
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
Manny Ramirez
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Top 10 The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Pushing Tin: Special Guest | Patrick DeWaal | Part 3
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
04/01/24 • 43 min
Welcome to the grand finale! It's time to delve into the technical aspects and witness Patrick's expertise in air traffic control. He details his use of equipment and tools at TRACON to ensure aircraft safety. We also explore controller training, staying current, and Patrick's role as an instructor guiding new hires through their initial experiences. Join us for this and more!
About Patrick:
Patrick, an aviation enthusiast, photographer, and Air Traffic Controller, boasts nearly 17 years of experience in the field. He has worked in two different facilities throughout his career: the Honolulu Control Facility and the Salt Lake TRACON. Originally from Utah, Patrick’s love for aviation began in childhood, traveling with his family. At the age of 4, he realized his passion for becoming a controller, a journey he pursued through education at Salt Lake Community College and the University of North Dakota.
Outside of work, Patrick treasures spending time with his family, relishing his roles as a husband and father. His hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding, traveling, camping, engaging in flight simulator sessions with friends, and pursuing aviation photography. He lives by the motto “never stop learning,” recognizing the vast knowledge within the aviation industry and cherishing the friendships he has forged along the way.
Follow Patrick!
Instagram: Patrick “PD”
REACH OUT!
Email me at: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
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From Coffee Spills to Cockpit Thrills: Special Guest | Vanessa Montaño | Grand Finale
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
06/03/24 • 54 min
Welcome back! This is the grand finale. We close out our conversation talking about non-rev travel, Vanessa’s icks with pilots which turns into a full blown conversations about Crew Resource Management (CRM) Let’s go!
ABOUT VANESSA
Vanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.
Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMini
Contact: [email protected]
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

From Coffee Spills to Cockpit Thrills: Special Guest | Vanessa Montaño | Part 1
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
05/06/24 • 41 min
Welcome to The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast! In today's episode, we explore how minority families can unknowingly impact our aspirations. Vanessa shares insights into the SkyWest Pathway program, offering a unique opportunity for non-pilot employees to ascend into the flight deck. Plus, we discuss the vital task of selecting the right flight instructor, uncovering the financial and personal costs of choosing poorly or sticking with the wrong match for too long. Join us as we navigate through the intricate dynamics of familial influence, career aspirations, and the pivotal role of the right flight instructor in achieving our goals.
ABOUT VANESSA
Vanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.
Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMini
Contact: [email protected]
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

Flying Chickens: Special Guest | Mike Strasser | Part 1
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
06/10/24 • 40 min
Mike and I were sim partners during our upgrade training at SkyWest Airlines. His awesome Austrian accent and diverse background led to many captivating stories during training. Today, sit back and meet Mike as we catch up after training and jump into his aviation journey, beginning with helicopters and firefighting.
ABOUT MIKE
Mike's fascination with aviation dates back to his earliest memories. Every spare moment was devoted to building model aircraft, flying RC planes, or working part-time at the local airport, where he washed, fixed, and fueled aircraft. After completing an engineering degree in Electronics, he promptly pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He began with motor gliders and single-engine planes before discovering his passion for helicopters. This led to a 20-year career in Wildland Firefighting Helicopters, where he flew everything from a Bell Ranger to a massive Boeing Chinook.
After what he describes as "having had a good run," Mike transitioned to flying for the airlines and is now a captain of a regional jet. His flying adventures have taken him around the globe. While he has forgotten most of what he learned about electronics, he has collected numerous stories and ideas for his aviation-themed cartoon, "Chicken Wings Comics," which he creates with his brother Stefan whenever he's not flying.
Instagram: mikeystrasser | chickenwingscomics
Contact: [email protected]
EPISODE REFERENCES
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

