Ep. 20 - Winter Flying 101: How to Stay Safe, Prepared, and Confident in Cold Weather Operations

Ep.24 - Learning From Our Early Mistakes — Real Stories From Flight Training

In this episode of the Becoming a Pilot Podcast, Dave and Tyler share the real experiences, close calls, and lessons learned that shaped them into the pilots and instructors they are today. From communication slip-ups and circuit-entry confusion to flap overspeeds, stall warnings, and unexpected mechanical issues, they walk through how each moment became part of their growth as aviators. This candid conversation highlights why experience matters just as much as hours — and how learning from others’ challenges can make you a safer, more confident pilot at every stage of training.

Ep. 23 - Mastering Performance Takeoffs & Landings — Tips for PPL and CPL Students

In this episode of the Becoming a Pilot Podcast, Dave and Tyler take a deep dive into performance takeoffs and landings, covering short-field and soft-field techniques, airspeed management, approach planning, and how to adapt for obstacles or different runway conditions. They also share practical tips to help you fine-tune your precision, improve consistency in the circuit, and understand what instructors and examiners expect during training and flight tests. Whether you're working toward your PPL or CPL, this episode will help strengthen your technique and decision-making.

Ep 22 - Earning Your Night Rating — What to Expect When Flying After Dark

In this episode of the Becoming a Pilot Podcast, host Dave and instructor Tyler break down everything you need to know about earning your Night Rating. They discuss when to start training, what skills you’ll develop, and how Genesis Flight College helps students safely experience real-world conditions like the black-hole effect and nighttime navigation. Whether you’re looking to add a new rating or take the next step after your PPL, this episode sheds light on what it’s really like to fly after dark.

Ep. 21 - Human Factors Every New Pilot Should Know: Decision-Making, Mindset & Safer Flying

In this episode, Dave and Tyler take a deep dive into human factors—one of the most important elements of becoming a safe, capable pilot. They break down practical tools like the I’M SAFE checklist, the FOR-DEC decision-making model, and the three-strike rule, while sharing real-world examples that highlight how mindset, stress management, problem-solving, and situational awareness directly influence your performance in the air. Whether you’re preparing for your first solo, working toward your CPL, or looking to strengthen your aeronautical decision-making, this episode will help you build the habits and awareness that make great pilots.

Ep. 20 - Winter Flying 101: How to Stay Safe, Prepared, and Confident in Cold Weather Operations

In this episode, Dave and Tyler break down everything student and newly licensed pilots need to know about winter flying. From surface contamination and cold-weather walk-arounds to managing engine temperatures, taxi techniques, carb ice, crosswinds, and winter runway conditions—this conversation covers the practical, real-world considerations that matter most once the temperatures drop. Whether you're heading into your first Canadian winter or just brushing up on seasonal procedures, this episode will help you build safer habits, better decision-making, and more confidence in the cold.