “How Safe Is It?” https://inspire.eaa.org/2017/05/11/how-safe-is-it/ * PJ2 GPS Radio: https://sportys.com/PJ2GPS

  • S1 · E129
    May 5 · 40 min

    The challenges and rewards of taildraggers, with Damian DelGaizo

    Tailwheel airplanes demand excellent situational awareness and sharp manual flying skills, two things that modern pilots often lack according to taildragger expert Damian DelGaizo. The longtime flight school owner, who learned from an aviation legend, talks about the finer points of three-point landings, wheel landings, and Piper Cubs. He also explains why a touch pass is important for evaluating grass runways and why you might have to carry a garbage bag full of rocks when flying skiplanes. In the Ready to Copy segment, Damian talks about dancing on the rudder pedals, how to fly with heel brakes, and teaching Harrison Ford to fly taildraggers. SHOW LINKS: * Tailwheel 101 videos:https://youtu.be/4mPmculCxkA * Andover Flight Academy: https://www.andoverflight.com/ * PJ2 GPS Radio: https://sportys.com/PJ2GPS

  • S1 · E128
    April 21 · 44 min

    Hard truths about aviation safety, with Douglas Boyd

    The GA accident rate is getting better, but aviation safety researcher Douglas Boyd says there’s still plenty of work to do. He shares a fascinating array of statistics in this episode, pulled from the 300+ papers he has authored, including how many hours is enough to stay proficient, what really causes landing accidents, and the truth about older pilots’ safety record. In the Ready to Copy segment, Dr. Boyd talks about flying out of CG, whether engine TBO really matters, and the best places to visit in Scotland. SHOW LINKS: * Airline vs. GA pilot safety:https://commons.erau.edu/publication/1494/ * Aging pilots study: https://commons.erau.edu/publication/2419/ * PJ2 GPS Radio: https://sportys.com/PJ2GPS

  • S1 · E127
    April 7 · 41 min

    Legal gray areas for pilots, with Mark Kolber

    Too many pilots miss out on fun and rewarding flying experiences because they’re afraid of legal gray areas, according to aviation lawyer and flight instructor Mark Kolber. He shares the facts about cost sharing, ramp checks, and medical applications, with practical advice for staying out of trouble with the FAA. Mark is also a longtime CFI, so he also offers tips for learning to fly later in life and transitioning to new airplanes. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear about flying in Colorado, Carolina barbecue, and lawyer jokes. SHOW LINKS: * Mark’s legal webinar: https://youtu.be/sWZ5INyRhfE * Mark’s article on IFR departures: https://ifr-magazine.com/avionics/ifr-departures/ * PJ2 GPS Radio: https://sportys.com/PJ2GPS

  • S1 · E126
    March 24 · 47 min

    What pilots should know about ATC, with Marcus Miller

    Air traffic controllers and pilots are on the same team, they just have different perspectives. Marcus Miller, a center controller and the creator of the PropHatCat TikTok channel, explains those differences and much more in this fast-paced episode, including: when to fly a piston airplane into an airline airport, how to ask for help as a student pilot, and what he thinks of all the jokes on guard frequency. He also talks about pursuing ATC as a career, including the role of simulators and the benefits of musical theater training. In the Ready to Copy segment, Marcus shares the number one misconception about ATC, his favorite Broadway show, and tips for pulling off magic tricks. SHOW LINKS: * PropHatCat on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@prophatcat * PropHatCat t-shirts: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4449530402/prophatcat-shirt * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E125
    March 10 · 32 min

    Crossing the Atlantic at age 89, with Ed Galkin

    Ed Galkin has flown his Cessna 210 around the world in both directions, and last year he flew a circle around the Atlantic Ocean at age 89. In his uniquely energetic way, he explains how much planning goes into each trip, how he stays focused in flight, and the best places he’s visited along the way. Ed also shares some tips for staying sharp as a pilot, even well into your 80s, including the value of an instrument rating. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll learn about managing your bladder on 14-hour flights, landing at Easter Island, and what Ed learned as an oral surgeon that helped in the cockpit. SHOW LINKS: * Flight to End Polio: https://www.flighttoendpolio.com/ * Fly for the Cure: https://flyforthecure.org/ * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E124
    February 24 · 47 min

