Podcast
Flying Midwest Podcast
Hosted by Flying Midwest Media · EN
Welcome to the Flying Midwest Podcast! Connecting aviators from across America's Heartland.
Join your hosts Jim, Madi, and Badger Pilot (Andrew) right here every month. We will share the latest and greatest in Midwest aviation news, events, hangar talk, and aviation history.
Welcome aboard!
26episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 101 - Mentors Making Mentors: With Sarah and Bob from NAFI
Dec 101:18:59Tap to summarizeThis week, we’re fully immersed in CFI world. With both Jim and Badger neck-deep in studying, it couldn’t be a better time to bring you an interview that fits right where we are in our flight instructor journeys.Recorded live at AirVenture, we sat down with Sarah and Bob from the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI). They walk us through who NAFI is, their long-standing role in the aviation community, and how their programs support instructors in becoming safer, more effective, and more professional educators. From their mission and history to modern initiatives designed to elevate flight instruction, this conversation offers insight that any current or aspiring CFI will appreciate.We also share some updates and CFI-study talk in our intro and wrap up the episode with our usual banter after the interview.Learn more about NAFI and their programs here: https://nafimentor.org/Get Your Cold Weather Merch Today!Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. Gear up now and head into the season in style!Our Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationAeroExploration Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/65meVcZcfPDxZJ4qmwRWOB?si=72ff543240214550 Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 100 - One Hundred Episodes, One Amazing Community
Nov 1800:53:10Tap to summarizeCelebrate a major milestone with us — Episode 100 of the Flying Midwest Podcast.In this special edition, we hand the mic to our listeners, friends, and past guests who share their favorite memories, funniest moments, and the stories that kept them coming back. We reflect on how far this little Midwest aviation show has come, the community that’s grown around it, and the adventures we’ve had along the way.And to cap it all off? The world’s longest “See Ya.”Thanks for flying with us for 100 episodes — here’s to the next hundred. ✈️Get Your Cold Weather Merch Today!Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. Gear up now and head into the season in style!Our Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationAeroExploration Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/65meVcZcfPDxZJ4qmwRWOB?si=72ff543240214550 Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 99 - A More Efficient Way: Creating Tools for Today's Instructors
Oct 2601:06:31Tap to summarizeOn this episode we sit down with Nate Ehlers, United Airlines pilot, Air Force Reserve C-17 veteran, and creator of Backseat Pilot — an innovative platform designed to help flight instructor candidates elevate their training experience.Nate takes us through his aviation journey to the airlines, and his time flying C-17s in the Air Force Reserve, Along the way, he shares the inspiration behind Backseat Pilot, the challenges of balancing dual aviation careers, and his philosophy on what makes effective flight training.We’ll also pull back the curtain on his lesson plan discuss the pros and cons of using pre-made resources versus creating your own. It’s an inside look at both the cockpit and the classroom from a pilot who’s lived both worlds.Check out Backseat Pilot Here: www.thebackseatpilot.comEPISODE 100 IS COMING SOON!!!Calling all fans, for the 100th episode, we would love to hear from you! Please send us an audio note or a message that tells us what your favorite moments of the show have been. We'd also love to have your "SEEYA" for the end of the episode. You can send your contribution to: flyingmidwestpodcast@gmail.comGet Your Cold Weather Merch Today!Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. Gear up now and head into the season in style!Our Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationAeroExploration Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/65meVcZcfPDxZJ4qmwRWOB?si=72ff543240214550 Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 98 - Turning Heartbreak into Hope: The Uphaven Story
Oct 500:46:34Tap to summarizeWhen most people think about aviation, they imagine travel, adventure, or innovation — but for some families, aviation means something much more personal: hope.In this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we sit down with Ben, founder of Uphaven, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families reach critical medical care through free volunteer flights. Born out of personal loss and a desire to keep families together, Uphaven is reimagining what aviation can do for those in need.We talk about how Uphaven got its start, the challenges of launching a flight-based charity, and the emotional and logistical realities behind each mission. Ben also shares how pilots, supporters, and aviation enthusiasts can get involved to help Uphaven’s mission take flight.Whether you’re a pilot looking for purpose beyond the pattern, or someone who believes in the good aviation can do, this conversation will leave you inspired to see the skies a little differently.