The Future in Flight Podcast

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a family logbook sparks a life-changing career in aviation—and leads to a company redefining how pilots fund their dreams? In this episode, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Brandon Martini, Co-CEO of Stratus Financial, to uncover the powerful story behind one of aviation’s most transformative startups. From finding his grandfather’s logbook to soloing in 41 hours, building a flight school from a single airplane, and co-founding a fintech company built by pilots, for pilots, Brandon shares how persistence and problem-solving fueled his success. Together, they explore the financial challenges facing today’s students, how flight training financing can open doors for aspiring aviators, and why setting honest expectations is the key to business and life.
Whether you’re a student pilot, an entrepreneur, or someone chasing their next big goal, this episode will inspire you to face obstacles head-on—and turn every setback into altitude gained.
Thank you to our episode supporters: Flyte, makers of game-changing sunglasses for pilots—and AviNation USA, inspiring the next generation of aviators.
✨ Key Points
Brandon Martini’s Aviation Journey
Sparked by finding his grandfather’s logbook after his passing.
Began flight training in 2013 using $2,500 in Christmas gift certificates.
Completed his private pilot certificate in just 41.5 hours.
Founded his own flight school starting with one airplane and one closet-sized office.
Became a flight instructor to teach his son and build credibility with his team.
Founding Stratus Financial
Created to help students overcome the biggest flight training barrier—money.
Originated from Brandon’s struggle to find banks willing to finance flight training.
Co-founded with attorney and fellow pilot Anthony Geraci.
Today, Stratus has helped nearly 1,000 pilots and works with over 400 flight schools across North America.
Built on the principle of transparency, responsibility, and setting clear expectations.
Lessons from Brandon’s Story
The path to becoming a pilot doesn’t have to go through the military.
Rejection and struggle often reveal new solutions—like creating flight training financing from scratch.
Persistence and integrity build lasting partnerships, whether in business or aviation.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction: Passion meets purpose0:45 – 2:47 | Finding inspiration in a family logbook2:48 – 4:23 | Early flight training and the challenge of cost4:24 – 6:00 | Building a flight school from the ground up6:01 – 8:00 | Teaching his son and falling in love with instructing8:01 – 10:28 | The money barrier and the birth of an idea10:29 – 13:37 | Creating Stratus Financial: by pilots, for pilots13:38 – 15:31 | From aviation dreamer to fintech innovator15:32 – 17:10 | Lessons in leadership, transparency, and expectations17:11 – end | What makes Stratus Financial different
🔗 Links
Flyte Sunglasses → https://www.flyte.aero/
Stratus Financial → https://stratus.finance/AviNation USA → https://www.avinationusa.com/Creative Relay Media → https://creativerelaymedia.com/The Future in Flight Podcast → https://www.futureinflight.com/
 

