The Pilot Network Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Airline Pay Isn’t the Point! Timing, Seniority, and Choosing the ‘Right’ Seat Sep 21, 2026

Show notes

Better late than never! This was supposed to be released last week Thursday, but duty called... Let's delve into the early stages of a pilot career, discussing entry points, pay scales, and various career paths available. Comparing the distinct experiences and opportunities in military versus civilian aviation careers, highlighting the impact of seniority, military leave, and career flexibility is valuable exercise. There is so much more to this career than meets the eye...

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kitdarby-com-aviation-consulting-llc_top-major-airline-pilot-career-value-exceeds-activity-7505084284324519936-f9Gh?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAnyZkwBBQ-rfyFBu42TD7I2F0LqLwUpF1E

(0:17) Starting a Pilot Career: Entry, Pay, and Career Paths (5:11) Comparing Military and Civilian Aviation Careers (7:13) Seniority, Military Leave, and Career Flexibility (10:01) Civilian Career Progression and Resume Building (13:54) Exploring Alternative Aviation Career Paths (17:06) TPN Updates and Upcoming Events

The 50 States Pilot Path and Puppies: Courtney Asher's Unique Aviation Journey Sep 11, 2026

Show notes

First let's reflect on 9/11 before we jump into the episode... Introducing Courtney Asher, whose journey to becoming a first officer is marked by a unique goal: landing a plane in all 50 states. Courtney shares her path into aviation, detailing her decision to bypass becoming a CFI and instead focus on diverse flying experiences. She discusses applying to United Airlines' AV8 program, the financial challenges faced while working at an FBO, and how she built flight hours through enjoyable methods, including volunteering with pet transport. Courtney emphasizes the importance of networking and shares insights into her work with Dog is My Copilot, her future aspirations, and passion for aviation. The episode wraps up with announcements and ways to follow Courtney's journey. (0:16) Reflecting on 9/11, guest introduction, and Courtney's aviation journey (7:15) Starting at Southwest Airlines (9:36) Joining United Airlines and the AV8 program (11:31) The 50-state landing challenge (14:29) Multi-engine training experience (16:37) Future flying plans and social media presence (19:28) Financial challenges and support systems (22:03) Advice and insights on networking and unique career paths (25:27) Building flight hours through volunteering (26:10) Involvement with Petco Love and Dog is My CoPilot (27:11) Transporting pets and the emotional impact (31:06) Passion projects and how to get involved (34:27) Personal milestones and aviation journey (36:21) Sponsor: TPN Talent (37:04) Reflections on inspiration and personal growth (38:55) Achieving personal goals and overcoming challenges (41:23) Following Courtney's journey on social media (42:53) Importance of networking and closing remarks (43:03) Upcoming TPN events and conclusion

Reboot...again! Sep 03, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Adam introduces a new seasonal format for the podcast and teases exciting upcoming guests. He highlights the unique opportunities available to pilots through the TPN Talent platform, offering insights into its features and recruitment benefits. Adam announces the TPNx event in Dallas, featuring a golf outing and charity fundraiser, and shares his personal journey returning to work after a disability, reflecting on career insights and the importance of broadening one's perspective. He discusses the allure of flying an L39 and the value of networking, weighing the pursuit of flight hours against building a meaningful resume. Emphasizing personal growth through discomfort, Adam closes with a call for listener feedback. (0:17) Introduction, new seasonal format, and upcoming guests (2:23) Unique opportunities for pilots and TPN Talent introduction (4:09) TPN Talent features and recruiting insights (5:48) Announcement of TPNx in Dallas, golf outing, and charity fundraiser (7:01) Host's return to work and disability experience (8:13) Importance of opening your aperture and career reflections (11:04) Interest in flying an L39 and networking opportunities (14:32) Chasing hours vs. building a meaningful resume (15:27) Embracing discomfort and personal growth (17:12) Closing remarks and call for feedback

TPNX 2026 Recap: Pilot Hiring Wins, Spirit Support, and What’s Next for TPNTalent May 20, 2026

Show notes

What happens when a pilot conference becomes more than a job fair and starts changing lives? In this episode, Adam reflects on a powerful week at TPNX 2026 in Dallas, where pilots, recruiters, vendors, families, and volunteers came together to build real connections. He shares how American Airlines, Southwest, Flexjet, Wizz Air, High Country Air Service, Matreya, and many others helped create a high-value experience for the pilot community. A major focus is the support shown to Spirit pilots, who were welcomed with free access during a tough career moment. Adam also shares strong recruiting results, moving success stories, and the launch of TPN Talent, a free tool built to connect pilots with operators all year long.

