The Pilots' Lounge

Mike Klemmer, 20 year United States Army Veteran and founder of Aerial Resupply Coffee joins us to talk about his military career, transition to the civilian world, as well as the mission behind Aerial Resupply Coffee (ARC). Love coffee? Head over and check them out at:https://www.aerialresupplycoffee.comIf you are looking for ways to donate or become involved with the Blue Skies Foundation 501(c)(3), please visit:https://thebrotallionblueskiesfoundation.orgSupport the show

Mike Balint is a man of mystery. A jack of all trades. Pilot, hockey player, business man, tik tok star. On this episode, we dive into the world of Mike Balint; his story, how he entered the world of rotary-wing aviation, and most importantly why helicopter pilots are simply better than everyone else. If you are like us, you put a lot of stress on your body and demand optimal performance. Learn more about keeping your body and performance at 100% at:https://meca.education/brotallionBrought to you by Brotallion - check out our current selection of aviation apparel to ensure your presence never meets the ground at: https://brotallion.comSupport the show

Dave Callen is a 4,000+ hour CFI, NVG Instructor, and former Sergeant with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department who went on to co-found SR3 Rescue Concepts. SR3 employs a group of highly trained experts in the fields of tactical medicine, search and rescue operations, military, utility and public safety aviation. With this group of experts, they are able to execute their missions globally by providing professional training in the areas of Helicopter and Mountain Rescue as well as tactical medicine and safety audits.If your organization would like to know what SR3 Rescue Concepts can offer, listen in and reach out at https://sr3rescue.com.Brought to you by Brotallion.https://brotallion.comSupport the show

Whirly-Girls International Women Helicopter Pilots is an organization geared towards advancing women in rotary-wing aviation. We are joined by Fallon Blattner, a former UH-60 Pilot in the United States Army and the current Vice President of Scholarships for Whirly-Girls, who shares with us her story of how she became WG#1950 as well as tons of information regarding the organization.From networking, mentorship, and camaraderie to applying for scholarships, Fallon dives in to the details of this incredible organization.If you would like to more, please visit https://www.whirlygirls.orgBrought to you by Brotallion:https://www.brotallion.com

Join us hanging out with the Flight Suit Friday Podcast crew at the HAI Expo 2023 in Atlanta, GA.  Flight Suit Friday is run by a group of Coast Guard pilots who share the stories and mission sets of Coast Guard aviation with the masses in an effort to showcase the expertise and skillset of their aviation community; form rescue swimmers to the individuals at the controls. This episode was made possible by the Coast Guard https://www.gocoastguard.comas well as our HAI sponsor, SHOTOVER. SHOTOVER is a leading innovator in the multi-mission camera system space for public safety, homeland security, defense, and aerial cinematography applications. Be sure to check our their new M2 Multi-mission sensor utilizing ARS - an augmented reality overlay that sets a new standard in aerial capability.Check out more at https://www.shotover.com

Matt Hall, the 2019 Redbull Air Race World Champion, as well as decorated RAAF F/A-18 Top Gun (Weapons and Tactics Instructor) joins us to share his story and passion for flight. From growing up flying a variety of aircraft to flying combat missions in the Middle East to pulling 12G turns through pylons, Matt's story is one of tenacity, courage, humility, and resilience. Matt goes beyond to share deep insight into what it takes to be successful not only in the cockpit, but in life. We are honored to have had him on as a guest and to bring you his story and wisdom.Learn more at https://www.matthallracing.comBrought to you by Brotallionhttps://www.brotallion.com

Jessica Burch is a Uh-60 Blackhawk pilot in the California National Guard but has grown a successful career as the CBS Weekday Meteorologist in San Francisco. She shares with us her upbringing, education, and pathway of pursuing her passions and following her dreams while serving two demanding jobs.Brought to you by Brotallion, LLCwww.brotallion.com@brotallion

