What happens when a pilot who’s flown everything from C-17s to United Airlines jets decides to reinvent how flight instructors teach? In this episode of Destination Aviation, Jeff Miller sits down with Nate Ehlers — founder of Backseat Pilot, United Airlines pilot, CFI, and Air Force Reserve instructor — to talk about his journey through every corner of aviation training: civilian, regional, military, and airline. With over 8,000 flight hours and experience mentoring countless new pilots, Nate shares how he turned his hard-won lesson plans into a scalable platform now trusted by over 30,000 instructors worldwide. Discover how Backseat Pilot is saving instructors months of prep time, raising training standards, and helping the next generation of aviators reach the airlines faster.

Backseat Pilot Website:

Backseat Pilot - The Best CFI Lesson Plans

Connect with us on Instagram:

Instagram

TikTok:

Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok

YouTube:

Destination Aviation - YouTube

Drop us a line at dapodcast85@gmail.com if you have your own plane tales

Websites:

Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation

Support the show

In this episode of Destination Aviation, we head to Alaska — the Last Frontier — to explore its deep connection with aviation. From stories on the road to the daring history of bush pilots, we scratch the surface of how flying became Alaska’s lifeline. Join us as we share adventures, insights, and a glimpse into the skies where airplanes aren’t just transportation — they’re survival.

Connect with us on Instagram:

Instagram

TikTok:

Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok

YouTube:

Destination Aviation - YouTube

Drop us a line at dapodcast85@gmail.com if you have your own plane tales

Websites:

Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation

Support the show

Join us for a moving and insightful conversation with Anthony Dyer, retired USAF Tech Sergeant and author of Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator. In this episode, Anthony shares:

• His journey from the Appalachian Mountains to flying elite combat missions in some of the world's most volatile zones.
• The emotional realities of military life—including the personal struggles and unseen wounds many veterans carry.
• How writing Moon Child became his mission to heal others and offer a voice for resilience.
• The symbolism behind “roots and wings”—honoring where we come from while striving toward a purpose beyond war.

Listeners will be inspired by Anthony’s candor, bravery, and the universal message that healing and hope can take flight.

Where to Learn More & Support the Author:

• Buy Moon Child on Amazon to dive into Anthony’s gripping memoir:
  Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator delivers a raw, unfiltered account of life in combat—the triumphs, the burdens, and the unseen scars that follow Warriors home. Amazon.com: Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator: 9798348582760: Dyer, Anthony, McKay, Hollie, Grayson, Robbie: Books

Connect with us on Instagram:

Instagram

TikTok:

Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTok

YouTube:

Destination Aviation - YouTube

Drop us a line at dapodcast85@gmail.com if you have your own plane tales

Websites:

Destination Aviation - Destination Aviation

Support the show