Aloft with Dan: Recent Episodes
Dan Doepker
Welcome to Aloft with Dan, a weekly show talking with rad people doing rad things in aviation! Each week we will talk with different folks in aviation that will include some of the non traditional roles and explore how passion motivates them and what advice they have for others. Join us to learn about this amazing industry and the amazing people in it!
On today's show Serena and Chris talk about:
- How they got involved with aviation
- How they met
- The story of Serena getting into the Navy and how Chris helped throughout the process
- Advice to anyone who is mentoring someone
- Great stories of what life in the Navy has been like for Serena
- And a ton of other advice and stories!
Serena and Chris have an incredible story and a lot of passion for aviation and what they are doing, this is a fantastic episode and not one to miss!
Women in Aviation IG: @womeninaviation
Chris Fitzgerald LinkedIn: Chris Fitzgerald
Thanks to Preflight for sponsoring todays show! If you are interested in receiving a free 30 minute consultation to find out more about what Preflight can do for you reach out to them here and make sure you let them know I sent you!
Preflight Website
Preflight email
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
You can purchase swag specifically at https://aloftwithdan.com/shop/
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Trent and I talked about:
- How he got into aviation
- Being awarded HAI's Pilot of the Year award
- A tragic first day of flying heli skiing and the training that prepared him for it
- Power line construction and his current job
- Lots of great advice for anyone working through their career
- And a lot of other topics!
It is clear that Trent loves what he is doing and he has a passion for his role and how it helps the world!
Trent's IG: @_tvick093_
Thanks to Preflight for sponsoring todays show! If you are interested in receiving a free 30 minute consultation to find out more about what Preflight can do for you reach out to them here and make sure you let them know I sent you!
Preflight Website
Preflight email
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Leigh and I talked about:
- How she got into aviation
- Her path from flight student to business owner
- Some of the highs and lows from owning and operating a helicopter business
- What led her to Alaska
- How they bought the Candy Cane Helicopter
- Where the paint scheme came from
- The good and bad with the Bell 505
- How yoga ties into her life
- What helicopter van life is like
- And a lot of other topics!
Leigh is a fantastic human with a really cool story, she clearly loves what she is doing. Make sure you check it out!
Leigh Coates IG: @helipilotleigh
Thanks to Preflight for sponsoring todays show! If you are interested in receiving a free 30 minute consultation to find out more about what Preflight can do for you reach out to them here and make sure you let them know I sent you!
Preflight Website
Preflight email
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Cayla and I talked about:
- Her unique path into aviation
- What her favorite type of flying is
- How she found her way into her current role with AOPA and passed up the "dream job" to stay there
- What an average day in her life looks like
- The things AOPA does to help pilots and protect our freedom to fly
- Tips for Oshkosh
- Tips for how to use social media to help general aviation
- Pros and cons to living in an airport community
- And a lot of other topics!
Cayla has a ton of great information to share and is a blast to chat with. Make sure you check it out!
Cayla IG: caylamcleod
Cayla Facebook: Cayla McLeod Hunt
Cayla Twitter: @pilotcayla
Cayla TikTok: caylamcleod
Also checkout AOPA, if you are not a member already you should be!
Thanks to Preflight for sponsoring todays show! If you are interested in receiving a free 30 minute consultation to find out more about what Preflight can do for you reach out to them here and make sure you let them know I sent you!
Preflight Website
Preflight email
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Kyle and I talked about:
- His path through aviation.
- All about how passion for aviation has shaped his life.
- Where his passion for storytelling and videography/photography came from.
- His new YouTube channel which will highlight aviators and their stories.
- Tips for how to get some good footage with some simple tools.
- And a lot of other topics!
Kyle is very passionate about sharing others stories, this is not one to miss. Make sure you check it out!
Aviators and Airplanes YouTube Channel: Aviators and Airplanes
Kyle Newsom IG: @kylenewsom1
Thanks to Preflight for sponsoring todays show! If you are interested in receiving a free 30 minute consultation to find out more about what Preflight can do for you reach out to them here and make sure you let them know I sent you!
Preflight Website
Preflight email
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Wes and I talked about:
- His path into aviation and specifically helicopters
- UND Aerospace and how their helicopter program has changed over the past few years
- The helicopter pilot and mechanic shortage
- The Robinson R44 Cadet
- Biggest challenges facing the helicopter and specifically the flight training industry
- Process and need for more helicopter DPEs
- And a lot of other topics!
Wes has a lot of passion, experience and advice that he shares in today's episode. Make sure you check it out!