✈️ Learn more or get involved: flyuphaven.orgEPISODE 100 IS COMING SOON!!!Calling all fans, for the 100th episode, we would love to hear from you! Please send us an audio note or a message that tells us what your favorite moments of the show have been. We'd also love to have your "SEEYA" for the end of the episode. You can send your contribution to: flyingmidwestpodcast@gmail.comGet Your Cold Weather Merch Today!Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. For a limited time, you can score 20% off your order with code Cold20—but hurry, this offer only lasts until October 1st. Gear up now and head into the season in style!Our Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationAeroExploration Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/65meVcZcfPDxZJ4qmwRWOB?si=72ff543240214550 Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 97 - Generationally Loved: The Legacy of a Family and Their Beechcraft Staggerwing
Sep 2101:00:55Tap to summarizeIn this special AirVenture episode, we sit down with Gayle, the proud owner of a stunning Beechcraft Staggerwing with a remarkable family story. This beautiful vintage aircraft has been passed down through generations, and Gayle and her family have been bringing it to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh for more than 50 years.Gayle shares what it’s like to fly such an iconic classic, gives us a glimpse into the history of their Staggerwing, and reflects on what it means to keep a family tradition alive at the world’s greatest aviation celebration.Whether you’re a vintage aircraft enthusiast, a fan of AirVenture, or just love hearing the passion behind aviation stories, this episode is packed with history, heart, and a whole lot of Oshkosh magic.EPISODE 100 IS COMING SOON!!!Calling all fans, for the 100th episode, we would love to hear from you! Please send us an audio note or a message that tells us what your favorite moments of the show have been. We'd also love to have your "SEEYA" for the end of the episode. You can send your contribution to: flyingmidwestpodcast@gmail.comGet Your Cold Weather Merch Today!Winter is coming, and so is our brand-new merch lineup! Stay warm and rep your love for aviation with cozy long sleeve tees, hoodies, and beanies. For a limited time, you can score 20% off your order with code Cold20—but hurry, this offer only lasts until October 1st. Gear up now and head into the season in style!Our Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationAeroExploration Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/65meVcZcfPDxZJ4qmwRWOB?si=72ff543240214550 Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 96 - There's No Party Like THE Pirate Party
Sep 700:52:53Tap to summarizeInside the Pirate Party – AirVenture’s Legendary North 40 Tradition📅 Recorded Live at AirVenture 2025 – Oshkosh, WIEpisode Description:If you’ve ever camped in the North 40 at AirVenture, chances are you’ve heard whispers (or maybe laughter) about the Pirate Party. It’s not on the official schedule, but it’s one of the most unforgettable traditions of Oshkosh—a gathering of aviators, friends, and newcomers who come together for food, drinks, and fellowship under the banner of “The Pirates.”In this episode, we sit down with one of the founding Pirates to hear the origin story: how this grassroots community got started, what it takes to keep the party alive year after year, and why they keep a storage locker in Oshkosh stocked with the essentials for hosting hundreds of pilots who drop by.From impromptu feasts and storytelling to the camaraderie that keeps aviators coming back, this is your inside look at a tradition that captures the true spirit of AirVenture.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:How the Pirate Party first began in the North 40The logistics (and legends) of throwing a massive grassroots party at OshkoshWhy a storage locker in Oshkosh is the Pirates’ secret weaponStories from years of campfires, friendships, and unforgettable nightsWhy the Pirate Party embodies the heart of aviation communityEPISODE 100 IS COMING SOON!!!Calling all fans, for the 100th episode, we would love to hear from you! Please send us an audio note or a message that tells us what your favorite moments of the show have been. We'd also love to have your "SEEYA" for the end of the episode. You can send your contribution to: flyingmidwestpodcast@gmail.comOur Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationAeroExploration Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/65meVcZcfPDxZJ4qmwRWOB?si=72ff543240214550 Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 79: Fly All the Things
