More Right Rudder

Navigating Student Engagement During Winter Weather w/ Nate Ehlers

Weather, holidays, and real life can bring flight training to a halt—but learning doesn’t have to stop. In this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt sits down with instructor and airline pilot Nate Ehlers to share practical ways CFIs can keep students engaged during training disruptions.
From chair flying and simulators to scenario-based training and creative ground lessons, this conversation offers real-world strategies to maintain momentum when flying isn’t possible. Ehlers also explains how flight schools can build camaraderie, use downtime to knock out knowledge tests, and even turn bad weather into valuable weather training.
If you want your students to stay sharp, motivated, and progressing—even when the airplane isn’t moving—this episode is for you.
Learn more about Nate and Backseat Pilot here: https://thebackseatpilot.com/
Thank you to Sporty's and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.
 

Stop Memorizing - Start Deciding: Building Better Scenarios with AI w/ John Boos

DPE John Boos and NAFI Program Development Manager Sarah Staudt dive into the power of scenario-based training to strengthen student judgment and decision-making. They discuss why rote memory—while valuable—is only the starting point, and how realistic simulations help students apply knowledge in meaningful ways. The discussion includes how AI can support instructors by generating scenario ideas, variations, and trigger events, all while emphasizing the importance of CFI curation to ensure accuracy, realism, and safety. This episode offers practical strategies for building stronger pilots through intentional scenario design, thoughtful evaluation, and smart use of AI as a creative tool—not a replacement for instructor expertise.
Join NAFI at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

More to the Story: Musings of a Retired DPE w/ Larry Bothe

Host Beth Stanton, NAFI’s director of publications and editor, interviews Larry Bothe, retired designated pilot examiner (DPE), flight instructor, and longtime Mentor magazine contributor, for an in-depth look at the world of checkrides and flight training.
Bothe expands on his recent Mentor article “Musings from a Retired DPE, Things you might like to know.” He shares his perspective on what examiners look for, tells a few checkride tales, and provides guidance on how instructors can better prepare their students for success. The conversation explores the evolution of DPE guidance and information, opportunities for professional development, and how effective instruction directly impacts aviation safety.
Packed with real-world insights from decades in the cockpit, this episode is a must-listen for flight instructors, student pilots, and anyone passionate about aviation education.
Join NAFI today at https://my.nafimentor.org. Use promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

DPE Availability: Making the Most of a Limited Resource w/ Jason Blair

In this episode, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Jason Blair, a DPE and aviation author, discuss the ongoing DPE shortage in aviation, exploring its causes, implications, and potential solutions. They delve into the data surrounding DPE activity, the importance of effective communication and scheduling, and the challenges faced by flight training providers. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough preparation for checkrides, understanding experience requirements, and the role of instructors in ensuring student readiness. They also touch on innovative training tools and the importance of being well prepared for checkrides, including experience requirements, documentation, and aircraft airworthiness.
Remember, you can save $5 on your NAFI membership with promo code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org
Thank you to AOPA and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.
 

Maintaining CFI Professionalism in Challenging Times w/ Anthony Sypula

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's Program Development Manager, and Anthony Sypula, the Chief Flight Instructor of a large flying club and NAFI Master Instructor, discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism and readiness among flight instructors during industry slowdowns. They explore the current hiring landscape, the impacts of slowdowns on flight instructors, and techniques to maintain professionalism. The conversation also covers the significance of pass rates, turning slowdowns into growth opportunities, gaining leadership experience, and tips for new CFIs seeking employment. The episode emphasizes that professionalism is a long-term investment in one's career and reputation in the aviation community.
You can download your own PDF copy of the presentation discussed in this episode here: https://nafimentor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CFI-Professionalism-Readiness-Presentation.pdf
Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode. 

