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Aero Exploration: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Flying Midwest Media
The AeroExploration Podcast explores aviation’s past and the paths people are taking in the industry today. Join host Jim Schilling for stories of historic flights, modern aviation careers, and the passion that keeps us looking to the skies. Aviation has a past worth remembering, destinations worth exploring, and people worth meeting. This is AeroExploration.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- Apr 12, 20261h 15m
Episode 80 - Flight Sim Kid Becomes Air Traffic Controller | W/ @PropHatCat
What if the voice you hear at 35,000 feet started with a kid behind a computer screen playing flight simulator?This week on AeroExploration, we sit down with @PropHatCat—an air traffic controller and viral aviation creator who’s pulling back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood roles in aviation.From running “imaginary traffic” in 8th grade on flight sim to working real aircraft at a Center facility, his journey is anything but typical. We dive into the FAA hiring process, what it actually takes to make it through training, and the mental demands of working high-altitude traffic where every call matters.But what makes this conversation stand out is how he’s using social media to bridge a long-standing gap between pilots and controllers—translating phraseology, breaking down real-world scenarios, and giving aviators a rare, unfiltered look behind the mic.If you’ve ever wondered what controllers are really thinking… or how to become one… this episode delivers.AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Mar 25, 20261h 8m
Episode 79 - We're All WRONG about the FAA: Inside the FSDO with Nick Matlock
What really happens behind the scenes at the FAA?In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we sit down with FAA Inspector Nick Matlock (@incommand0) to break down one of aviation’s most misunderstood roles. From his journey as a pilot to his transition into the FAA, Nick shares what it’s actually like working inside a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).We dive into the stigma surrounding the FAA, common misconceptions among pilots, and how inspectors are working to improve safety—not punish aviators. Nick offers valuable insight into regulations, compliance, and how pilots can better work with the FAA instead of fearing it.If you’ve ever wondered what happens on the other side of the clipboard, this episode pulls back the curtain.In This Episode:Nick Matlock’s aviation journey and career transitionWhat an FAA Inspector actually does day-to-dayInside the FSDO: roles, responsibilities, and prioritiesBreaking the stigma: Is the FAA really “out to get pilots”?Any opinions or statements made by Nick are solely his own and are not made in any official capacity. They do not reflect the views, policies, or positions of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the U.S. Government.Connect with Nick:Social: @incommand0 (Instagram, TikTok, and more)AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Mar 17, 202621 min
Episode 78 - Saving Airports from SNOWMAGEDDON: Airport Snow Operations
How do airports stay open during massive snowstorms?When a blizzard hits, pilots aren’t the only ones fighting the weather. Behind the scenes, an entire operation is working nonstop to keep runways open, aircraft moving, and passengers safe.In this episode of AeroExploration, we take you inside the world of airport winter operations—from the high-stakes decisions inside the Snow Desk to the incredible precision of snow removal convoys clearing runways in minutes.You’ll learn how:✈️ Airports execute coordinated “snow ballet” plowing operations✈️ Runway conditions are measured using TALPA and RCAM✈️ Pilots determine whether they can safely land on snow-covered runways✈️ Deicing, holdover times, and winter weather impact every flight✈️ A single snowstorm can trigger massive delays across the entire aviation systemWhether you’re a pilot, aviation enthusiast, or just someone who’s been stuck in a winter delay, this is the story behind what’s really happening outside your window.AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Mar 12, 202657 min
Episode 77 - What It Takes to Livestream MSP Airport: With Alex Redding
