Stuck Mic AvCast

By Carl Valeri, Rick Felty, Victoria Neuville, Sean MoodyLeisure Aviation

Stuck Mic AvCast episodes

October 18 SMAC360 Own, Rent, or Flying Club?
For many pilots, one of the biggest questions after earning a certificate—or while building experience—is how to get consistent access to an airplane.
Should you keep renting? Join a flying club? Or take the leap into aircraft ownership?
Each option comes with advantages, tradeoffs, and costs that go well beyond the hourly rental rate or aircraft purchase price.
In this episode of Stuck Mic AvCast, we break down the practical considerations pilots should think about before deciding whether to buy, rent, or join a flying club.
Picks Of The Week:
Carl – MyClipMulti Kneeboard, Universal Phone & Tablet KNEEBOARD – https://link.amazon/B0cVMz4Ur
Leslie – Pilot Workshops “Pilot’s Legal Guide”
https://pilotworkshop.com/products/pilots-legal-guide-pfm
Alex – https://www.instagram.com/its.heraltitude/

Sponsor Aviation Careers Podcast
Interested in a Full Time or Part Time Career in Aviation?
Book A Coaching Session With Me: https://carlvaleri.youcanbook.me
Stay Inspired and Informed Every Month. Join Our Mentorship Group: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Use the Coupon Code “CoachItForward” for one month of free access.
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1 hr 3 min
October 01 SMAC359 How to Handle a Pilot Deviation with Aviation Attorney Chris Pezalla
You just landed after a challenging flight when the controller says, ‘Possible pilot deviation—advise you contact the facility.’ What should you do next? Should you immediately make the call? Should you explain what happened? And could your pilot certificate be at risk?
A possible pilot deviation does not automatically mean the end of your flying career. Your immediate priority is operating the aircraft safely. After landing, slow down, document what happened, understand your reporting deadlines and obtain qualified guidance before making decisions that could affect your certificate or career.
Links:
https://pilotcounsel.com/
One on One Career Coaching:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/
We will help you define your goals and create a plan to land your dream job.
Mentorship:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/mentorship/
Receive one month access to the mentorship community free using the coupon code “CoachItForward”
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51 min
September 15 SMAC358 Life Of An FAA Flight Inspection Pilot
What does an FAA Flight Inspection Pilot actually do, and how does this specialized work help keep the National Airspace System safe?
In this episode of the Stuck Mic AvCast, Carl Valeri interviews Russ Roslewski about his career as an FAA Flight Inspection Pilot. Russ takes us behind the scenes of flight inspection missions and explains how pilots and mission specialists evaluate the navigational facilities, instrument procedures, and systems used by aircraft throughout the aviation system.
We discuss the qualifications needed to pursue this unique aviation career, the FAA hiring process, the aircraft and equipment used during missions, and what a typical flight inspection assignment may involve.
Russ also shares memorable experiences from his career and offers practical advice for pilots interested in working for the FAA or exploring aviation careers beyond the airlines.
Take the Next Step in Your Aviation Career
Are you trying to determine the best path toward your aviation career goals?
Join our coaching and mentorship programs for personalized career guidance, interview preparation, accountability, and support from experienced aviation professionals.
Learn more:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/
Connect With Stuck Mic AvCast
Website: https://stuckmicavcast.com
Podcast: https://stuckmicavcast.com/podcast-subscription-options/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@StuckMicAvCast
Email: [email protected]
Subscribe to the Stuck Mic AvCast and turn on notifications for more general aviation interviews, industry updates, and just plane fun. Learning To Fly, Living To Fly, and Loving To Fly
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45 min
September 01 SMAC357 The Aging Pilot
Today we will discuss aging challenges and provide tools to continue flying as you, your friends, or learners approach and navigate the golden years.
There is no mandatory retirement age for General Aviation (GA) pilots flying non-commercial aircraft in the U.S. While airline pilots face a strict mandatory retirement age of 65, GA pilots simply need to hold a valid medical certificate and maintain proficiency to continue flying.
Medical Considerations: FAA Medical/Basic Med/Transition to Sport Pilot?
Insurance Considerations
Adjusting to the Aging Process (short summary of AOPA’s Aging & the GA Pilot course)
Vision
· Yearly eye exam
· Low-level white light vs red at night
· Haze-cutting prescription sunglasses
· ADSB-in for situational awareness
Hearing
· Noise cancelling headset, hearing aids?
