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

Summary

*Some work was being done in the hangar, so we had to use a temporary recording space for a small portion of this episode.

In this episode of the Future in Flight podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Carl Hancock, who transitioned from a successful IT career to becoming a full-time aviation content creator. His passion for aviation was reignited during a Scouting event, leading him to share honest insights about becoming a pilot through his wildly popular YouTube channel, Fly With The Guys.

We also delve into the exciting world of ultralight aviation, highlighting its accessibility and the vibrant community surrounding it. Additionally, we take a look at significant milestones in aviation history, showcasing the relentless human spirit that drives innovation and exploration in the skies.

Thank you to our incredible episode sponsor Drone Cadets--helping to bridge the gap in drone education for ages as young as 6 years old! Check them out at their website: Drone Cadets

Takeaways

• Carl Hancock reignited his passion for aviation unexpectedly.
• He transitioned from IT to aviation content creation.
• Carl's YouTube channel provides honest insights for aspiring pilots.
• Carl's journey reflects the importance of following one's passion.
• Ultralight aviation offers accessible flying opportunities.
• The ultralight community emphasizes safety and mentorship.
• Aviation history is filled with stories of innovation and courage.
• The Cessna 172 has a June Birthday.
• Aviation is a community of dreamers and innovators.

Links

Fly With The Guys YT: https://www.youtube.com/c/flywiththeguys

Fly With The Guys IG: https://www.instagram.com/flywiththeguys/

Drone Cadets: https://dronecadets.com/

US Ultralight Association: https://www.usua.org/

In this episode of the Future in Flight Podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Brian Kincaid, a biomedical engineer and private pilot, who combines his passion for aviation with innovative storytelling on YouTube.

We delve into his family's rich aviation history, the challenges he faced in pursuing his pilot's license, and the revolutionary Fly ORKA app that is transforming flight training. Additionally, we spotlight the Piper Cherokee 6, an underappreciated aircraft that has served families and businesses since the 1960s. This episode emphasizes the importance of perseverance, community, and the diverse paths within the aviation industry.

• Brian's early memories on a Navy base shaped his love for aviation. • Biomedical engineering and aviation share common problem-solving skills. • Brian developed the first ASTM standard for elbow implants. • 3D printing is the future of biomedical engineering. • The Mad Duck Chronicles preserves aviation history through YouTube. • Perseverance is key; never give up on your dreams. • Brian's journey to becoming a pilot was filled with obstacles. • Fly ORKA is revolutionizing flight training for a new generation. • The Piper Cherokee 6 is a versatile and practical aircraft. • Aviation is about community, dreams, and overcoming challenges.

6-Zero Alpha YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@6ZeroAlpha

Fly ORKA: https://flyorka.com/

ASA: https://asa2fly.com/

Summary

This episode of The Future in Flight Podcast celebrates aviation’s diverse impact through three entertaining and educational stories. First, Major Roger Levy, Commander of the New York City Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), reveals how this volunteer organization has served America since 1941 with the world’s largest single-engine aircraft fleet. CAP’s missions—emergency services, aerospace education, and cadet programs—range from World War II submarine patrols to post-9/11 reconnaissance and mentoring future leaders. Next, we explore the engineering marvel of airplane tires, designed to endure extreme forces with high-pressure nitrogen, fusible plugs, and innovations like Michelin’s Near Zero Growth technology. Finally, Mike Ciochetti shares the inspiring origin of Heaven’s Landing, a fly-in community in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, born from a career-ending NASCAR crash and now offering a unique blend of aviation, luxury, and nature.

Thank you to show sponsor ASA--your go to for pilot training supplies and more!

Key Takeaways

🇺🇸 Civil Air Patrol’s Legacy and Missions:

• • CAP’s three core missions—emergency services (e.g., search and rescue, disaster reconnaissance), aerospace education (aviation history and technology), and cadet programs (leadership for ages 12-18)—combine service with aviation.
  • Historical feats include sinking a German U-boat in WWII; modern roles include post-9/11 and Hurricane Sandy reconnaissance.
  • Core values—integrity, respect, service, excellence—guide CAP’s operations.
  • CAP’s Cessna fleet, with advanced infrared and glass cockpits, is ideal for missions like disaster photography, especially in complex NYC airspace.
  • Interested? Visit gocivilairpatrol.com to find and explore local squadrons.