Eric Hill, Co-Founder and President of Project Echelon, joins us to talk about his background as well as the inception of Project Echelon, a 501c3 non-profit organization with the mission to equip, educate, and empower veterans and their families through physical activity.Eric shares with the journey of leading their professional cycling team and how the athletes utilize racing to promote awareness of the foundation as well as interact directly with veterans involved in their programs. If you would like to get involved, check them out on Facebook and Instagram as well as at:https://www.projectechelon.orgBrought to you by Brotallion - Never Let Your Presence Meet the Groundhttps://www.brotallion.com

Casey Kroll is the CEO and Founder of The Big Man Foundation, a 501(C)3 non-profit organization with the mission of alleviating and preventing hardships for athletic coaches and their families.After playing football (offensive lineman) at James Madison University, he went on to coach at both Lamar and Southern Methodist Universities while furthering his education.Casey earned his Bachelor of Science in Public Administration as well as his Master of Public Administration (Nonprofit Management) from James Madison University. Additionally, he earned his Master of Liberal Studies (Organizational Dynamics) from Southern Methodist University. Be sure to check out The Big Man Foundation to learn more about their mission and how you can support their efforts.https://www.thebigmanfoundation.org/Brought to you by Brotallion, LLChttps://www.brotallion.com

Josh Porter, commonly known as @Sir.Jumps.Alot to his vast social media following, is known for his incredible skydiving and fitness content on Instagram. He shares with us his military career, how aviation was an integral role in his profession, and his experiences throughout his time and service. In the second half of the episode, we dive into Josh's transition to the civilian world and the realities that he has faced in the process. Josh currently works as a content creator for All American Roughneck and Axe & Sledge out of Pennsylvania.Be sure to check out both companies on social media to see some of the amazing content and products they are pumping out!Brought to you by Brotallion, LLC

Mike, aka "Snak Pak" is a current Chief Warrant Officer 2 and Instructor Pilot at the Aviation Center of Excellence at Ft. Rucker, Alabama. Mike shares with us his story of entering into aviation, experiences he has had, and ultimately how to approach an APART or any flight evaluation with the most preparedness and ease.Brought to you by Brotallion, LLCwww.brotallion.com@brotallion

We are going back to the moon! On this episode, we briefly dive into NASA's ARTEMIS Space Exploration program talking specifically about the components and procedures to be utilized for Artemis I, Artemis II, and Artemis III. Brought to you by Brotallion, LLC.www.brotallion.com@Brotallion

Lt. Casey "Casper" Obrien (USN) is MH-60S Weapon and Tactics Instructor and is also qualified on the MQ-8C. He shares with us his story growing up across the globe as well as what brought him to serve the United States, originally in the form of a United States Navy Rescue Swimmer. From athletic sales and marketing to observing multi-service operations, Casey shares with us his incredible story and pathway in pursuit of his dreams.Brought to you by Brotallion, LLC.www.brotallion.com

Andrew Nicoletti is currently Major in the United States Air Force Reserves (HH-60G), Law Enforcement Pilot, and brings over a decade of experience and thousands of hours to us as he shares with us his incredibly story. From attending the Citadel to becoming an Army Blackhawk Pilot (UH-60A/L/M, HH-60M) to serving in Law Enforcement Aviation as well as transferring to the United States Air Force Reserves, he discusses his experiences across a variety of mission sets and environments.

"If I put a military pilot in this, they probably couldn't fly it." Heather Howley, Chief Pilot and founder of Independent Helicopters in New York comes to us to share her story after a viral reel that poked the hornet's nest of military rotary-wing aviators. Heather has over 8000 hours across fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, is a CFII, DPE, and has extensive experience with long line work, geological survey work, teaching, and many other commercial applications of rotary-wing aircraft.She shows us the humble side of succeeding in civilian aviation and shares with us her incredible pathway to success. Be sure to check out Heather @independentheli as well as athttps://independenthelicopters.com/Brought to you by Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@Brotallion

On today's episode, the Brotallion team gathers in Ft. Walton, Florida for our annual staff retreat. We share stories from staff members you have not heard from, initiatives with Brotallion and the Brotallion Blue Skies Foundation, as well as discuss the importance of Memorial Day.Brought to you by Brotallion, LLCwww.brotallion.com@brotallion@brotallionblueskiesfoundation

In this episode, Britney (aka @Bdelor) hangs out with several of the women that work tirelessly behind the scenes to make Brotallion and the Brotallion Blue Skies Foundation possible. Be sure to check out Brotallion on Instagram!@Brotallion@BrotallionBlueSkiesFoundationwww.brotallion.com

Are you a fitness addict? On this episode, we dive into the basics of optimizing your training by utilizing heart rate. From heart rate measuring tools to training methods, we talk about the things necessary to start using the numbers to help you achieve your fitness goals.Want more workouts? Check out the current WOD at Brotallionhttps://www.brotallion.com

Jon Gray and Jeff Ratkovich from The Hangar Z Podcast join us to share their extensive knowledge and experience in the Public Safety Aviation realm. From serving as Law Enforcement Officers on the ground to becoming Tactical Flight Officers and eventually pilots, they discuss just what it takes to serve the community in the sky.Want to learn more about Public Safety Aviation? Be sure to check them out on all platforms!

CEO and Founder of Active Duty Passive Income, Markian Sich separated from the US Marine Corps in 2021 where he was trained as a CH-53E “Super Stallion” Pilot as well as Public Affairs Officer. Markian is a third-generation Ukrainian immigrant who learned about the opportunities that our great country provides its citizens from the example set by his parents and grandparents. To secure his financial future, Markian began pursuing real estate investing shortly after graduation from the United States Naval Academy. His successes inspired him to teach other members of the military about real estate investing, which is how Active Duty Passive Income, the education platform, company and community, was born.https://www.activedutypassiveincome.comProduced by Brotallion, LLChttps://www.brotallion.com

What is a military No-Fly Zone?In today's hold short, we talk some recent aviation and military news in addition to diving into discussing what a no-fly zone is, what the implications of one are, as well as how it is enforced.Proudly brought to you by Brotallion!www.brotallion.com@brotallion

Continuing our two part episode, Dan Sheehan is a legend in the Marine Corps Attack Aviation community. A former AH-1W Cobra pilot, Dan flew prior to and including the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003. He went on to deploy as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) attached to Marine Corps Special Operations, the unit that would pave the way for the development of MARSOC, and shares with us his experiences on this two part series. We encourage our listeners to read Dan's books After Action, and Continuing Action to dive into more detail than what we had time for on these episodes.

Dan Sheehan is a legend in the Marine Corps Attack Aviation community. A former AH-1W Cobra pilot, Dan flew prior to and including the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003. He went on to deploy as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) attached to Marine Corps Special Operations, the unit that would pave the way for the development of MARSOC, and shares with us his experiences on this two part series. We encourage our listeners to read Dan's books After Action, and Continuing Action to dive into more detail than what we had time for on these episodes.Produced by Brotallion, LLCwww.brotallion.com@Brotallion@ThePilotsLounge

Bob Yerex served as a military aviator in the U.S. Coast Guard, United States Army, as well as the United States Marine Corps. He brings to us his experience of over 8200 flight hours, flying everything from overwater rescues to low IFR at 200ft AGL over the mountains of the Pacific North West. He is the recipient of the Alaska Medal of Heroism, the Distinguished Flying Cross, an Order of Daedalians Exceptional Pilot, among many others. He shares with us his story and it is our honor to share it with you.Check us out on social media @Brotallion and @ThePilotsLoungeBe sure to search and subscribe to Brotallion on Youtube for upcoming video content!

