Flight Level Zero

Hosted by Joe Peebles

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Oct 2025

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About the show

Welcome to Flight Level Zero, it all starts here. Join us as we discuss the extremely diverse industry we know as Aviation/Aerospace. Success leaves clues and we are out to find them. Our aim is to educate and inspire you and us to be the absolute best version of ourselves. Flight Level Zero is where it all matters. Here on the ground is where it all starts.

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27 recent

October 26, 2025Episode 3357 min

FLZ EP 33 Elevating Standards in Aviation with Lauren Baum

In this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles interviews Lauren Baum, a corporate flight attendant and entrepreneur. They discuss Lauren's journey from a career in sports to aviation, her insights on professional development, and the importance of maintaining high standards in the aviation industry. Takeaways Lauren Baum transitioned from a career in sports to aviation. Networking played a crucial role in Lauren's career shift. Lauren emphasizes the importance of professional development for flight attendants. Entrepreneurship requires balancing creativity with structured thinking. Maintaining high standards is essential in the aviation industry. Lauren's business focuses on coaching and mentoring flight attendants. Training and safety are paramount for flight attendants. Lauren shares insights on overcoming complacency in one's career. The aviation industry offers endless opportunities for personal growth. Lauren believes in the power of setting high standards and leading by example. Links: (12) Lauren Baum | LinkedIn (12) CabinsInTheSky: Overview | LinkedIn HigherVets - Empowering Veterans in Business Aviation JP AEROTECHNICS You can also watch this on youtube: https://youtube.com/@flightlevelzeropodcast?si=dqOdWmciRHV6HP_s

October 18, 2025Episode 3248 min

FLZ EP 32 Aviation Dreams, Startup Lessons & Finding Purpose Beyond the Job Title with Sameer Romani

What happens when a childhood dream meets real-world turbulence? In this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles talks with Sameer Romani — an aviation lifer who went from drawing 777s as a kid to co-founding his own jet-management startup in college. Sameer opens up about building EssenceJet, learning hard business lessons, and finding identity beyond the job title. Now part of Aviation Partners (API) — the innovators behind those iconic blended winglets — Sameer shares how mentorship, failure, and curiosity shaped his path. 💬 Topics we cover: How a 15-year-old landed lunch with Boeing’s BBJ president What building and closing a startup really feels like The importance of mentorship and accountability Why “your job title isn’t who you are” The future of winglets, performance, and business aviation ✈️ About Flight Level Zero: Hosted by Joe Peebles, this show dives into self-development, resilience, and real stories from leaders across aviation and beyond. It’s where growth and grit meet the flight line. 👇 Subscribe & Join the Community If this story hit home, like the video, drop a comment, and share it with someone chasing their next level. 🎧 Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music 👉 Veterans: If you’re in crisis, dial 988 and press 1 Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameerromani/ https://www.aviationpartners.com/ Powered by Higher Vets. https://www.highervets.org/

May 14, 2025Episode 2743 min

FLZ EP 27 Birds of a feather with Zach Ungerleider

In this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles interviews Zach Ungerleider, a passionate aviation enthusiast and certified A&P mechanic. Zach shares his journey into aviation, detailing his early dreams of becoming a fighter pilot, the challenges he faced due to vision issues, and his eventual path into the aviation industry. He discusses his experiences in both the automotive and aviation sectors, the importance of mentorship, and the diverse skills he gained while working on various aircraft. The conversation highlights the significance of perseverance, adaptability, and giving back to the community in the aviation field. In this conversation, Zach Ungerleider shares his journey from working as a mechanic to transitioning into engineering and sales within the aviation industry. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and building a strong professional network. Zach provides valuable advice for newcomers in aviation, highlighting the significance of integrity and genuine relationships. The discussion also touches on the impact of networking events and the opportunities that arise from building connections in the industry. Takeaways Zach's early passion for aviation was sparked by watching planes as a child. He faced challenges in pursuing his dream due to vision issues. Zach transitioned from automotive to aviation, leveraging his skills. Mentorship played a crucial role in Zach's career development. He emphasizes the importance of giving back to others in the industry. Zach gained diverse experience working on various aircraft types. His journey involved balancing work, school, and family responsibilities. Zach's experience as an apprentice mechanic was invaluable. He learned to adapt and thrive in different aviation roles. Zach's career progression led him to new opportunities in engineering. Zach rewrote the corrosion prevention control program at Cessna. He transitioned from engineering to sales after a reduction in force. Mentorship is crucial for career development in aviation. Triple check everything as a mechanic; lives depend on it. The day you stop learning is the day to leave the industry. Integrity is paramount; be honest in your dealings. Networking can lead to unexpected career opportunities. Building relationships is essential in the aviation industry. Zach encourages others to pursue further education and certifications. Participating in local aviation events can significantly impact your career. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Show 06:11 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Opportunities 11:54 Mentorship and Giving Back to the Community 17:59 The Importance of Diverse Aircraft Experience 24:02 Zach's Journey at Cessna 30:00 The Importance of Mentorship 37:29 The Role of Mentors in Career Development 48:48 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-ungerleid... https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-peebles/ https://nbaa.org/professional-development/... https://www.highervets.org/ https://www.jpaerotechnics.com/

