Episode 13

In this episode of The Calm Cockpit, we sit down with Nick Smith, founder of Part Time Pilot Ground School, to hear how his bumpy ride through flight training became the spark for building one of the most accessible online ground schools out there. Nick shares the highs, lows, and honest moments of his aviation journey—and how those experiences now help student pilots save time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

We also dive into practical advice for navigating training with confidence; how to stay motivated when things get tough, why having a support system matters, and what to say when your family doesn’t quite get your flying dreams. Whether you're deep into your training or just thinking about taking off, this episode is full of encouragement and a reminder that the aviation path isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Key takeaways:

Embrace the messy middle of learning—your struggles can become strengths.

Flight training is a big commitment, and communication with loved ones is key.

There’s more to aviation than airline jobs—explore your options!

Community and mentorship can make all the difference.

Tune in for some grounded wisdom and a whole lot of support and ideas for your training journey!

Links:

Part Time Pilot Ground School

Part Time Pilot YouTube Channel

Part Time Pilot Private Pilot Study Group on Facebook

Episode 12

This episode explores the world of wellness “hacks” — the quick fixes, trending products, and biohacking promises often marketed as shortcuts to better health and reduced stress. Drawing on our unique expertise, we’ll critically examine which practices are truly effective, which are overhyped, and which may be doing more harm than good.

John--ever in search of an advantage--prompts Gita, a yoga and meditation educator, to evaluate various trends like ashwagandha, adaptogens, grounding bedsheets, mindfulness, meditation, and essential oils. The core theme revolves around separating genuinely beneficial practices--which are often rooted in established traditions and to be utilized with proper training--from marketing schemes that offer expensive and ineffective shortcuts.

The conversation highlights the hosts' playful dynamic while emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, understanding the full context of a practice, and recognizing that true well-being comes from consistent, holistic lifestyle choices rather than isolated "hacks."

Learn how to:

Distinguish science-backed strategies from pseudoscience.

Recognize when techniques and practices are being stripped of their benefits by removing trained practitioners to evaluate and guide their use.

Evaluate new wellness trends by discerning the historical background and global context and how to identify quality approaches versus snake oil sales techniques.

Understand the deeper meaning of holistic living beyond the buzzwords.

Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only. Always consult qualified professionals before making changes to your health routine.

Episode 11 In this special bonus episode, we’re joined by Sarah Gilbert, a Licensed Yoga for All Abilities Practitioner. Sarah guides us through a gentle, accessible breathing practice designed to sharpen focus, reduce stress, and ease anxiety.

This simple yet powerful tool is most effective when practiced daily. Be sure to find a quiet, safe space before you begin—this practice is not intended for use while driving or operating heavy machinery.

Take a few moments to settle in, and enjoy this calming reset.

We’d love to hear from you! Share your feedback about this episode or send us your show ideas at calmcockpit@gmail.com