More to the Story: Making Aviators w/ Jason Miller

In this episode of the More to the Story, a feature series on the More Right Rudder podcast, host and NAFI’s Director of Publications and Editor, Beth Stanton interviews Jason Miller, a seasoned flight instructor and founder of The Finer Points. Miller wrote Making Aviators in the July/August issue of Mentor magazine. They discuss the critical first 25 hours of flight training, the importance of establishing good habits early on, and the role of flight instructors in shaping competent aviators. Miller shares insights on teaching strategies, the significance of visual references, and the use of technology in flight training. The conversation emphasizes the need for quality instruction and resources to support both instructors and students in their aviation journey. NAFI members can access Miller’s article at https://my.nafimentor.org.  If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today. Use the promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new or renewal NAFI membership at https://nafimentor.org. Thank you to AOPA, ForeFlight, and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.  

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, host Sarah Staudt speaks with Jeffrey Madison, an airline pilot and author, about the significance of NASA reports in flight training. They discuss how these reports can enhance decision-making skills for flight instructors and students, the importance of learning from real-life aviation incidents, and the value of sharing experiences through the NASA reporting system. Madison also shares anecdotes from his book, which aims to provide insights into common mistakes made by pilots and the lessons learned from them. Additionally, they highlight Madison's book YIKES! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did Yet Lived to Tell About 'Em and the Victor Kilo Fund, which supports flight scholarships for under-resourced students in aviation.   New or returning NAFI members can save $5 on a NAFI membership with code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org   Thank you to ForeFlight, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.    Resources: Aviation Safety Reporting System website: https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/ Aviation Safety Reporting System Advisory Circular: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1039459 YIKES the book and Victor Kilo Fund: https://www.victorkilofund.org/product/BuyYikesTheBook 

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt interviews Don Wykoff from Sporty's Academy about the modernization of Part 141 flight training regulations. They discuss the need for updates to reflect current technologies and training methods, the challenges faced by smaller flight schools, and the importance of quality assurance in pilot training. Wykoff emphasizes the potential for improved training outcomes and the role of technology in shaping the future of aviation education.   Not yet a NAFI member? Join us at https://nafimentor.org   Thank you to Sporty's, ForeFlight, and Garmin for sponsoring this episode of More Right Rudder.   

In this episode of More Right Rudder, we welcome Sean Sherman, aviation technologist owner of Skeeter Enterprises, to demystify two increasingly relevant technologies in general aviation: RADAR and LiDAR altimeters. Whether you're a flight instructor looking to improve your students' understanding of new cockpit tools or a GA pilot exploring your next avionics upgrade, this episode will help you make sense of the options. This episode includes: The fundamental differences between RADAR and LiDAR technologies How each system measures altitude—and how that matters in real-world conditions Factors to consider when choosing the right technology for your aircraft and mission profile Instructional tips for CFIs incorporating these systems into flight training Safety considerations, including limitations, environmental factors, and failure modes If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. Thank you to Sporty's, AOPA, and ForeFlight for sponsoring this episode.

In this More to the Story episode of More Right Rudder, we explore the perspective of flight instruction without power—just heat, wind, and a whole lot of planning. Beth Stanton, NAFI's Director of Publications, sits down with Kim and Adam Magee, co-founders of The Balloon Training Academy and recent Mentor magazine contributors, to discuss the unique world of hot air ballooning. They dive into the key differences between powered and non-powered flight, including weather considerations, ground crew coordination, and risk management. The Magees share valuable tips every powered aircraft pilot should know—from how balloonists read the skies to what it really takes to launch, navigate, and land a balloon safely. And what to do if you encounter one at your airport. It’s an eye-opening conversation for any pilot ready to think beyond the engine. Learn more about balloon flying at The Balloon Training Academy: https://www.theballoontrainingacademy.com/ Thank you to our sponsors Sporty's and ForeFlight.   If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Anybody is welcome to join. You can save $5 on your new or renewal membership with code PODSAVE5.