Other links: www.tpntalent.com TPN Pro - https://community.thepilotnetwork.org/ Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thepilotnetwork

This group intends to expand our pilot network and help us all in future endeavors; to “pay it forward’ as it were. With the aviation career field comes the unknown, and a good network is often the difference in sitting on the sidelines or getting into the game. Some of us have the job we want; many of us don’t yet. The Pilot Network gives us the chance to reconnect to old aviation colleagues, seek out new avenues within this great career, or just give a helping hand to those coming up in this vocation. We have grown to over 30,000 members and add more every day! We need to branch out: Facebook is only the beginning of the TPN platform. Stay tuned for big things! Whether you are a seasoned veteran with 10,000 hours or a newbie starting out, the right network can help you find your last job. Thank you and tailwinds!

(0:14) TPNX 2026 recap and why TPNX 2027 matters (3:35) What makes TPNX different from a normal job fair (7:55) Attendance numbers and support for Spirit pilots (12:39) Flexjet recruiting results and pilot data (15:25) High Country Air Service and SkillBridge success story (20:27) Wizz Air’s strong response from attendees (23:31) TPN Talent soft launch and how pilots can join (26:25) TPN chapters, meetups, and building the pilot community

TPNX Dallas Prep Guide: Meet & Greets, Dress Code, Travel Tips, and Pilot Networking Advice May 02, 2026

Show notes

What if your next big career move starts before you even walk into the room? In this episode of the Pilot Network Podcast, Adam shares a practical prep guide for TPNX in Dallas, helping pilots get ready for the event with confidence and the right mindset. He covers how to sign up for meet and greets, use the TPNX app, plan your travel, dress for the conference, and make the most of every conversation. More than just a job fair, TPNX is framed as a true networking event where pilots, spouses, recruiters, vendors, and friends can connect in a real and meaningful way. Adam also reminds listeners that attitude matters, and that showing up ready to give, learn, and meet others can open doors far beyond the event itself.

www.thepilotnetwork.com #TPNx #conference #TPN #thepilotnetwork #payitforward #aviation #pilot

(0:37) Welcome and TPNX overview (4:10) Meet and greet sign-ups (6:21) Check-in and venue timing (7:24) Spouses and kids attending (8:50) Travel and parking details (11:43) Dress code guidance (13:57) Food, drinks, and evening events (16:17) Refund policy (18:21) Making the most of TPNX (22:11) Interview mindset and attitude (23:48) Aviation hiring outlook (27:02) TPNX, chapters, and community building

How Pre-Flight Camp Helps Girls Build Confidence, Find Their Voice, and Dream Bigger in Aviation Apr 23, 2026

Show notes

What happens when a young girl steps into an airplane for the first time and realizes she truly belongs there? In this heartfelt episode, Adam talks with Morgan and Brittany from Pre-Flight Camp about how one week can spark confidence, courage, and a whole new view of what is possible. They share their own paths in aviation, the joy of mentoring girls ages 11 to 14, and the powerful moments when campers go from shy observers to bold future pilots and leaders. You will also hear why strong female role models matter, how the camp prepares girls for discovery flights, and what it really takes to keep this mission growing through volunteers, donations, and community support.

Connect at https://www.preflightcamp.com/

Morgan Mitchell is a Major in the United States Air Force, where she currently serves as the Artificial Intelligence Development Chief at the DAF MIT AI Accelerator in Cambridge, MA. Morgan has also served in the Space and Missiles career field, and has over 200 hours in the T-6A and T-38 Talon. She is a two-time competitor in the all-women’s Air Race Classic, where she finished 4th out of over 40 different teams, and has over 140 hours in the Cessna, Pitts Special Taildragger, and DA-20.

Brittany Willkie is a Flight Attendant for British Airways based in London, England. She splits her time between the United States and the United Kingdom, commuting between the two countries. She’s been to over 40 countries and 6 continents. Her favorite places to visit are Croatia and Hong Kong. Brittany currently holds a Private Pilot Certificate and a Remote Pilot Certificate. She is working towards her instrument rating with an end goal to become an aerial firefighter.

#PreFlightCamp #TPN #thepilotnetwork #payitforward #aviation #pilot

(1:50) Pre-Flight Camp intro (4:33) Brittany’s aviation journey (5:53) Morgan’s background and leadership role (8:09) Why they believe in the mission (14:13) Lessons that spark confidence (21:09) Preparing campers for discovery flights (25:00) Why female mentors matter (29:38) Scaling camps with care (32:49) Funding and scholarships (41:41) Teaching leadership and resilience (47:48) Who should volunteer (49:16) The long-term vision for impact (52:21) How parents, donors, and volunteers can help

Pilot Health and Fitness Tips Every Aviator Needs with Lashae Bacon Apr 08, 2026

Show notes

What if a few small changes could help you feel stronger, recover faster, and stay healthier through every stage of your flying career? In this episode of the Pilot Network Podcast, Adam Uhan talks with Lachey Bacon of Mile High Health Club about simple, real-world fitness and nutrition habits for pilots and flight crews. They cover how long hours in the seat affect the body, why hip and back mobility matter, and how short hotel gym workouts can still make a big difference. They also break down better airport food choices, the value of strength training, and why calorie tracking can be a smart tool without becoming a forever habit. It is a helpful, honest talk for aviators who want better health, more energy, and lasting career.