    Space Shuttle lessons for private pilots, with Charlie Precourt

    From the Space Shuttle to F-15 fighter jets to his homebuilt VariEze, Charlie Precourt approaches every flight with the same discipline. In this episode he shares some of the lessons learned from his one-of-a-kind career, including the power of visualization, realistic personal minimums, and flight training that goes beyond checking the box. Charlie also shares some fascinating stories from his days at NASA, including landing the Space Shuttle and docking with the Mir space station. In the Ready to Copy segment, Charlie talks about underrated airplanes, flying with a test pilot’s mindset, and lessons learned from Russian pilots. SHOW LINKS: * The biggest myth in aviation: ⁠https://flighttrainingcentral.com/2025/08/the-biggest-myth-in-aviation-that-great-pilots-are-defined-by-great-flying-skills/⁠ * Space Shuttle landing video: https://youtu.be/q5qyOWv0fHk * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E123
    February 10 · 48 min

    The killing zone for pilots, with Paul Craig

    Pilots with 50-350 hours are involved in more fatal accidents than anyone else, according to research from flight instructor Paul Craig. In this safety-focused episode, he explains the numbers behind this “killing zone,” how to avoid its traps, and whether any accident trends have changed in the 25 years he’s been studying them. Paul also talks about scenario-based training (which he helped write the book on) and new flight instructors (who he teaches every day). In the Ready to Copy segment, Paul talks about VFR-into-IMC accidents, whether pilots are normal, and signing autographs in court. SHOW LINKS: * The Killing Zone, third edition: https://www.sportys.com/the-killing-zone.html * FAA-Industry Training Standards: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/training/fits * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E122
    January 27 · 33 min

    Promoting conservation from a Cessna 210, with Bruce Gordon

    Bruce Gordon learned to fly in Aspen over 40 years ago and has been flying in the Rockies ever since. He uses that experience to share tips for flying piston airplanes out West, name some of his favorite airports, and explain why the Cessna T210 is the perfect airplane for his missions. Bruce also talks about EcoFlight, the organization he founded that uses light airplanes to promote conservation, and how short flights can change people’s perspectives about the world. In the Ready to Copy segment, Bruce talks about flying with John Denver, lessons learned from mountain climbing, and the best soccer player of all time. SHOW LINKS: * EcoFlight: https://ecoflight.org/ * Aspen Hall of Fame: https://aspenhalloffame.org/inductee/bruce-gordon/ * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E121
    January 13 · 38 min

    Learning from other pilots' mistakes, with JJ Madison

    Plenty of pilots read accident reports, but airline pilot and author JJ Madison says NASA reports are even better—because you’re hearing directly from the pilot. He shares common themes and memorable stories from these reports, and reminds pilots how to submit one. JJ also talks about his career as an airline pilot, including the appeal of regional airlines and the importance of scheduling. In the Ready to Copy segment, JJ talks about flying turboprops, why staying in shape is critical for pilots, and how to be a Hollywood writer. SHOW LINKS: * JJ’s book Yikes!: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DYZ1R9BS * Victor Kilo Fund: https://www.victorkilofund.org/ * NASA reports database: https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/ * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E120
    Dec 30, 2025 · 37 min

    The life of a corporate pilot, with Mark McIntyre

    Pro pilot doesn’t have to mean airline pilot. Longtime corporate pilot and safety advocate Mark McIntyre explains the appeal of business aviation, why safety has to be the focus for a flight department, the unique challenges of international flying, and how to use new debriefing tools to fly safer. Mark began his career as a seaplane pilot, so he also shares lessons learned in this demanding environment. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear about the best seaplane, managing fatigue, and fun places to fly in the Pacific Northwest. SHOW LINKS: * NBAA international operations: https://nbaa.org/aircraft-operations/international/ * Kenmore Air: https://kenmoreair.com/ * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

  • S1 · E119
    Dec 16, 2025 · 36 min

    Rethinking flight instruction, with Doug Stewart

    Legendary instructor Doug Stewart has a lot of strong opinions about flight training, from inadvertent IMC maneuvers to instrument procedures to engine failures. In this episode, Doug offers a sweeping view of the flight instructor’s role, with practical advice for pilots and instructors alike. Doug is also an active pilot examiner, so he shares checkride tips and tricks based on his decades of experience. In the Ready to Copy segment, Doug talks about flight simulators, bad communication habits, jazz musicians, and lessons from cycling. SHOW LINKS: * Doug Stewart Flight Instruction: https://www.dsflight.com/ * Improving on the 180-degree turn: https://www.dsflight.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/VMC-INTO-IMC-Mindstar.pdf * Pilot’s Tip of the Week: https://pilotworkshop.com/tip

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