UND Aerospace Helicopters : UND Aerospace
Thanks to Preflight for sponsoring todays show! If you are interested in receiving a free 30 minute consultation to find out more about what Preflight can do for you reach out to them here and make sure you let them know I sent you!
Preflight Website
Preflight email
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Vicky and I talked about:
- How she got started in aviation and her path to becoming an airshow pilot
- Her previous career and the importance of education
- How IAC competitions work
- The best way to get started and progress in aerobatic flying
- What she does to ensure her aircraft are ready to fly
- Air racing
- California Aeronautics University
- The upcoming all female airshow
- Lots of great advice for everyone
- And a lot of other topics!
Vicky has a lot of experience and has done so many cool things! She shares a lot of great advice on todays show, make sure you check her out!
Airshow Website: oregonairshow.com
Vicky's Website: Vicky Benzing
California Aeronautics University Website: CAU
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Aimee and I talked about:
- How she got started in aviation
- What the selection process is like to become the F-16 demo pilot
- How she was convinced she would be going to the Air Force Academy and then had to change her plans quickly
- Her incredible team who makes the F-16 demo possible
- The ignorance she hopes an all female airshow will combat
- How important it is to have the most qualified pilots operating in critical roles
- And a lot of other topics!
Aimee has an inspiring story and shares it in today's episode. She is humble and full of a lot of great advice, this is not one to miss!
Airshow Website: oregonairshow.com
Aimee's Instagram: Aimee "Rebel" Fiedler
Viper Demo Team IG: Viper Demo Team
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Indira and I talked about:
- How she got started as an airshow announcer
- Her career in the Canadian military
- Women in aviation
- The Oregon International Airshow's all women line up and the importance of this event
- Some great advice for anyone involved in aviation
- And a lot of other topics!
Indira has a lot of great experience and information that she shares on this episode! Make sure to check it out!
Airshow Website: oregonairshow.com
Song request emails: indirathackorie333@gmail.com
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Jared and I talked about:
- How he got started in the helicopter industry
- How he mismanaged his time and funds during his commercial
- The way he was able to get a job working for Croman
- Flying ENG
- Getting out of aviation and then back into it
- His story of going IIMC
- And a lot of other topics!
Jared has a lot of great experience and information that he shares on this episode! Make sure to check it out!
Website: https://flyhaa.com
Instagram: @hillsboroheli
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Chris and I talked about:
- How he got started in the helicopter industry
- Flying for the BP Oil Spill
- What it was like flying seismic exploration
- Training for and performing unique rescues in Yosemite
- Flying rescues on Mt. Everest
- Flying the incredible K-Max
- Tons of advice for anyone in the industry
- And a lot of other topics!
Chris is the kind of person who has done it all but doesn't want to show it off. He has so much incredible experience he shares today and such a fascinating story. It has to be one of my favorite interviews to date! Make sure to check it out!
Instagram: @mediocrepilot
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Faith and I talked about:
- How Faith became a helicopter mechanic
- HAI Heli Expo
- How she became an HAI Brand Ambassador
- The opportunities that exist in aviation especially as a mechanic
- How her Instagram and You Tube came to be
- What she hopes howtohelicopter becomes
- How she got to sit in Marine One
Faith is clearly very passionate about helping people find their way into the industry and showing folks what the industry is like. You should make sure to follow her accounts which are listed below!
Instagram: @howtohelicoper
You Tube: HowToHelicopter
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Catheline and I discussed:
- How she got started in aviation by learning to fly in Ireland
- Joining the French Military and flying helicopters
- Helping restore a DC-3 and then spending three weeks re-creating a route first flown by Jean Batten
- How she flew a Cherokee 140 from Alabama to Alaska in the winter
- How hard work and tenacity lead her to her current role for Dessert Air
- What it is like flying the DC-3 in Alaska
- And many other topics!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show I answer user submitted questions to include:
- Do helicopters have relief tubes?
- Advice for avoiding Aviation Induced Divorce Syndrome
- What is my background?
- What was my favorite flying job?
- What is the hardest part about a career in aviation?
- And more!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Petter and I talked about:
- How Petter became interested in aviation
- What his career path was like and how he worked to ensure it met his wife's goals as well
- What the EASA conversion process is like
- The steps it takes to become a sling load pilot in Norway
- What it is like "liming" lakes and why that is one of his favorite jobs
- How a virus infection has impacted his aviation career
- The creation of his company Preflight
- What services and solutions Preflight is offering to the world along with a special offer for one of our listeners
Petter is a great guy with a unique path through aviation. I am very exited to see where he goes and where Preflight takes him. If you want to get in touch with him please use the links below!
