The Helicopter Podcast

Hosted by Halsey Schider

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Episodes

195

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, with your host Halsey Schider! This podcast is for helicopter pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts! Whether you've been in the industry for 30 years or are just someone that loves helicopters, this podcast is for you! The podcasts will feature guests from a wide array of industry sectors to have casual conversation, answer questions, give sound advice, and talk shop. Finally, a podcast produced by helicopter professionals for all types of helicopter people!

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60 recent

September 8, 2026Episode 1931 hr 5 min

Episode #193: Behind the Uniform - Coast Guard Aviation & Mental Health | Ryan Vandehei

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Ryan Vandehei, a former Coast Guard helicopter pilot, to talk about his path into military aviation, the realities of Coast Guard flight training, and some of the personal challenges that have come with the journey. Ryan shares what drew him to the Coast Guard Academy with the goal of becoming a pilot and the highs and lows that followed—from struggling through his first weeks at the Academy and wondering whether he belonged there to eventually learning he had earned a coveted spot in flight school. He and Halsey also explore the different pathways available to aspiring Coast Guard aviators and what makes the service's approach to helicopter operations and rescue missions unique. The conversation also moves beyond flying as Ryan speaks candidly about his experiences with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and the pressures that can accompany being a high performer in military aviation. Ryan and Halsey discuss why those struggles can be difficult to acknowledge in a culture built around performance and resilience, and the value of having people around you who are willing to talk openly when things aren't going well. From earning a place in flight school to navigating the demands that come with military aviation, Ryan's story offers an inside look at becoming a Coast Guard helicopter pilot—and a reminder that some of the toughest challenges in aviation aren't necessarily encountered in the cockpit. Ryan's has also recorded another episode with the Flight Suit Friday podcast on mental health that can be listened to here . Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Airbus , Metro Aviation and Sellacopter .

September 1, 2026Episode 1921 hr 4 min

Episode #192: Beyond the Policy - The People Behind Aviation Insurance | Michael & Ryan

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! Aviation insurance can often feel like a complicated process, but behind every policy is a conversation about risk, experience, and finding the right solution. In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast , Halsey sits down with Ryan Konrath of Wings Insurance and Michael Puglisi of IAT Insurance Group to explore the world of aviation insurance from both sides of the table. They discuss how brokers and underwriters evaluate pilots, aircraft, and operations—and why the best outcomes come from communication, preparation, and understanding the bigger picture. Ryan and Michael explain the difference between shopping for insurance and choosing the right broker, the role curiosity plays in building a strong application, and how underwriters work with clients to find solutions instead of simply saying no. From navigating changing insurance markets to understanding how career paths can take unexpected turns, this conversation offers valuable insight into one of the most important parts of aviation that often happens behind the scenes. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Enstrom , Hillsboro Heli Academy and Robinson Helicopter .

August 25, 2026Episode 19149 min

Episode #191: The Helicopter Simulator Built to Inspire the Next Generation | Matthias Wendt

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Matthias Wendt, a dentist from Germany who has turned his passion for helicopters into an innovative STEM outreach effort designed to introduce young people to aviation. Matthias’ connection to helicopters started through curiosity rather than a career path. Despite numerous opportunities throughout his life to pursue aviation, his journey instead took him into dental technology and dentistry. Years later, his fascination with helicopters returned through home simulation, eventually transforming a personal hobby into a hands-on way to introduce students to aviation. What began as an effort to create a more immersive helicopter simulator for himself evolved into custom-built simulator rigs, helicopter controls, and even a wearable rotor head that allows students to physically experience how helicopter flight controls work. The outreach found an early home through KuKo , the STEAM program led by Matthias’ wife, before expanding into schools, LEGO Robotics teams , and other educational settings. Matthias and Halsey discuss the importance of giving young people tangible ways to discover aviation, engineering, and technical careers—and the role that mentors and industry professionals can play in providing that first spark of inspiration. For those interested in taking the idea further, Matthias has also put together a downloadable PDF guide linked here that provides more information and resources for bringing helicopter simulation and hands-on learning into STEM education. Matthias can be reached at mail@hobbytimist.de Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Enstrom , Metro Aviation and Sellacopter . Photo credit: Andreas Köhler @firefighter_andi

