The Leading Edge Podcast, presented by the National Flight Training Alliance, brings you candid conversations from the frontlines of aviation, featuring every voice shaping the future of flight. From students to CEOs, instructors to regulators, we share perspectives across the industry to drive progress, elevate training standards, and build a more connected aviation community.
In our first episode of the Leading Edge podcast, hosts Katie Braddick and Zofia Costa engage with aviation experts Paul Preidecker and Jeffrey Madison to explore the vital role of mentorship in aviation. They discuss personal journeys into the aviation industry, the importance of resilience and skills development, and how to foster a culture of trust and curiosity between mentors and mentees. The conversation emphasizes the significance of soft skills in aviation training and offers practical advice for student pilots to enhance their learning experience.
Watch the full episode here:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/yCrcUDANocI
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2QcpMu6S5Iuy0obG9y9nj2?si=bDKRhTIpTH2fK9ZociBosA
In this episode of the Leading Edge Podcast, hosts Katie Braddick and Zofia Costa sit down with Sarah Daniels and Lisa S. Kollar to explore leadership, career growth, and the rising impact of women in aviation. In recognition of Women’s History Month, they share their journeys into the industry, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons that have shaped them as leaders. The conversation dives into mentorship, confidence, and breaking barriers, while offering actionable insight and encouragement for the next generation of aviation professionals.
Watch the full episode here:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/EuHOuxDGurY
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2TAS4zqaSGGpA1CTqC0xSm?si=5oCR-JcvTteBmu8fl-x3tw
Aviation technology has advanced at an incredible pace, but the regulations governing how we train pilots have largely remained unchanged for decades.
In our second episode of The Leading Edge Podcast, hosts Zofia Costa and Katie Braddick sit down with two of the most influential leaders in collegiate aviation to discuss the urgent need to modernize FAA Part 141 flight training.
Watch the full episode here:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaAxP8ZVd4M&t=106s
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2BNhxIDL8Yk8Qzsc8AJfCP?si=d4ad21032e09467b
In this episode of The Leading Edge Podcast, Jonathan Daniels and George Vergara break down what it really takes to succeed in today’s evolving aviation industry. From navigating career paths beyond the cockpit to understanding the impact of automation, UAS, and global industry growth, this conversation offers a practical look at where aviation is headed, and how the next generation can position themselves to lead. The discussion highlights the importance of adaptability, mentorship, and continuous development in a rapidly changing environment, while also addressing how training, technology, and policy are shaping the future of flight.
Watch the full episode here: