How to Become a Pilot ep. 9

Explicit content warning

03/25/25 • 59 min

We sat down with firefighter and and new student pilot Tiffany Walls-forte, who drove straight to the studio after her discovery flight. She shares her experience, excitement, and readiness to begin flight training. Tiffany took off from Oakland airport enjoyed beautiful and unique views of the bay.
If you are interested in becoming a Pilot or curious of what to expect then this episode is for you!
Here are my recommendation on the process.
1. Discovery/ Introductory Flight
2. Medical - Choose the one that aligns with your goals
3. Online Ground school/ FAA Written
4. Start Flight Training!!!
If you are on the fence, then start with step and go from there don't be overwhelmed. This is fun, incredible, challenging, but on the other side you will find yourself in amazement with what you have achieved!
Here is my recommendation for online ground school:
I used part time pilot for my PPL ground and am using them for Instrument Ground as well.
Part-Time Pilot Online Ground School: (10%off )
https://parttimepilot.com/private-pilot-online-ground-school/?campaign=PTPPrivatePilotGround&ref=227
Best Private Pilot Checkride Prep Book:
Pass your Private Pilot Checkride by Jason Schappert
https://amzn.to/4kFDfPt
Book of prep Questions:
Private Pilot Oral Exam Guide
https://amzn.to/4kFDfPt
Gear Recommendations:
Flight Bags: (5% off with code Fly Media)
My favorite bag is the Bush Pilot Duffle , perfect if you mainly fly with passengers:
https://www.flightoutfitters.com/product/bush-pilot-bag/?aff=Flymedia
Best Bag for Student Pilots:
https://www.flightoutfitters.com/product/lift-2-0-flight-bag/?aff=Flymedia
Headset:
My Favorite Headset (Lightspeed Delta Zulu) https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/product/lightspeed-delta-zulu-anr-headset/?campaign=Delta%20Zulu&ref=138
Best Mid-tier Headset (Lightspeed Zulu 3) https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/product/zulu-3-anr-headset/?campaign=Zulu%203%20ANR&ref=138
Best Budget Headset: David Clark H10-13S https://amzn.to/40Ug7Sp
Sunglasses:
Flying Eyes Sunglasses (10% off):
flyingeyesoptics.com/FLYMEDIA23
Foreflight/ipad acessories
Ipad cases and mounts: Links Below or use code “Fly Media” at checkout to save 10%
Pivot iPad mini case:
https://flyboys.com/products/pivot-a20a?ref=Flymedia&variant=33001410789476
Pivot Ram Suction mount:
https://flyboys.com/products/pivot-single-suction-cup-mount?ref=Flymedia
Pivot Leg Strap Mount:
https://flyboys.com/collections/efb-leg-mounts/products/pivot-leg-strap-1?ref=Flymedia
LINKS USED IN THE DESCRIPTION MAY OR MAY NOT BE AFFILIATE LINKS
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Fly Media is a participant in the Amazon Services Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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Thank you for tuning in, may there always be wind beneath your wings!
#aviation #storytelling #pilot #pilotlife #exploretheskies #fun #airplanes #flyingadventures #$100burger #flying #flight #aviationpodcast #podcast

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From Childhood Dreams to Checkride: Ali’s PPL Journey | ep. 8

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In this episode of the Fly Media podcast, we interview student pilot Ali Chokr, who shares his journey from childhood fascination with aviation to preparing for his checkride. They discuss the challenges of flight training, the importance of choosing the right flight school, and flight instructor. Ali shares his experiences flying in busy airspace, the costs associated with training, and his aspirations for a career in corporate aviation. The conversation also touches on memorable flights, future goals, and the joy of sharing flying experiences with loved ones.
Make sure you Like, Comment and Subscribe to join us for the next one!
Comment down below and let us know, What was your most memorable moment during flight training?
Takeaways
Ali's childhood fascination with aviation led him to pursue flying.
Choosing the right flight school is crucial for success.
Maintenance and availability of aircraft are key factors in flight training.
The cost of flying can be significant, making scheduling important.
Having a supportive and knowledgeable instructor is essential.
Training in busy airspace enhances communication skills and confidence.
Preparation and self-study are vital for success in flight training.
Memorable flights and experiences shape a pilot's journey.
Networking and building connections can open doors in aviation careers.
Enjoying every aspect of flying, both good and bad, is important.
Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:40 How Ali Got into Aviation
03:37 Choosing a Flight School
10:06 WHAT to Look for in a Flight Instructor
12:59 Training at a Busy Charlie
18:24 Biggest Challenge in Flight Training
19:27 The Importance of Preparation in Flight Training
22:47 Favorite Maneuvers: What Pilots Enjoy
24:19 Memorable Cross-Country Flights
28:25 Aviation Bucket List: Dream Destinations
33:42 After the Checkride: What's Next
35:41 Who's your First Passenger?
38:54 Exploring Weekend Getaways and Aviation Goals
39:32 Aspirations in Corporate Aviation
41:50 Navigating the Path to 1500 Flight Hours
45:29 Building a Community and Sharing Experiences
46:39 Rapid Fire Round: Fun Aviation Insights
52:57 Where to Find Ali
54:40 Shooting a Podcast the Day Before your Checkride