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Brandon Martini & Carson Vasquez

🚀 We are The Aviation Mentors, a weekly podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where we aviators can hang out and enjoy a wide range of conversations about anything aviation. We're aviators, we're mentors, and we're entrepreneurs. Whether you're a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AV Geek like us, this is the podcast for you! 🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying! Sponsored by Stratus Financial www.stratus.finance

Aviation Mentors

In this special milestone episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez celebrate 200 episodes of inspiring stories, mentorship, and aviation community growth. 🥂

From humble beginnings recording in a noisy RV at Oshkosh to becoming one of aviation’s most engaging podcasts, Brandon and Carson reflect on their journey, share behind-the-scenes stories, and revisit their favorite moments and guests.

💬 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How the podcast started — from scripted beginnings to genuine hangar talk

• The inspiration behind Aviation Mentors and the power of mentorship in aviation

• Favorite moments, guests, and community stories from the past 200 episodes

• Lessons learned about podcasting, persistence, and connection

• A heartfelt message to listeners and fellow aviators around the world

🎙️ Aviation Mentors Podcast is where pilots, student pilots, and aviation enthusiasts come together to learn, laugh, and share their passion for flying. Whether you’re just starting flight training or deep into your aviation career, there’s always something new to discover.

🌎 Join us every Friday as we share real stories from the cockpit, the classroom, and beyond.

Subscribe, leave a comment, and celebrate 200 episodes with us!

🛫 Listen to more episodes:

www.aviationmentors.com

🎟️ Check out Stratus AeroSummit:

www.stratusaerosummit.com

💼 Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

Celebrating 200 Episodes – Aviation Mentors Reflect on Growth, Stories & the Journey Ahead

Flying VFR? Understanding IFR traffic is critical for safety even at non-towered airports.

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon Martini and Carson explore IFR approaches, shared airspace, and practical VFR safety tips. Using examples from Corona Airport (KAJO) and nearby VORs, they explain how VFR and IFR operations coexist, how to anticipate faster instrument traffic, and what to watch for when flying in general aviation environments.

Key topics include:

IFR approaches and handoff procedures for VFR pilots

Recognizing speed and pattern differences between aircraft

Airspace awareness and safety strategies for student pilots

🚀 Aviation Mentors Podcast is dedicated to helping pilots and aviation enthusiasts improve skills, safety, and career growth. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, or GA enthusiast, this podcast is for you!

🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—tune in and elevate your pilot awareness!

www.aviationmentors.com

www.stratusaerosummit.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

S02E63: VFR Safety & IFR Traffic Awareness – Non-Towered Airport

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson catch up in their brand-new studio to talk about Brandon’s long-hidden Cessna 120 and the challenges of bringing it back to life.

They share stories about aircraft maintenance, the true cost of airplane ownership, and why so many planes end up sitting idle in hangars. Brandon dives into his personal experience with maintenance delays, expensive repairs, and how quickly costs can add up—even for a vintage tailwheel like his.

The hosts also discuss risk tolerance, flight readiness, and decision-making when returning to flying after time away. Packed with humor, personal insight, and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for any pilot thinking about owning, maintaining, or reviving their own aircraft.

🚀 The Aviation Mentors Podcast is your space to connect with passionate aviators, learn practical insights, and stay inspired in aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or AvGeek, this episode is packed with knowledge and perspective.

🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying!

www.aviationmentors.com

www.stratusaerosummit.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

S02E62: Hidden Airplanes, Tailwheel Flying & The Real Cost of Aircraft Ownership

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson discuss aviation news, insights, and trends shaping the general aviation industry. ✈️

From Brandon’s flight to Camarillo to the Burbank Tower’s temporary ATC shutdown, they cover what pilots need to know to stay safe and confident in non-towered operations. They also break down public reactions to the Mosaic rule changes, debunk cost misconceptions in flight training, and discuss how new regulations could make flying more accessible and affordable.

🚀 The Aviation Mentors Podcast is your space to connect with passionate aviators, learn practical insights, and stay inspired in aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or AvGeek, this episode is packed with knowledge and perspective.

🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying!

www.aviationmentors.com

www.stratusaerosummit.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

S02E61: Reacting to Your Comments Part 1: MOSAIC, GA Costs & Burbank Tower

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez share an inspiring story of resilience, rediscovery, and passion for flight as Carson takes to the skies again after more than two years away from the cockpit.

Join Brandon and Carson as they relive Carson’s first flight back on September 19, 2025, in a Cessna 182, marking his return to flying since February 12, 2023. From preflight jitters and rusty radio calls to picture-perfect landings, this episode is packed with lessons for student pilots and general aviation enthusiasts alike.

Brandon, speaking from his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) perspective, shares valuable insights on how instructors can help returning pilots rebuild their confidence, while Carson reflects on the emotions, muscle memory, and satisfaction of regaining proficiency after time away.

Whether you’re a student pilot taking your first steps, a lapsed aviator thinking about getting current again, or just someone who loves the journey of flight, this episode reminds us that once aviation is in your heart—it never truly leaves.

🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and talk all things aviation. We’re aviators, we’re mentors, and we’re entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AvGeek like us, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us and be part of the journey.

🔗 www.aviationmentors.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

💻 www.stratus.finance

S02E60: Back in the Left Seat – Carson’s First Flight in Two Years

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon Martini is joined by two incredible guests: Jacob Peed, founder of AviNation Magazine, and Sean Starker, host of the Future in Flight Podcast.

They dive into the power of aviation publishing, podcasting, and youth mentorship programs. Learn how Jacob and Sean are inspiring the next generation of aviators through community engagement, storytelling, and hands-on programs like Tram Talk and American Dream Tours.

From the birth of AviNation Magazine to podcasting as a tool for aviation growth, this episode is packed with insights on networking, mentorship, and opportunities in aviation. Brandon also shares personal stories highlighting how relationships in aviation often lead to lifelong partnerships and career growth.

🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and enjoy a wide range of conversations about anything aviation. We're aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs. Whether you're a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AV geek like us, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying!

Connect with our guests:

• AviNation Magazine: www.AviNationUSA.com

• Future in Flight Podcast: futureinflight.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

www.stratusaerosummit.com

S02E59: Mentorship, Aviation Publishing & Inspiring the Next Generation

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson dive into Sport Pilot Certificates and the recent MOSAIC rule changes that are making them more accessible than ever. ✈️

They cover everything from eligibility requirements and medical options to flight training minimums and checkride expectations. With MOSAIC updates, Sport Pilots can now fly four-seat aircraft like Cessna 172s, enjoy night flying with endorsements, and expand their privileges—offering a cost-effective, flexible, and approachable path into aviation.

Whether you’re a student pilot, recreational flyer, or exploring aviation for the first time, this episode provides practical insights into how Sport Pilot certification can open doors to flying while reducing barriers and costs.

🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space for aviators to hang out and explore all things aviation. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, or aviation enthusiast, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 New episodes drop every Friday!

www.aviationmentors.com

www.stratusaerosummit.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

S02E58: Sport Pilot Certificates & MOSAIC Updates – Making Aviation More Accessible

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, hosts Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez break down Boeing’s latest 20-year aviation industry forecast—and the numbers are staggering.

The industry will need:

660,000 new pilots

710,000 new technicians

1 million cabin crew worldwide

From the true cost of pilot training (around $81,000 in the U.S.) to airline signing bonuses of $50K–$150K, Brandon and Carson discuss the market forces, retirements, and global trends shaping aviation careers. They also share why now is one of the best times in history to pursue your dream of becoming a pilot.

🚀 Whether you’re a student pilot, professional aviator, or exploring a career in aviation, this episode offers valuable insights into opportunities, challenges, and why demand for pilots is stronger than ever.

We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and enjoy a wide range of conversations about anything aviation. We’re aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AV geek like us, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 Join us every Friday as we share our passion for flying!

www.aviationmentors.com

www.stratusaerosummit.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

S02E57: Pilot Demand Is Soaring – Boeing’s 20-Year Forecast and What It Means for Aspiring Aviators

In Episode 56 of the Aviation Mentors Podcast 🎙️, Brandon Martini celebrates being named one of NBAA’s 2025 “40 Under 40” award recipients, an incredible milestone for Brandon and the Stratus Financial team!

Brandon and Carson reflect on the journey to this recognition, the importance of networking and mentorship, and exciting opportunities at NBAA-BACE 2025. They also highlight Stratus Financial’s continued growth and the role of persistence and connections in building a successful aviation career.

👏Huge congratulations to Brandon and all the 2025 NBAA “40 Under 40” honorees shaping the future of business aviation! This year’s honorees include, Stephanie Alexander, Lance Bagnoff, Joshua Bell, Kody Bjork, Mike Bradfield, Kyle Canna, Mikael Cardinal, Cynthia Comer, Sierra Marie Curtis, Theresa Daly, Rachel Douglass, Antonio Ferrara, Jamie Harder, Cole Hartfiel, Emily Herron, Nikki Higgins, Joseph “Jesse” Hipp, Michael James, Tom Lelyo, Linda Li, Shawna Livingston, Kyle Long, Steve Loree, John Markoski, Brandon Martini, Jacob Mergler, Patrick O’Brien, Ryan O’Rear, Amanda Ochs, Myles Parris, Mitch Patterson, Maria “Majo” Perdomo Cuevas, Kelly Pryor, Josh Reckley, Brandi Rector, Christian Schuster, Miller Stallings, Andrew Stylianou, Joseph Michael Toomey, and Kara Wolf. Congratulations to all for shaping the future of business aviation!

🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and talk all things aviation. We’re aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AvGeek like us, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 New episodes drop every Friday, join us and be part of the journey.

#aviationmentors #NBAA #pilotnetworking #aviationpodcast #studentpilot #businessaviation #aviationcareers #pilotmentorship #aviationcommunity #stratusfinancial #aviationleaders #pilotgrowth

S02E56: Brandon Martini Named NBAA 40 Under 40 – Celebrating Aviation Milestones

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast 🎙️, Brandon and Carson share their recent flying adventures and the lessons that came with them. From splash-and-go landings in an Icon A5 near Long Beach Harbor to touch-and-gos at Chino and Riverside, they dive into what it really means to be a current—and proficient—pilot.

This isn’t just about logging the FAA’s minimums. Brandon and Carson explore the real difference between currency and proficiency, and why staying sharp with regular practice is essential for safe, confident flying.

Along the way, they discuss: How getting current again builds both skill and confidence The joy of flying as a “happy place” Digitizing logbooks for modern pilots Brandon’s goal of earning his ATP multi rating Carson’s anticipation (and nerves!) about getting back to flying

And to top it off, we’re celebrating a huge milestone: 100,000 downloads of the Aviation Mentors podcast! 🎉 Thank you for flying with us every week.

🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where aviators can hang out and talk all things aviation. We’re aviators, we’re mentors, and we’re entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AvGeek like us, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 New episodes drop every Friday—join us and be part of the journey.

🔗 www.aviationmentors.com

Sponsored by Stratus Financial 

💻 www.stratus.finance

S02E55: Pilot Currency vs. Proficiency: What Every Pilot Should Know

Buckle up, fellow aviators! In this episode of Aviation Mentors, we're diving into the world of drones – those sleek, unmanned aerial vehicles that are causing a buzz in the skies! 🕹️🛩️🚁

Get ready for an eye-opening discussion on how drones are revolutionizing industries, from photography to agriculture and even package delivery. Imagine an aircraft without a human pilot – sounds mind-boggling, right? Especially after our recent talk about automation in the cockpit!

So, fasten your seat belts and soar with us as we unravel the mysteries and innovations of drones in this exciting episode of Aviation Mentors. Prepare to be amazed and inspired by the limitless potential of these unmanned aerial marvels!

🚀 We are the Aviation Mentors, a podcast dedicated to creating an amazing space where we aviators can hang out and enjoy a wide range of conversations about anything aviation. We're aviators, we're mentors, and we're entrepreneurs. Whether you're a student pilot, professional pilot, general aviation enthusiast, or just an AV Geek like us, this is the podcast for you!

🌎 Join us twice weekly every Wednesday and Friday as we share our passion for flying!

Sponsored by Stratus Financial

www.stratus.finance

S01E108: Drones and UAVs - Part 107

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