The Pilot Network Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ouch! Adam had Surgery May 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam shares the beginning of his journey of navigating surgery and the impending time off the flight deck. He discusses the challenges of handling future disability paperwork and the reinstatement process, shedding light on the role of union support and company policies. Adam also delves into effective recovery strategies and pain management techniques that aided his return. Emphasizing the importance of support networks and family, he encourages listeners to seek help when needed. The episode wraps up with Adam's final thoughts and contact information, offering a supportive message to those facing similar challenges. (0:17) Introduction and personal update (1:12) Navigating disability paperwork and reinstatement (2:13) Union support and company policy on returning to work (4:12) Recovery strategies and pain management (6:21) The role of support networks and family (9:00) Final thoughts and encouragement to seek help (10:00) Contact information and closing remarks

TPNx 2025 Recap and What's Ahead for 2026 Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam provides a debrief of TPNx 2025 and announces exciting plans for TPNx 2026. He shares insights into the aviation industry, highlighting American Airlines CJOs and unique opportunities attendees had at TPNx. The discussion includes the exclusivity of tickets, volunteer opportunities, and tips for maintaining proper conference etiquette. Adam offers advice on vendor conduct and effective networking strategies. He also shares a personal update about his upcoming work absence and previews upcoming TPN events, emphasizing the network's robust online presence. The episode concludes with closing remarks and a look ahead. (0:17) TPNx 2025 debrief and 2026 announcement (4:27) American Airlines CJOs and aviation industry insights (7:30) Unique opportunities and ticket exclusivity at TPNx (10:03) Volunteer opportunities and conference etiquette (13:13) Vendor conduct and networking tips (18:21) Host's personal update and return to work (24:39) Upcoming TPN events and online presence (26:07) Closing remarks

It's Here! How to Crush TPNx Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam delves into the intricacies of preparing for TPNx, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the event's logistics and planning. He shares valuable resume tips and strategic planning advice to help attendees make the most of their TPNx experience. Networking advice is front and center, with strategies for making meaningful connections during social events. Adam also emphasizes the importance of post-TPNx follow-up and actions to solidify connections and maximize opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or new to the network, this episode provides essential insights for navigating TPNx successfully. (0:17) Welcome and introduction to the episode (0:48) TPNx overview, preparation, logistics, and planning (4:13) Resume tips and strategic planning for TPNx (9:52) Networking advice and social event strategies (15:06) Post-TPNx follow-up and actions

AI Dogfights & Augmented Reality Combat: How Daniel Robinson & Red 6 Are Rewriting the Rules of Air Combat Feb 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Pilot Network Podcast, Adam sits down with Daniel Robinson, CEO of Red 6, to explore how augmented reality is transforming fighter pilot training. From flying the F-22 Raptor as the first-ever non-American exchange pilot to launching a game-changing aviation tech company, Daniel’s journey is nothing short of incredible. They dive into: ✈️ How Red 6’s AR system is revolutionizing air combat training ⚡ The challenges of career transitions and building a tech startup 🎯 Why AI-driven adversaries could be the key to preparing warfighters for the future 🚀 What’s next for Red 6 and how pilots can get involved This isn’t just another conversation—it’s a deep dive into the future of aviation training and technology. If you’re a pilot, aviation tech enthusiast, or just someone who loves innovation, you don’t want to miss this one. Let's fire up the burner and get into the merge! https://red6ar.com

The Red 6 Vision: We envision a future in which all warfighters across all domains are connected together in a joint augmented battlespace.

The Red 6 Values: Foster a work environment of integrity, mutual respect & joy. Demand the highest standards from each other. Own mistakes. Debrief mistakes. Learn from mistakes. Take responsibility and offer solutions to problems. Mitigate risk but have a bias towards action. Never make decisions not aligned to our mission & values.

(0:16) Introduction and episode overview (1:15) Red Six's augmented reality training technology and Daniel Robinson's background (4:53) Daniel Robinson's journey to becoming an aviator and early challenges (7:10) Flying the F-22 and reflections on aircraft differences (11:46) Personal challenges and career transitions (17:35) Business lessons and re-evaluating life goals (20:11) Innovations in pilot training and simulation (24:10) Genesis and mission of Red Six (26:53) Solving complex problems in military aviation technology (31:02) Future vision for pilot training with Red Six (35:07) Near-term and mid-term goals for Red Six (37:15) Advancements in aviation technology and involvement with Red Six (40:23) Partnering with frontline warfighters (41:01) Listener engagement and contact information

Aviation Reinvented: Natilus and Aleksey Matyushev’s Aircraft Revolution Feb 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam chats with Aleksey Matyushev about his journey from growing up near a military base to studying at Embry Riddle and entering aviation design. Aleksey discusses aerodynamics, transitioning to unmanned systems, and his military projects. As the founder of Natilus, he highlights their innovative blended wing body aircraft and its impact on cargo and passenger aviation. They explore automation's role in pilot fundamentals, military potential for blended wing technology, and aviation industry competition. Aleksey reflects on aviation innovations, offering insights for professional pilots. Check out Natilus at www.natilus.co!

Check out what Aleksey and the team are up to at https://natilus.co or follow them on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/natilus/.

(0:00) Introduction and guest background (0:30) Early interest in aviation and growing up near a military base (1:48) Education at Embry Riddle and career beginnings (3:38) Designing aircraft and the importance of aerodynamics (5:32) Transition to unmanned systems and military projects (9:11) Unmanned systems: advantages and challenges (13:38) Founding Natilus and market positioning (18:47) Natilus's blended wing body aircraft creation (20:36) The right time for aviation innovation (22:21) Cargo and passenger aircraft innovation (24:04) Aircraft delivery timelines and challenges (25:35) Innovations impacting professional pilots (27:07) Automation's role in pilot fundamentals (29:16) Military potential for blended wing technology (33:02) Kona vs. current feeder aircraft (36:21) Passenger experience on Horizon aircraft (39:10) Reflections on aviation's past, present, and future (41:59) Competitive landscape in the aviation industry (44:10) Episode key takeaways (45:36) Closing remarks and contact information

Ejection at Mach 0.95: The Unbreakable Spirit of Kegan Gill Jan 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam hosts Kegan 'Smurf' Gill, who shares his incredible journey through aviation and beyond. Kegan recounts his experiences in Navy flight school and the advanced training that prepared him for life in the fleet. A life-changing ejection event (the fastest in Naval Aviation history) has the guys delving into the challenges of survival and recovery. Kegan opens up about the trauma and mental health battles he faced, highlighting the support from the veteran community and alternative therapies that aided his recovery. He reflects on personal growth and resilience, offering insights from his upcoming book, Phoenix Revival: The Aftermath of Naval Aviation's Fastest Ejection,. The episode closes with Kegan's appreciation for the support he's received and his hopes for the future. (0:00) Welcome and introduction of Kegan Smurf Gill (0:53) Kegan's journey, challenges, and joining the podcast (2:19) Kegan's book, ejection experience, and aviation origin story (5:41) Early flying experiences, military decision, and Navy OCS (14:32) Learning, training, and Navy flight school challenges (23:10) Selection process, military aviation luck, and aircraft selection (28:45) T-45 advanced training and carrier landings (32:40) Life-changing ejection event and pre-flight traditions (38:45) Ejection scenario, survival, and high-speed challenges (50:12) Rescue decisions, trauma recovery, and mishap investigation (1:00:21) Swiss cheese model in aviation safety and debriefing culture (1:07:04) Hospital recovery, fear, vulnerability, and coma realization (1:11:49) Prognosis fight, visualizing recovery, and FENAB (1:18:48) Return to flying, community support, and mental challenges (1:24:51) Medical system diagnosis, mental health, and VA treatment (1:30:42) Alternative therapies, recovery reflection, and hopes (1:34:43) Post-recovery betrayal, anger, healing, and personal growth (1:40:01) Veteran support, resilience takeaway, and upcoming book (1:45:42) Final thoughts and appreciation

John 'RAIN' Waters from The Afterburn Podcast chats on Aviation Journeys and Beyond Jan 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam connects with John 'RAIN' Waters to discuss his aviation journey and the Afterburn podcast. They explore Rain's transition from military to civilian life, highlighting the importance of sharing personal stories and the human side of military aviators. They share memorable interviews and humorous flying stories, delving into the challenges of podcast editing and the significance of networking. The episode wraps up with reflections on early missions, lessons learned, and future collaborations. It's a good ole' squadron BS sesh! (0:00) Introduction to John Rain Waters and Overview of the Afterburn podcast (1:23) Rain’s aviation journey and connection with The Pilot Network (3:37) Casual status and pilot training experiences (5:26) Transition from military to civilian life (7:06) Adam’s fascination with rescue missions and starting the Afterburn podcast (14:28) The human side of military aviators and importance of sharing personal stories (18:37) Memorable interviews and guest stories from Adam and John Rain Waters (23:17) Podcast editing challenges and remarkable stories (25:03) The importance of networking and maintaining connections (27:21) Transitioning to airline life and understanding pilot roles (32:53) Humorous and insightful flying stories (38:32) Lessons learned in aviation (41:24) Contacting John Rain Waters and The Afterburn Podcast (44:18) Reflections on early missions, support roles, and key takeaways (45:32) Future collaborations and content anticipation (45:40) Contact information for The Pilot Network and closing remarks