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when an old pilot’s logbook sparks a new generation of aviators? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker introduces us to Brandon Martini, Co-CEO of Stratus Financial, whose personal journey from maxed-out credit cards to helping 1,000 new pilots earn their wings proves one thing: the dream of flight doesn’t have to stay out of reach. From starting a flight school with one plane and a $96 office, to launching a financial platform that partners with over 400 flight schools, Brandon’s story is a blueprint for perseverance and innovation in aviation finance.
Then, Shawn takes us on a deep dive into the Aeroverse — the new streaming platform built exclusively for aviation lovers — and closes with a high-energy look into the fast-growing global sport of Drone Soccer, where coding, flight, and competition collide to inspire the next generation of aviators.
This episode is all about visionaries — the ones who don’t wait for permission to make aviation more accessible, more entertaining, and more inclusive.
✨ Thank you to ASA (Aviation Supplies and Academics) for helping us reach the next generation of aviators and aviation enthusiasts!
✈️ Key Points
Brandon Martini’s Journey
Inspired by his grandfather’s logbook and funded his first lessons with $2,500 in Christmas gift certificates.
Maxed out credit cards to finish flight training while supporting a family.
Opened a one-airplane flight school in Riverside, California.
Founded Stratus Financial after traditional banks rejected aviation students.
Helped nearly 1,000 pilots finance their dreams, partnering with 400+ flight schools.
Recognized on the NBAA 40 Under 40 list for innovation in business aviation.
Lessons from Brandon’s Story
When opportunity doesn’t knock, build your own door.
Persistence is more valuable than perfect timing.
Aviation finance can be human, ethical, and built around student success.
Barriers are only permanent if you let them be.
Inside Aeroverse: The Streaming Home for Aviation Enthusiasts
Founded by Charles Cook on the 120th anniversary of the Wright Brothers’ flight.
Features exclusive content like Throttle Jockey (hosted by Chelsea Smith), Creating Scrappy with Mike Patey, Aviation 101, and Jimmy’s World.
Partnerships with AOPA and EAA make Aeroverse both entertaining and educational.
$7/month subscription with ad-free aviation shows, live airport streams, and downloadable content.
Drone Soccer: Where Aviation Meets Esports
Originated in South Korea; now growing across the U.S. through schools and STEM programs.
Combines coding, aerodynamics, and teamwork into one competitive sport.
Supported by the US Drone Soccer Association and companies like Boeing.
Helps students earn real-world aviation experience and pathways to FAA Part 107 certification.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction: When the cost of flight becomes the challenge0:45 – 6:40 | The Journey of Brandon Martini: From logbook to legacy6:41 – 8:21 | Lessons in persistence and the power of building your own system8:22 – 8:50 | Transition: From finance to the future of aviation media8:51 – 14:26 | Inside Aeroverse: The new streaming world for pilots and dreamers14:27 – 15:46 | Acknowledgment: Carol Cali and GlobalAir.com article on Aeroverse15:47 – 20:26 | The Drone Zone: The rise of drone soccer20:27 – end | Challenge and closing thoughts: The future of flight is in your hands
🔗 Links
Stratus Financial: https://www.stratus.finance
Aeroverse: https://www.aeroverse.tv
ASA: https://asa2fly.com/
US Drone Soccer Association: https://www.usdronesoccer.org
Done Cadets: https://dronecadets.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

Episode Summary
What happens when a lifelong aviation enthusiast turns passion into a multifaceted career in air shows and military service?
In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Jeremy Meyers, a Technical Sergeant in the Air Force, operations manager for the NextGen Eagles Aerobatic Team, and founder of Brakes Off Media. From his early days as a five-year-old captivated by the Thunderbirds to launching aircraft in Iraq and mentoring the next generation, Jeremy shares his inspiring journey through aviation. This episode is about persistence, passion, and the impact of mentorship in shaping the future of aviation.
Thank you to our newest show supporters, Flyte sunglasses! “Light on weight, not on quality.”  Check out their incredible selection at flyte.aero!
Key Points
Jeremy Meyers’ Journey
Fell in love with aviation at age five at Felts Field, Spokane, inspired by the Thunderbirds and B-52s.
Attended over 140 air shows across multiple countries, including a memorable lunch with General Chuck Yeager in 2009.
Served 19+ years in the Air Force as a maintainer and crew chief on F-15s and F-16s, with deployments to Iraq, Pakistan, and the UAE.
Founded Brakes Off Media to revitalize the air show industry through storytelling, photography, and mentorship.
Operations manager for the NextGen Eagles, managing ground operations for their iconic Christian Eagle biplane performances.
Pursuing a master’s in mental health counseling to support the aviation community’s well-being.
Lessons from Jeremy’s Story
Mentorship is critical for success in the fast-paced air show industry.
Persistence and clear communication are key to navigating challenges and building a professional reputation.
Aviation offers diverse career paths, from maintenance to media, beyond just piloting.
Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 1:39 | Introduction: From a young aviation enthusiast to a multifaceted career
1:40 – 24:27 | Jeremy Meyers’ Journey: Air shows, military service, and Brakes Off Media
24:28 – 31:49 | Next Gen Eagles: Behind the scenes of their aerobatic performances
31:50 – 43:36 | Military Career: Maintainer to crew chief to instructor
43:37 – 46:45 | Mental Health in Aviation: Addressing a critical need
46:46 – 48:22 | Under His Wing: Jeremy’s guiding philosophy
48:23 – 54:44 | Closing Reflections: Motivation, advice, and fun questions
Links
Brakes Off Media FB: https://www.facebook.com/brakesoffmedia/
Flyte Sunglasses: flyte.aero
Next Gen Eagles: thenextgeneagles.com
AviNation USA: avinationusa.com
Creative Relay Media: creativerelaymedia.com

