Best Mark Zapata Podcasts (2025)

1
Opening Doors in Aviation - Embrace the Hustle 46:43

1d ago46:43

46:43

Episode 276: In this interview episode, Nik speaks with Army aviator Vinh Do about his path from military flying to pursuing a civilian aviation career. Vinh shares how he used his GI Bill, earned a fully funded ATP-CTP scholarship, and built flight hours while serving on active duty and in the Army National Guard. He also talks about moving to Ala…

1
DWF3E21Alien Earth Episodes 1, 2, and, 3 Spoilers ! 1:35:47

2d ago1:35:47

1:35:47

Spoiler Alert ! We discuss Alien Earth Episodes 1, 2, and, 3By Mark Zapata

1
Pick Yourself Up 7:35

5d ago7:35

7:35

Welcome back! In this solo episode, Nik records live from OBAP 2025 in Tacoma, WA, and shares a powerful reminder for pilots at every stage of their career: give yourself grace. Between long days, high stakes, and the pressure to perform—whether at a conference, in training, or in the cockpit—it’s easy to stumble and even harder to forgive ourselve…

1
DWFS3E20 Peacemaker Season 2 Ep 1 Spoiler Discussion 1:07:53

7d ago1:07:53

1:07:53

SPOILERS - On this episode we discuss Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 1 "The Ties That grind." Are we really gonna multiverse this shit ? I guess we are... maybe it's not such a bad thing based on the direction we are heading. We discuss it over a sessionable summer beer. We love you all !By Mark Zapata

1
2025 LPA Aerospace Industry Expo: A Conversation with LPA President - Claudia Zapata-Cardone 34:39

8d ago34:39

34:39

In this episode, Nik sits down once again with Claudia Zapata-Cardone, President of Latino Professionals in Aerospace (LPA), to talk about career opportunities, representation, and the upcoming LPA Aerospace Industry Expo. Claudia shares why the organization expanded beyond pilots to include all aerospace professionals, and how mentorship, sponsors…

1
Aviation: Don't Go It Alone. Use the Pilot Pyramid. 14:43

12d ago14:43

14:43

Episode 273 - In this solo episode, Nik shares how a casual conversation with his wife, Anna, sparked a powerful idea now known as the Pilot Pyramid—a simple yet impactful framework to guide your growth, connection, and leadership throughout your aviation journey. He unpacks the three essential roles every pilot should develop in their network and …

1
DWFS3E19 LIVE from the LI Farm Brewery 1:54:02

15d ago1:54:02

1:54:02

We spend a lovely sunday afternoon at the LI Farm Brewery with Special Guests HR and CFO ! We taste the many many delicious beers offered at LI Farm Brewery and talk about Tropic Con, Streaming services, and other assorted nonsense. Come hang with us ! LI Fam Brewery Manorville https://www.longislandfarmbrewery.com/ Waterdrinker Farm Manorville htt…

1
International Pilot - Interviews from the Floor: Professional Asian Pilot Association Expo 2025 21:38

15d ago21:38

21:38

Episode 272 - In another episode from the floor of PAPA - Nik sits down with Ash, an international pilot currently flying the Airbus A320 for a major carrier based in Hong Kong. Ash shares a global aviation journey — from flight training in New Zealand to flying single-engine caravans in the mountainous terrain of Indonesia, and eventually landing …

1
Episode 271 Hot Day, Hard Decisions 13:38

19d ago13:38

13:38

In this solo episode, Nik talks about a tough day at work when a broken APU and hot brake warning forced him to make the hard call to refuse an aircraft right before takeoff. He shares what happened behind the scenes—from managing the rising cabin temperature to coordinating with maintenance and keeping passengers informed. Nik explains why it's so…

1
DWFS3E18 The Ozzy Show 2:02:50

22d ago2:02:50

2:02:50

We Discuss Back to the Beginning - The Final Black Sabbath Show We Discuss OZZYs Passing and what the Prince of Darkness meant to us. All of this over Bulleit Manhattans and Old Fashioneds So Sit Back and Relax! OZZY'S Officail Site https://www.ozzy.com/By Mark Zapata

