In this episode of Flight Tales, we sit down with Cole Ruckstuhl—pilot, instructor, and lifelong aviation enthusiast. From growing up in New Mexico to navigating the skies over Louisiana, Cole shares how early experiences with Microsoft Flight Simulator, mail-in questionnaires to real airline pilots, and unforgettable cockpit visits shaped his dream.But Cole’s story isn’t all smooth flying. After a mentor’s tragic crash, he nearly walked away from aviation for good. What brought him back? How did he turn fear into focus—and eventually become a certified flight instructor?We talk flight school struggles, the power of accelerated training, why tailwheel flying changed everything, and what it really takes to stay motivated through setbacks.Whether you're just starting out or already building hours, Cole’s story will remind you why we fall in love with flying in the first place.Owens Flight Training is a flight school based in Lafayette, Louisiana.www.owensflighttraining.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/owensflighttrainingInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/owensflighttraining