Introducing Part 22 Aircraft Certification via MOSAIC w/ Bill Snodgrass

CORRECTION: This video states that there is a 3,000 weight limit for Light Sport Aircraft. That is incorrect. Under the new MOSAIC rule there is no weight limit for Light Sport Aircraft.
In part two of this special episode of More Right Rudder, NAFI's program development manager and podcast host, Sarah Staudt, is joined by Bill Snodgrass for an in-depth review of the upcoming changes to Light Sport aircraft certification. Snodgrass is a sport flight instructor, private pilot, and voting member of ASTM. He, along with other volunteers, represented NAFI's interests during the MOSAIC rule-making process. Snodgrass continues to represent NAFI through his service on several ASTM committees.
Become a NAFI member to enjoy our numerous member benefits. Join today at https://nafimentor.og

MOSAIC: Modernizing Sport Pilot and Sport Flight Instructors w/ Samantha Bowyer

In this two-part series all about MOSAIC, host Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, is joined by Samantha Bowyer, an associate professor of aeronautics at ERAU. Bowyer is also an active NAFI volunteer who, with others, represented NAFI's interests during the MOSAIC rule making process. This first episode provides an overview of the MOSAIC rule then turns its focus to the changes for sport pilots and flight instructors. Tune in to learn all about new privileges, limitations, and training options available to sport pilots, sport pilot applicants, and their instructors.
If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your membership.
Thank you to Avemco, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

More to the Story: Making Aviators w/ Jason Miller

In this episode of the More to the Story, a feature series on the More Right Rudder podcast, host and NAFI’s Director of Publications and Editor, Beth Stanton interviews Jason Miller, a seasoned flight instructor and founder of The Finer Points. Miller wrote Making Aviators in the July/August issue of Mentor magazine. They discuss the critical first 25 hours of flight training, the importance of establishing good habits early on, and the role of flight instructors in shaping competent aviators. Miller shares insights on teaching strategies, the significance of visual references, and the use of technology in flight training. The conversation emphasizes the need for quality instruction and resources to support both instructors and students in their aviation journey. NAFI members can access Miller’s article at https://my.nafimentor.org. 
If you aren't yet a NAFI member, join us today. Use the promo code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new or renewal NAFI membership at https://nafimentor.org.
Thank you to AOPA, ForeFlight, and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.
 

The Power of NASA Reports with Jeffrey Madison

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, host Sarah Staudt speaks with Jeffrey Madison, an airline pilot and author, about the significance of NASA reports in flight training. They discuss how these reports can enhance decision-making skills for flight instructors and students, the importance of learning from real-life aviation incidents, and the value of sharing experiences through the NASA reporting system. Madison also shares anecdotes from his book, which aims to provide insights into common mistakes made by pilots and the lessons learned from them. Additionally, they highlight Madison's book YIKES! 100 Smart Pilots and the Dumb Things They Did Yet Lived to Tell About 'Em and the Victor Kilo Fund, which supports flight scholarships for under-resourced students in aviation.
 
New or returning NAFI members can save $5 on a NAFI membership with code PODSAVE5 at https://nafimentor.org
 
Thank you to ForeFlight, Sporty's, and AOPA for sponsoring this episode. 
 
Resources:
Aviation Safety Reporting System website: https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/
Aviation Safety Reporting System Advisory Circular: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1039459
YIKES the book and Victor Kilo Fund: https://www.victorkilofund.org/product/BuyYikesTheBook 

Modernizing Flight Training Rules with Don Wykoff

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt interviews Don Wykoff from Sporty's Academy about the modernization of Part 141 flight training regulations. They discuss the need for updates to reflect current technologies and training methods, the challenges faced by smaller flight schools, and the importance of quality assurance in pilot training. Wykoff emphasizes the potential for improved training outcomes and the role of technology in shaping the future of aviation education.
 
Not yet a NAFI member? Join us at https://nafimentor.org
 
Thank you to Sporty's, ForeFlight, and Garmin for sponsoring this episode of More Right Rudder. 
 

Low-Level Insight: RADAR and LiDAR Altimeters for CFIs

In this episode of More Right Rudder, we welcome Sean Sherman, aviation technologist owner of Skeeter Enterprises, to demystify two increasingly relevant technologies in general aviation: RADAR and LiDAR altimeters. Whether you're a flight instructor looking to improve your students' understanding of new cockpit tools or a GA pilot exploring your next avionics upgrade, this episode will help you make sense of the options.
This episode includes:
The fundamental differences between RADAR and LiDAR technologies
How each system measures altitude—and how that matters in real-world conditions
Factors to consider when choosing the right technology for your aircraft and mission profile
Instructional tips for CFIs incorporating these systems into flight training
Safety considerations, including limitations, environmental factors, and failure modes
If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.
Thank you to Sporty's, AOPA, and ForeFlight for sponsoring this episode.

More to the Story: The Balloonist's Perspective

In this More to the Story episode of More Right Rudder, we explore the perspective of flight instruction without power—just heat, wind, and a whole lot of planning. Beth Stanton, NAFI's Director of Publications, sits down with Kim and Adam Magee, co-founders of The Balloon Training Academy and recent Mentor magazine contributors, to discuss the unique world of hot air ballooning.
They dive into the key differences between powered and non-powered flight, including weather considerations, ground crew coordination, and risk management. The Magees share valuable tips every powered aircraft pilot should know—from how balloonists read the skies to what it really takes to launch, navigate, and land a balloon safely. And what to do if you encounter one at your airport. It’s an eye-opening conversation for any pilot ready to think beyond the engine.
Learn more about balloon flying at The Balloon Training Academy: https://www.theballoontrainingacademy.com/
Thank you to our sponsors Sporty's and ForeFlight.
 
If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Anybody is welcome to join. You can save $5 on your new or renewal membership with code PODSAVE5.

Flight Training of the Future: eVTOL and Powered Lift w/ Chris Penningroth

The sky is changing—and so is the role of the flight instructor. In this episode of More Right Rudder, we’re joined by Chris Penningroth, former Air Force pilot and leader of NAFI’s eVTOL and Powered Lift Special Interest Group. Penningroth brings his unique perspective to a conversation about the emergence of eVTOL and powered-lift aircraft and what they mean for the future of flight training.
We explore the growing demand for instructors in this cutting-edge sector, the challenges of developing new training materials and standards, and how AI could play a role in everything from instruction to aircraft operations. Someday, an eVTOL/powered-lift aircraft will arrive at an airport near you. Start getting ready for that day, today.
If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us at https://nafimentor.org. NAFI members have access to nearly a dozen Special Interest Groups, on a wide variety of instructional specialties.
FAA eVTOL and Powered-lift Final Rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/11/21/2024-24886/integration-of-powered-lift-pilot-certification-and-operations-miscellaneous-amendments-related-to
Thank you to Gleim Aviation and Sporty's for sponsoring this episode.

SimVenture 2025

Join us for a deep dive into SimVenture 2025, PilotEdge’s immersive virtual re-creation of flying into EAA AirVenture! This summer’s event, scheduled for July 11–13, puts you right in the cockpit as you fly the Fisk Arrival complete with landing on the colored dots, flagmen, parking, and departure. Throughout the event you'll receive air traffic instructions from the actual Oshkosh air traffic controllers. There's no better way to prepare whether this is your first time down the tracks or a seasoned veteran. The best part is it is all done from the safety of your home or flight school simulator. Even if you aren't flying to AirVenture this year, participating in SimVenture is a great way to sharpen your situational awareness skills and take on the challenge. 
This episode delves into the 2025 updates to the technology, "Fly-to-win" contest, and schedule followed by an encore presentation of our SimVenture 2024 episode. Read all about it at the link below and mark your calendars for July 11 - 13, 2025 to participate in SimVenture 2025.
https://www.pilotedge.net/pages/simventure
Thank you to Kevin from PilotEdge for taking the time to come on More Right Rudder. 

World Record Flight Instructor: Rodrigo Silvestre Molina Diaz

In this inspiring episode of More Right Rudder, host Sarah Staudt sits down with Guinness World Record holder, and NAFI member, Rodrigo Silvestre Molina Diaz. This conversation is facilitated with translation assistance from Gus Sanchez of Stratus Financial.
Diaz's record is the most flying hours by a flight instructor (male). From his early days in aviation to the milestones that earned him a place in the record books, Rodrigo shares what drives his passion for teaching, how he’s shaped countless pilots’ journeys, and tales of a Cherokee 140 with an eye-popping number of hours on the airframe. Check out Diaz's record on the Guinness World Records website here: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/747294-most-flying-hours-by-a-flight-instructor-male
Thank you to SiriusXM Aviation and Gleim Aviation for sponsoring this episode.