1
Episode 270 Failing Forward: Mark Paterson's Story of Failure and Recovery 45:37

22d ago45:37

45:37

Welcome back! In this episode, Nik sits down with Mark Paterson, a pilot who shares the full story of his aviation journey—from leaving a career in the restaurant industry to chasing his dream of becoming a professional pilot. Mark speaks candidly about the challenges of flight training, the pressure to perform at a Part 121 carrier, and the harsh …

1
You Won't Get This Information Anywhere Else! Straight Talk from American Airlines Leadership. 58:13

26d ago58:13

58:13

In this episode, Nik Fialka gets an exclusive interview with Alan Johnson, VP of Operations, and Dina Payne, Senior Manager of Pilot Hiring at American Airlines, for a conversation centered on the AA hiring process—packed with insights valuable to anyone pursuing a career at a major airline. Together, they walk through what makes a standout applica…

1
Episode 267 Make Strong Decisions 10:38

1M ago10:38

10:38

In this solo episode, Nik shares a recent experience flying with a new First Officer on a long-duty day. After a long sit, worsening weather, and pressure to finish the trip, the FO spoke up and said he wasn’t comfortable taking off . . . and it was the right call. Nik walks through how that moment showed the importance of Crew Resource Management …

1
DWFS3E17 DWF Classic Rewind The Stout Show and NFL 1:31:29

1M ago1:31:29

1:31:29

The DWF Podcast will be back live next Monday! In the meantime enjoy a Classic Rewind episode ! We love you all !By Mark Zapata

1
Episode 266 Interviews from the Floor: Professional Asian Pilot Association Expo 2025 40:40

1M ago40:40

40:40

Recorded live at the Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA) convention, this episode features two powerful conversations that shine a light on the global and deeply personal sides of aviation. First, Nik speaks with Captain Saurabh Chauksey, a 737 check airman for Air India. Saurabh shares his unique path from flight training in the U.S. to f…

1
Episode 265 Virtue Through Habit 11:22

1M ago11:22

11:22

In this solo show, Nik shares a personal story from the flight line that highlights how small actions—like picking up a misplaced safety cone—can reflect who you are as a pilot. That simple moment led to a reflection on discipline, habits, and what it really means to build trust and professionalism in aviation. Drawing on the wisdom of Aristotle, N…

1
DWFS3E16 DWF Classic Rewind - The Roundtable - Your Fathers Beers Episode 2:23:49

1M ago2:23:49

2:23:49

Dan, Ben, and Mark will be back next Monday with a new show. In the meantime enjoy this Classic Replay ! The Roundtable Your Fathers Beer An Unforgettable Classic Episode ! What a Blast !By Mark Zapata

1
Episode 264 Podcaster, Law Enforcement and Aspiring CFI: Jim Schilling’s Aviation Journey 30:00

1M ago30:00

30:00

Welcome back! In this episode, Nik talks with Jim Schilling, a passionate aviator, law enforcement professional, and host of the Flying Midwest and Fly the Transition podcasts. Jim shares how he built a meaningful aviation career outside the airlines by combining his flying goals with a full-time job and a love for storytelling. Jim talks about get…

1
Episode 263 The Waiting Place 9:45

2M 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
DWFS3E15 DWF Classic Rewind - Alien Romulus Spoiler Review RePlaaaay 2:11:20

2M ago2:11:20

2:11:20

In honor of the Alien Earth TV Series coming soon to Hulu, we have decided to replay our Alien Romulus spoiler review episode. This movie gets going immediately so make sure you don’t miss the first 10 minutes. Stay tuned for a brand new episode of the Drinking with Friends podcast with Dan Ben and Mark next Monday. We love you all! Coming soon to …

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

2M 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…

1
Episode 261 Do All the Things 17:28

2M 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…

1
DWFS3E14 The JAWS 50th Anniversary Episode ! 2:19:32

2M ago2:19:32

2:19:32

JAWS turns 50 this year ! We discuss the film and give our ratings. Does it hold up ? We will be playing our favorite clips from the film and Ben has his top ten greatest quote from JAWS ! Here are the links to some JAWS clips, ENJOY ! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA1fPM6sIEU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ze1xp9hYDl4 https://www.youtube.com/wa…