🎧 Episode Summary
What drives a teenager to climb up on a rooftop in Mexico just to watch airplanes trace paths across the night sky? For Adriana Barragan, it was more than a dream—it was a calling. In this inspiring episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker explores Adriana’s remarkable journey—from struggling to learn English one page at a time to becoming a private pilot, Gulfstream engineer, and now the CEO and co-founder of Fly ORKA, an app reshaping how pilots learn and train.
Shawn also takes listeners on a tour of vibrant Hispanic aviation festivals—where mariachi music meets fighter-jet aerobatics—and pays tribute to the courage and innovation of Latino trailblazers of the skies, from Jorge Chávez, who crossed the Alps in a flimsy monoplane, to Olga Custodio, the first Latina to complete USAF pilot training, and Diana Trujillo, whose work at NASA reaches all the way to Mars.
This is a celebration of resilience, culture, and the pioneers who looked at the sky and said, that’s where I belong.
Brought to you by AviNation USA and our newest supporters, Flyte Sunglasses—“Light on weight, not on quality.”
✨ Key Points
Adriana Barragan’s Journey
Fell in love with aviation as a teen lying on a rooftop in Mexico, inspired by Richard Bach’s books.
Overcame language barriers by translating flight-training materials word by word and watching aviation films with subtitles.
Earned her private pilot’s license at 17 and studied aerospace engineering.
Worked at Gulfstream helping design and test advanced business jets.
Founded Fly ORKA, an app that helps pilots log flights, review 3D replays, and communicate with instructors—reducing costly in-air training hours.
Believes in empowerment without limits: “What defines you is what you do with every moment that is given to you.”
Hispanic Aviation Festivals
Feria Aeronáutica Internacional (Mexico): A mash-up of airshow aerobatics, heritage celebrations, and mariachi music.
FIA – Feria Internacional del Aire (Chile): High-altitude aerobatics against the Andes and hands-on STEM experiences.
Jorge Chávez International Aviation Festival (Peru): Honors the pioneer who first flew across the Alps—complete with air races, vintage planes, hot-air balloons, and ceviche.
Latino Pilots Association Events (USA): Mentorship and scholarships presented alongside cultural celebrations during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Trailblazers of the Sky
Jorge Chávez (Peru): First to cross the Alps by air (1910), proving mountain flying was possible.
Felix Rigau Carrera (Puerto Rico): First Hispanic U.S. Marine fighter pilot; later pioneered airmail routes in Puerto Rico.
Olga Custodio (Puerto Rico): First Latina to complete USAF pilot training and later a trailblazing American Airlines captain.
Marisol Chalas (Dominican Republic): First Latina U.S. Army National Guard Black Hawk pilot.
Arnaldo Tamayo-Méndez (Cuba): First Latin American in space.
Diana Trujillo (Colombia): NASA JPL engineer leading the robotic arm operations on Mars rovers.
Core Themes
Culture and community are as integral to aviation as technology.
Turning weaknesses into strengths unlocks new possibilities.
The sky has no borders—the next generation of aviators is more diverse than ever.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:36 | Introduction: A rooftop in Mexico and the spark that started it all0:37 – 6:20 | Adriana’s journey: from rooftop dreamer to pilot, engineer, and aviation-tech founder6:21 – 8:25 | Empowerment without limits—Fly ORKA’s vision8:26 – 12:38 | Hispanic aviation festivals: mariachi meets jet fuel12:39 – 17:30 | Trailblazers of the Skies: historic Latino pioneers who changed aviation17:31 – end | Closing reflections: inspiration for the next generation of aviators
🔗 Links
Fly ORKA: https://flyorka.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Flyte Sunglasses: https://www.flyte.aero/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/
 