TPN's first ever AI News brief with Artificial Adam...what do you think? Jan 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, artificial intelligence Adam introduces the first AI-powered TPN news brief, providing insights into the latest developments in the aviation industry. The episode covers the expansion of US long-haul routes and emerging market trends, highlighting the evolving dynamics of air travel. AI Adam discusses recent FAA policy changes that impact infrastructure and sustainability efforts within US airlines. Additionally, the shift of Icon Aircraft's manufacturing to the US and updates on FAA safety protocols are examined. Concluding with an invitation for listener feedback, AI Adam encourages the community to share their thoughts and suggestions. (0:00) Introduction of the first ever AI TPN news brief... (0:23) Expanding US Long Haul Routes and Market Trends (1:32) FAA Policy Changes, Infrastructure, and Sustainability in US Airlines (3:11) Icon Aircraft's US Manufacturing Shift and FAA Safety Updates (4:20) Closing Remarks - Let us know what you think! heyguys@thepilotnetwork.com

Navigating Aviation with 'A Chick in the Cockpit' author Erika Armstrong Jan 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Adam chats with Erika Armstrong about her aviation career, from business aviation to Northwest Airlines and back again. They discuss her unique path and her journey in a male-dominated field. Erika highlights the role of human factors in pilot training, the importance of mentorship, and balancing family life. She also talks about the many transitions pilots face through her experiences in her book, "A Chick in the Cockpit." Erika offers guidance for aspiring pilots, addressing future challenges associated with the industry, and look into the always murky crystal ball. Want to connect with Erika? https://www.linkedin.com/in/achickinthecockpitb727/ Check out here stuff! https://www.aircrewacademy.com (0:00) Introduction and Erica Armstrong's career overview (1:31) The Pilot Network Experience in Minneapolis (1:47) Interview with Erica Armstrong begins (2:54) Erica Armstrong's path in aviation (3:58) Business aviation vs. Part 121 airlines (6:16) Erica Armstrong's journey to Northwest Airlines (7:07) Erica's origin story in aviation (9:12) Human factors in pilot training (10:59) Role models and mentorship in aviation (15:00) Overcoming challenges in a male-dominated field (20:46) The necessity of resilience in aviation (21:20) "A Chick in the Cockpit" book discussion (24:16) Managing family and aviation careers (25:12) Military to civilian aviation transition (27:07) Flight instruction techniques (28:59) Anticipating future aviation challenges (31:08) Automation impact on pilot skills (35:04) Guidance for aspiring pilots and balancing life (40:27) The importance of mentorship for new pilots (43:31) Connecting with Erica Armstrong (44:14) Episode wrap-up and contact details

TPN 2024: The Year in Review Dec 27, 2024

Show notes

Adam and Matt retrace TPN's 2024 path. They delve into the intricacies of scheduling, planning, and operating The Pilot Network, especially TPNx. The guys share new directions they took in 2024, excitement of what is to come, and the heartbreak of losing Jason Depew, a rock for TPN, as well as Matt and Adam. They get into all the new ideas coming in 2025; Jason's Scholarship fun, TPN Go (download the beta tester below), and TPN Talent. It's a little trip down memory lane and look past the storm clouds that developed in late 2024. Thanks for making The Pilot Network so absolutely amazing!! Join us and beta test TPN Go! You can download the app using Apple TestFlight: https://testflight.apple.com/join/jTBi0klS (0:00) Introduction of Matt Swee and challenges of scheduling (1:23) Year-end review and TPNX event planning (5:05) Reflection on past TPNX venues and future considerations (7:19) Airport-attached venues: benefits and challenges (8:49) Event preparations for early 2024 (10:16) Shout out to the support team and TPNX event execution (15:56) Enhancing the TPNX experience and taking a back seat in planning (20:07) Matt's new command role and balancing time (24:03) TPN Talent initiative and infrastructure development (27:50) TPN Go public beta launch and networking opportunities (30:22) Podcast development and representation at aviation conferences (38:40) Volunteer involvement and community support (39:17) Coping with personal challenges and community support (44:13) Establishing a pilot assistance fund and Jason Depew Scholarship Fund (50:50) Mental health awareness and future TPN initiatives (55:28) Embracing change and expanding TPN (58:45) Growth through new volunteers and challenging traditional practices (1:02:32) Diversity in TPN and getting involved (1:04:34) Final thoughts and closing remarks

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