In this compelling episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with former A-10 and MQ-9 Reaper pilot Tammy Barlette, now the founder of Crosscheck Mental Performance Training. Tammy shares profound insights on how cultivating mental strength and building performance mindset techniques can transform flight safety, confidence, and decision-making — not only in high-stakes emergencies but throughout day-to-day aviation operations.
Broadcasting live from Verticon, Tammy and John explore how pilots can prepare not just their technical skills but their thoughts, emotions, and responses under stress. Tammy reveals how mindset training, when integrated into routine operations and flight debriefs, becomes a powerful tool for safety, resilience, and continuous improvement.
Episode Highlights:
- Why mental preparation is as vital as technical training for aviators
- The impact of perfectionism and how to overcome it
- Creating a healthy debrief culture that fosters growth
- The power of micro-habits in building confidence and reducing anxiety
- A practical, step-by-step mental framework Tammy teaches over four weeks
- Real stories from student pilots and instructors who transformed their mindset
Key Points with Timestamps:
- [00:00:03] Tammy opens with the importance of preparing mentally for challenges before they arise
- [00:01:15] Tammy is welcomed back at Verticon and introduces Crosscheck Mental Performance Training
- [00:02:22] Mental performance as the foundation of training, especially when automation fails
- [00:03:04] Tammy’s journey from instructor to mindset coach: “Get their mind out of the way”
- [00:03:51] Why being mentally present is crucial in the cockpit — not stuck in past mistakes or future worries
- [00:04:43] How mental distractions during normal flight operations impact safety and performance
- [00:05:39] Military-style debriefing as a cultural model for growth, not blame
- [00:06:43] The “how” of mental training: building awareness of inte...
