Ready 4 Pushback

By: Nik Fialka
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  • Summary

  • If you're looking to enter the commercial aviation industry, we've got the right podcast for you! With pilot and interview coach Nik Fialka as your host, we will deliver exceptional and insightful content to help you understand the landscape of professional aviation. We will help you organize your thoughts, score interview points, and ace the aviation recruitment process. You will get a deep dive into all the facets of the aviation industry by hearing directly from leaders and recruiters. You’ll learn how to stay composed and articulate yourself with impact as we uncover airline-specific pilot selection demands, analyze the aviation industry's culture, and give you great interview advice. Listen to the Ready 4 Pushback podcast to transform yourself and gain valuable perspective about your dream job!
    2022
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Career Success Economics
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Episodes
  • EP 233: Pilots, Don’t Ignore This! The Medical Battle That Almost Ended a Career

    EP 233: Pilots, Don’t Ignore This! The Medical Battle That Almost Ended a Career
    Apr 7 2025

    Former Army Black Hawk pilot and airline captain Ross McClure shares his deeply personal story of struggling with a back injury that nearly ended his flying career. After an incident involving a lasing on final approach, his back problems worsened, leading to years of medical challenges, surgeries, and legal battles. Ross opens up about navigating the complexities of FAA medical certification, VA healthcare, and workers' compensation while finding the right care team to help him recover. His journey is a powerful reminder for pilots to prioritize their health and advocate for themselves.

    What You’ll Learn from this Episode:

    The importance of proactive medical care for pilots

    How a back injury sidelined Ross’s career and how he fought to return

    The role of FAA medical exams, workers’ comp, and VA benefits in a pilot’s recovery

    How AMAS and subscription-based pilot healthcare services can help

    Why pilots should be aggressive in seeking medical treatment and legal assistance when needed

    #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining
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    42 mins
  • EP 232. Pilot Career Survival Guide: Smart Strategies for Your Pilot Career

    EP 232. Pilot Career Survival Guide: Smart Strategies for Your Pilot Career
    Apr 3 2025
    The aviation industry is full of opportunities—but many pilots struggle to find the right path. Whether you're just starting flight school, transitioning from the military, or navigating financial and career roadblocks, this episode is for you. Nick Fialka dives deep into the critical decisions pilots face: financing your training, balancing work and family, networking for job opportunities, and finding creative ways to build flight hours. Learn how to make informed, strategic choices that set you up for long-term success—without sacrificing the things that matter most. Let's get ready for pushback! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to financially prepare for flight training or a career transition Creative ways to build flight hours while working a full-time job The importance of budgeting and minimizing debt as a pilot Smart career moves for military pilots transitioning to civilian aviation How to find hidden aviation job opportunities beyond the airlines The role of networking and how to stand out in a competitive job market Why communication with your family is key to career success How to stay motivated and focused—even when the path gets tough CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining
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    18 mins
  • Ep 231: Stop Making These Resume Mistakes: Hiring Hacks from an Industry Recruiter

    Ep 231: Stop Making These Resume Mistakes: Hiring Hacks from an Industry Recruiter
    Mar 31 2025

    Struggling to get hired as a pilot? In this episode, Ralyn Wheeler shares her journey from estate management to aviation and her role as a Part 135 pilot recruiter. She dives into what recruiters actually look for in a resume, how to make yours stand out in the right way, and common mistakes that could cost you an opportunity. She also discusses the benefits of flying Part 135, including variety, scheduling, and how to leverage SkillBridge and the GI Bill for your career. If you're looking to land your next aviation job, this episode is packed with insider advice!

    What You’ll Learn from this Episode:

    The #1 thing recruiters look for on a pilot’s resume

    Why your resume should be one page (and what happens if it isn’t!)

    How to structure your flight hours for maximum impact Key differences between Part 135 and Part 121 flying

    How to use SkillBridge and the GI Bill to boost your career

    The power of networking and a simple tip to improve your resume today

    #Aviation #AviationCareers #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #flying #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #flyingtips #AirlineInterviewPrep #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #PilotExperience #PilotTraining
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    38 mins

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Profile Image for Robert C King

Very informative and entertaining

As a perspective student about to enter the world of aviation, I am really enjoying Nick’s insight and candor about the world of aviation. He pulls in guests from a wide range of backgrounds and areas of expertise. He is very down to earth and relatable. Please continue providing this service to current and upcoming pilots.

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Profile Image for gabriel barlow

Great Advice

I am a student at a university doing my flight training. I like to listen to this podcast on my way to school and back because it is such good information. Thanks for a great podcast.

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Profile Image for Marjorie

Awesome podcast

Awesome Podcast to give you insights into the airline industry. A one stop shop vice scrolling through pages of blogs to find the info you need. Thanks Nik for putting this all together for everyone!

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