The sky is changing—and so is the role of the flight instructor. In this episode of More Right Rudder, we’re joined by Chris Penningroth, former Air Force pilot and leader of NAFI’s eVTOL and Powered Lift Special Interest Group. Penningroth brings his unique perspective to a conversation about the emergence of eVTOL and powered-lift aircraft and what they mean for the future of flight training. We explore the growing demand for instructors in this cutting-edge sector, the challenges of developing new training materials and standards, and how AI could play a role in everything from instruction to aircraft operations. Someday, an eVTOL/powered-lift aircraft will arrive at an airport near you. Start getting ready for that day, today. If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. NAFI members have access to nearly a dozen Special Interest Groups, on a wide variety of instructional specialties. FAA eVTOL and Powered-lift Final Rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/11/21/2024-24886/integration-of-powered-lift-pilot-certification-and-operations-miscellaneous-amendments-related-to Thank you to Gleim Aviation and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.

Join us for a deep dive into SimVenture 2025, PilotEdge’s immersive virtual re-creation of flying into EAA AirVenture! This summer’s event, scheduled for July 11–13, puts you right in the cockpit as you fly the Fisk Arrival complete with landing on the colored dots, flagmen, parking, and departure. Throughout the event you'll receive air traffic instructions from the actual Oshkosh air traffic controllers. There's no better way to prepare whether this is your first time down the tracks or a seasoned veteran. The best part is it is all done from the safety of your home or flight school simulator. Even if you aren't flying to AirVenture this year, participating in SimVenture is a great way to sharpen your situational awareness skills and take on the challenge.  This episode delves into the 2025 updates to the technology, "Fly-to-win" contest, and schedule followed by an encore presentation of our SimVenture 2024 episode. Read all about it at the link below and mark your calendars for July 11 - 13, 2025 to participate in SimVenture 2025. https://www.pilotedge.net/pages/simventure Thank you to Kevin from PilotEdge for taking the time to come on More Right Rudder. 

In this inspiring episode of More Right Rudder, host Sarah Staudt sits down with Guinness World Record holder, and NAFI member, Rodrigo Silvestre Molina Diaz. This conversation is facilitated with translation assistance from Gus Sanchez of Stratus Financial. Diaz's record is the most flying hours by a flight instructor (male). From his early days in aviation to the milestones that earned him a place in the record books, Rodrigo shares what drives his passion for teaching, how he’s shaped countless pilots’ journeys, and tales of a Cherokee 140 with an eye-popping number of hours on the airframe. Check out Diaz's record on the Guinness World Records website here: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/747294-most-flying-hours-by-a-flight-instructor-male Thank you to SiriusXM Aviation and Gleim Aviation for sponsoring this episode.   

Join NAFI today: https://nafimentor.org 🎉 100,000 Downloads: A Milestone Reunion 🎉 To celebrate reaching 100,000 downloads, current podcast hosts Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Beth Stanton, NAFI's director of publications and editor, are joined by podcast founder John Niehaus. We reflect on the origins of the podcast, how it all began, and the unexpected journey that’s unfolded since. From humble beginnings to storytelling to evolution, this episode has it all. We also talk about what each host loves most about being part of the show, and the moments that have made it all worthwhile. As we mark this major milestone, we also look to the future—sharing ideas, hopes, and what’s next for the podcast and the growing community around it. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just discovered the show, this episode is a celebration of how far we’ve come—and a thank-you to everyone who’s made it possible. Thank you to Sporty's and Avemco for sponsoring this episode of More Right Rudder.  

In this episode, host and NAFI editor Beth Stanton sits down with renowned flight instructors Barry and Brian Schiff for an engaging conversation about their decades of experience. From memorable student stories to evolving training techniques, the Schiffs share insights, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way. Plus, Brian Schiff announces his exciting new column, CFI Care, focused on practical advice, humor, and storytelling. Whether you're a student pilot or a seasoned CFI, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and a deep love for aviation education.   Join NAFI at https://nafimentor.org Podcast listeners save $5 on their new or renewal membership with code PODSAVE5