Feb 9, 202500:56:26Tap to summarizen this episode of theFlying Midwest Podcast, we sit down with Nicholas Stoley—an airline pilot whose passion for aviation extends far beyond the cockpit of a commercial jet. When he’s not flying for the airlines, Nicholas is in the air with theCommemorative Air Force, piloting legendary warbirds likeMiss Mitchell.He shares what it’s like to fly these remarkable pieces of history, the challenges and thrills of operating vintage aircraft, and how more pilots can get involved in keeping aviation history alive. If you’ve ever dreamed of flying a warbird, you won’t want to miss this conversation!Our Other Content:Badger Pilot on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilotAeroExploration:https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationFly the Transition Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fly-the-transition/id1657873290Subscribe and Follow:Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. •https://flyingmidwest.com/ •https://facebook.com/flyingmidwestYour support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore.flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordingshttps://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 –https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets.https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Engage with Us:Connect with us on social media or drop us an email atFlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Aviation in Mourning - Reflections on DCA
Feb 4, 202500:15:01Tap to summarizeThe aviation community has been rocked by the recent mid-air collision in Washington, D.C. On this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we pause to acknowledge the human impact of this heartbreaking event. While investigations continue, we focus on honoring those lost, supporting those affected, and reflecting on the lessons that can help make aviation safer for all. "From tragedy we draw knowledge to protect the safety of us all" - NTSB Challenge Coin
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Episode 77: Livin' the Layover Life - With Paul Holte
Jan 29, 202501:22:47Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we welcome Paul Holte from My Layover Life! As an airline pilot and YouTuber, Paul shares a unique blend of aviation insights, airline life, and travel adventures from his layover destinations around the world. We dive into his journey, his content, and what it’s like to balance flying and content creation. Meanwhile, with Jim under the weather, Madi and Badger take the reins—leading to a slightly off-the-rails (but highly entertaining) intro, news segment, and outro. Join us for aviation talk, travel stories, and plenty of laughs in this fun-filled episode! More about My Layover Life: https://www.youtube.com/@mylayoverlife Our Other Content: Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilot AeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration Fly the Transition Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fly-the-transition/id1657873290 Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwest Your support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordings https://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets. https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101 Engage with Us: Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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Episode 76: Flying into the Future - The Switchblade Flying Car
Jan 14, 202501:17:41Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Flying Midwest Podcast, we take a look into the future of aviation with a truly innovative concept—the Switchblade Flying Car. Our guest, Sam Bousfield, the visionary creator of the Switchblade, joins us to share the story behind this groundbreaking vehicle. Sam dives into the challenges and triumphs of bringing the Switchblade to life, including its rigorous testing process, key specifications, and the unique build process. He also gives us a glimpse into what pilots can expect from this exciting fusion of car and aircraft, redefining personal transportation as we know it. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a tech lover, or simply curious about the possibilities of flying cars, this episode offers a fascinating look at what could be the future of flight. Plus discussion of the California Wild Fires and news from around our region. More about Switchblade: www.samsonsky.com Our Other Content: Badger Pilot on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebadgerpilot AeroExploration: https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExploration Fly the Transition Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fly-the-transition/id1657873290 Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Flying Midwest Podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for the latest aviation news and podcast updates. • https://flyingmidwest.com/ • https://facebook.com/flyingmidwest Your support helps us keep bringing you high-quality aviation content! • Grab some chart-inspired apparel: Check out the new Midwest.Three design and Badger Gear at our merchstore. flyingmidwest.com/merch • Join our Patreon community for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and links to LIVE episode recordings https://patreon.com/Flyingmidwestpodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink • Affiliate links & discounts: • Flying Eyes: Get 10% off with code FlyingMidwest10 – https://flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYINGMIDWEST10 • Lightspeed Aviation: Discover premium pilot headsets. https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101 Engage with Us: Connect with us on social media or drop us an email at FlyingMidwestPodcast@gmail.com.
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