· “Say again”
· LiveATC.net, scripts, role-playing
Endurance
· Regular physicals, lab work, check meds
· Regular exercise and mobility exercises
· Time of day: mornings/late afternoons for smoother air, avoid after lunch
· Eating/drinking: Coffee, hydration, snacks, shorter legs
· Lack of rest = Early onset fatigue
Memory
· Use a notepad/pen especially when talking to ATC
· Mornings are generally best
· Consider flying with friends
Decision Making
· Thorough preflight, think about different scenarios and contingency plans
· Always know where you are at
· Always have a Plan B
Studies show that experience plays a huge role in offsetting cognitive decline in older pilots.
Fly regularly & actively
Adjusting personal minimums as needed
Go above & beyond with recurrent training (yearly flight review and IPC, WINGS, seek out a new rating)
Regularly & honestly assess your skills beyond stick & rudder (memory, information processing, decision making, task saturation)
When should the aging pilot slow down, or call it quits?
How to keep flying even when you must call it quits?
Find a friend to fly with.
Training for another rating to keep sharp even if you can’t use the rating.
Find an instructor who needs to build hours and take them on a cross country flight and buy them lunch.
After Landing Checklist:
Pick Of The Week:
Leslie – AOPA Rusty Pilots Program: In-person seminars, webinars, and online course
https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/lapsed-pilots/rusty-pilots
Carl –
https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/online-learning/safety-spotlights/aging-gracefully
Alex – The MOSAIC Rule in plain English
Mad Props Aero
https://youtu.be/cfRy6VRcr6w?si=czthhgO06Scu0HsL
Russ – A Higher Call by Adam Makos: https://www.amazon.com/Higher-Call-Incredible-Chivalry-War-Torn-ebook/dp/B0095ZQ36G/
Links
https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/MOSAIC
https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/fact_sheets/MOSAIC_Fact_Sheet.pdf
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/
Coaching, Courses, and Scholarships.
Upcoming Events and Air Shows:
https://FlySnf.org 2027 – April 6-11
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56 min
August 15SMAC356 Porsche & Planes
What happens when Porsches, airplanes, aviation enthusiasts, young aviators, and community organizations all come together in one hangar?
In this episode of the Stuck Mic AvCast, we visit the Porsche & Planes Morning Social, presented by Jeremy & Kilo Aviation at Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL). The event brought together premium automobiles, aircraft, pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and members of the local community for a morning centered around a shared passion for cars and flying.
We also sit down for several conversations highlighting different sides of the aviation community.
Featured Interviews
Fly With Jeremy
We talk with Jeremy about the idea behind Porsche & Planes, why he created an event combining automobiles and aviation, and how gatherings like this can introduce more people to general aviation. We also discuss building community around the airport and Jeremy’s passion for sharing aviation with others.
Young Aviator Wyatt
One of the highlights of the event is meeting Wyatt, a young aviation enthusiast with big aviation dreams. We talk about what sparked his interest in airplanes, what he hopes to accomplish in aviation, and why exposing young people to aircraft, pilots, and airports can have such an impact on their future.
American Red Cross
We speak with representatives from the American Red Cross about its mission, its role in the community, and opportunities for aviation professionals and volunteers to use their skills to help others.
About Porsche & Planes
The Porsche & Planes Morning Social was held Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Xavier Hangar & Ramp at Lakeland Linder International Airport (KLAL).
The morning included Porsche displays, premium aircraft, aviation and automotive conversations, networking, cockpit and aircraft viewing, coffee and donuts, giveaways, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Cars. Aviation. Community.
Question for Our Listeners
What aviation event, pilot, or experience first inspired you to become involved in aviation?
Share your story in the comments.
And if you know someone like Wyatt who dreams of flying, invite them to an airport, introduce them to a pilot, or take them flying. You might change the direction of their life.
Sponsor:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/ Coaching, Courses, and Scholarships.
Upcoming Events and Air Shows:
http://flysnf.org/ 2027 – April 6-11
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28 min
August 01 SMAC355 The Navigator’s Letter
Today we have a special guest Jan Cress Dondi author of The Navigator’s Letter The Navigator’s Letter, a USA Today bestseller and WWII narrative nonfiction, follows the Ploesti campaign through the experiences of two B-24 navigators, John B. and Bob—Jan’s uncle and father—friends from the same small Illinois town whose lives unfolded in strikingly parallel ways.
Sponsor:
https://pilotcounsel.com/
Talking Points:
The discovery of 500-600 wartime letters
• Why Ploesti matters
• Operation Tidal Wave—audacious as planned; obstacles in execution
• The two navigators’ parallel journeys, their voices throughout the book
• Research and personal connection
• Operation Reunion—overlooked humanitarian mission, forgotten history
Links:
The Navigator’s Letter: The True Story of Two WWII Airmen, a Doomed Mission, and the Woman Who Bound Them Together
Find The Book On Amazon:
https://amzn.to/4pNOHvi
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/ Coaching, Courses, and Scholarships.