From Coffee Spills to Cockpit Thrills: Special Guest | Vanessa Montaño | Part 2
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
05/13/24 • 48 min
Welcome back, nerds! Thank you for joining me today. In this episode, we talk about the differences between Part 61 and Part 141 schools to help you make the best choice for your needs. We also discuss the ethical dilemma of compromising values for career advancement, sharing our perspectives on integrity in the workplace. In our fast-paced industry, timing is crucial, but maintaining resilience is key. And finally, join me as I quiz Vee on some FAA private pilot questions—test your knowledge alongside her!
ABOUT VANESSA
Vanessa is a passionate aviation enthusiast, she shares her journey from being a flight attendant for over five years to becoming a student pilot with dreams of flying professionally. Despite facing challenges and coming from humble beginnings, she remains determined to achieve her goal of becoming a licensed pilot. Through laughter, inspiration, and advocacy for self-belief, she encourages listeners to embrace life's wild journeys and overcome obstacles. Join her as she navigates the skies and share her experiences, reminding us all that with perseverance and humor, we can conquer any challenge.
Instagram: VeeDiddyTheMini
Contact: [email protected]
EPISODE REFERENCES
Book:
Going Pro The Deliberate Practice of Professionalism
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

FOMO Alert! | Handing Out Advice To Listeners | ERJ FOs upgrading to the CRJ at SkyWest | You missed your interview now what?
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
05/02/24 • 21 min
Hey there, feeling like life's got you in a rut? Well, let me tell you something – you've got way more power over your life than you give yourself credit for. In today's discussion, I’ll dig into a couple of real-life scenarios that might resonate with you.
First up, imagine missing out on that big interview with United. Ouch, right? But here's the thing: it's not just bad luck or fate at play here. Your actions, your decisions, they play a crucial role in shaping your path. Sure, setbacks sting, but they can also be pivotal moments for growth and change.
Then there's the SkyWest situation. Facing the prospect of upgrading to the CRJ might not sound too appealing. But hey, think of it as an opportunity to step up, to challenge yourself, to expand your skills and horizons.
So, here's the takeaway – take control of your life, own your choices, and embrace the setbacks as stepping stones to something greater. It's all about perspective, determination, and seizing those moments of uncertainty to leap forward into a brighter tomorrow.
Let’s goooo!
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

Professional Bag Stacker: Special Guest | Micah Vobora | Part 1
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
04/15/24 • 39 min
I had so much fun talking with my friend Micah. In this first part we catch up, talk about Micah’s student pilot journey and the differences between Part 61 and 141 flight training. We also have a little fun with aviation hot takes provided by one of our listeners!
About Micah:
Micah, a ramp lead for Alaska Airlines in Salt Lake City, UT, caught the aviation bug early on. As a kid in California, he'd gaze up at the sky, dreaming of piloting "family-sized planes" whenever those little Cessnas zoomed overhead. His love for planes soared even higher around 2016 when he discovered flight simulator videos – and let's just say, he hasn't landed since!
When Micah got his driver's license, his dad gave him the classic "get a job" talk. So, naturally, Micah took off (pun intended) to the airport for work. Starting off with Prospect, where he rolled with wheelchair service, Micah's journey eventually led him to the Alaska Airlines ramp gig in late 2022.
Sure, he's not a big shot mainline employee, but Micah's loving every moment of his job. From wrangling planes to juggling bags, chatting with pilots, and maybe even moving a jet bridge or two, there's never a dull moment. Plus, bonding with coworkers over card games adds an extra bit of fun to his day. Micah's grateful to be living his dream and is always ready to take flight into another awesome workday!
Follow Micah!
Instagram: kslc_aviator
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

