Warbird Radio

WARBIRD RADIO - We're finishing Safety Month 2025 with a special guest: John Lohmar, Principal at Air Safety Investigators. With a career spanning from airline captain to active warbird pilot, John brings a wealth of experience in aviation safety, risk assessment, and human factors in decision-making. Air Safety Investigators specializes in helping pilots and organizations avoid costly mistakes through smart planning, good training, and attention to detail. Their expertise in risk assessment, avoidance, and mitigation assists aviators in understanding the cognitive biases that can lead even the best pilots to make critical errors. In addition to preventative measures, the company also investigates root causes of incidents to prevent future mishaps. In this final episode of Safety Month 2025, John will share his insights on how pilots—both warbird enthusiasts and commercial operators—can enhance their safety mindset. Whether it’s through better preparation, refined situational awareness, or learning from past mistakes, his approach helps pilots make safer decisions in the cockpit. Don’t miss this informative episode! Tune in and hear John’s expert advice, then visit Air Safety Investigators [https://www.airsafetyinvestigators.com/] to learn more about their work. As always, remember to like, follow, and subscribe to our email list so you never miss an episode or article on Warbird Radio! #warbirdradio #warbirdsafety #nwoc #warbirdconference Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations [https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations] Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands [https://redcircle.com/brands] Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy [https://redcircle.com/privacy]

Warbird Radio Kicks Off Safety Month with Dr. Ian Robertson and Lift Aviation’s Braydn Lentz WARBIRD RADIO - March is Safety Month on Warbird Radio, and we’re starting the conversation with a deep dive into the science behind pilot decision-making. In our latest episode, host Matt Jolley sits down with renowned neuroscientist and clinical psychologist Dr. Ian Robertson to explore why even the most disciplined pilots sometimes make risky decisions in the cockpit. Dr. Robertson, a Professor of Psychology at Trinity College Dublin and author of The Winner Effect, explains how the brain’s attention system influences cognitive function, emotional regulation, and ultimately, pilot safety. Understanding human behavior is just one piece of the safety puzzle. Also joining us in this episode is Braydn Lentz from Lift Aviation, who discusses the critical role of helmet safety in vintage military aircraft operations. Lentz shares insights on how modern helmet technology helps reduce head trauma in emergency situations and why every warbird pilot should consider this essential gear. Safety is at the heart of everything we do in aviation, and throughout March, Warbird Radio will bring you expert perspectives on minimizing risks and enhancing operational awareness. Tune in to our latest episode for this insightful conversation with Dr. Robertson and Braydn Lentz, and stay with us all month long for more safety-focused discussions. Listen now at WarbirdRadio.com [http:] or wherever you get your podcasts. QUICK LINK: https://ianrobertson.org/ [https://ianrobertson.org/] QUICK LINK: https://liftaviationusa.com/ [https://liftaviationusa.com/] EMAIL: braydn@liftaviationusa.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations [https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations] Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands [https://redcircle.com/brands] Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy [https://redcircle.com/privacy]

Young Guns of Warbirds: Job Savage and Friends Bring Fresh Energy to Vintage Aviation WARBIRD RADIO - If you’ve spent any time around the warbird community, you know it’s built on passion—passion for history, for flight, and for keeping these incredible machines in the air. But keeping that passion alive for the next generation? That’s a challenge. Fortunately, a new wave of young aviators and restorers are stepping up, bringing fresh energy to the movement, and leading the charge is none other than Job Savage. On this episode of Warbird Radio, we sit down with Job and his flying buddy Luke Hedin, two young pilots who are making waves in the vintage military aircraft world. Their enthusiasm is undeniable, and their commitment to honoring history through hands-on flying and restoration work is nothing short of inspiring. From stick-and-rudder flying to wrench-turning in the hangar, these guys are all in. Later in the episode, we catch up with Job’s father, serial entrepreneur and aviation publisher Tim Savage. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and Tim’s lifelong dedication to aviation has clearly influenced Job’s passion. But what’s most impressive isn’t just their personal involvement—it’s their generosity in opening doors for others. The Savage's and their friends understand that for this movement to thrive, it has to grow. That means creating opportunities for young pilots, maintenance professionals, and restoration experts to get involved, learn the ropes, and carry the torch forward. Their love of all things warbirds is infectious, and hopefully, their generosity is contagious. Our community needs more young hands on the controls and under the cowling, and seeing what the Savage's are doing is proof that the next generation is ready to take flight. Adding to their efforts, the Savage's are now offering DC-3 flight training and type ratings, further expanding opportunities for aspiring aviators. You can learn more at DC3Experience.org [http://dc3experience.org/] and find out more about their 501c3 museum operations by visiting Vintage Flying Machines on social media. Take a listen to this episode, and then get involved! Whether you’re a seasoned warbird veteran or just starting to dream about flying one, there’s a place for you in this incredible community. And don’t forget to sign up for the free WarbirdRadio.com newsletter so you never miss an episode. The future of warbirds is bright—let’s make sure it stays that way! QUICK LINK: DC3Experienc.org [https://www.dc3experience.com] QUICK LINK: National Warbird Operator Conference [https://www.nwoc.aero] #warbirdradio #dc3experience #nwoc #nationalwarbirdoperatorconference #flyingforfun #warbirds #flighttraining Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations [https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations] Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands [https://redcircle.com/brands] Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy [https://redcircle.com/privacy]