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a 12-year-old gamer with a passion for Microsoft Flight Simulator refuses to take “no” for an answer? In this episode, host Shawn Staerker shares the incredible journey of Jamail Larkins—from flying virtual Delta jets in his bedroom, to becoming one of the youngest Americans to solo a powered aircraft, to inspiring thousands of students as the FAA’s first Ambassador for Aviation Education.
But we don’t stop there. Shawn also takes you on a seasonal adventure into the magic of fall flying and closes with a dive into aviation milestones of September—from steam-powered airships to the invention of attack helicopters, and the day aviation (and the world) changed forever: 9/11.
This episode is about persistence, passion, and the endless possibilities that aviation holds for the next generation.
Thank you to our newest show supporters—Flyte sunglasses! “Light on weight not on quality.” Check out their incredible selection of awesome sunglasses for any occasion!
✨ Key Points
Jamail Larkins’ journey
Started in Microsoft Flight Simulator at age 12.
First flight through the Young Eagles program.
Petitioned the FAA to solo before 16, then made it happen in Canada at age 14.
Faced 93 rejections before landing his first sponsorship.
Became an aerobatic performer by 18, opening for the Blue Angels.
Built an aircraft leasing company in his early 20s.
Founded Aviation Start, a free platform connecting youth to $20M+ in scholarships.
Lessons from Jamail’s story
Rejection is not the end—persistence creates opportunities.
Aviation offers many career paths beyond being an airline pilot.
Access to education and scholarships is transforming the next generation of aviators.
Fall Flying Tips
Cooler air = better performance and smoother flights.
Top foliage destinations: Vermont, Blue Ridge Mountains (NC), Maine, Indiana, Washington State, Colorado, California.
Pro tips: golden hour flights, check foliage reports, use smaller airports, bring backup batteries for photos.
This Month in Aviation History (September)
1852: Henri Giffard’s steam-powered airship proves powered flight is possible.
1927: Founding of Cessna Aircraft Company.
1954: Test pilot Scott Crossfield’s dramatic F-100 landing through a hangar.
1965: First flight of the Bell Huey Cobra, the first attack helicopter.
2001: The 9/11 attacks reshape aviation security and safety forever.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction: From gaming to aviation dreams
0:45 – 9:37 | The Journey of Jamail Larkins: Persistence, soloing at 14, aerobatics, business, and Aviation Start
9:38 – 10:05 | Jamail’s message to the next generation: never give up
10:06 – 11:41 | Transition: What’s next on the podcast
11:42 – 16:26 | Fall Flying Guide: Destinations, tips, and why fall is aviation’s “easy mode”
16:27 – 23:25 | This Month in Aviation History: From steam-powered dreams to 9/11
23:26 – end | Closing reflections
Links
Aviation Start: https://www.aviationstart.org/
Flyte: https://www.flyte.aero/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

