In this episode, Tim Jedrek from Right Rudder Marketing sits down with Brandon Martini, co-founder and COO of Stratus Financial, the largest student loan lender for pilots. They discuss Brandon’s journey from flight school owner to aviation finance leader, as well as insights on scaling a flight school, student financing, and the future of aviation training.

For more info, visit:•Stratus Financial: stratus.finance•Aero Summit: stratusaerosummit.com•Aviation Mentors Podcast: aviationmentors.com•Right Rudder Marketing: rightruddermarketing.com

In this episode, Tim Jedrek from Right Rudder Marketing sits down with Tammy Barlette, a retired Air Force pilot and founder of Crosscheck, a mental performance training company for pilots.Tammy spent 20 years flying in the Air Force, starting as a T-37 instructor pilot before moving on to the A-10, Predator, and Reaper. After retiring in 2018, she got into professional speaking and later created a mental performance course to help pilots sharpen their mindset.Tammy’s four-week online course helps pilots at any level build mental toughness. She also gives keynote talks on perseverance and mindset. Check out crosscheckmentalperformance.com or tammybarlette.com for more info.

This episode examines the extraordinary journey of Gordon, founder of Rainier Flight Service, as detailed in a recent podcast with Right Rudder Marketing. His story is a case study in leveraging passion, resilience, and strategic foresight to build a successful aviation enterprise from the ground up.Despite his success, Gordon maintains a humble perspective, stating he is “just enjoying the ride.” However, the success of Rainier Flight Service speaks volumes about the power of combining vision, discipline, and innovation. From a single aircraft during a recession to a multi-location aviation powerhouse, Rainier exemplifies how a strategic approach can drive sustainable growth in aviation education.The story of Rainier Flight Service serves as a case study for aspiring flight school entrepreneurs. By fusing aviation expertise with sound business practices and embracing technological advancements, flight schools can position themselves to meet the growing demand for pilots and establish a legacy of excellence in the industry.#aviationmarketing #flightschoolmarketing #marketingservices

What Flight Schools Can Learn from DPE Mary Schu’s Journey“I was told I was too old and too short. Years later, they came calling.”These words from Designated Pilot Examiner Mary Schu land like a crosswind on final—sudden, sharp, and unforgettable. With five decades of aviation experience, Schu offers a rare, hard-earned perspective on how far aviation has come—and where flight schools may be veering off course.From Underdog to Aviation IconMary Schu’s path into aviation was anything but traditional. Initially aspiring to become a Formula 1 driver, she shifted her sights skyward when she realized that opportunity was closed to women in her era. Her background in special education became a surprising asset, giving her the tools to connect with students and become a standout flight instructor. Her journey is proof that powerful educators often come from unexpected places.Old-School Flight Training vs. the Modern Fast TrackBack in the 1970s, pilots-in-training earned their wings through hands-on experience and real-life problem-solving. Schu herself completed a 40-hour solo cross-country journey—an adventure that built confidence and shaped her into a skilled decision-maker.Today, many instructors see the role as a brief layover on the way to the airlines. Flight schools are embracing accelerated programs that prioritize speed and budget over depth and skill. Schu points out that under current systems, some students may qualify for commercial certification with fewer than five hours of solo cross-country time. That’s more than a red flag—it’s a distress call.The High Cost of Cutting CornersReducing solo flight time and omitting tasks like self-serve fueling or navigating unfamiliar airports can save time, but it comes at a steep cost. Schu warns that students are missing opportunities to build the independence and confidence essential for airline careers. Real growth comes from navigating challenges—not just logging hours.www.rightruddermarketing.cominfo@rightruddermarketing.com#flightschoolmarketing #flightschools #aviation #flying

The aviation industry is on the cusp of a significant hiring surge, with projections indicating over 5,000 new pilot positions opening in 2025 alone. To help flight schools prepare their students for this opportunity, aviation career expert Captain Kit Darby will be sharing his insights on the upcoming Right Rudder Marketing Podcast.Why This MattersFor flight schools, staying ahead of industry trends isn’t just about credibility—it’s about providing genuine value to students investing in their aviation careers. Understanding where the jobs will be, what qualifications will be in demand, and how to position graduates competitively gives your students a significant advantage in a dynamic market.This timely discussion comes at a critical juncture as the aviation industry recovers and expands, creating unprecedented opportunities for new pilots entering the profession.Don’t miss this chance to give your students the edge they need in the booming pilot job market of 2025 and beyond!

