Best Unstoppable by Justin Self Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 263 The Waiting Place 9:45

15h ago9:45

9:45

In this solo episode, Nik talks about the trap that many aspiring and current pilots fall into: waiting. Waiting for the perfect time, the right opportunity, or for someone else to take the lead. Inspired by a reading of Oh, The Places You’ll Go! to his kids, Nik reflects on how easy it is to get stuck in “The Waiting Place” — and why it’s time to …

1
Episode 262 Conversations from PAPA: Real Stories from the Conference Floor 24:21

4d ago24:21

24:21

Welcome back! In this special episode, guest host and fellow Spitfire Elite coach, Jason Batchelor, "JB", records live interviews from the Professional Asian Pilot's Association Convention floor in Las Vegas, NV. You'll hear honest, unscripted conversations with aspiring aviators—some just days into their airline journey, others preparing for a maj…

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Episode 261 Do All the Things 17:28

7d ago17:28

17:28

Flying a fully loaded 757 with shifting weather and unexpected system faults isn’t the kind of day any pilot hopes for—but sometimes, it’s the one you get. In this solo episode, Nik shares a real-life flight that became a case study in slowing down, resetting, and leaning on your team. He walks us through a recent scenario that started with a simpl…

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Episode 260 Kenny Hyman Checks In. Amazing What Changes in Just Three Years! 33:33

11d ago33:33

33:33

In this episode, Nik welcomes Kenny Hyman back to the podcast. The last time we heard from Kenny, he had just interviewed with American Airlines. Now, three years later, he’s flying the Airbus and full of perspective on how life has changed since leaving the military and the regionals behind. Nik and Kenny dig into everything from training and cult…

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S5E4 | Your Healing Paid For - Hebrew Word Study! (Healing School 3) 30:20

13d ago30:20

30:20

One of the biggest reasons why well-meaning Christians do not see their healing manifest is because they do not view sickness in the same way they view sin. If you abhor sin, why do you tolerate sickness of any kind? On the cross, Jesus took 100% of your sin AND physical sickness as part of His beautiful redemption package. But don't just believe m…

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Episode 259 Be Like Ben 9:01

15d ago9:01

9:01

In this solo episode, Nik shares a story about what it takes to succeed in today's competitive airline hiring environment. Sparked by a text from a friend and fellow Citadel alum who just landed an airline interview after years of hard work, Nik reflects on the mindset, preparation, and sacrifice required to stand out and seize the opportunity of a…

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Ep 258: Behind Enemy Lines: A Desert Storm Combat Story You Won't Believe! 1:23:55

18d ago1:23:55

1:23:55

You won't want to miss this tale of heroism and calm under pressure! In this episode, Nik sits back and lets Colonel (Retired) Scott “Vapor” Walsh share his experience as a young Marine Harrier pilot who was shot down behind enemy lines, his recovery process, and his return to flying. He also discusses his transition from military aviation to a car…

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Episode 257 Having Impact 9:29

22d ago9:29

9:29

In this solo episode, Nik dives into one of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of building a career in aviation - impact. Whether you’re a student pilot, CFI, or trying to move up to the majors, the question is the same: What separates you from everyone else? Nik shares a story about a young pilot named Will who took action, stepped …

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Ep 256 Funding the Dream: Mastering Aviation Scholarships with Cherry Kan 23:04

25d ago23:04

23:04

Nik is back! In this episode, he sits down with Cherry Kan—an international student and first-generation pilot whose aviation journey is anything but ordinary. With grit, community support, and relentless resourcefulness, Cherry has paved her own way into the flight deck. Like many aspiring pilots, Cherry faced the financial challenges of flight tr…

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Ep 255 Pilots Struggle with Self-Awareness 8:38

29d ago8:38

8:38

In this solo episode, Nik Fialka dives deep into one of the most underrated skills in aviation—and life: self-awareness. Drawing from personal reflection, his experience coaching pilots, and insights from the book Atomic Habits, Nik explores how understanding yourself is the foundation for meaningful growth and career success. From confronting ego …