February 10, 2025Episode 2646 min

FLZ EP 26 Navigating the Skies: John Gabriel's Aviation Journey

In this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles speaks with John Gabriel, an accomplished aviation professional and entrepreneur. They discuss John's journey into aviation, his early career experiences, and the challenges and rewards of flying business jets. John shares insights on the importance of networking in the aviation industry, the entrepreneurial spirit that drives him, and the balance between flying and running a business. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, the value of reflection, and the unique challenges faced by veterans in the aviation field. In this conversation, John Gabriel shares his journey from being a pilot to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of identifying gaps in the market and fulfilling needs. He discusses the challenges of balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur, emphasizing the need for breaks and realistic expectations. The conversation also delves into the significance of safety management systems in aviation and the role of a just culture in fostering trust and accountability within organizations. John shares his experiences and insights on how to create a supportive environment for safety and learning in the workplace. If you'd like to support our channel please stop by my Patreon page: patreon.com/FLZpodcast Links: John Gabriel, MBA | LinkedIn Gabriel Travel Company | travel agent near me Sponsors: https://www.jpaerotechnics.com/ www.hirevets.org Joe Peebles https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-peebles/

January 17, 2025Episode 2356 min

FLZ Podcast EP 23 Show them you can do it with Jamie Munoz

In this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles welcomes Jamie Munoz, a leader in business aviation with over two decades of experience. They discuss Jamie's journey from a small town in Texas to becoming a general manager at Galaxy FBO, her leadership philosophies, and the importance of mentorship. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in the aviation industry, the significance of building a positive team culture, and the lessons learned from overcoming adversity. Jamie shares her insights on leadership, emphasizing the need to understand what motivates team members and the impact of creating a supportive work environment. In this conversation, Jamie Munoz and Joe Peebles discuss the importance of leadership that transcends traditional business metrics, focusing on creating a legacy and making a positive impact in the community. They explore the significance of empathy in leadership, the value of feedback, and the empowerment of young professionals in the aviation industry. Jamie shares her experiences with mentorship and community involvement, emphasizing the need for open communication and collaboration to foster growth and innovation in the industry. Takeaways: Aviation can be a fulfilling career path. Overcoming negativity can fuel personal growth. Mentorship is a two-way street. Building a positive team culture is essential. Leadership involves understanding team members' values. Adversity can lead to greater self-belief. Creating a supportive environment fosters retention. It's important to invest in team development. Leadership is about making others better. It's bigger than a fuel sale; it's about impact. True leadership focuses on people, not just profits. Creating a legacy is more important than memories. Empathy in leadership leads to better team dynamics. Feedback is essential for personal and team growth. Young professionals are the current leaders, not just the future. Networking and community involvement create significant impact. Learning from past tragedies shapes better leadership. Challenging leadership is crucial for improvement. Creating impact often comes from volunteer efforts, not paid positions. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-santiago-mu%C3%B1oz-2a63a64/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/galaxy-fbo/ https://galaxyfbo.com/ https://nbaa.org/

January 13, 2025Episode 2250 min

FLZ EP 22 Storytelling in Aviation: A New Perspective with Richard Scarbrough

n this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles welcomes Richard Scarbrough, an aviation professional with a rich background in aircraft maintenance and storytelling. They discuss Richard's journey into aviation, the critical role of aircraft mechanics, the importance of safety and accountability in maintenance, and the value of continuous learning in the field. The conversation highlights the unsung heroes of aviation—the mechanics—who ensure the safety and functionality of aircraft, and emphasizes the need for effective communication and teamwork in the industry. In this conversation, Richard Scarbrough shares his journey from military service to a successful career in aviation, highlighting the importance of mentorship, storytelling, and overcoming challenges. He discusses his transition to entrepreneurship, the unsung heroes of aviation maintenance, and the significance of sharing knowledge with the next generation. Richard emphasizes the value of learning from failures and the need for veterans to support each other in their career transitions. Please Subscribe, Like and share the show! If you'd to watch the show you can find us on youtube using the link below! Links: Youtube: https://youtu.be/PnBlJTGV_XM?si=yN7SUy9Gm5g6cMdE Linkedin: (3) Richard Scarbrough | LinkedIn (3) ScarbroughCo, LLC: Overview | LinkedIn (3) Joe Peebles | LinkedIn

