Shows
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #132 - Fast-Track Flyer: Matt Goodrich - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider talks with Matt Goodrich, a software engineer who rocketed from student pilot to air medical pro in record time. They explore Matt’s swift transition to flying the advanced Leonardo AW169 helicopter, tackling night shifts and tough weather. Matt shares the vital role of Vertical Aviation International (VAI) in connecting pilots and mechanics, drawing from the networking energy of Verticon 2025. He emphasizes mentorship, professionalism with medical crews, and the importance of...2025-06-241h 03
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #131 - Brazilian Aviation and the S-92: Henrique Lopes - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider talks with Henrique Lopes, a Brazilian pilot renowned for his S-92 expertise. Henrique shares practical insights on flying the S-92, highlighting its unique operational challenges, and his experience transitioning into such a large aircraft. He discusses the vibrant Brazilian helicopter market, shaped by the oil-and-gas sector, and training advice for aspiring pilots, with tips on choosing the right path. Henrique also addresses balancing parental expectations and maintaining professionalism. ...2025-06-171h 04
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #126 - Taming the Alps: Daniel Aufdenblatten of Air Zermatt - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!Buckle up for an unforgettable in-person episode of The Helicopter Podcast, recorded live at Verticon, with your host Halsey Schider and co-host Jon Gray, the voice behind the Hangar Z Podcast! Today's guest, Air Zermatt CEO Daniel Aufdenblatten, takes them on a wild ride through his remarkable life in aviation, starting from his childhood in the shadow of Zermatt’s towering Swiss Alps, where helicopters were the lifeline of the mountains. Daniel recounts his bold move to the U...2025-05-131h 14
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #125 - 17,000 hour Flight Instructor: Simon Jones - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider talks with Simon Jones, founder of Advanced Flight and a top-tier helicopter instructor at the Robinson Helicopter factory. With over 17,000 hours of flight time, including over 12,000 hours teaching in the Robinson R44, Simon's name is known far and wide through the industry.They explore a range of topics—from advanced maneuvers like autorotations and recovery techniques to the evolution of flight training and safety innovations. Simon shares insights on...2025-05-061h 07
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #123 - Flying with the LAPD: Hangar Z and The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, your host Halsey Schider welcomes the legendary Jon Gray and Jack Schonely, from The Hangar Z Podcast, for an in-depth discussion on law enforcement aviation! They dive into recent highlights from Hangar Z, including Halsey's unforgettable ride-along with the LAPD helicopter unit. The conversation explores the critical role of tactical flight officers (TFOs), the impact of advanced technology in police aviation, and the communication challenges of operating in busy airspace. 2025-04-151h 07
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #121 - Power in the Sky: Verticon 2025 with Pete Anderson of PG&E – The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this electrifying episode, host Halsey Schider brings The Helicopter Podcast to the buzzing floor of Verticon 2025, sitting down with Pete Anderson, senior manager of helicopter operations at Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). As California’s biggest utility—powering one in 20 Americans—PG&E leans on its aviation muscle, and Pete—with 28 years on the job—has lived it all. From lineman days on high-voltage lines to running a top-tier helicopter outfit, he shares a charged view of ke...2025-04-011h 03
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #120 - The all new R66 and R88: Verticon 2025 with Robinson Helicopter Co.Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this exciting in-person episode, host Halsey Schider takes The Helicopter Podcast to the pulsing heart of Verticon 2025, sitting down with Robinson Helicopter Company’s CEO David Smith, and VP of Engineering Sean Doyle. The conversation ignites with the R66’s stunning transformation. David and Sean unpack its bold upgrades—cutting-edge avionics, a seamless 2-axis autopilot, and a trio of fresh options: the affordable Southwood, the refined Palo Verde, and the one-year-only Riviera special edition. It’s a pilot’s...2025-03-251h 09
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #119 - Shaping the helicopter industry: Cade Clark with VAI – The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Cade Clark, chief government affairs officer for Vertical Aviation International (VAI), to discuss VAI’s pivotal role in shaping the helicopter industry. Recorded live at European Rotors, Cade shares the excitement behind VAI’s partnership with the European Helicopter Association and their collaborative efforts to bring this premier event to life, showcasing the vibrancy and future potential of European rotorcraft aviation.The conversation delves into Cade...2025-03-1852 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #114 - Antarctic Adventures and Canadian Aviation with Felix Christians - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of the Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider is joined by Felix Christians, a veteran helicopter pilot with over 25 years of experience and nearly 10,000 flight hours. Felix shares his journey from Germany to Canada, highlighting his work across diverse environments and industries. The conversation delves into his passion for teaching, scenario-based training, and his role at Select Aviation College, where he helps students navigate pathways to aviation careers in Canada. Felix emphasizes the unique advantages of training in...2025-02-111h 12
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #113 - European pilot training: Sascha Richter & Phil Haupt – The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode, host Halsey Schider engages in a compelling discussion with Phil Haupt, European representative for Hillsboro Heli Academy (HHA), and Sascha Richter from ADAC Luftrettung, Germany’s leading air medical helicopter operator. The conversation centers on the innovative pathway program established between HHA and ADAC, designed to provide German-speaking Europeans with a streamlined route to a career in helicopter aviation.Phil and Sascha delve into the specifics of this partnership, highlighting how students can train at HH...2025-02-0452 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #112 - VR meets reality: Fabi Riesen, CEO of Loft Dynamics - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode, host Halsey Schider dives into the transformative world of aviation simulation with Fabi Riesen, CEO of Loft Dynamics. Fabi and his team at Loft Dynamics are revolutionizing how pilots train, bringing a fresh, immersive approach to flight simulation that leverages cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology. The conversation begins with Fabi sharing his early fascination with technology and how a simple VR headset sparked the idea that would eventually lead to Loft Dynamics. Fueled by his p...2025-01-2858 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #111 - Insights from the Helicopter Institute - Randy Rowles - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Randy Rowles, a veteran aviator and founder of the Helicopter Institute. With over 40 years in the industry, Randy shares insights on aviation training, mentorship, and the entrepreneurial drive that shaped his career.The discussion highlights the critical need for experienced instructors, and the evolving role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in pilot certification. Randy also reflects on many interesting topics, from the...2025-01-211h 14
The Heli Academy PodcastNew Years Heli ResolutionsNew Years at Hillsboro Heli Academy. Eric and Jared discuss your goals for the new year!
2025-01-0617 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode 108 - Podcast Recap! A look back on 2024 - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this special end-of-year wrap-up episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider reflects on an incredible year, celebrating the journey to 100 episodes! He revisits standout moments and conversations with notable guests such as aerial coordinator Kevin LaRosa, Red Bull pilot Aaron Fitzgerald, and Robinson test pilot Chris Smith. Halsey shares his gratitude for the loyal listeners and sponsors who have supported the podcast's growth and provides a glimpse into the exciting plans ahead for 2025. Tune into this episode...2024-12-311h 41The Heli Academy PodcastBecoming an InstructorDuring this episode Eric talks with two of our instructors, Martin and Adam, about what it feels like to become an instructor!
2024-12-1619 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #105 - David Smith & Randall Schaffer, Robinson Helicopter Company – The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this engaging episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider welcomes back David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), for his fourth appearance, and introduces Randall Schaffer, RHC’s newly appointed vice president of customer success. Recorded live at European Rotors, the conversation delves into RHC’s strategic initiatives and the evolving landscape of the helicopter industry.Randall shares insights into his new role, emphasizing RHC’s commitment to enhancing customer experiences and support. David...2024-12-031h 01The Heli Academy PodcastThe Wise BastienIn this episode Eric talks with the assistant chief Bastien Rambla, you don't want to miss this podcast.