Professional Bag Stacker: Special Guest | Micah Vobora | Part 2
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
04/29/24 • 30 min
What are some of Micah’s icks? Oh.. he’ll tell you alright. Once again, we talk about the Spirit furloughs and rumors surrounding the news. Which do you like better the 737 or the A320? Apparently I’m old... which is why I think the 737 is a better looking plane. I encourage my friend Victor to continue on his aviation journey despite his age and I finally reveal the reason Micah is my favorite spotter of all time! This and more in today’s episode. Let’s go!
About Micah:
Micah, a ramp lead for Alaska Airlines in Salt Lake City, UT, caught the aviation bug early on. As a kid in California, he'd gaze up at the sky, dreaming of piloting "family-sized planes" whenever those little Cessnas zoomed overhead. His love for planes soared even higher around 2016 when he discovered flight simulator videos – and let's just say, he hasn't landed since!
When Micah got his driver's license, his dad gave him the classic "get a job" talk. So, naturally, Micah took off (pun intended) to the airport for work. Starting off with Prospect, where he rolled with wheelchair service, Micah's journey eventually led him to the Alaska Airlines ramp gig in late 2022.
Sure, he's not a big shot mainline employee, but Micah's loving every moment of his job. From wrangling planes to juggling bags, chatting with pilots, and maybe even moving a jet bridge or two, there's never a dull moment. Plus, bonding with coworkers over card games adds an extra bit of fun to his day. Micah's grateful to be living his dream and is always ready to take flight into another awesome workday!
Follow Micah!
Instagram: kslc_aviator
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

Answering Your Questions | Rockie’s Coach as Pilot Monitoring in United 757 | Runway incursion close calls | I refuse to tip the van driver
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
04/25/24 • 42 min
Hold off on the crucifixions! I tip, I swear, but spare me the Mr. Pink nickname, alright? Today, buckle up for a riveting episode where I dive into the latest news, including hair-raising near-misses at three major airports. I'll arm you with crucial mitigation tactics to keep you off the danger radar. Plus, I'm dishing out advice to aspiring aviators and unraveling the mystery behind SkyWest's reluctance to snag those sleek 175 E2s. Stay tuned for all this and more—let's goooo!!
EPISODE REFERENCES
Reservoir Dogs | Mr. Pink Doesn’t Tip
FAA investigating after Rockies coach plays pilot on United charter flight
Pratt & Whitney Engine Woes could cost U.S. Airlines $150 Million
Scope Clause: The Regional Airlines’ Capacity Cap Explained
Contour Airlines Pilot Pathway Program
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW

Flying Chickens: Special Guest | Mike Strasser | Part 2
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast
06/17/24 • 34 min
Part two is here, y’all! Mike is an exceptionally talented and fascinating individual. In addition to being an airline pilot, he and his brother Stefan run a cartoon series called Chicken Wings—featuring chickens that fly, though not in the way you'd expect. Mike also operates a retail store selling Chicken Wings merchandise and a variety of aviator-related items, such as patches, airplane models, and gifts. Join us, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
ABOUT MIKE
Mike's fascination with aviation dates back to his earliest memories. Every spare moment was devoted to building model aircraft, flying RC planes, or working part-time at the local airport, where he washed, fixed, and fueled aircraft. After completing an engineering degree in Electronics, he promptly pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. He began with motor gliders and single-engine planes before discovering his passion for helicopters. This led to a 20-year career in Wildland Firefighting Helicopters, where he flew everything from a Bell Ranger to a massive Boeing Chinook.
After what he describes as "having had a good run," Mike transitioned to flying for the airlines and is now a captain of a regional jet. His flying adventures have taken him around the globe. While he has forgotten most of what he learned about electronics, he has collected numerous stories and ideas for his aviation-themed cartoon, "Chicken Wings Comics," which he creates with his brother Stefan whenever he's not flying.
Instagram: mikeystrasser | chickenwingscomics
Contact: [email protected]
REACH OUT!
Submit your questions or aviation stories to the show
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: climbvx
BOOK YOUR APPEARANCE ON THE SHOW
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast have?
The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast currently has 35 episodes available.
What topics does The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Leisure, Aviation, Airline, Podcasts, Education and Travel.
What is the most popular episode on The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast?
The episode title 'Flying Chickens: Special Guest | Mike Strasser | Part 1' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast?
The average episode length on The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast is 34 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast released?
Episodes of The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast are typically released every 6 days, 1 hour.
When was the first episode of The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast?
The first episode of The Tailwinds & Sunshine Podcast was released on Dec 25, 2022.
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