Website: Preflight
Info: info@preflightsafety.com
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Soeren and I talked about:
- How paragliding got Soeren started in aviation
- Advice for anyone taking a check ride
- What it is like flying float equipped helicopters
- What life is like working multiple jobs
- A little bit about the 407 HP conversion
- How he became a DPE
If you want to get in touch with Soeren you can find him on instagram
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Joe and I talked about:
- His Dad flying as an inspiration to him
- How he took a $700 inheritance to start his aviation career
- How firefighting on the ground played a role in his flying
- US Army flight school
- His career through the US Army
- Working for Columbia Helicopters firefighting, logging, moving oil rigs in Papua New Guinea, and flying in Afghanistan
- What the puke test was and how he mastered it
- Lots of advice and information that will help anyone in aviation
I think it is obvious in the episode that Joe made an impact on my life. He has a fascinating background and has a lot of knowledge and experience. He shares that experience and knowledge with everyone around him and makes us all better aviators for it. I really enjoyed talking with him and having him on the show! Make sure to check it out!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Travis and I talked about:
- How he became interested in helicopter flying
- His path through the helicopter world and the significant challenges he had making his way through it
- What it is like to fly for Winco Powerline Services
- From start to finish what steps they go through to build a power line
- Some of the power line repair jobs
- Advice he has for networking
- Advice for new pilots
- How to get into power line construction work
Travis may have had a challenging journey to his current role, he certainly has seen a large portion of the aviation industry and has a lot of great advice and insight for anyone who is in the industry. Make sure to check his show out!
You can reach out to him on instagram at @_travo_
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Patrick and I talked about:
- How he became interested in flying
- His path to becoming a Captain at Frontier Airlines
- How he prepared himself to work at a major airline
- What life is like as an airline pilot to include:
- Commuting
- Scheduling
- Seniority lists
- Upgrades
- Check airmen
- and much more!
- What he loves about his job
While Patrick has had a relatively "traditional" path through aviation I have had a lot of questions recently about airlines and what life is like as an airline pilot. I reached out Patrick to help us fill in the information and he did a great job!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Jordan and I talked about:
- How he ended up immigrating from South Africa to the United States
- Getting into the Air Force only to discover that he wouldn't be able to fly
- Learning about the Army Warrant Officer program and learning he could fly that way
- His career in the Army
- The direct commission program that got him into the Coast Guard
- What it is like being a pilot for the US Coast Guard and the challenges hoisting
- Flying his Cessna 180 through Canada during the middle Covid pandemic and the challenges with that
Jordan's path through aviation has been anything but normal, he is a super cool guy with a great story that is very inspiring I hope you enjoy the show!
Instagram: jj_the_av8r
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Falko and I talked about:
- A lot of great information about hoisting technicians and flying out to off shore wind parks
- What sparked him to get into aviation
- His training in the US
- How he flew a Huey for his first job after flight school
- Getting into fire fighting in the US
- Helping with clean up after the Deep Water Horizon incident to include helping clean pelicans
- Flying EMS
- The process and work he had to do to get his EASA certificates
Falko has a very unique path through aviation and has done a lot of really neat jobs. He has a lot of great information and stories to share, I know you will enjoy!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Barrett and I talked about:
- Barrett's unique path through the aviation industry
- How Barrett started his own company and continued to grow and diversify it
- Deciding to commit to Bridger Aerospace based on a gut feeling
- What it is like flying air attack and the basic aviation structure around a fire
- All sorts of goodies about the Super Scooper and flying on fires
- Information about Bridger Aerospace including what they are looking for in pilots
- Great advice for anyone who is a current flight instructor
Barrett has a unique path through aviation and is doing some very exciting things. Bridger Aerospace is growing and doing a lot of neat things right now! I know you will enjoy this episode and learn a lot!
Website: Bridger Aerospace
Info: info@bridgeraerospace.com
LinkedIn: Bridger Aerospace
Instagram: Bridger Aerospace
Facbook: Bridger Aerospace
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Nick and I talked about:
- How he discovered his desire to be a pilot in the military
- His use of the VA and GI bill to pay for his school and flight training
- What it is like living off shore flying helicopters in support of oil operations
- Flying heavy lift helicopters for Columbia Helicopters
- The training and testing for short haul and getting qualified to carry humans as external cargo
- His new role as an EMS pilot in his home town.
Nick is passionate about aviation and what he is doing. He has a lot of great experience and advice in this show. It was a lot of fun catching up and I am excited to share his story with the world!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show Kristi and I talked about:
- Turning her fear of flying into a new career
- Tips for finding new opportunities
- A creative way she funded part of her flight training
- How to manage being a pilot and having a family
- What it is like being a woman in aviation and some tips
Kristi is very passionate about her work, family, and aviation in general. She has some great life experiences that made this a really fun conversation. I know you all are going to love her!
Kristi's Instagram
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On today's show I interviewed Emily Herron. She is a fantastic guest and we talked about a lot of different topics to include:
- How she got into her current role as an airport manager
- The Piper Cub that her family has owned for the past 72 years
- The heritage flight she did with her Dad to visit all the places the Cub has been based
- How there are a ton of cool things about aviation but ultimately it is the people who make it so amazing
- Discussion on how to restore the fabric on the aircraft
- Talk about how important GA airports are to the communities they serve
- Discussed the recent tornadoes in Kentucky and how Emily, her airport, and a lot of people stepped up to help those in need
- How she comes up and creates the amazing reels on her instagram account
She is clearly very passionate about what she does and the aviation industry as a whole. You will love this episode and if you are not following her socials then you need to be. The YouTube channel is in works but I am confident it will be amazing once she is rolling on it!
Emily at the Airport Instagram
Emily at the Airport YouTube
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Checkout my website at aloftwithdan.com
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Joe Schoolcraft joins me on the show today and we discussed a lot of great topics to include:
- Starting his career as a glider pilot
- Getting his first aviation job offer before graduating high school
- How he got into seaplane flying and became a seaplane pilot
- How some of the only multi time he has is in a B-25 Mitchell
- What it was like flying in the Bahamas and Antigua
- How he ended up working for the USFS
- And all about his current roll as a pilot for the USFS
He is an amazing story teller and has a ton of great stories. His path is certainly unique and made me jealous! Just goes to show that hard work and sacrifice pays off!
You can find him on instagram!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at aloftwithdan@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Will Dyche joins me on the show today to discuss flying and his time in Afghanistan working with Columbia Helicopters. We covered a bunch of fun topics including:
- Will's background and how he ended up in Afghanistan flying for Columbia Helicopters
- His inspiration for working at Columbia
- How he got into ag flying
- We discuss long line and some tips and tricks for flying the line
- The kit fox they will be building soon
- Leadership in aviation and some advice he would have given his younger self
It was great to catch up with Will today and hear all the things he has going on! I hope you enjoy him and his episode!
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at dandoepker@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Dan Bolton joins me today to share his story and current role. We talked about:
- Dan’s background and how he got into flying turbine Grumman Mallards
- How his company developed an STC for the Grumman Mallards to convert them to turbines
- Gear down water landings
- Seaplane techniques and operating challenges
- Balancing a flying career and family
- How his social media and podcast came to be
- How his company is providing opportunities to go for a trip in these amazing aircraft
If you are not following Dan on Instagram already you should be, also as I said in the show his podcast and YouTube channel are incredible and you should check them out!
That Mallard Guy Instagram
On The Step Podcast
YouTube
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at dandoepker@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this weeks episode Ty Burlingham and I chat about a whole litany of topics which include:
- How he got into aviation
- The downfall of Silverstate Helicopters while he was working as a CFI for them
- What Precision LLC is currently doing
- Tips for getting a job with any company
- What Ty is looking for when hiring pilots
- Airplane ownership and some fun discussions of what you can do with them
It was fantastic chatting with Ty and I know I am excited to go flying with him soon.
You can find more from places discussed on the podcast here:
Ty's Instagram
Precision LLC Instagram
Precision LLC Webpage
Precision LLC Job page (For the airplane job you can also find that on http://climbto350.com)
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at dandoepker@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this weeks episode Rekha Lyons and I chat about a whole litany of topics which include:
- How she got into aviation
- What it was like growing up around aviation
- Her passion for human stories and how she ties that into her marketing efforts
- Her experience getting her private pilot certificate and working through challenges doing that
- The NBAA Business Aviation top 40 under 40 award recipient
- Airways Science for kids and her role as a board member
It was fantastic catching up with Rekha and I really enjoyed our conversation.
You can find more from places discussed on the podcast here:
Hillsboro Aviation
Airway Science for Kids
NBAA 40 under 40
If you have any feedback or thoughts please let me know! You can DM me on instagram or send me an email at dandoepker@gmail.com.
If you are enjoying the show please leave a review and give us some stars, it helps grow the show and get it out to more people. If you are really enjoying it and want to support the show please consider heading over to our patreon.
