Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, with your host Halsey Schider!This podcast is for helicopter pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts! Whether you've been in the...
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider steps outside his comfort zone and explores the world of experimental aviation with Gerrit Schulze a pilot with a passion for powered parachutes and experimental helicopters like the Rotorway Jet Exec. Though Halsey is less familiar with experimental aircraft, Gerrit opens up a whole new perspective, sharing how this path can be a cost-effective route into aviation—if done correctly and with thorough research.Gerrit recounts his journey from flying powered parachutes to taking on the challenges and rewards of owning an experimental helicopter. Halsey and Gerrit discuss the potential risks involved, but also the benefits of hands-on mechanics and the supportive community that surrounds experimental aircraft owners. Gerrit also shares his experiences training in the certified world in the Bell 47 and reflects on the nerve-wracking process of checkrides.This episode shines a light on the importance of preparation and education in the experimental world and offers valuable insights for anyone considering this unconventional path into aviation. Halsey’s conversation with Gerrit highlights the balance between safety and affordability in experimental flying, and how with the right knowledge, it can be a rewarding aviation journey.Tune in for a fresh perspective on experimental aircraft, the camaraderie in aviation, and Gerrit’s personal flying experiences. Don’t miss this enlightening episode of The Helicopter Podcast!Thank you to our sponsors Vertical Aviation International, Bell and Sellacopter.
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Episode #101 - The Evolution of Air Medical: Woody McClendon - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider interviews Woody McClendon, a seasoned pilot and author of When the Angel Calls. Woody shares his extensive experience in air medical services, emphasizing the critical roles of flight nurses and paramedics in patient care. He discusses the challenges of night flying and the improvements in safety that have shaped the industry over the years. The conversation also highlights the value of simulator training in preparing pilots for demanding scenarios.Woody talks about his career transition from flying to sales and training, and he offers advice for aspiring aviators looking to make their mark in aviation. Woody also reflects on the evolution of the helicopter industry, including the transition of HAI to VAI and the growing influence of eVTOL technology.Listen in to this episode of The Helicopter Podcast for an engaging conversation on the past, present, and future of the helicopter industry!You can find Woody's incredible story, When the Angel Calls, on Amazon Thank you to our sponsors Robinson, Hillsboro Heli Academy and Sellacopter.
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Episode #100 - Jet Suits, Helicopters, and Snowboards! Leigh Coates - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!For the 100th episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider @HeliHalsey is thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Leigh Coates, a trailblazing helicopter pilot who’s been making waves in the aviation world!Leigh’s journey is nothing short of incredible—from BoarderCross snowboard racing, to piloting helicopters, running her own helicopter business, and even racing jetpacks!In this exciting episode, they dive into her experiences flying in tough environments, her dedication to safety, and her passion for inspiring new aviators.Leigh also shares the story behind her iconic Bell 505, affectionately called the “Candy Cane,” and how social media has allowed her to bring her love for helicopters to a wider audience. Plus, don’t miss the inside scoop on how Leigh became the first woman trained to fly a gravity jet suit!Listen in for an inspiring and fun conversation as we celebrate Leigh’s amazing achievements, and the 100th to this episode of The Helicopter Podcast!Check out Leigh on Instagram @helipilotleighThank you to our sponsors Vertical Aviation International, Precision Aviation Group and Sellacopter.
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Episode #99 - From Robinson Mechanic to Delta Pilot: Jacob Tuck - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Jacob Tuck, a pilot and mechanic, to discuss his unique journey in aviation—from working as an aircraft mechanic to becoming a first officer at Delta Airlines.Jacob shares how financial constraints and a passion for hands-on work led him to pursue maintenance initially. He highlights the value of understanding aircraft systems from a maintenance perspective, emphasizing the problem-solving and adaptability required in real-world scenarios. With a background in aviation technology and both IA and A&P mechanic certifications, Jacob’s journey reflects the diverse paths available in the industry.The conversation also covers Jacob’s experiences with Robinson helicopters and his transition into the airline world. He contrasts the lifestyle and challenges of helicopter flying with those of airline operations, noting the longer flights and increased days off in his current role. Jacob’s freelance maintenance work continues to provide flexibility and a broad connection to the aviation industry.For aspiring aviators and mechanics, this episode provides valuable insights into the opportunities and career paths available, from maintenance to the flight deck. Listen in for an inspiring story on navigating the aviation industry from multiple perspectives!Thank you to our sponsors Robinson, Hillsboro Heli Academy and Sellacopter.
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Episode #98 - Hurricane Helene - Heroic efforts of civilian helicopters: Pat Harrigan - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textIn this special edition of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Pat Harrigan, a Green Beret, entrepreneur, and congressional candidate from North Carolina, to discuss Hurricane Helene's devastating impact and the critical role of civilian helicopters in the disaster response efforts. Pat shares his unique journey from military service, to business ownership, and now to politics, emphasizing the value available to young men and women in the unique leadership and personal responsibility skill sets they can gain from service in the military. He also talks about how that path has led him to feel called to public service.Through the lens of his experience and direct involvement, he reflects on the incredible efforts of civilian helicopter operators who are providing crucial rescue and recovery support in hard-to-reach areas of the Western North Carolina mountains.The conversation highlights the resilience and collaboration of communities coming together to help those in need, as well as the importance of effective communication and coordination during emergencies.Tune in to this episode of The Helicopter Podcast for an inspiring discussion on disaster response, community strength, and the essential role of helicopters in emergency situations!To support the ongoing civilian helicopter operations in the wake of Hurricane Helene please visit Operation Helo.To learn more about Pat, visit his official website.Thank you to our sponsors Vertical Aviation International, Bell and Sellacopter.
Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, with your host Halsey Schider!This podcast is for helicopter pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts! Whether you've been in the industry for 30 years or are just someone that loves helicopters, this podcast is for you! The podcasts will feature guests from a wide array of industry sectors to have casual conversation, answer questions, give sound advice, and talk shop. Finally, a podcast produced by helicopter professionals for all types of helicopter people!
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