What does it take to livestream one of America’s busiest airports?In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we sit down with Alex Redding, the creator behind MSP Airport LIVE, the popular plane-spotting livestream focused on Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP).Alex grew up just minutes from the airport, where a lfascination with airplanes eventually collided with a career in video production and broadcasting. That combination led to the creation of MSP Airport LIVE — a YouTube channel that allows aviation enthusiasts around the world to watch aircraft arrivals and departures from MSP in real time.In this conversation we explore:• Growing up near Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport• How a passion for aviation turned into a YouTube channel• The equipment and production behind an airport livestream• What it takes to run a live plane-spotting broadcast• The aviation community that formed around the channel• Where Alex hopes to take MSP Airport LIVE in the futureIf you enjoy plane spotting, aviation YouTube channels, airport livestreams, or behind-the-scenes aviation content, this episode offers a fascinating look at how aviation passion projects can reach audiences around the world.MSP AIRPORT LIVE: https://www.youtube.com/@mspairportliveAeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Mar 4, 202656 min
Episode 76 - Beyond the Airlines: Careers in Aircraft Management
Episode 76 – Finding an Aviation Career Through Aircraft ManagementNot every aviation career follows the traditional airline pipeline.In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, Jim sits down with Ellen, a CFI, CFII, and Part 135 commercial pilot working in the specialized world of aircraft management.Aircraft management companies help non-pilot aircraft owners handle the many responsibilities of aircraft ownership. From coordinating maintenance and insurance to maintaining logbooks and managing day-to-day operational details, these companies make it possible for owners to enjoy the benefits of aircraft ownership without managing every detail themselves.When it’s time for the aircraft to fly, Ellen’s team works to match the mission with the right pilot.Ellen shares how networking at the FBO opened unexpected career doors, and why aviation offers far more career paths than many pilots realize. Her story is a great reminder that the aviation industry is full of opportunities if you’re willing to build relationships and stay curious.What aircraft management companies doWorking with non-pilot aircraft ownersHow Part 135 charter fits into aircraft managementCoordinating pilots for owner flightsWhy networking at the FBO mattersFinding your own path in aviationAeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Feb 25, 20261h 6m
Episode 75- The Second Take: Erik Fletcher's Charter Pilot Life
Two years ago, Eric Fletcher joined us to share his incredible journey from Hollywood camera operator to corporate pilot. After years behind the lens capturing iconic moments in shows like Dexter and True Blood, Eric traded red carpets for runways and began a bold second chapter in aviation.Now he’s back.In this follow-up conversation, we revisit Eric’s transition story — but this time from 35,000 feet. Since our last episode, Eric has moved into the world of international charter operations, flying longer legs to fascinating destinations across the globe. He shares what it’s really like stepping into high-end charter flying, how the job differs from traditional corporate aviation, and the realities of operating in diverse airspace, cultures, and time zones.AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Dec 31, 202518 min
Episode 74 - Aviation Year in Review '25: Under Pressure
In this Aviation 2025 Year in Review episode, we examine a year defined by pressure, scrutiny, and silent success. From the DCA mid-air collision and aviation near misses to Air Traffic Control staffing challenges, infrastructure strain, and the impacts of a government shutdown, the aviation industry faced unprecedented attention. This episode looks beyond the headlines to highlight the professionals and systems that kept aviation safe every day, reflects on how AeroExploration evolved in 2025, and outlines the direction of the podcast heading into 2026.AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
- Dec 12, 202521 min
Episode 73 - Stuck in Flight Training? You’re Not Alone
In this episode of AeroExploration, Jim opens up about his long, winding journey toward the CFI certificate — a path filled with delays, job changes, health setbacks, family obligations, and everything in between. If your own training has stalled, stretched out, or taken an unexpected detour, this episode is designed to be the encouragement and practical guidance you need.We talk through why delays in flight training are so common, how legendary aviators faced their own obstacles, and how you can stay motivated even when you’re grounded. You’ll walk away with mindset tools, study strategies, and real-world advice for pushing through the slow seasons of aviation training.This is an honest, coffee-table-style conversation for every pilot who’s ever thought:“Why is this taking so long?”AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
About Aero Exploration
The AeroExploration Podcast explores aviation’s past and the paths people are taking in the industry today. Join host Jim Schilling for stories of historic flights, modern aviation careers, and the passion that keeps us looking to the skies. Aviation has a past worth remembering, destinations worth exploring, and people worth meeting. This is AeroExploration.
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