1
Episode 260 Kenny Hyman Checks In. Amazing What Changes in Just Three Years! 33:33

2M 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…

1
Episode 259 Be Like Ben 9:01

2M 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…

1
DWFS3E13 Predator Killer of Killers and Mittens Memorial 1:20:47

2M ago1:20:47

1:20:47

We discuss Predator Killer of Killers and We pay our respects with a small tribute to Mittens apata who crossed the Rainbow Bridge earkier in the day. Watch Predator Killer of Killers Here: https://www.hulu.com/movie/predator-killer-of-killers-5ded19e6-73f5-4c65-a4f8-759bce8d1114 Mittens Instagram post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLTNZ4_vnwW/?utm_…

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

2M 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…

1
Episode 257 Having Impact 9:29

2M 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 …

1
Ep 256 Funding the Dream: Mastering Aviation Scholarships with Cherry Kan 23:04

2M 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…

1
DWFS3E12 Punk Island and Upcoming Summer Shows in NY! 1:24:06

2M ago1:24:06

1:24:06

On This Episode we Discuss the Debut of Madame St Beatrice at Punk Island and Upcoming Summer Concerts in NY's Biggest Venues Punk Island NYC https://punkislandnyc.org/home Madame St Beatrice on Instagram and Youtube https://www.instagram.com/madamestbeatrice https://youtube.com/@madamestbeatrice?si=upuAGyeapkenuadO Jones Beach Amphitheater https:/…

1
Ep 255 Pilots Struggle with Self-Awareness 8:38

3M 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 …

1
DWFS3E11 R.I.P. Sly Stone and Brian Wilson 56:23

3M ago56:23

56:23

On this very special episode we discuss the passing of musical legends Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. We talk about their lives and musical contributions to the planet while getting educated ourselves, about their legacies.By Mark Zapata

1
Episode 254 Flight Plan to Homeownership: A Pilot's Guide to Home Loans with Marty Medve 27:11

3M 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…

1
Ep 253 Do the Hard Work, Then Enjoy the Day 6:33

3M 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…

1
DWFS3E10 Rock n Roll Hall of Fame 1:02:42

3M ago1:02:42

1:02:42

On this episode we discuss the Rock and Roll of Fame inductees for 2025By Mark Zapata

1
Ep 252 Flying Through Setbacks: A Story of Grit with Arthur Walley 45:56

3M 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…

1
Ep 251 How Your Journey Starts DOES NOT Define How It Ends 11:57

3M 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
This Week with Uncle Mark Zak Starkey and the Who Jason Bonham And Sammy Hagar 27:46

3M ago27:46

27:46

On this episode I give my thoughts on Zak Starkey's departure from the Who and Jason Bonham being fired by Sammy Hagar and replaced. What happened ? I have no idea but I do have thought. Interesting behind the scenes stuff !By Mark Zapata

1
DWFS3E9 What is Sleep Token ? 1:24:01

3M ago1:24:01

1:24:01

What is Sleep Token ? Listen to find out... Also we dive deeper into the genre of....? Sleep Token Official Website... https://www.sleep-token.com/By Mark Zapata

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

3M 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…

1
Ep 249 It's Hard to See the Road...When You're On It 8:37

3M 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…

1
DWFS3E8 Foos Fire Freese Theory Discussion 49:00

3M ago49:00

49:00

The Foo Fighters have Fired Drummer Josh Freese... What happened ? We discuss this mysterious development in the history of the Foo Fighters and talk about possible replacements. https://g.co/kgs/ozSnWwL for Mark Z Drums on Google !By Mark Zapata

1
Ep 248 Flight Plan Interrupted: A Midlife Journey from Runway to Recovery 28:29

3M 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
Uncharted with Dan Sandoval Episode 2 Exploring Ireland 2:27:48

3M ago2:27:48

2:27:48

Episode 2 of Uncharted finds our hero, Dan Sandoval, in Ireland with the lovely Corporate along with Andy and Caryn S. In this action packed episode relive their adventures as they did while you listen to their experiences in a foreign land !By Mark Zapata

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

3M 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…

1
Ep. 246 Fit to Fly: A Pilot’s Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 28:39

4M 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 …

1
Ep 245 Life is Great...Chaos: Thriving in an Unpredictable World 5:18

4M 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

4M 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…

1
Ep 243 Anna Talks Chickens: Finding Fulfillment Even with Ruffled Feathers 13:49

4M 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

4M 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…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Mark Zapata Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide