In this episode of The Aerpod, host Mitchell Banks speaks with Spencer Bailey, a paramedic turned helicopter pilot whose career has spanned emergency medical flights, offshore oil operations, and utility inspection. Spencer shares what it’s really like to fly air medical missions, how EMS pilots balance urgency with safety, and what the public often misunderstands about helicopter operations. He also explains the unique demands of low-level utility flying, the progression from flight school to turbine time, and his advice for anyone looking to build a career in rotorcraft aviation.

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In this episode of The Aerpod, former FAA executive director of aircraft certification Earl Lawrence breaks down how safety, regulation, and innovation actually work inside aviation. Earl shares stories from his time at the FAA, EAA, and Joby Aviation. He reveals how MOSAIC, UAS integration, and eVTOL aircraft are reshaping the industry.

You'll learn:
- How aircraft certification and manufacturing are changing under MOSAIC
- What it really takes to bring drones and eVTOLs into the national airspace
- Why collaboration between regulators, industry, and pilots is key to safety
- The future of advanced air mobility with companies like Joby

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In this episode of The Aerpod, host Mitchell Banks talks with Julia Rivera, a former KC-10 boom operator and flight engineer whose career bridges both manned and unmanned operations. Julia shares how she found aviation through family influence, why she chose the enlisted route, and what it was like training on one of the most capable refueling platforms ever built.

She breaks down the debate around reducing cockpit crews and human-factors risks behind proposed single-pilot airline operations. Julia offers an inside look at modern ISR and remotely-piloted aircraft, describing how crewed UAS missions work, how “no-blink” 24-hour operations are planned, and why complacency is one of the biggest threats in both manned and unmanned aviation.

Finally, Julia discusses how military aviation opened doors to Princeton, the University of Pennsylvania, and her current master’s work in national security policy at Duke. She offers practical advice for veterans, aspiring aviators, and anyone considering a career in the U.S. Armed Forces.

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In this episode of The AirPod, host Mitchell Banks interviews Colin Dunne, a jet broker with experience in both the US and European markets. They discuss the evolving landscape of private jet sales, including the changing demographics of buyers, the differences between first-time and experienced owners, and the unique challenges of selling high-value assets. Colin shares insights on the importance of building a reputation in the industry, the impact of technology on transactions, and the future of aviation with a focus on sustainability. The conversation highlights the significance of networking and personal relationships in achieving long-term success in the aviation sector.

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In this episode, Austin Greenheck shares his journey from learning to fly in Minot, North Dakota, to becoming a first officer on a Boeing 777 freighter. He discusses his diverse flying experiences, including corporate flying and flying warbirds like the P-51 Mustang. Austin emphasizes the importance of quality of life in aviation careers, the challenges of the current pilot market, and the significance of learning from every experience. He also provides insights into the role of designated pilot examiners and the future of single-pilot operations in aviation.

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In this episode of the The Aerpod podcast, host Mitchell Banks speaks with Colton Whitesell, a flight instructor and corporate pilot, about his journey in aviation. They discuss the various pathways to becoming a pilot, the importance of flight training, and the challenges faced in the industry. Colton shares his experiences transitioning from flight instruction to corporate aviation, the significance of networking, and the current state of the aviation industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning, the impact of the 1500-hour rule, and the importance of humility in aviation.

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