October 14, 2024Episode 211 hr 2 min

FLZ EP 21 Casey Coker Step out of your Comfort Zone

In this episode of Flight Level Zero, host Joe Peebles introduces the show and its mission to support veterans and discuss the aviation industry. He welcomes Casey Coker, who shares her journey from the power sports industry to aviation, highlighting the skills and experiences that have shaped her career. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership and personal growth in developing a creative and enthusiastic approach to work. Casey discusses her current role at ACES, a staffing company in aviation, and the passion that drives professionals in the industry. This conversation explores the vibrant community within the aviation industry, highlighting the passion and dedication of its members, particularly women. The discussion emphasizes the importance of organizations like Women in Aviation International, which empower women through education, networking, and scholarships. The speakers share personal experiences and insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by women in aviation, showcasing the diverse career paths available and the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive environment. In this conversation, Casey Coker and Joe Peebles discuss the challenges and triumphs of networking within the aviation industry, particularly for women. They share personal experiences from industry events, emphasizing the importance of building connections, overcoming initial nervousness, and the value of local aviation groups. The discussion highlights how these connections can lead to professional growth and empowerment, especially for women in aviation. WAI | Women in Aviation International Home (2) Casey Coker | LinkedIn (2) HigherVets Nonprofit | LinkedIn (2) Aviation Consulting Experts, Inc - ACES: Overview | LinkedIn

September 6, 2024Episode 2058 min

FLZ Episode 20 with Tim Wade "Doing hard things makes you better"

In this episode of Flight Level Zero, Joe Peebles and Tim Wade discuss their experience participating in the Spartan race. They talk about the challenges they faced, the mental and physical preparation required, and the camaraderie among participants. They also highlight the importance of asking for help and supporting others during the race. The conversation emphasizes the determination and grit needed to overcome obstacles and push oneself to the limit. Tim and Joe discuss their experience completing the Spartan Trifecta race, which consists of a Sprint, Super, and Beast race. They talk about the challenges they faced during the races, including difficult terrain, hydration, and physical exhaustion. They also discuss the importance of pushing oneself and setting an example for their children. Tim shares his motivation to continuously improve his race times and the satisfaction of completing the race. They encourage listeners to step out of their comfort zones and take on challenging experiences. Links: Timothy Wade | LinkedIn Spartan Race | Obstacle Course Race | Find Your Next Challenge JP AEROTECHNICS highervets.org

August 12, 2024Episode 1951 min

FLZ EP 19 Prepared Professional with Jenny Showalter

The guest for this episode is Jenny Showalter, an entrepreneur and career coach in the aviation industry. Jenny shares her background growing up in an aviation family and her journey in the industry. She discusses the challenges of being the child of business owners and the decision to blaze her own path. Jenny also talks about her business, Showalter Business Aviation Career Coaching, and how she helps people navigate career transitions in the aviation industry. Jenny Showalter developed her career coaching company for Biz Av, after experiencing job loss during the pandemic. She provides outplacement services, including one-on-one coaching, resume writing, cover letter writing, LinkedIn presence, and interview preparation. Showalter emphasizes the importance of being a prepared professional, which includes keeping your resume and LinkedIn profile up to date, nurturing your network, and getting involved in local and regional aviation associations. She also highlights the value of in-person networking and recommends attending industry events and conferences. Links: Find Jenny on Linkedin: (2) Jenny Showalter | LinkedIn Showalter Business Aviation Career Coaching: Showalter Business Aviation Career Coaching JP Aerotechnics Mobile Aircraft Maintenance Services: JP AEROTECHNICS 833-807-3131 Higher Vets: highervets.org

August 1, 2024Episode 1847 min

FLZ EP 18 Building Better Networks with Ian Lumpp

In this conversation, Joe Peebles interviews Ian Lumpp, co-chair of the NBAA Yo Pro committee, about his involvement in the aviation industry and his efforts to build better networks. They discuss the importance of supporting veterans, the diverse career opportunities in aviation, and the advocacy work of the Yo Pro committee. They also touch on the 40 under 40 initiative and the impact of building better networks within the industry. The conversation revolves around the importance of building and maintaining a strong network in the business aviation industry. Ian Lumpp shares his motivation for creating the Building Better Networks group. He emphasizes the need for networking, especially for those starting out in the industry or facing career transitions. The discussion highlights the power of connections and the benefits of being honest, helpful, and humble. The hosts encourage listeners to join the Building Better Networks group and leverage their network to find support and opportunities. A website and a youtube channel are coming for the website and will be available soon! Like and share and if you have any Q&A questions that you would like answered please reach out to Joe Peebles | LinkedIn Follow Ian Lumpp | LinkedIn if you are interested in joining the Building Better Network group on whatsapp and we hope to see you on the next call on AUG 14, 2024! Link below for our sponsor: www.jpaerotechnics.com and JP Aerotechnics on linkedin. Als if you are interested in learning more about Higher Vets check out www.highervets.com.