In this SPECIAL "long form interview" episode of the Future in Flight podcast, Shawn sits down with Ricardo Leon from Level Aviation, discussing the company's origins, its commitment to affordable avionics, and the importance of safety in aviation technology.

They explore the family's deep-rooted connection to aviation, the encouragement of young aviators, and the innovative products that make flying more accessible. The conversation also touches on the significance of NORSEA approval in enhancing aviation safety.

This interview explores the evolving landscape of affordable aviation, focusing on light sport aircraft, community building within the aviation sector, and the innovative strides being made by Level Aviation.

Ricardo highlights the importance of understanding aerodynamics and weather for aspiring pilots, the role of social media in fostering aviation communities, and the exciting future of electric and experimental aircraft, and so much more!

If you've enjoyed this special long form preview, be sure to watch for more information on our exclusive Flight Club!

See you at AirVenture 2025!!

Summary

In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Jeremy Meyers—Air Force tech sergeant, air show operations manager, and founder of Brakes Off Media. From a childhood spark ignited by the Thunderbirds to thousands of hours teaching airmen across 21 aircraft platforms, Jeremy shares his journey through the world of aviation and his mission to uplift the next generation.

We also explore the science and history of air show smoke systems and close the episode with a feature on the docu-series Airshow, highlighting the risks, passion, and tight-knit community behind the scenes of some of aviation’s boldest performers.

Key Takeaways

Segment 1: Jeremy Meyers (00:00–09:48)

• Passion from a Young Age Jeremy fell in love with aviation at five years old after watching the Thunderbirds in Spokane, Washington—a moment that shaped his entire career.
• Mentorship Matters With over 4,200 hours teaching others, Jeremy emphasizes the importance of mentorship, especially in high-stakes environments like combat aviation and air shows.
• Not Just the Pilot Behind every aircraft is a team. Jeremy underscores the crucial roles that maintainers, photographers, and operations staff play in making aviation safe and inspiring.
• Mental Health in Aviation Through his theology and mental health background, Jeremy advocates for supporting air show professionals, many of whom spend 180–300 days on the road annually.
• Creating Pathways Forward Through his company Brakes Off Media, Jeremy inspires future aviation professionals by capturing and sharing the passion behind flight.

Segment 2: The Science of Air Show Smoke (09:48–16:30)

• A Smoky Legacy The history of smoke in aviation goes back to 1915 with skywriting and took off in 1957 with RAF’s Black Cats aerobatic team.
• How It Works Smoke oil—paraffin-based and biodegradable—is flash-cooked at 1,500°F via high-pressure nozzles in the aircraft's exhaust system.
• The Cost of Spectacle A single show can burn through $65 to $260 in smoke oil alone, with 5–20 gallons used depending on aircraft type.
• More Than Just Pretty Trails Smoke trails help pilots maintain formation positioning, acting as visual references during complex aerobatic maneuvers.
• The Future of Smoke With digital control systems and eco-friendly dyes, smoke systems continue evolving as a blend of chemistry, engineering, and artistry.

Segment 3: Future in Flight at the Movies – Airshow Docuseries (16:30–22:21)

• Extreme Athletes of the Sky The documentary Airshow follows real-life performers who push the limits of aviation—with some losing their lives in the process.
• No Margin for Error The show explores the devastating risks, such as forgotten safety components or engine failure, and the emotional toll of tragedy in the air show community.
• Dedication and Passion Performers like wing walker Carol Pilon express how air shows aren't just a job—they're a calling and source of fulfillment.
• Aviation’s Soul These performers carry on the barnstorming spirit of the 1920s, reminding us that flight is about more than transportation—it's about pushing boundaries and inspiring awe.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Intro + Jeremy Meyers’ Aviation Origin Story
• 03:13 – Falling in Love with Flight at Age 5
• 04:09 – Lunch with Chuck Yeager & Air Force Experience
• 05:19 – Teaching, Teamwork, and Operations Management
• 06:14 – Breaks Off Media & Mentorship Philosophy
• 07:14 – Faith, Mental Health, and the Air Show Grind
• 08:10 – Legacy, Passion, and Staying Motivated
• 09:48 – The Science of Air Show Smoke
• 16:30 – Future in Flight at the Movies: “Airshow” TV Docuseries Review
• 22:21 – Closing Thoughts: State of Grace and the Soul of Aviation

Links

• 🔗 Brakes Off Media: https://brakesoffmediallc.godaddysites.com/
• 📺 Airshow Docuseries Info: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4328762/
• 🌐 Learn more about smoke oil systems: https://smokingairplanes.com/blogs/news/how-smoke-systems-smoke-oil-work

This conversation explores the groundbreaking developments in transportation, particularly the emergence of flying cars like the Samson Switchblade, and the critical role of air traffic controllers in ensuring safety in the skies. It also highlights the pioneering efforts of Mary Chance VanScyoc, the first female civilian air traffic controller in the U.S., who played a significant role in shaping the profession.

• The Samson Switchblade is a revolutionary flying car.

• Sam Bousfield's vision transformed from architecture to aerospace.

• The Switchblade can transform from a car to an airplane in three minutes.

• High performance was a key promise for the Switchblade's design.

• Going hybrid electric allows for adaptability in power sources.

• Safety features include a whole vehicle parachute.

• There is significant demand for flying cars globally.

• VR technology is being used to revolutionize flight training.

• Mary Chance VanScyoc was the first female air traffic controller.

• Air traffic control is one of the most stressful jobs in America.

00:00 The Future of Transportation: Flying Cars

06:09 Inside Air Traffic Control: The Unsung Heroes

11:57 Trailblazers of the Skies: Mary-Chance Van Syock

Samson Switchblade Flying Car--https://www.samsonsky.com/

FAA—https://www.faa.gov/

AviNation-- https://www.avinationusa.com/

Savannah Hunter IG-- @thunderflys