Hayden Hurst is a starting Tight End for the Atlanta Falcons (#81). He shares with us his story of getting drafted out of high school to the MLB, suffering from depression and addiction, then rising from the ashes to become a first round NFL Draft pick in 2018.  We dive into the Hayden Hurst Family Foundation, Human Performance, Nutrition, and so much more. This is one episode you will not want to miss!www.haydenhurstfoundation.comBrought to you by Brotallionwww.brotallion.comCheck us out @Brotallion and @ThePilotsLounge

Maj. Stephen Irving is a U.S. Army Aviator, entrepreneur, and teacher. From serving as a Troop commander providing aerial reconnaissance and strategic combat support in Afghanistan, opening his own brewery, and on to teaching our next generation of pilots at Veracity Aviation, LLC, he shares with us his incredible story.Proudly sponsored by Helo Vodka, the official spirit of Brotallion and the Blue Skies Foundation. www.shophelovodka.com code Check us out on Instagram @Brotallion @BrotallionBlueSkiesFoundation and @ThePilotsLounge.

Our Brotallion Staff and several ambassadors meet up in Austin, Texas prior to our Blue Skies Foundation Auction in Austin Event to hang out and talk about a myriad of subjects from flight, fitness, stress and mental health, as well as how they all play together. We are joined by several amazing friends and family who share outside insights into aviation as well as introduce you to many people behind the scenes.This episode wouldn't have been possible without the proud support of Helo Vodka, the official spirit of Brotallion and the Blue Skies Foundation - we even do a taste test on this episode!Please follow and support @BrotallionBlueSkiesFoundation on social media!Be sure to follow us on Instagram! @Brotallion @ThePilotsLounge 

What I wish I knew going into aircraft ownership! On todays short episode we cover some basics to think about prior to purchasing your first airplane! Have feedback? Hit us up on Instagram @thepilotslounge or @brotallion.Proudly Sponsored by Helo Vodka, the official spirit of Brotallion and the Blue Skies Foundation. Check them out at shophelovodka.com

Captain Karl Baldessari served 25 years in the United States Coast Guard flying HH-60 Jayhawks in support of a variety of missions, from interdiction to overwater rescue operations. He shares with us his experiences, to include the daring overwater rescue operation that resulted in him and his crew successfully saving two lives from a wrecked ship off the coast of Washington. Cpt. Baldessari shares with us the event and lessons learned, as well as what lead him to his current role leading a collegiate aviation program.The Pilots' Lounge is proudly sponsored by Helo Vodka, the official spirit of Brotallion and the Blue Skies Foundation. Check them out online at www.shophelovodka.com, use code "BLUESKIES" at checkout!Brought to you by Brotallion.@brotallionwww.brotallion.com

The Army-turned-aerobatic pilot you've probably seen on the silver screen.Aaron Fitzgerald served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army prior to pursuing his (what would be legendary) career in aviation. When Red Bull's Chuck Aaron retired from aerobatic helicopter flying, the door was open for his shoes to be filled and "Fitz" stepped into the role. With over 8,500 hours of flying time, he has done everything from news flying to long-line work in addition to performances and filming.Join us on this episode for his epic story! It's one you will not want to miss.Presented by Brotallion@Brotallion on Instagramwww.brotallion.com

The story of the California wildfire rescue.CW5 Joseph Rosamond, Distinguished Flying Cross recipient and pilot for the California National Guard, brings his decades and 4000+ hours of flight experience to share with us his story as the CH-47 pilot in command and air mission commander of the rescue mission that saved 240 lives during the California wildfires. Join us on Instagram!@Brotallion@ThePilotsLoungeProduced by Brotallionwww.brotallion.com

Ralph Alexander Jr, LTC (Ret) brings us his decades of experience as a C-130 pilot and leader in the United States Air Force. From the evacuation of Saigon to flying throughout remote areas in the Pacific Theater, Ralph went on to retire as Systems Functional Requirements Branch Chief, United States Transportation Command. He then went on to work for Lockheed Martin and later became Vice President of DPRA, Inc. Join us for his incredible story!Produced by Brotallion, LLCwww.brotallion.comOn Instagram @Brotallion and @ThePilotsLounge

On Hold Short 02 we talk about the Blue Skies Foundation and its inception along with some other topics.