Contact Lashae: Website: https://milehighhealthclub.life LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lashae-bacon-73481a24a/

Connect with The Pilot Network: https://thepilotnetwork.com/

(2:03) Practical health, fitness, and wellness for pilots (9:52) What to do after a long flight to reduce stiffness and pain (17:51) Quick hotel gym workouts and micro sessions that work (37:00) Better airport food choices and eating on the road (46:28) Calorie tracking, consistency, and building better habits (58:27) Where to find Lachey Bacon and Mile High Health Club

Health, Fitness, and Life on the Road: Why Pilots Must Prioritize Wellness Apr 05, 2026

Show notes

What if staying fit could actually make you a better pilot and improve your life both in and out of the cockpit? In this episode, host Adam Uhan introduces April as Health and Fitness Month inside The Pilot Network. He shares what listeners can expect in the coming weeks, including conversations about staying active while traveling, managing fatigue across time zones, and supporting mental health in aviation. Adam also walks through a practical road workout inspired by the well-known Murph routine and explains how pilots can scale it to fit their fitness level. The goal is simple: stay active, protect your long-term health, and improve your quality of life throughout your flying career. It is not about perfection. It is about building habits that help you keep moving, both today and years from now. (0:20) Welcome and April theme introduction (0:47) What TPN Pro offers members (1:23) April focus on health and fitness (1:45) Fatigue, sleep, and mental health topics ahead (4:05) Career management and bonus episodes (5:30) A fitness challenge idea for the community (6:44) Adam’s road workout and Murph-based routine (10:16) Why staying active matters long term (11:46) TPN Pro features, free trial, and final call to connect

Aviation Career Pathways: Real Pilot Advice on Hiring, Networking, and Staying Ready Mar 27, 2026

Show notes

What does it really take to build a strong aviation career when the path ahead feels uncertain? In this episode, Adam opens with a heartfelt tribute to the pilots lost in the recent Jazz Aviation Flight 8646 incident, then shares a powerful collection of career advice from leaders across the industry. From American Airlines hiring tips and the value of submitting your application early, to Ivan Rodriguez’s bold jump from nursing to fractional flying, this episode shows that there is more than one way forward. You will also hear why defense contracting can be a smart option, how career strategy often matters more than raw qualifications, and why your job should never become your whole identity. It is a thoughtful, practical guide for pilots at every stage. (0:18) Introduction, Condolences, and TPN Pro Overview (2:36) Career Pathways, Industry Outlook, and Advice Highlights (4:04) American Airlines Hiring Insights with Dina Payne Smith (5:57) Non-Traditional Career Path at Flexjet with Ivan Rodriguez (7:59) Defense Contracting Opportunities with Slim Morgan (9:35) Career Strategy with James O'Neil from Raven Careers (11:29) Identity Versus Career with Charlie Venema (13:22) Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Choosing the System Over the Job Mar 18, 2026

Show notes

What if the biggest career mistake a pilot can make is choosing a job without understanding the system behind it? In this thoughtful solo episode, Adam opens with a heartfelt tribute to six fallen KC-135 crew members and reflects on the loss felt across the aviation community. From there, he shifts into a practical career lesson: stop asking only, “What job should I take?” and start asking, “What system am I entering?” He breaks that idea into three simple checks: flow, control, and durability. Adam explains why upgrade time, schedule flexibility, commuting, contracts, and training stability matter more than a flashy paycheck. This episode is a grounded, honest guide for pilots who want to make smarter career moves and avoid getting stuck in the wrong path.

Article about the crash: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/pentagon-identifies-airmen-iraq-kc-135/

If you have extra, here are the GoFundMe links: Major Alex Klinner - https://www.gofundme.com/f/major-alex-klinner Ariana Savino - https://www.gofundme.com/f/capt-ariana-savinos-honor-and-legacy Ashley Pruitt - https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-ashley-pruitts-family-kmxke Capt. Seth Koval - https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-capt-seth-kovals-legacy-and-family Capt. Curtis Angst - https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-capt-curtis-angst-supporting-mary-and-his-legacy

(0:17) Tribute to the fallen KC-135 crew members (2:33) Why pilots should think beyond the job title (5:31) Flow: upgrade time, movement, and seniority (12:18) Control: schedule flexibility, reserve life, and commuting (17:21) Durability: downturns, contracts, and training stability (21:45) The 1 to 5 scoring framework for smarter career decisions

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