More Right Rudder

This episode of More Right Rudder marks a leadership transition at NAFI. Host Sarah Staudt talks with outgoing president Paul Preidecker and incoming president and executive director Brian Wynne about where the organization has been and where it is headed.

Preidecker reflects on key progress made over the past five years to better support flight instructors, while Wynne shares his vision for building on that momentum with fresh energy and strong member collaboration. The conversation highlights the vital role volunteers and engaged instructors play in shaping NAFI’s programs, resources, and impact on aviation safety.

It is a forward-looking discussion about community, continuity, and the shared commitment to strengthening flight instruction nationwide.

If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.

How long does it really take to become a designated pilot examiner? In this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt welcomes Lex Crosett to walk step-by-step through his 18-month path to DPE authorization.

From initial application and FAA interviews to Oklahoma City training and observed checkrides, Crosett offers a transparent look at each phase of the process—and explains why patience, professionalism, and preparation are essential. The conversation also sheds light on how DPE availability, geography, and FAA workload affect examiner capacity nationwide.

An informative episode for instructors, applicants, and anyone interested in the future of flight training.

If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.

Thank you to Pilot Institute for sponsoring this episode.

Join NAFI Director of Publications Beth Staton as she welcomes guest Dr. Victor Vogel to this episode of the More to the Story series of the More Right Rudder podcast. Vogel is a highly respected physician, CFI-I, NAFI board member, and prolific contributor to NAFI’s publications. In this episode, Stanton and Vogel discuss his contributions to aviation safety focusing on human factors and mental health. Together they explore Vogel’s recent Mentor article on loss of control inflight and his newly published book, A Pilot's Guide to Risk Management and Judgment. The conversation emphasizes the need for better training and awareness of mental health as a human factor in the aviation community to enhance safety and support for pilots.

Vogel's new book is available now from your favorite bookseller.

If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership.

Thank yo to AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

In this episode of the More Right Rudder podcast, Sarah Staudt, NAFI's program development manager, and Brandon Williams, a former fighter pilot and current airline captain, explore the role of mutual accountability and professional support within the flight instruction community. The conversation reframes accountability as a collaborative practice rooted in trust, respect, and a shared commitment to safety rather than enforcement or criticism.

Sarah and Brandon discuss the value of effective debriefing as a cornerstone of continuous improvement, emphasizing how thoughtful reflection and constructive dialogue can enhance both instructional quality and pilot performance. They also address strategies for navigating challenging conversations, highlighting the importance of strong professional relationships in facilitating clear, productive communication.

The episode further examines the role of openness and gratitude in receiving and delivering feedback, underscoring how a positive feedback culture supports instructor development and reinforces safety at every level. Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on the broader purpose of feedback in aviation: advancing professionalism, strengthening instructional standards, and promoting safer outcomes for the aviation community.

Join NAFI today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your NAFI membership. 

Thank you to Sporty's and AOPA for sponsoring this episode.

Weather, holidays, and real life can bring flight training to a halt—but learning doesn’t have to stop. In this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt sits down with instructor and airline pilot Nate Ehlers to share practical ways CFIs can keep students engaged during training disruptions.

From chair flying and simulators to scenario-based training and creative ground lessons, this conversation offers real-world strategies to maintain momentum when flying isn’t possible. Ehlers also explains how flight schools can build camaraderie, use downtime to knock out knowledge tests, and even turn bad weather into valuable weather training.

If you want your students to stay sharp, motivated, and progressing—even when the airplane isn’t moving—this episode is for you.

Learn more about Nate and Backseat Pilot here: https://thebackseatpilot.com/

Thank you to Sporty's and Avemco for sponsoring this episode.