Common Risks for Flight SchoolsOne of the biggest risks flight schools face is aircraft damage, especially during solo flights or early-stage instruction. Other frequent issues include student pilot errors, incomplete coverage, and weak renter agreements. Kim shares real-life claims—including gear-up landings and crosswind loss-of-control incidents—to demonstrate how quickly problems can escalate without proper coverage.Avoiding Policy Pitfalls as You GrowMany schools mistakenly believe a basic policy is enough. Kim explains how insurance needs evolve as a school expands its fleet, adds instructors, or opens new locations. Annual policy reviews and partnering with aviation-specific providers like Avemco can help avoid both underinsurance and unnecessary expenses.Coverage for Students and RentersWhen a student damages an aircraft, liability depends on the school’s structure. Kim emphasizes the importance of requiring non-owned aircraft coverage from students and renters. To avoid confusion, schools should outline coverage expectations clearly—via orientations, rental agreements, and formal policies.

The aviation industry is experiencing a seismic shift, and it's happening in the most unexpected place: your home office. In a fascinating episode of the Right Rudder Marketing Aviation Business Podcast, host Tim Jedrek sat down with Brandon Seltz, founder and CEO of Take Flight Interactive, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming flight training from the ground up.What emerged from their conversation wasn't just another tech success story, but a blueprint for solving aviation's most pressing challenges through innovation that bridges the gap between virtual and real-world flying.Discover how Take Flight Interactive's AI flight instructor technology can elevate your training program by visiting takeflightinteractive.com.Schedule a demonstration to see firsthand how artificial intelligence can enhance your students' learning experience and improve your school's training outcomes.Are you an aviation innovator, flight school owner, or passionate pilot with insights to share? The Right Rudder Marketing Aviation Business Podcast is always looking for thought leaders who are shaping the future of aviation education.Connect with us at rightruddermarketing.com/schedule-call to join our community of aviation entrepreneurs and educators.Together, we can elevate aviation education and prepare the next generation of confident, skilled pilots for successful careers in the skies.

Episode 18 - WAI in Central Florida

Women in Aviation International (WAI) is making waves in Central Florida, and on this episode of the Aviation Business Podcast, we had the privilege to speak with two passionate leaders from the local chapter—Aubrey Radigan and Maggie Broman. They shared inspiring stories of how their group is opening doors, building community, and creating opportunities for women and allies across the aviation industry.

What is Women in Aviation International (WAI)?

WAI is an international organization dedicated to increasing the number of women working in all areas of aerospace and aviation—not just pilots, but engineers, mechanics, designers, and more. Since 1994, the organization has grown to over 150 chapters worldwide, including the vibrant Central Florida chapter.

Aubrey and Maggie explained how WAI provides scholarships, networking, mentorship, and community support to help women and girls get started and thrive in aviation careers. Their local chapter has expanded rapidly from just a handful of members to over 50 active participants.

Aubrey’s aviation journey began with a discovery flight, which instantly lit a fire in her soul. Despite starting as a teacher pursuing a master’s degree, she found aviation was where she truly belonged. The welcoming and supportive atmosphere of WAI helped her overcome the intimidating feeling of entering an “untouchable” industry and find her place.

Maggie’s path was similar. With no family background in aviation, she took a chance on a discovery flight in high school and never looked back. After earning her aviation degree and ratings, she found a home in WAI’s Central Florida chapter, becoming a leader and mentor.

One of the most powerful takeaways from the conversation was the diversity of opportunities in aviation. From rocket design and interior aircraft design to aircraft detailing, air traffic control, and even NASA seamstresses, aviation offers a role for nearly every passion.

Aubrey and Maggie emphasized that aviation should be accessible to everyone, no matter their background or skills. The group regularly hosts guest speakers from across the spectrum, exposing members and newcomers to a wide variety of careers beyond piloting.

Every year, WAI’s Girls in Aviation Day at Orlando Executive Airport draws hundreds of attendees eager to experience hands-on activities, static displays, guest speakers, and mentorship. It’s a critical outreach event designed to show young girls that aviation careers are within their reach.

This year’s event is scheduled for September 20, 2025, at the Orlando Executive Airport’s East Ramp (GOAA Building). The event is free and open to all who want to learn more about aviation’s many exciting career paths.

WAI Central Florida actively collaborates with local flight schools, high school aviation clubs, and other community organizations. Flight schools looking to increase female enrollment or provide mentorship opportunities can reach out to WAI for partnership and sponsorship.

Opportunities include guest speaking, internship shadowing, sponsorship of events like Girls in Aviation Day, and more. The chapter encourages schools and businesses to get involved and help grow the local aviation community.

• Visit the Central Florida chapter website: wai-cfl.org
• Learn about membership options for students, professionals, and families
• Explore sponsorship opportunities and upcoming events
• Join the next monthly chapter meeting or Girls in Aviation Day