🛬 Airplane Tires: Engineering Marvels:

• • Airplane tires withstand massive loads (e.g., 450-ton Boeing 747) and speeds (170-200 mph) using handmade layers of rubber, fabric, and Kevlar.
  • Pressurized with nitrogen (up to 200 psi for airliners, 600 psi for the Space Shuttle) for stability across temperature swings and to prevent combustion.
  • 90% of commercial aircraft use rigorously tested retreaded tires, savable up to seven times, balancing cost and safety.
  • Specialized tires, like low-pressure (3-4 psi) tundra tires, enable bush planes to land on rough terrain but increase drag.

⛰️ Heaven’s Landing: A Community in the Clouds:

• • Born from Mike Ciochetti’s 1999 NASCAR crash, Heaven’s Landing is a 639-acre fly-in community in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with a 5,200-foot runway.
  • Offers two lifestyles: taxiway-adjacent homes with hangars or ridge-top homes with stunning views, surrounded by National Forest.
  • Seven minutes from Clayton, GA, with access to top restaurants and a luxury clubhouse (racquetball, gym, dining).
  • Unique perks include a partnership with a Bahamas resort (50% discount for residents) and visits from figures like Alan Jackson.
  • Learn more at heavenslanding.com or book a tour to experience the community.

Links

Civil Air Patrol: gocivilairpatrol.com

Heaven's Landing: heavenslanding.com

ASA: https://asa2fly.com/

Summary

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at aviation maintenance careers and the incredible opportunities they offer in today's job market. Bill Brown, Chief Aviation Officer at Aviation Institute of Maintenance, shares his 40-year journey in the field and discusses how the industry is facing a critical shortage of qualified technicians. The show highlights how AIM is training thousands of future professionals across 15 campuses, with graduates earning six-figure salaries within their first year. We then explore business aviation's connection to maintenance opportunities, revealing how this sector serves ten times more airports than commercial airlines and requires specialized technicians. The episode concludes with "This Month in Aviation History," celebrating May's aviation milestones that have shaped the technological evolution of aircraft and their maintenance needs.

Thank you to show sponsor ASA--your go to for pilot training supplies and more!

Takeaways

• Maintenance positions offer six-figure salaries with just 21 months of training through programs like AIM.
• Bill Brown's 40-year career spans from American Airlines engine overhaul to training the next generation of technicians.
• The hands-on nature of aircraft maintenance provides immediate satisfaction as technicians rebuild entire engines and aircraft systems.
• AIM operates 15 campuses across 13 states with over 6,300 students currently in training.
• The aviation industry needs 626,000 new maintenance technicians by 2040 according to Boeing and Airbus projections.
• Aviation maintenance careers include complete engine teardowns, aircraft inspections, and certifications for both airframe and powerplant systems.
• Business aviation creates additional demand for skilled professionals across 5,000+ regional airports nationwide.
• Technicians in business aviation often get exposure to cutting-edge technology before it reaches commercial aircraft.
• Companies value maintenance personnel for their critical role in safety and operational efficiency.
• Modern aircraft work increasingly involves advanced electronics and specialized tools as aviation technology evolves.
• The retirement of experienced professionals is creating significant job opportunities for new technicians entering the field.
• Diverse workplace options include airlines, manufacturing facilities (OEMs), and maintenance repair organizations (MROs).
• Historical aviation milestones have continuously transformed aircraft maintenance requirements, from propeller planes to jets and beyond.
• These careers provide stability and high demand across economic cycles due to strict safety requirements.

Links

• Aviation Institute of Maintenance training programs: https://aviationmaintenance.edu/
• National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) resources on maintenance opportunities: https://nbaa.org/
• NBAA Young Professionals in Business Aviation (YoPro) for aspiring aviation professionals: https://nbaa.org/professional-development/yopro/
• The Future in Flight Podcast Website: https://futureinflight.com/
• ASA--https://asa2fly.com/