In this episode celebrated aviator and Flight Instructor Hall of Fame inductee Greg Brown joins us for a lively discussion about building a fulfilling career. Greg will recount his non-linear career journey and how unexpected pivots often led to new opportunities; including becoming an author, flight instructor, chief pilot, and photographer. Our discussion explores themes of identity crisis, the vital role of community and mentorship in navigating challenges, and the importance of resilience in the face of setbacks within the demanding field of aviation. Greg's experiences underscore that passion for flying and the support of others are crucial for overcoming obstacles and discovering diverse opportunities within the industry.  

Greg’s Website-find all of his links here!

“Flying Carpet” Podcast

“Flying Carpet”’ Book

The Savvy Flight Instructor, Secrets of the Successful CFI 2nd Edition

The Turbine Pilot’s Flight Manual with Mark J. Holt, 5th Edition

Greg’s Photography, Art Prints, and Calendars

Greg Brown’s Student Pilot Pep Talk Group

So Good They Can't Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love by Cal Newport 

Explore the most effective strategies to learn and retain complex information. These tips are designed to help you prepare for FAA exams, refresh knowledge for proficiency checks, or to assist during a new type rating. 

Covering topics such as active recall, visualization, interleaved practice, spaced repetition, gamification, and lifestyle strategies like nutrition, physical activity, and proper rest, you’ll find actionable tips for improving your knowledge and retention. 

Listen and discover how to optimize your study habits to improve retention, with a touch of humor and real-life examples to help you put these techniques into action today.

00:00 Introduction to Effective Study Techniques

01:54 The Importance of Proper Study Techniques

06:04 Active Recall and Teaching Others

06:58 The Feynman Technique and Tennis Ball Method

12:32 Visualization Techniques for Better Learning

18:00 The Power of Handwritten Notes

21:19 Interleaved Practice: Mixing Topics for Better Retention

26:23 Mind Mapping: Connecting the Dots

29:10 Spaced Repetition: Reinforcing Knowledge Over Time

31:59 Quizlet: The Ultimate Flashcard App

35:09 Introduction to Pomodoro Technique

35:59 Benefits of Short Bursts and Breaks

37:34 Gamification in Learning

38:38 The Perfection Game Story

45:22 Leveraging First Principles

49:04 Lifestyle Strategies for Effective Learning

54:00 The Importance of Proper Rest

56:02 Caffeine and State-Dependent Learning

58:00 Recap and Listener Engagement

References for Study Techniques and Learning Strategies:

Active Recall & Spaced Repetition

Roediger, H. L., & Butler, A. C. (2011). The critical role of retrieval practice in long-term retention. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 15(1), 20-27.

Teaching Others (Feynman Technique)

Feynman, R. P. (1985). Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman! Adventures of a Curious Character. W.W. Norton & Company. 

Interleaved Practice

Rohrer, D., & Taylor, K. (2007). The effects of overlearning and distributed practice on the retention of mathematics knowledge. Journal of Educational Psychology, 99(1), 123–133.

Visualization

Cormier, S. M., & Hagman, J. (1987). Learning and memory: A comprehensive reference. Academic Press.

Minimize Distractions & Focused Study Environment

Shallice, T. (2004). The effect of distractions on studying. In: Cognitive Control (pp. 285-302). MIT Press.

Study Schedule and Time Management

Britton, B. K., & Tesser, A. (1991). Effects of time management practices on college grades. Journal of Educational Psychology, 83(3), 405–410.

Physical Activity & Cognitive Function

Chang, Y. K., Labban, J. D., Gapin, J. I., & Etnier, J. L. (2012). The effects of acute exercise on cognitive performance: A meta-analysis. Brain Research, 1453, 87–101.

Nutrition & Brain Function

Gómez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain foods: The effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(7), 568–578.

Hydration & Cognitive Performance

McDonnell, L. M., & McMahon, M. (2010). The impact of dehydration on cognitive performance. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 29(1), 26–33.

Sleep and Memory Consolidation

Walker, M. P., & Stickgold, R. (2006). Sleep, memory, and plasticity. Annual Review of Psychology, 57, 139–166.

Confronting Imposter Syndrome: Wisdom from Veteran Flight Instructor Robert “Bob” Meder. In this episode of the Calm Cockpit Podcast, veteran flight instructor Bob Meder shares his extensive experience and insights on dealing with imposter syndrome in aviation. The discussion takes listeners through the nuances of balancing confidence and humility, the importance of honest self-assessment, and practical strategies for managing fear and challenges. Bob reflects on his 31 years of teaching pilots and his role as an active board member for the National Association of Flight Instructors, offering tangible advice for aviators of all levels to improve their confidence and skills.

Want to sleep better tonight? This Bonus Episode presents a guided deep relaxation intended to promote sleep or return to sleep. Hosted solo by Gita, you’ll be easily guided through a natural process that gradually slows down the body and mind, allowing you to drift into a state of peace and rest. There is no pressure, no expectations; just a comfortable and supportive practice that will help you get the rest you need to feel better and enhance your aviation goals. 

Cue it up tonight for a great night’s sleep, and return to it often; the more you practice the easier it becomes to find your best night’s sleep!

In this episode hosts Gita and John delve into the crucial, yet often overlooked, topic of sleep and its impact on aviation performance. They tackle common myths, present the latest scientific research, and explore the distinctions between short-term sleep disruptions and long-term sleep deficiencies. Through a detailed discussion, they provide actionable strategies that pilots can start implementing today to improve their sleep quality today.

Helpful Links and Sources:

In this insightful episode, Tammy Barlette, the founder and CEO of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training, shares her experiences and strategies for using mental performance training to achieve aviation goals.

The discussion delves into the perils of perfectionism, the power of positive self-talk, and practical tools for improving cognitive and emotional resilience in high-pressure situations. With real-world examples from both military and civilian flying, this episode is packed with valuable insights for any aviator looking to enhance their performance and well-being.

For More Information on Crosscheck, or to sign up for a Mental Performance Course Click Here (https://tammybarlette.com/mental-performance-course)

In this episode we delve into how to build endurance without burnout. Jon shares insights from his recent around-the-world flight, including crew resource management and maximizing rest.

Gita introduces the six key habits that high performers use to enhance endurance and reduce stress. Listen in for practical tips, personal stories, and actionable strategies to balance career and personal well-being while building your endurance for all your flying adventures.

In the first OFFICIAL episode of The Calm Cockpit, John and Gita will share the challenges and successes in their flying lives that led to the creation of the podcast and how you can use the show to develop actionable strategies to mitigate stress, improve your well-being, and fly your best. We fly in a demanding environment that is unforgiving of preparation and lack of mental sharpness, listen to the Calm Cockpit and start leveling-up your performance today!