Thank you for listening, I appreciate it more than you know!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Phil Haupt is the kind of person who will go the extra mile to make sure that everyone has a job and a place to work. I have always been impressed by his professionalism, drive, and passion for the people in our industry. Phil and I spent time on today’s episode talking about:
- How he got into aviation
- How he transitioned from Florida to Oregon
- The characteristics that made Hillsboro Aero Academy feel like home
- His transition into FW training
- The ground school program he managed
- Why training in the United States and specifically at Hillsboro is a great choice, especially for folks internationally
- How I sprayed him in the face with de ice fluid (on accident but still 🤦♂️)
If you have a desire to speak with Phil and ask him more questions you can find him at:
phaupt@flyhaa.com
@hillsboroheli
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Today's episode features Fallon Blattner who works for Coulson Aviation as a heavy lift helicopter pilot flying the CH-46 Chinook. Fallon is a Veteran and flew Blackhawks in the Army. Fallon is on the board of directors for Whirly Girls and active helping both women and veterans. I hope you enjoy the episode.
As discussed in the episode here are the links for the Whirly Girls instagram and website:
@whirly_girls_intl
Whirlygirls.org
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Happy Veteran’s Day! Thank you to all of our Veteran’s and their families who have sacrificed so much for us and our country.
This week we have a special week for Veteran’s day with two episodes, today will be airplane focused and tomorrow will be helicopter focused. Both guests are amazing veterans who flew in the armed services.
Brett Kubat flew KC-10s in the United States Air Force, was deployed 7 times to the Middle East. Brett shares incredible advice for anyone who is looking to enter the Air Force or transition out into the civilian world.
After separating from the Air Force, Brett got a job with his dream major airline but not without some hiccups from Covid.
Brett has a wealth of knowledge and a lot of great stories, I am really excited to share his story.
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Forrest wanted to operate machinery since he was young. While working in a spider excavator on a ski lift he fell in love with the idea of flying helicopters as a blackhawk was setting poles. He immediately went to an airport and found someone with an R22 and started asking questions to get started. After quickly running out of money Forrest was stuck and needed a new plan.
Eventually starting his own company with a logging truck he was still toying with the idea of how to begin his dream of a helicopter career. He got the idea eventually to sell his business and use the money to go to flight school. His path is anything but traditional and a great lesson in tenacity and staying motivated. With that motivation and drive he was able to secure a job as an ag pilot after finishing school despite it being in the middle of the Covid pandemic.
Forrest’s story is inspiring and motivating. If you have the will and are willing to work hard, anything is possible.
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Christine is an incredible pilot and amazing long line pilot. From flight school to flying charters, tours, and camera work in New York Christine tells us all about how she worked her way through the industry to her current role as a heavy lift helicopter command pilot working to do aerial firefighting.
She is a ton of fun to chat with and has lots of great stories and advice for anyone in the industry. I am sure you will enjoy hearing her story as much as I did!
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Halsey and I worked together at Hillsboro Aviation in multiple roles. It was great catching up with Halsey and hearing about how he has progressed through the industry and to his current role as the host of The Helicopter Podcast and the owner and CEO of Sellacopter.
Learning about the helicopter market and the impact Covid has played on it was fascinating and one of my favorite parts. If you haven’t checked out his show yet go give them a listen. They are doing some exciting things this up coming season and he teases us with some of that details on this episode.
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Steve is about as hardworking of an individual as they come. I worked with Steve in Afghanistan and was instantly impressed with his drive, positive attitude, and zest for life. I am so proud and lucky to call Steve a friend and I couldn’t think of a better person to help me kick off this new podcast.
In this episode you will hear all about Steve’s deployment and eventual entry into the aviation industry. While working on his pilot certificates Steve was offered an opportunity to go back to Afghanistan with Columbia Helicopters as a Cabin Crew member. We discuss what he learned working with Columbia, how his training is going, and how his deployment has shaped his work.
This is the future of our industry and I am very excited to see where Steve’s future takes him. Check it out, I know you will enjoy hearing Steve’s story as much as I did.
If you enjoy the show and would like to support it please consider joining our Patreon, I have created one tier and you will receive an exclusive episode each month which will be a "solo" show with Dan, an Aloft with Dan sticker, and a shoutout on my next show.
https://www.patreon.com/Aloftwithdan
As always please send any feedback to me at dandoepker@gmail.com or DM me on instagram @aloftwithdan
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Introduction to Aloft with Dan a new podcast dedicated to rad people doing rad things in aviation!