A legacy of passion for aviation. Igor Sikorsky III is the grandson of aviation pioneer and legend, Igor Sikorky. Igor III owns and operates Bradford Camps, a remote sporting camp in northern Maine where he also runs a Part 135 Float Plane operation. On this episode, Igor III shares with us his story and dives deep into his grandfather's journey to the history books of aviation.Like the content? Be sure to hit subscribe and leave a review! Also check us out on Instagram @ThePilotsLoungeProduced by Brotallion, LLCwww.brotallion.com@Brotallion

In our first "Hold Short" episode, we recap year one of The Pilots' Lounge. Join us for our favorite moments, some podcast tips, and more!Check us out on Instagram!@ThePilotsLounge@Brotallion

Mark Fogel bridges the gap from being a military fighter pilot to a successful industry leader. Mark graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 2002 followed by serving as an active duty fighter pilot deploying multiple times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Mark is currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard commanding their squadron in charge of force support. In addition to command, Mark works in policy creation, economic development, as well as leads General Electric's JOLP program. He holds a Master's in Public Policy and is currently running for State Senate in Ohio.For more check out Mark Fogel at @fogelforohioPresented by Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@Brotallion*Disclaimer* This episode is not part of any political ad campaign nor does the content presented relate to the running for political office.

From Army Attack aviation to Air Force Special Operations to flying EMS and to off-shore oil rigs, Sean Borland has done it all. Sean joins us as he currently serves as the Director of Operations for American Jet International and shares with us his story and experiences spread out over 5,346 flight hours. This is one you wont want to miss!Produced by Brotallion, LLCCheck us out on Instagram!@ThePilotsLounge@Brotallionwww.pilotsloungepodcast.comwww.brotallion.com

Scott "Ghettobird Pirate" Hebble sails the skies of Los Angeles County as a Sheriff's Deputy Pilot flying the AS332L1 "Super Puma" as well as the AS350 "Écureuil". From flying patrol to search and rescue operations, Scott shares with us his experiences soaring the skies over the city of angels. Be sure to check Scott out on Instagram: @ghettobirdpirateStay up to date with us on social media for the latest news!@Brotallion @ThePilotsLounge The Pilots' Lounge is a production of Brotallion, LLC.www.pilotsloungepodcast.comwww.brotallion.com

David Grantham is an Air Interdiction Agent for the United States Customs and Border Patrol (CPB) who brings to us his extensive experience flying both fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. A true mentor, he tells his story, as well as speaks on opportunities aspiring pilots may have within Customs and Border Patrol.Produced by Brotallionwww.brotallion.comInstagram @BrotallionHave a question? Drop us a line at www.pilotsloungepodcast.com or by sending us a message on Instagram at @ThePilotsLounge

Happy Memorial Day! Tune in today for a quick episode covering some important information from Brotallion regarding the Blue Skies Foundation, the Ambassador program, and more! Check us out @ThePilotsLoungewww.pilotsloungepodcast.comProduced by Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@Brotallion

CW2 Justin "Moonman" Holt is a UH-60M Blackhawk pilot, Aviation Mission Survivability Officer (AMSO), former Ranger Instructor, and overall barrel chested defender of freedom. Join Spencer and Brett as Justin brings to you his experiences serving as a Warrant Officer as well as infantryman in locations from Central America to the Middle East.In Justin's free time he enjoys lifting weights, wearing silkies, drinking good Irish Whiskey, and repping Brotallion.Join us on Instagram @ThePilotsLoungeBrought to you by Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@Brotallion

CPT. David "Bender" Benes is an MC-130J Commando II pilot for AFSOC and a rated Instructor Pilot with over 1400 hours. Join us as he talks about his experiences coming up originally as a fighter pilot all the way through the F-22 program to his transition over to "heavies" in support of Special Operations Forces around the globe. Later in the episode, we discuss the complexities of military training for a future war with our current processes in place.Be sure to rate our show, share our IG with your friends, and leave us a comment!@thepilotsloungewww.pilotsloungepodcast.Presented By Brotallion@Brotallionwww.brotallion.com

