The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast

By Manny Ramirez

Welcome to an aviation podcast that caters to all aviation enthusiasts, ranging from pilots to airplane spotters. Our show covers a wide range of topics, including private pilot training, airline oper... more

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FAQs about The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast:

How many episodes does The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 35 episodes available.

The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast episodes:

June 17, 2024 Flying Chickens: Special Guest | Mike Strasser | Part 2
Part two is here, y’all! Mike is an exceptionally talented and fascinating individual. In addition to being an airline pilot, he and his brother Stefan run a cartoon series called Chicken Wings—featuring chickens that fly, though not in the way you'd expect. Mike also operates a retail store selling Chicken Wings merchandise and a variety of aviator-related items, such as patches, airplane models, and gifts. Join us, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

ABOUT MIKE
Mike's fascination with aviation dates back to his earliest memories. Every spare moment was devoted to building model aircraft, flying RC planes, or working part-time at the local airport, where he washed, fixed, and fueled aircraft. After completing an engineering degree in Electronics, he promptly pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He began with motor gliders and single-engine planes before discovering his passion for helicopters. This led to a 20-year career in Wildland Firefighting Helicopters, where he flew everything from a Bell Ranger to a massive Boeing Chinook.
After what he describes as "having had a good run," Mike transitioned to flying for the airlines and is now a captain of a regional jet. His flying adventures have taken him around the globe. While he has forgotten most of what he learned about electronics, he has collected numerous stories and ideas for his aviation-themed cartoon, "Chicken Wings Comics," which he creates with his brother Stefan whenever he's not flying.

www.chickenwingscomics.com
www.aviatorwebsite.com
Instagram: mikeystrasser | chickenwingscomics
Contact: [email protected]
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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35min
June 10, 2024 Flying Chickens: Special Guest | Mike Strasser | Part 1
Mike and I were sim partners during our upgrade training at SkyWest Airlines. His awesome Austrian accent and diverse background led to many captivating stories during training. Today, sit back and meet Mike as we catch up after training and jump into his aviation journey, beginning with helicopters and firefighting.

ABOUT MIKE
Mike's fascination with aviation dates back to his earliest memories. Every spare moment was devoted to building model aircraft, flying RC planes, or working part-time at the local airport, where he washed, fixed, and fueled aircraft. After completing an engineering degree in Electronics, he promptly pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He began with motor gliders and single-engine planes before discovering his passion for helicopters. This led to a 20-year career in Wildland Firefighting Helicopters, where he flew everything from a Bell Ranger to a massive Boeing Chinook.
After what he describes as "having had a good run," Mike transitioned to flying for the airlines and is now a captain of a regional jet. His flying adventures have taken him around the globe. While he has forgotten most of what he learned about electronics, he has collected numerous stories and ideas for his aviation-themed cartoon, "Chicken Wings Comics," which he creates with his brother Stefan whenever he's not flying.
www.chickenwingscomics.com
Instagram: mikeystrasser | chickenwingscomics
Contact: [email protected]
EPISODE REFERENCES
SkyWest Airlines
LogTen Pro
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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41min
June 07, 2024 Wait ‘til I get my money right…
In today's episode, I climb back on my soapbox to discuss an important issue: money. Stop wasting your money! While it’s easier said than done, many Americans live far beyond their means in a futile attempt to maintain appearances and project a superficial image of success. Stop! It’s not about making more money; if you have an unhealthy relationship with money, no amount will bring you financial freedom. Let’s go!!

REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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28min
June 03, 2024 From Coffee Spills to Cockpit Thrills: Special Guest | Vanessa Montaño | Grand Finale
Welcome back! This is the grand finale. We close out our conversation talking about non-rev travel, Vanessa’s icks with pilots which turns into a full blown conversations about Crew Resource Management (CRM) Let’s go!

ABOUT VANESSA
Vanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.
Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMini
Contact: [email protected]

REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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55min
May 30, 2024 Thunder From Down Under | Our Non-Rev Journey to Sydney | Reading your reviews and emails | Keep your seatbelt fastened! Like, really!
Wow! Can I say I performed at the Sydney Opera House? Probably not, huh? Had me a little vacation in Australia and I can’t wait for you to listen to today’s episode. I catch up on some emails and reviews, which by the way, thank you thank you so much. What are you still doing reading this?? Go and download today’s episode and while you’re at it, download all of the episodes!

EPISODE REFERENCES
Turbulence induced death:

Singapore Airlines SQ321

REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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31min
May 13, 2024 From Coffee Spills to Cockpit Thrills: Special Guest | Vanessa Montaño | Part 2
Welcome back, nerds! Thank you for joining me today. In this episode, we talk about the differences between Part 61 and Part 141 schools to help you make the best choice for your needs. We also discuss the ethical dilemma of compromising values for career advancement, sharing our perspectives on integrity in the workplace. In our fast-paced industry, timing is crucial, but maintaining resilience is key. And finally, join me as I quiz Vee on some FAA private pilot questions—test your knowledge alongside her!

ABOUT VANESSA
Vanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.
Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMini
Contact: [email protected]
EPISODE REFERENCES
Book:
Going Pro The Deliberate Practice of Professionalism
by Tony Kern

REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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49min
May 09, 2024 United Jumpseater Sparks Conflict with SWA, Igniting a Battle for the jumpseat 2024 | Listener in airline training wants advice to manage stress | How to ACE your LOE
I'm thrilled about today's episode! Get ready for an intense showdown between United and SouthWest Airlines in an all-out jumpseat war. I'll dive into the gripping story of a FedEx crew's daring landing of a 767 in Turkey without its nose gear. Plus, a listener seeks advice on navigating the challenges of airline training. And don't miss out on my expert tips for acing your airline check ride, also known as a Line Oriented Evaluation (LOE). Tune in for all this excitement and more in today's episode!
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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58min
May 06, 2024 From Coffee Spills to Cockpit Thrills: Special Guest | Vanessa Montaño | Part 1
Welcome to The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast! In today's episode, we explore how minority families can unknowingly impact our aspirations. Vanessa shares insights into the SkyWest Pathway program, offering a unique opportunity for non-pilot employees to ascend into the flight deck. Plus, we discuss the vital task of selecting the right flight instructor, uncovering the financial and personal costs of choosing poorly or sticking with the wrong match for too long. Join us as we navigate through the intricate dynamics of familial influence, career aspirations, and the pivotal role of the right flight instructor in achieving our goals.

ABOUT VANESSA
Vanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.
Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMini
Contact: [email protected]
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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42min
May 02, 2024 FOMO Alert! | Handing Out Advice To Listeners | ERJ FOs upgrading to the CRJ at SkyWest | You missed your interview now what?
Hey there, feeling like life's got you in a rut? Well, let me tell you something – you've got way more power over your life than you give yourself credit for. In today's discussion, I’ll dig into a couple of real-life scenarios that might resonate with you.
First up, imagine missing out on that big interview with United. Ouch, right? But here's the thing: it's not just bad luck or fate at play here. Your actions, your decisions, they play a crucial role in shaping your path. Sure, setbacks sting, but they can also be pivotal moments for growth and change.
Then there's the SkyWest situation. Facing the prospect of upgrading to the CRJ might not sound too appealing. But hey, think of it as an opportunity to step up, to challenge yourself, to expand your skills and horizons.
So, here's the takeaway – take control of your life, own your choices, and embrace the setbacks as stepping stones to something greater. It's all about perspective, determination, and seizing those moments of uncertainty to leap forward into a brighter tomorrow.
Let’s goooo!
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

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22min
April 29, 2024 Professional Bag Stacker: Special Guest | Micah Vobora | Part 2
What are some of Micah’s icks? Oh.. he’ll tell you alright. Once again, we talk about the Spirit furloughs and rumors surrounding the news. Which do you like better the 737 or the A320? Apparently I’m old… which is why I think the 737 is a better looking plane. I encourage my friend Victor to continue on his aviation journey despite his age and I finally reveal the reason Micah is my favorite spotter of all time! This and more in today’s episode. Let’s go!

About Micah:
Micah, a ramp lead for Alaska Airlines in Salt Lake City, UT, caught the aviation bug early on. As a kid in California, he'd gaze up at the sky, dreaming of piloting "family-sized planes" whenever those little Cessnas zoomed overhead. His love for planes soared even higher around 2016 when he discovered flight simulator videos – and let's just say, he hasn't landed since!

When Micah got his driver's license, his dad gave him the classic "get a job" talk. So, naturally, Micah took off (pun intended) to the airport for work. Starting off with Prospect, where he rolled with wheelchair service, Micah's journey eventually led him to the Alaska Airlines ramp gig in late 2022.

Sure, he's not a big shot mainline employee, but Micah's loving every moment of his job. From wrangling planes to juggling bags, chatting with pilots, and maybe even moving a jet bridge or two, there's never a dull moment. Plus, bonding with coworkers over card games adds an extra bit of fun to his day. Micah's grateful to be living his dream and is always ready to take flight into another awesome workday!
Follow Micah!
Instagram: kslc_aviator

REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx

BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW
Interview availability dates
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31min

FAQs about The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast:

How many episodes does The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 35 episodes available.