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Episode 254 Flight Plan to Homeownership: A Pilot's Guide to Home Loans with Marty Medve 27:11

1M ago27:11

27:11

Why this could be the perfect time to buy a home, even though lending rates are higher than they have been in the last several years. Benefit of having a lender that understands pilot pay: Not all lenders understand the pay structure and transition timelines of military and airline pilots. Marty explains why this insight matters—and how it can save…

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Ep 253 Do the Hard Work, Then Enjoy the Day 6:33

1M ago6:33

6:33

Welcome back! In this solo episode, Nik Fialka shares a glimpse into his fulfilling (yet sometimes chaotic) home life, including a special cameo from his two-year-old son. Between playing zone defense on daily chores and enjoying breakfast as a family, Nik draws the perfect metaphor for aviation and life: you’ve got to do the hard work before you c…

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Ep 252 Flying Through Setbacks: A Story of Grit with Arthur Walley 45:56

1M ago45:56

45:56

In this inspiring episode, Nik chats with Arthur "Art" Walley, who shares the winding journey that took him from enlisting in the Marine Corps out of high school and deploying to Iraq to the cockpit of a major airline. With humor, and hard-earned insight, Art reflects on the challenges of starting a second career, balancing family life, and staying…

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Ep 251 How Your Journey Starts DOES NOT Define How It Ends 11:57

1M ago11:57

11:57

Nik Fialka is back and opens up about setbacks, self-doubt, and the long road to success in aviation. Whether you're a student struggling in training, a regional pilot facing turbulence, or someone navigating unexpected career changes, Nik reminds us that your beginning doesn’t define your journey—or your destination. Drawing from his own early str…

1
Episode 250 From Zero to ATP by 21: Mason Jackson’s Fast-Track Flight Path 27:21

2M ago27:21

27:21

What does it take to become a 21-year-old with an ATP and a CJO in hand? In this interview, Mason Jackson joins Nik Fialka to break down his journey from high school to flight school to the cusp of beginning his airline career. Mason discusses finances, study habits as well as staying disciplined in training in pursuit of keeping the dream alive. M…

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Ep 249 It's Hard to See the Road...When You're On It 8:37

2M ago8:37

8:37

In this solo episode, host Nik Fialka reflects on the perseverance, purpose, and the long journey to becoming a professional pilot. Drawing inspiration from the grueling 21-day stage races of professional cycling like the Tour de France, Nik dives deep into what it means to keep going, even when the finish line feels out of reach. Whether you're bu…

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Ep 248 Flight Plan Interrupted: A Midlife Journey from Runway to Recovery 28:29

2M ago28:29

28:29

GO FUND ME: https://gofund.me/bf973f3f In this emotional and motivating episode, host Nik Fialka welcomes Trent Dyrsmid—known to many from "Fly With Trent"—to share his remarkable journey from entrepreneur to regional airline pilot. At 53, Trent boldly changed careers, completed an accelerated flight training program, and built a dedicated online f…

1
Ep 247 Suck Your Thumb or Get After It! 6:42

2M ago6:42

6:42

Host Nik Fialka shares a motivational solo episode, challenging pilots to take control of their aviation careers by becoming action-takers rather than sitting back and feeling discouraged. Drawing inspiration from a conversation with Tron Williams, Nik emphasizes the power of consistent effort, courage, and embracing discomfort to achieve success i…

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Ep. 246 Fit to Fly: A Pilot’s Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 28:39

2M ago28:39

28:39

Host Nik Fialka sits down with Lashea Bacon, founder of Mile High Health Club, to explore the often-overlooked topic of pilot wellness. As both an airline pilot and certified personal trainer, Lashea shares her mission to bridge the gap between aviation and sustainable health by helping pilots build better habits—both on the road and at home. From …

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Ep 245 Life is Great...Chaos: Thriving in an Unpredictable World 5:18

2M ago5:18

5:18

In this solo episode, host Nik Fialka dives into the unavoidable chaos of life and aviation, exploring how embracing unpredictability can lead to personal and professional growth. From messy kitchens to turbulent skies, Nik shares how facing challenges head-on not only builds resilience but also sharpens your focus, helping you become a better pilo…

1
Ep. 244 Wrenches, Waves, and Warbirds: Maintaining Naval Air Dominance in WWII 47:18

2M ago47:18

47:18

Welcome back to Ready 4 Pushback! Host Nik Fialka welcomes Stan Fisher — Naval Academy professor, PhD, aviator, and author of Sustaining the Carrier War — for a deep dive into the untold story of aircraft maintenance during World War II. Together, they explore how the U.S. Navy transformed from a fledgling aviation force in the 1930s into a dominan…

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Ep 243 Anna Talks Chickens: Finding Fulfillment Even with Ruffled Feathers 13:49

2M ago13:49

13:49

In this episode of Ready 4 Pushback, Anna Fialka—Nick’s wife—takes the mic and reflects on finding creativity and connection amid the structure of aviation and parenting. Using her family’s adventures in chicken care, Anna draws parallels between a pilot’s responsibility to maintain safety protocols and a parent’s duty to nurture and protect. She c…

1
Ep 242 What’s a Pilot Union? Inside ALPA’s World of Negotiations, Grievances, and Support 39:01

2M ago39:01

39:01

In this episode, Nik Fialka sits down with Tom Cross of ALPA—the largest union for airline pilots—to pull back the curtain on union life. Together, they cover everything from the basics of union membership and its benefits to the intricate processes of contract negotiation, grievance handling, and conflict resolution on the flight deck. This episod…

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Ep 241 Asking Questions: The Secret to Building Relationships in Your Career and Beyond 10:24

3M ago10:24

10:24

Nik Fialka is back and shares a powerful reflection from a recent trip with a fellow pilot—one where the conversation never turned into a true connection. The key takeaway? Asking questions matters. Whether you're chatting with a recruiter, networking at an event, or riding the airport bus, showing interest in others is how real relationships begin…

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Ep 240 The Recruiter's Playbook: Key Tactics to Shine at Airline Networking Events 42:22

3M ago42:22

42:22

In this episode, Nik Fialka sits down with “Jimmy”—a recruiter from a major airline—to delve into what it takes for pilots to make a lasting impression during meet-and-greets. Jimmy shares the critical details recruiters look for during these interactions. From resume presentation and the importance of good penmanship to the art of engaging convers…

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Ep 239 Lean Into A Challenge: Why Taking Action Makes You A Better Pilot 6:26

3M ago6:26

6:26

In this motivating solo episode, host Nik Fialka explores what it means to lean into the challenges that come with an aviation career. Challenges are constant and unavoidable, but how you face them determines what kind of pilot and person you become. Nik shares mindset strategies to help you step forward instead of retreat, build momentum, and gain…

1
Ep 238 Time-Building, Failure, and Focus: One Pilot's Real Journey 40:42

3M ago40:42

40:42

In this candid and motivating episode, Nik Fialka sits down with Tyler Wyman, a bartender and aspiring pilot who is carving his own path through flight training and time-building, without the backing of a formal program. From funding flight hours and overcoming a checkride failure to taking control and finding fulfillment, Tyler lays it all on the …

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Ep 237 Just Keep Swimming: Navigating Uncertainty Without Losing Sight of the Dream 10:00

3M ago10:00

10:00

In this episode of Ready for Pushback, host Nik Fialka reflects on a recent conversation with a close friend who’s battling the fear and uncertainty of possible failure. Nik draws parallels to his own leap of faith into aviation later in life, offering powerful encouragement to pilots (and dreamers) everywhere who are navigating tough transitions a…

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EP 235: The Life-Changing Aviation Camp That’s Transforming the Industry! 23:30

3M ago23:30

23:30

In this episode, we sit down with flight instructor and dedicated volunteer Sarah Bauermeister to discuss her journey in aviation and her passionate involvement with PreFlight Camp. Sarah shares insights into the benefits of learning to fly through a community college program, her personal experiences as an instructor, and the impact of mentorship …

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Ep 234. Practice Makes Permanent: The Secret to Flying, Training, and Interviewing 9:10

3M ago9:10

9:10

Welcome back to Ready for Pushback! Today, Nick Fialka dives into a game-changing insight from Spitfire coach Jason Batchelor: "Practice Makes Permanent." Whether you're in flight training, preparing for a check ride, or getting ready for an airline interview, how you practice determines your success. This episode explores why holding yourself to h…

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EP 233: Pilots, Don’t Ignore This! The Medical Battle That Almost Ended a Career 41:30

3M ago41:30

41:30

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 …

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EP 232. Pilot Career Survival Guide: Smart Strategies for Your Pilot Career 18:25

4M ago18:25

18:25

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 a…

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Ep 231: Stop Making These Resume Mistakes: Hiring Hacks from an Industry Recruiter 38:09

4M ago38:09

38:09

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 th…

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Ep 230: Stop Flying on Autopilot! Take Control of Your Aviation Future 9:42

4M ago9:42

9:42

In this episode, we dive into the dynamic and evolving world of aviation, and learn to reflect on the continuous growth and learning that come with every flight. From starting with ambitious goals to adapting to unexpected turns in your aviation journey, the discussion emphasizes the importance of evolving your dreams and embracing new opportunitie…

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Ep 229: Mastering the Skies: Phillip Cooke’s passion for aviation and Flight Simulators 33:39

4M ago33:39

33:39

Phillip Cooke, a pilot for Air Transport International (ATI), shares his journey from flight simulation enthusiast to professional aviator. Growing up with a passion for aviation, inspired by his father, he started with a PVC pipe yoke before diving into flight simulators. He earned his private pilot license and attended ATP Flight School in Long B…

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Want to be a more successful and inspire others? Start leading like this! 10:21

4M ago10:21

10:21

In this episode, we explore the power of humility in leadership—how standing with others rather than above them transforms teams, fosters growth, and creates lasting success. True leadership isn’t about control; it’s about service. When you lead with humility, you empower those around you, build stronger relationships, and inspire people to do thei…

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Justin Ritter, United Airlines Chief of Hiring, explains how to get hired in 2025! 56:46

4M ago56:46

56:46

In this episode, we sit down with Justin Ritter, United Airlines' Chief of Hiring, to uncover exactly what it takes to land a pilot job at United in 2025. Justin shares insider hiring trends, competitive pilot profiles, and crucial application tips that can make or break your chances. From the 1,200+ pilot hires expected next year to the most commo…

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EP 227: Behind the Scenes of Metro Aviation’s Air Ambulance Operations with Director John Vance 46:40

4M ago46:40

46:40

John Vance, Director of Operations at Metro Aviation, shares his journey from leaving the military for one of the top air ambulance providers. He discusses how Metro Aviation operates across the U.S., providing aircraft and pilots to support critical medical transport. John also highlights unique opportunities at Metro, including military SkillBrid…

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Ep226: Run Your Own Race: Why Comparing Yourself Holds You Back 8:19

4M ago8:19

8:19

Aviation hiring can feel overwhelming, especially in a competitive market. But comparing yourself to others won’t help—you need to focus on your own progress and path. In this episode, Nik breaks down the mindset and strategies that will keep you moving forward in your aviation career. From building flight hours and certifications to expanding your…

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Ep 225: Chasing the Dream: How Tom Pinit Built His Career One Flight at a Time 31:15

4M ago31:15

31:15

Tom Pinit’s path to becoming a pilot was anything but conventional. As the son of Thai immigrants, he grew up believing he couldn’t be a pilot due to vision requirements. After working in corporate consulting and land conservation, a layoff in 2019 pushed him to take a calculated risk: pursuing his dream of flying. With the unwavering support of hi…

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Ep224: Your Aviation Future Depends on It: How to Prepare and Ask Questions That Matter 11:17

4M ago11:17

11:17

Navigating a career in aviation requires more than just flying skills—it takes research, mentorship, and preparation. In this episode, we explore how talking to different pilots, building a strong network, and asking impactful questions can help you make informed career decisions. Whether you’re considering corporate, regional, or military aviation…

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Ep222. Military to Civilian Aviation: Building Your Career with the Right Strategy 16:51

5M ago16:51

16:51

Leaving the military and stepping into the aviation industry can be stressful, but with the right preparation, you can make the transition smoother and more successful. In this episode, we break down the key steps military pilots should take to position themselves for a strong career in aviation. From financial planning and leveraging military bene…

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Ep221: From Pakistan’s Skies to U.S. Airways: Talal’s unstoppable determination in Aviation 35:15

5M ago35:15

35:15

Talal Janjua’s aviation journey is one of resilience, sacrifice, and determination. A former Pakistan Army pilot, Talal moved to the U.S. with no set plans for his flying career. After working outside of aviation for years, his daughter’s interest in flying reignited his passion. But the road wasn’t easy—navigating FAA regulations, finding a DPE, a…

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Ep220: The Best Route to Becoming a Pilot: Training Paths, ATP Requirements, and Career Considerations 14:42

5M ago14:42

14:42

Not all flight training paths are the same—so how do you choose the best one for your goals? In this solo episode, Nik breaks down the different routes to becoming a pilot, from military service to university aviation programs, community colleges, and independent flight schools. He discusses key factors like cost, time commitment, and access to DPE…

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Ep219 : ATP-CTP and Type Ratings: How Flight Training International Prepares You for Success 40:51

5M ago40:51

40:51

ATP-CTP is a critical step toward becoming an airline pilot, but how do you prepare for it and make the most of your training? In this episode, Dan Wilborn from Flight Training International (FTI) breaks down what to expect in ATP-CTP, the importance of early preparation, and how FTI’s personalized approach helps pilots succeed. With training cente…

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S5E3 | Which Direction is Your Faith Pointing? (Healing School 2) 26:02

5M ago26:02

26:02

Welcome to Healing School! This is the second of several episodes in which we will be doing a deep-dive on how God sees physical healing and how we can cooperate with His Word to see physical healing manifest in our lives. It is God's will that we are well! One of the parts we play in receiving the healing God provided for us by His grace through t…

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Ep218: Flying with Wisdom: Why Prudence and Virtue Make You a Better Pilot 9:50

5M ago9:50

9:50

Summary Good pilots don’t just react—they think ahead, assess risks, and make informed decisions. In this episode, we explore the role of prudence in aviation and why careful judgment is essential for flight safety. From preflight planning to in-flight decision-making, pilots must use reason, logic, and experience rather than impulse or emotion. Th…

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Ep217: Earning your ATP and Type Rating: The Preparation, the Challenges and Keys to Success 1:11:53

5M ago1:11:53

1:11:53

Getting your ATP is just the beginning—standing out in today’s competitive airline hiring process requires preparation, professionalism, and the right mindset. In this episode, Jimmy shares his journey from helicopter pilot to airline hire, including the challenges of ATP training and earning his A320 type rating. He discusses the intense training …

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Ep216 - Following Wes’s Journey: From Setbacks to Success on the Path to Becoming an Airline Pilot 51:08

5M ago51:08

51:08

Summary What does it take to turn setbacks into stepping stones on the path to becoming an airline pilot? In this episode, we follow Wes’s inspiring journey as he navigates the challenges of flight training. After facing struggles during his first instrument check ride, Wes learned the power of perseverance, humility, and support from those around …

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Ep215 Tragedy and Reflection: Honoring the PSA Crew and Cherishing Those Around Us 1:56

5M ago1:56

1:56

Summary The aviation industry was shaken by the recent PSA Airlines accident involving a military helicopter, leaving many with concerns and deep sadness for the families affected. In this episode, Nik addresses the realities of aviation safety, the emotions surrounding such tragedies, and the importance of supporting one another in difficult times…

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Unstoppable By Justin Self Podcasts

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