2024-12-0233 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #103 - Humanitarian Aviation with PAMAS Mission: Todd Schultz - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider connects with Todd Schultz, co-founder of the Pamas Mission, an organization dedicated to providing medical flights and humanitarian aid in the Philippines. Although Todd no longer flies directly for the mission, his impact continues as he actively trains the next generation of missionary pilots, preparing them to navigate the unique challenges of flying in remote and demanding environments.Todd shares the inspiring story behind the Pamas Mission, highlighting...2024-11-1957 minThe Heli Academy PodcastSituational AwarenessIn this episode Eric talks with Julian, the private course lead instructor, about situational awareness and dives into the most difficult maneuver to fly!
2024-11-1835 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #101 - The Evolution of Air Medical: Woody McClendon - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider interviews Woody McClendon, a seasoned pilot and author of When the Angel Calls. Woody shares his extensive experience in air medical services, emphasizing the critical roles of flight nurses and paramedics in patient care. He discusses the challenges of night flying and the improvements in safety that have shaped the industry over the years. The conversation also highlights the value of simulator training in preparing pilots for demanding...2024-11-051h 05The Heli Academy PodcastCan We Fly in the Rain?In this Episode Eric and Jared discuss the change in weather and what the means to helicopter flight training
2024-11-0433 minThe Heli Academy PodcastIntro to our EASA ProgramIn this episode Jared talks with Andi Diebel, the EASA program manager, and discusses all you need to know about the FAA and EASA program at Hillsboro Heli Academy
2024-10-2126 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #99 - From Robinson Mechanic to Delta Pilot: Jacob Tuck - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Jacob Tuck, a pilot and mechanic, to discuss his unique journey in aviation—from working as an aircraft mechanic to becoming a first officer at Delta Airlines.Jacob shares how financial constraints and a passion for hands-on work led him to pursue maintenance initially. He highlights the value of understanding aircraft systems from a maintenance perspective, emphasizing the problem-solving and adaptability required in real-world scenarios. Wi...2024-10-1557 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #97 - Extended Component Life! David Smith: Robinson Helicopters - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider welcomes back David Smith, CEO of Robinson Helicopters, for an insightful discussion on the latest developments surrounding the R66 and the company’s ongoing commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.David shares major maintenance updates on the R66, with extended component lives aimed at reducing operational costs and enhancing aircraft longevity and value. He also emphasizes the importance of investing in pilot training, discussing the new Certified Flight In...2024-10-011h 03
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #95 - Aviation Insights: Pay, professionalism, and the road ahead - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider is joined by his producer, Zach Whitehead, to discuss their experiences in the aviation industry, as well as some major topics of conversation for the helicopter community.Zach shares his journey to becoming a CFI and professional pilot, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and a professional mindset in building a successful career.The conversation addresses the challenges helicopter pilots face, particularly on feeling undervalued despite their...2024-09-1756 minThe Heli Academy PodcastStudent Success Part 3In this episode, the last of a 3 part series on student success, Eric talks with Jan Vontobel about progress checks. You won't want to miss this one!
2024-09-1623 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #93 - From the Steel Industry to Flying Air Medical: David Funderburk - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with David Funderburk, a helicopter pilot with a unique journey that spans the steel industry to the skies.David shares how his passion for helicopters began, leading him to pursue flight training at Midwest Helicopters and Cape Copters, leading him to a career at Air Evac Lifeteam (AEL). The conversation between Halsey and David covers a wide range of topics related to helicopter training and career development....2024-09-031h 12The Heli Academy PodcastPart 2 of Student SuccessIn this second part of our 3 part series on student success Jared and Eric dive into how to always be teachable accepting feedback and being prepared.
2024-09-0234 minThe Heli Academy PodcastBastien and Julian talk about student successIn this episode Eric talks with two of our lead instructors about student success and what that looks like! Have fun getting to know our team!
2024-08-1924 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #90 - Why Europeans come to the USA for flight training: Phil Haupt - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode, host Halsey Schider sits down with Phil Haupt, a passionate helicopter pilot whose journey began with a tour flight in a Bell Jet Ranger at age 12 in South Africa. Phil’s dedication to helicopters led him to dive fully into flight training once he could afford it. With extensive knowledge in European students training in the U.S., Phil has helped over 150 Europeans start their training. His experience includes working as a certified flight instructor, fighting fires in...2024-08-131h 00
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #89 - Flight Paramedic to Pilot: Walter Dusseldorp - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider interviews Walter Dusseldorp, known as The Dutch Mentor, an executive coach in the healthcare industry and a helicopter and airplane pilot and enthusiast. Walter shares his remarkable journey in aviation, detailing his experience as a flight paramedic and his passion for sharing helicopter content on social media.Halsey and Walter discuss the critical importance of crew resource management in air medical operations and the potential risks associated with...2024-08-061h 03The Heli Academy PodcastUsing CPT and OPT during your trainingIn this Episode Kimberly and Eric discuss CPT and OPT. What is it and how to use it to further your education while in the USA.
2024-08-0515 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #88 - National Guard Pilot to Civilian Flight Instructor: Colin Lawrence - The Helicopter PodcastSend us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Colin Lawrence, a dedicated helicopter pilot who started in the U.S. Army National Guard, and later purchased his own Robinson R44 Raven I. The conversation looks into Colin's inspiring journey to becoming a pilot, the critical mission of the National Guard, and the various helicopter models they operate. Colin shares his experiences from flight school, shedding light on the unique opportunities and challenges that...2024-07-301h 01The Heli Academy PodcastIt's Getting Warm OutsideIn this episode Eric and Jared discuss how warmer weather can affect the helicopter and training in general with some tips and tricks to help you stay cool and safe while you succeed.
2024-07-1525 minThe Heli Academy PodcastAll About Examining AuthorityIn this Episode Jared and Eric discuss Hillsboro Heli Academy's newly approved Examining Authority and what that means for the students.
2024-07-0122 minThe Heli Academy PodcastHalsey Schider from The Helicopter PodcastWe are so excited to have an episode featuring a former graduate and current host for The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider. Halsey shares about his time at the school and since then with some lessons learned along the way.
2024-06-1725 minThe Heli Academy PodcastHeli Cool CultureIn this episode Kimberly and Eric discuss the culture and student life around campus. How to explore the Pacific Northwest and getting connected with other students.
2024-06-0326 min
The Heli Academy PodcastIt's Your First DayIn this first episode Jared and Eric discuss what the first day of your training looks like. From orientation at the school to getting connected with other students. Hopefully this helps you get a glimpse and helps you launch your dreams into a career.
2024-05-2017 min
The Heli Academy PodcastWhat's this all about?In this episode we briefly introduce the podcast and cast vision for the show and how it can help our students.
2024-05-1804 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #76 - In-Person at Hillsboro Heli Academy - Jared FriendSend us a textIn this engaging, in-person episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Jared Friend, vice president of helicopter operations at Hillsboro Heli Academy (HHA). As they reminisce about past collaborations, they dive into a variety of captivating topics centered around HHA. From exploring HHA’s steadfast commitment to safety management and fostering just cultures, to discussing their global endeavors and unwavering dedication to nurturing future aviators, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. For an enlightening glimpse into the world of helicopter flig...2024-05-1455 min
The Helicopter PodcastEpisode #65 - Nick Paladeni: From office windows to helicopter windshieldsSend us a textIn this captivating episode of The Helicopter Podcast, join host Halsey Schider as he sits down with Nick Paladeni, a seasoned helicopter pilot with a broad range of experience.From their shared roots in Oregon, to their formative years at Hillsboro Heli Academy, Paladeni provides a fascinating glimpse into his journey.Paladeni discusses his transition from a corporate job to the exhilarating realm of helicopter piloting, underscoring the importance of embracing new opportunities.Paladeni’s career has taken him all over the country, from the mountains of th...2024-02-2759 min