In this episode of The Aspiring Pilot Podcast, I sit down with Jamie Brooks—better known online as One Nut Nightmare—to unpack his unconventional and inspiring journey into aviation.

Before earning his wings, Jamie spent years teaching English in South Korea and skydiving. That skydiving passion eventually opened the door to his first flying gig—jump flying—which led to flight instructing, and later, float planes, aerial survey, and remote bush flying.

Jamie reflects on the winding road that brought him here, sharing why he initially spent too much time focused on future goals instead of enjoying the process. He offers advice on what he would have done differently in flight training, especially for those eyeing their first float job.

We also dive into what it really takes to succeed in aviation training—touching on the importance of self-study, self-motivation, discipline, and accountability. Jamie shares actionable tips for landing your first pilot job and setting realistic expectations as you move through the training pipeline.

On a more personal note, Jamie opens up about his battles with ulcerative colitis and testicular cancer, and how those experiences shaped his mindset and priorities. We explore the connection between physical and mental health and how pilots can better care for both while pursuing demanding flying careers.

This episode is packed with honest insights, hard lessons, and practical advice for anyone looking to forge their own path in aviation.

Website: https://www.onenutnightmare.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@onenutnightmare

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onenutnightmare/

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In this episode, Hayden is joined by John Crawford — a seasoned commercial pilot whose aviation journey spans from ramp agent to Chief Pilot. Drawing from a wealth of hands-on experience, John recognized a need for a more efficient path to the cockpit for aspiring aviators. That realization led to the creation of Wild Blue Aviation, a coaching platform dedicated to helping student and low-time pilots bypass the traditional instructing route and land their first flying job.

We dive into how John’s coaching program — featuring personalized mentorship, a comprehensive online course, resume building, group calls, and interview prep — is transforming how pilots launch their careers. He also shares how he uses platforms like Instagram and TikTok to motivate and educate the next generation of pilots.

Whether you're just starting out in aviation or looking for a new route to take off, this episode is packed with actionable insight and inspiration.

• https://www.wbaviation.com/ - Website
• https://www.youtube.com/@wildblueaviation9500 - YouTube
• https://www.instagram.com/wildblueaviation/?hl=en - Instagram
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1gq9Y2U3Zk - "Flying the Legendary DHC-2 Beaver on Floats | The Stunning Coastline of the Gulf Islands"

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Welcome to Episode #6 of The Aspiring Pilot Podcast. This episode features published aviation photographer, enthusiast and aspiring pilot Grant Gladych. In this episode, Grant shares how he got into aviation photography, what gear he uses, his reaction to being published for the first time and much more!

Grants' Instagram: https://instagram.com/grants_aviation?igshid=ZDdkNTZiNTM=

Grants' YouTube: https://youtube.com/@grants_aviation

Grants' Jet Photos: https://www.jetphotos.com/photographer/186958

Grants' Website: http://grantsaviation.com/

Sunset 737 MAX photo: https://www.instagram.com/p/CTlPECiFLAN/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Connect Airlines photo: https://www.instagram.com/p/ChdfrfUMyEa/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Global 7500 photo: https://www.instagram.com/p/CMZ24dfhJXU/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Tracking Services Grant utilizes:
http://flightradar24.com/
http://radarbox.com/
http://globe.adsbexchange.com/

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