Upcoming Events and Air Shows:
https://FlySnf.org 2027 – April 6-11
Website: https://jancressdondi.com/
IG: @b24navigators
FB: The Navigator’s Letter
LinkedIn: Jan Cress Dondi
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58 min
July 15 SMAC354 Speed Brake Armed
Today, we have a special guest, Peter Buffington, an airline pilot and amazing aviation-themed musician. His high-energy and visually exciting channel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@SpeedBrakeArmed
Preflight:
Sponsor:
https://pilotcounsel.com/
Cruise Flight:
Talking Points:
Peter’s aviation journey and what inspired him to fly.
He was able to meld his passion for aviation with a passion for music.
What is SpeedBrake Armed?
Why he feels SpeedBrake armed resonates with those who love to fly.
Where can we find Peter online?
What is next?
After Landing Checklist:
Pick Of The Week:
No pick of the week if an interview.
Links:
https://www.youtube.com/@SpeedBrakeArmed
Upcoming Events and Air Shows:
https://FlySnf.org 2027 – April 6-11
SpeeBrake Armed Airshows:
Oshkosh 2026 – July 20 – 26 (Night Airshow Music Wed & Sat.)
Northern Alabama Airvest 2026 Sept 11 (VIP) 12 – 13 (Public) Pryor Field Regional Airport (DCU) in Tanner, Alabama
National Light Sport Aircraft and Ultralight Fly-in 2026, Oct 1 – 3. Hodges Field Ultralight Fly-In in Andersonville, GA
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58 min
July 01 SMAC353 Matt Ryan AvWeb Lead Editor
Today, we have a special guest, Matt Ryan. Matt is AVweb’s lead editor. His eyes have been turned to the sky for as long as he can remember. Now a fixed-wing pilot, instructor, and aviation writer, Matt also teaches in
a college aviation program in the Dallas area. Today, we discuss Matt’s lifelong love for aviation and how a spark at a young age lit the flame that is seen by aviation enthusiasts throughout the world.
Sponsor:
https://pilotcounsel.com/
Links
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/
Coaching, Courses, and Scholarships.
https://avweb.com/
Upcoming Events and Air Shows:
https://FlySnf.org 2027 – April 6-11
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38 min
June 15 SMAC352 International Red Cross Navigates The World’s Most Dangerous Skies
Did you know the International Committee of the Red Cross runs one of the
most complex humanitarian flight operations in the world? Today we have a
special guest ICRC’s Head of Air Ops Laurent Camisa to describe the life
saving and humanitarian efforts of the ICRC and specifically their flight
operations.
Preflight:
Sponsor:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/
Coaching, Courses, and Scholarships.
Cruise Flight:
Talking Points:
What is the ICRC: https://blogs.icrc.org/intercross/
The aviation mission of the ICRC.
What type and how many aircraft do you have?
Who flies the aircraft?
Describe a “typical” mission.
Why the mission is critical and how we can help.
After Landing Checklist:
Links:
ICRC Aviation YouTube
https://blogs.icrc.org/intercross/2026/04/16/cleared-for-takeoff-how-the-international-red-cross-navigates-the-world-s-most-dangerous-skies/
https://x.com/ICRC
https://x.com/ICRC_dc
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33 min
June 01 SMAC351 Alpha Kilo Warrior YouTuber and Pilot Advocate
Today we have a special guest Alex Koziol better known as Alpha Kilo Warrior on YouTube. Alex was a volunteer this year at Sun N Fun and has been encouraging and entertaining pilots through his YouTube Channel.
Preflight:
Sponsor:
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/ Courses, Coaching, and Scholarships.
Cruise Flight:
Talking Points:
Alpha Kilo Warrior 51-Year-Old.
General Aviation Private Pilot 300 hours. Started Flying in 2001 after 9/11. Took 10-years off, Rusty Pilot started a YouTube channel due to being Rusty.
Aviation Ambassador in New England.
Aviation Entertainment videos since Feb 2024
Target audience: Non-Pilots
Successful Videos: Class-C Airport Arrivals
Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube
Is there anything in your content that stands out compared to some other flying/aviation channels?
How many cameras do you typically fly with? Where are they mounted?
How long does it take to edit one of your videos?
What is your favorite airplane to fly?
What is your favorite airport to fly into?
What is your favorite airport to visit?
Which video was your favorite to film or edit?
I’m coming up to New England for the first time and going to rent a plane. What advice would you give?
Has anyone you know of been inspired to start flight training by finding your content?
After Landing Checklist:
Pick Of The Week:
No pick of the week since this is an interview.
Links
https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/ Courses, Coaching, and Scholarships.
https://www.alphakilowarrior.com/
Upcoming Events and Air Shows:
FlySnf.org 2027 – April 6-11
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46 min