Summary
This conversation explores the transformative impact of the Eagles Nest Project Wisconsin, an aviation education initiative from founder Jim Senft that empowers high school students to build and fly real aircraft. It highlights the personal stories of students who have gained invaluable skills and opportunities through hands-on learning.
The show also delves into a fun + creative project, inspired by the classic film 1941, that brings aviation history to life using Legos, an authentic John Belushi impersonator, and an actual P-40 Warhawk from the American Air Power Museum at Republic Airport on Long Island, NY!
Finally, it examines the complex mathematics behind modern autopilot systems and their potential future in aviation in our STEM in Flight segment.
Key Takeaways
Eagles Nest Project started in a basement and transformed aviation education.
Hands-on learning in aviation can lead to real-world opportunities for students.
Persistence in pursuing educational initiatives can lead to significant community impact.
Teamwork is essential in both aviation and life skills development.
The program has successfully produced 19 pilots still in high school.
Exposure to aviation careers can change students' life trajectories.
Eagles Nest Project fosters innovation and creativity among youth.
Collaboration among passionate individuals can lead to remarkable projects.
The use of Plane Bricks/BrickMania Custom Lego sets in recreating aviation history bridges generations.
Future autopilot systems may rely on AI and machine learning for enhanced safety.
Links
Eagles Nest Project Wisconsin: https://enpwi.com/
Brickmania | Wild Bill Kelso and Burma Banshees P-40: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZruH_7a0bs8&t=3s
American Air Power Museum: https://www.americanairpowermuseum.com/
Wonder Women of Aviation Podcast: https://www.wonderwomanofaviation.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
 

Summary
This episode of the Future in Flight podcast features Antonio Ferrara, founder of Aviators for Autism, who is transforming the aviation experience for families with autistic children. The conversation explores the barriers these families face in traveling and how Antonio's advocacy work is bridging that gap.
We also delve into the technological advancements in aviation safety, particularly through Bose headsets, and concludes with insights into the burgeoning commercial drone industry, highlighting the opportunities available for young pilots.
 
Key Takeaways
• Aviators for Autism aims to make air travel accessible for families with autistic children.• 87% of families with autistic individuals do not plan vacations due to anxiety.• Antonio Ferrara's advocacy is rooted in personal experience as a father of an autistic child.• The aviation industry faces a significant labor shortage, with 1.5 million jobs needed by 2034.• Neurodiverse individuals possess unique strengths that can benefit the aviation workforce.• Bose headsets utilize active noise cancellation technology to enhance pilot safety.• The drone industry is rapidly growing, creating new job opportunities.• To fly commercially, one must obtain a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.• Preparation for the FAA test is crucial, with many resources available for aspiring drone pilots.• The future of aviation is about inclusivity and leveraging diverse talents.
Links 
Aviators For Autism: https://www.aviatorsforautism.org/
Bose Aviation: https://www.bose.com/c/aviation-headsets
Drone Cadets: https://dronecadets.com/
WonderWomen of Aviation podcast: https://www.wonderwomanofaviation.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/

Summary
 
In this episode of the Future in Flight podcast, host Shawn Staerker takes listeners on a journey through EAA AirVenture 2025 in Oshkosh, starting with an incredible VIP tour of the mind-blowingly awesome FireBoss aircraft from our friends at Wipaire.
We also cover some ground-breaking news from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy which was announced during the event: the revolutionary Mosaic rule for aspiring pilots is finally here!
PLUS, a delightful visit to The Dough Shoppe’s food truck to pick up some amazing edible cookie dough.
The episode highlights innovation in aviation, the importance of community, and the exciting future of flight.
 
Takeaways
 
• The FireBoss can scoop 820 gallons of water in just 15 seconds.
• Aerial firefighting technology is evolving to be more efficient and effective.
• The MOSAIC rule will significantly lower barriers for aspiring pilots.
• Sport pilot certificates require less training time and lower medical requirements.
• MOSAIC opens doors to new commercial opportunities in aviation.
• The aviation industry needs fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.
• The Dough Shoppe at AirVenture represents entrepreneurial spirit in aviation.
• Community and family play a vital role in both aviation and entrepreneurship.
• The future of flight is becoming more accessible to everyone.
• Innovation in aviation is driven by ideas from the community.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Aerial Firefighting at EAA AirVenture
01:53 Exploring the FireBoss Aircraft
09:21 Revolutionizing Recreational Flying with Mosaic
14:15 Sweet Treats at AirVenture: The Dough Shoppe
 
Links
 
Wipaire: https://www.wipaire.com/
The Dough Shoppe: https://www.thedoughshoppe.com/
AviNation: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Future in Flight Podcast Website: https://futureinflight.com/

Summary
 
We’re on the road at EAA AirVenture 2025—the largest aviation event in North America!!
In this episode of the Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker interviews BeSnappy, an international aviation content creator. They discuss BeSnappy's journey in content creation, the evolution of his YouTube channel, memorable experiences in aviation, and the support he receives from his family. BeSnappy shares insights on the challenges of content creation, his aspirations for the future, and offers advice for aspiring creators. The conversation highlights the importance of persistence and passion in the aviation community.
PLUS—
Shawn receives his very first Wipaire “Fun Meter” from Steve Guetter, President of the Seaplane Pilots’ Association, GM of Advanced Flight Training and Leasing and a past guest of the show.
And, listen in as our friends answer Shawn’s 3 famous questions throughout the show.
 
Takeaways
 
BeSnappy's journey began at a young age, inspired by his father's aviation background.
The importance of family support in pursuing content creation.
Content creation requires persistence and dedication over time.
BeSnappy's interviews have evolved from short clips to more in-depth discussions.
The aviation community is open and passionate, making interviews easier.
BeSnappy aims to inspire the next generation of aviators through his content.
Balancing school and content creation can be challenging but rewarding.
Investing in quality equipment has improved BeSnappy's content.
The journey of content creation is filled with ups and downs, but persistence pays off.
BeSnappy encourages aspiring creators to be prepared for the grind.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to the Future in Flight Podcast
01:12 Interview with BeSnappy: The Journey Begins
05:54 The Evolution of BeSnappy's Content Creation
10:44 Memorable Experiences in Aviation
12:43 Behind the Scenes: Family Support in Content Creation
15:02 Future Aspirations and Balancing School
22:29 Challenges of Content Creation
26:02 Advice for Aspiring Content Creators
28:13 What's Next for BeSnappy?
 
Links
BeSnappy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeSnappy
 

Summary
 
In this episode of the Future in Flight Podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Anthony Dyer, a veteran who faced personal demons after his military service. His story highlights the importance of vulnerability and seeking help. We also discuss the innovative GoPilot training platform that is revolutionizing flight education with creator Dirk Becker, CFI CFII, MEI, AGI, and we take a deep dive into the legacy of the C-130 Hercules, an aircraft that has been a reliable workhorse for over 70 years. The episode emphasizes resilience, innovation, and the power of human connection in aviation.
 
Thank you to our amazing sponsor, GREGG AVIATION, for helping to shape The Future in Flight!
This proud, family-owned business provides world-class Crew Solutions, Flight Training, and Aircraft Management and is a proud member of the NBAA.
***Thank you to our INCREDIBLE show sponsor, GREGG Aviation, for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to check out their website in the LINKS below.***
Takeaways
 
Anthony Dyer's journey from the Appalachian Mountains to elite military aircraft is inspiring.
The Jolly Green Rescue Mission of the Year award highlights the heroics of military service.
Facing demons after military service is a common struggle for veterans.
Writing his book, Moonchild, became Anthony's new mission to help others.
Roots and wings symbolize the balance of heritage and ambition.
Innovations in flight training can save aspiring pilots significant time and money.
Learn to love learning
The C-130 Hercules has been a versatile and reliable aircraft for decades.
Optimism is a tactical approach to overcoming challenges.
Legacy is about how you are remembered by others.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 The Journey of Anthony Dyer: From Mountains to Cockpits
08:37 Facing Demons: The Struggles of Veterans
15:48 Innovating Flight Training: The GoPilot Solution
18:00 The Legacy of the C-130 Hercules: A Timeless Aircraft
 
Links
Moonchild, from author Anthony Dyer: https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Child-Special-Missions-Aviator/dp/B0DZMXBHJ4
Go Pilot Training: https://gopilottraining.com/
Gregg Aviation: http://www.greggaviation.com/