WARBIRD RADIO - If there were ever a real-life Indiana Jones for the warbird community, it’d be Jay Wisler. Instead of dodging booby traps and uncovering lost temples, Jay has spent over four decades scouring the globe in search of something just as precious—vintage warbird parts. From the dusty corners of forgotten warehouses to the bustling hangars of world-class restoration shops, Jay’s relentless quest has helped keep historic aircraft flying for generations. On this episode of Warbird Radio, Matt Jolley sits down with Jay Wisler to talk about his legendary career in the warbird parts industry. Since 1982, Jay’s company, Warbird Parts and Memorabilia, has been the go-to source for hard-to-find aircraft components. Before selling his massive inventory to Fagen Fighters Restorations, Jay managed nine warehouses filled to the brim with parts essential to the restoration of iconic aircraft like the North American P-51 Mustang. If you’ve ever admired an award-winning warbird at Oshkosh or any major airshow, there’s a good chance some of Jay’s parts helped bring it back to life. His passion for Mustangs is no secret, and when asked about his favorite project, Jay doesn’t hesitate: Jack Roush’s P-51B, Old Crow. Over the years, he’s supplied parts for countless Mustang restorations, ensuring that these legendary fighters remain a fixture in the skies. His philosophy—“If I don’t have it, I’ll help you find it”—has made him a beloved figure in the warbird community, and in 2014, he was rightfully inducted into the EAA Warbirds Hall of Fame. But Jay isn’t just looking back—he’s looking ahead. He believes the future of warbird restoration is in good hands with people like Erik Hokuf, founder of AirCorps Aviation. Erik also joins Matt on this episode to discuss the future of warbird restorations, parts manufacturing, and how his team is carrying the torch forward. Based in Bemidji, Minnesota, AirCorps Aviation has become an industry leader, blending precision craftsmanship with modern technology to keep vintage aircraft flying. From FAA Part 21 PMA-certified parts to full-scale restorations, Erik and his team are shaping the next chapter in warbird history. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation as Matt Jolley dives into the stories behind the parts, the people, and the passion that fuels the warbird restoration world. Be sure to follow Warbird Radio on Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for our email newsletter so you never miss an episode. Tune in, take flight, and keep ‘em flying! QUICK LINK: https://www.aircorpsaviation.com/ [https://www.aircorpsaviation.com/] #warbirdradio #warbirdparts #aircorpsaviation #roushperformance #airshowannouncer #airshows [Photos courtesy of EAA Warbirds of America and AirCorps Aviation] Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations [https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations] Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands [https://redcircle.com/brands] Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy [https://redcircle.com/privacy]

WWII B-17 Pilot John “Lucky” Luckadoo Speaks at NWOC and Joins Warbird Radio WARBIRD RADIO – In a powerful moment during the National Warbird Operators Conference (NWOC) held in Dallas, Texas, World War II B-17 pilot John “Lucky” Luckadoo captivated the audience with his experiences and reflections. Known for his service with the notorious “Bloody 100th” Bomb Group, featured in Apple TV’s Masters of the Air series, Lucky’s stories brought history to life for those in attendance. Addressing the crowd, Lucky remarked, “I am an example of those who flew these airplanes in the manner for which they were intended.” His words resonated deeply, a tribute to the bravery and skill of his fellow airmen who faced unimaginable odds during the war. In a heartfelt appeal, Lucky urged, “to keep ‘em flyin’,” acknowledging that while the day may come when maintaining these historic warbirds becomes too challenging, the efforts to preserve and fly them are a living tribute to the sacrifices made by his generation. The sight and sound of these magnificent machines soaring through the sky continue to thrill him, serving as a poignant reminder of the stories of valor and sacrifice from WWII. After his address, Lucky sat down with Warbird Radio’s Matt Jolley to share additional thoughts in an exclusive interview. Listeners can hear Lucky’s reflections and stories by clicking the link provided in this show story. Adding to the rich tapestry of history, renowned warbird historian and airplane whisperer Brad Pilgrim joined the episode, sharing tales of warbirds past with his signature storytelling flair. It’s an episode not to be missed, filled with reverence for the past and hope for preserving these flying artifacts for future generations. Be sure to tune in to this special episode, and consider signing up for our email newsletter to never miss a story or interview celebrating the legacy of our nation’s aviation heroes. #warbirdradio #luckyluckadoo #b17 #mastersoftheair #nwoc Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations [https://redcircle.com/warbird-radio/donations] Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands [https://redcircle.com/brands] Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy [https://redcircle.com/privacy]