In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, Seth dives into two closely connected themes: professionalism and culture in aviation. Using relatable analogies like libraries and football stadiums, Seth explores how environment shapes behavior and why developing a professional safety culture matters for every pilot—from student to ATP. Joined by John, a CFI/CFII/MEI and FAASTeam Rep, the discussion covers how instructors and flight schools can intentionally build culture, how friendships and professionalism can coexist in training, and lessons from both the military and airlines on creating a cockpit environment where safety comes first. The episode also features live Q&A from Discord and YouTube listeners, covering topics such as instructor-student relationships, right-seat solo policies, instrument approaches, transitioning to ATP training, and even the value of single-engine ATP certification.

00:00 Introduction to Professionalism and Culture in Aviation
02:32 Understanding Safety Culture in Aviation
07:24 The Library and Football Stadium Analogy
12:42 Building a Professional Safety Culture
18:36 Instructor-Student Relationships and Professionalism
23:43 Setting Expectations and First Impressions
33:25 Sole Practitioner Culture of Safety and Professionalism
46:13 Creating a Comfortable Checkride Environment
48:00 Professionalism and Safety Culture in Aviation
50:02 Teaching Instrument Approaches Effectively
52:54 First Impressions for DPEs
58:01 Military Experience and Civilian Transition
01:01:55 Communication with ATC for Training
01:06:11 Resources for Transitioning to ATP Training
01:12:41 Addressing ATC Challenges in Training
01:21:03 Single Engine ATP: Worth It?
01:23:11 Balancing Checkride Preparation and Pilot Competence

In this episode of the VSL Aviation Podcast, host Seth Lake shares a live seminar from the North Little Rock Airport on the realities of bird and wildlife strikes. Drawing from Arkansas accident cases, military and airline experience, and FAA safety resources, Seth explores the history of bird strikes, why Arkansas sees higher numbers than average, and what pilots can do to prepare. Topics include risk tools like BAM and AHAS, mental rehearsal for worst-case scenarios, practical recovery steps after a strike, and the importance of reporting. Whether you fly GA or professionally, this episode gives you insights and strategies to handle one of aviation's most unpredictable hazards.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bird Strikes
01:24 Understanding Bird Strike Statistics
03:44 Case Studies of Bird Strikes
05:51 Analyzing a Fatal Helicopter Accident
10:25 Bird Avoidance Models and Tools
12:23 Avian Hazard Advisory System Explained
18:09 Reporting Bird Strikes and Their Impact
23:21 The Importance of Studying Bird Strikes
23:50 Mental Preparedness for Emergencies
26:41 Understanding Bird Strikes and Their Implications
29:58 Engine Failures and Bird Strikes
33:59 Controllability Checks After Bird Strikes
37:37 Wildlife Hazards Beyond Birds
41:54 Reporting and Mitigating Bird Strikes

In this detailed safety seminar, DPE and CFI Seth Lake walks pilots through an enhanced preflight inspection process—going beyond the surface-level checks most pilots perform. Using real NTSB accidents from Arkansas, Seth highlights how minor oversights—like frayed throttle cables, loose spark plugs, or degraded exhaust components—can result in catastrophic failures.

You'll learn practical, actionable techniques to integrate deeper inspections into your routine, including:

How to test your autopilot and detect early signs of control cable issues

Why checking static RPM on takeoff matters

A simple method for detecting exhaust leaks using soapy water

What to look for under the cowl—fire sleeves, linkages, baffling, and more

Fuel system checks, selector testing, and collapsed bladder detection

Critical brake, nose gear, and wiring issues pilots often miss

When and how to do a proper mag check and fuel selector shutoff test

🔧 Designed for renters, owners, and CFIs alike, this seminar will help you build a smarter monthly inspection routine that can catch hidden risks early.

📎 BONUS: Includes discussion of checklist accuracy, placard requirements, and how STCs affect airworthiness.

🛠️ Don't just walk around—dig deeper. Risk is always present, but better habits can minimize it.

#PreflightInspection #AviationSafety #SethLakeDPE #PilotTraining #GeneralAviation #FlightSafety #NTSB #CheckridePrep #OwnerOperator #AircraftMaintenance #EnhancedPreflight #CFITips

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspection
02:47 Analyzing Past Accidents for Learning
06:08 The Importance of Thorough Pre-Flight Checks
09:01 Autopilot and Control Cable Inspections
11:57 Engine Checks: RPM and Exhaust Leak Tests
15:13 Critical Components: Carburetor and Linkages
18:05 Fire Safety and Engine Baffling
20:56 Final Thoughts on Pre-Flight Inspections
25:18 The Importance of Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspections
29:12 Fuel System Checks and Common Issues
32:33 Overlooked Areas in Aircraft Maintenance
36:49 Panel Blind Spots and Electrical Safety
40:41 Final Thoughts on Safety and Maintenance Practices