Robert Purdy retired from the Army as a Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 with over 26 years of service and over 5000 flight hours. Qualified on a multitude of aircraft, Rob completed his career in Attack Aviation as the Attack Branch Chief at the Army Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization. A passionate pilot, fitness enthusiast, and mentor, Rob discusses topics from culture, to how he came in through the Warrant Officer Flight Training Program (WOFT/ "Street to Seat") as well as his transition to flying for Life Flight after retirement.https://www.pilotsloungepodcast.com/@ThePilotsLoungePresented by Brotallion and Redcon1 Solutionswww.brotallion.com@brotallion

CPT. Charles J. Plumb, USNR, (Ret.), shares with us his experiences as a six year prisoner of war in Vietnam,  an F-4 Phantom pilot in the era, as well as the beginnings of the Naval Fighter Weapons School (Top Gun). He dives deep into his time in captivity at the infamous "Hanoi Hilton" and how he and his brothers survived isolation as well as how the experience shaped his future.We are incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to share his experiences with you and encourage all our listeners to read his book, "I'm No Hero" found in the link below. https://charlieplumb.com/store/Thank you to our Sponsors!@Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@Redcon1Solutions

Navy Lieutenant Steve Sasso is an F/A-18 pilot who shares with us his knowledge and experiences as a Naval fighter pilot. From "trapping" on the carrier to combat missions in Syria, Lt. Sasso takes us on a journey through a life filled with the "need for speed." In loving memory of MAJ Trevor Joseph. All proceeds will be donated to the Joseph family.https://brotallion.com/collections/t-shirts/products/cajun-dustoffor visit @Brotallion on Instagram for more information.Visit us at:www.pilotsloungepodcast.com@ThePilotsLoungeOur Sponsors:@Brotallion@Redcon1Solutions

Captain Vito Basso (USMC) is an active duty V-22 Osprey pilot who joins us to share his journey into military aviation along with the employment of his aircraft across the globe in support of combat and humanitarian missions. Join your hosts Spencer, Nick, and Brett as we step outside of Army aviation to catch a glimpse of the life of a Naval/Marine Corps aviator.Be sure to follow us on Instagram (@ThePilotsLounge) or check us out at www.pilotsloungepodcast.com for the latest news on future episodes.Presented by:@Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@Redcon1Solutions

For your hosts, fitness and flight are passions. We decided to dive in to conversation on fitness and nutrition and the relation they have to the life of an aviator. From where we started in our fitness journeys to the health concerns imposed by conducting your job as an aviator, we dig through solutions based off our personal experiences. We hope you enjoy! Like what you hear? Be sure to leave us a rating and check us out online or on Instagram!www.pilotsloungepodcast.com@ThePilotsLoungeThanks to our fantastic sponsors!Brotallionwww.brotallion.comRedcon 1 Solutionswww.redcon1solutions.com

Ever wondered what it takes to fly a helicopter to 42,500 feet? Join us as we dive in and hang out with aerial cinematographer, helicopter stunt pilot, and World Record holder Fred North. From growing up in west Africa to moving into the Hollywood film scene, Fred talks about his upbringing in aviation as well as offers guidance for the next generation of pilots.Want to learn more about Fred North? www.fred-north.com@fred_northBe sure to check out our sponsors!Brotallionwww.brotallion.com@brotallionRedcon1 Solutionswww.redcon1solutions.com@redcon1solutionsVisit us at:www.pilotsloungepodcast.com@ThePilotsLounge

Our pilot (pun intended) episode! Join your hosts Spencer and Nick as they dive in to what drove them to embark on the adventure of becoming Army Aviators, the stories of their side businesses, as well as what the future of the podcast holds. Stay tuned! At the end, your hosts Spencer and Nick give a hint at who our featured guest is on our second episode!The Pilots Lounge is proudly presented by:Brotallion@Brotallion (Instagram)www.brotallion.comR1 Solutions@redcon1solutionswww.redcon1solutions.com