August 18, 2026Episode 1901 hr 4 min

Episode #190: Guimbal, Building a Better Trainer | Raphael Yver

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Raphael Yver, director of sales and support at Guimbal , to explore the story behind one of the most distinctive helicopter manufacturers in the industry. Raphael shares the remarkable journey of company founder Bruno Guimbal, whose passion for engineering and aviation led him from building aircraft as a student to creating a helicopter designed specifically for flight training. The conversation traces the origins of the Cabri G2, the philosophy behind designing a true trainer helicopter from the ground up, and the technologies borrowed from larger aircraft that helped set Guimbal apart in the market. The discussion also provides an inside look at the company's next-generation aircraft, the G5. Raphael explains how far development has progressed, what makes the project different from typical concept aircraft, and why Guimbal believes there is room for a modern, purpose-built helicopter in today's market. Along the way, Halsey and Raphael talk about calculated career risks, company culture, and the importance of pursuing opportunities that align with both professional growth and personal fulfillment. From engineering innovation to aviation entrepreneurship, this episode offers a fascinating look at how one vision evolved into a globally recognized helicopter manufacturer. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Sirius XM , Airbus and Precision Aviation Group .

August 11, 2026Episode 1891 hr 13 min

Episode #189: The GT50 First Fire - A Milestone for Hill Helicopters | Jason Hill

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this special update episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider welcomes Jason Hill back to the show to discuss one of the biggest milestones in Hill Helicopters ' journey—the successful first run of the GT50 turbine engine. Two years after Jason's first podcast with Halsey in which shared his vision for designing and manufacturing a modern helicopter from the ground up, the conversation catches up on the progress that's been made and what this latest achievement means for the future of the HX50 program. Jason explains the engineering challenges behind developing a turbine engine in-house, why vertical integration has become a cornerstone of Hill's business strategy, and how controlling manufacturing costs could reshape general aviation. Drawing on questions submitted by the Hill Helicopters owner and reservation-holder community, Halsey also asks Jason about certification, production timelines, funding, safety, and the next major milestones on the road to customer deliveries. Whether you've been following Hill Helicopters since the beginning or are just discovering the project, this episode offers an inside look at one of the industry's most ambitious aircraft development programs and the progress being made toward bringing it to market. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy , Enstrom , and Sellacopter .

August 4, 2026Episode 1881 hr 3 min

Episode #188: The Human Side of Helicopter EMS | Graham Ritter

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with longtime friend and fellow Air Evac Life Team pilot Graham Ritter for a conversation that goes far beyond flying helicopters. The two reflect on their time training together at Air Evac and how their careers, families, and perspectives have evolved over the years. Along the way, they discuss the realities of helicopter EMS, the impact those missions can have on patients and crews, and the moments that remind pilots why the work matters. The conversation also explores topics that are often difficult to discuss in aviation, including stress, anxiety, emotional resilience, and the importance of strong leadership. Graham shares how mentors and supervisors helped shape his approach to both flying and life, while Halsey reflects on the growing need for more open conversations around mental health within the industry. At its core, this episode is a candid discussion about the people behind the profession—the friendships, challenges, and lessons that continue to shape pilots long after training is over. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy , Metro Aviation and Airbus

July 27, 2026Episode 1871 hr 2 min

Episode #187: Leadership Lessons from Precision Helicopters | Mark Paulson & Ty Burlingham

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Ty Burlingham, chief pilot, and Mark Paulson, director of maintenance at Precision , to discuss what it takes to grow a successful helicopter operation while maintaining the culture and standards that got you there. Ty shares his unconventional path into aviation, from studying at Oregon State University to discovering helicopters through an introductory flight that changed the direction of his career. He reflects on the transition from line pilot to leading a team of more than 30 pilots, the importance of professional development, and why investing in leadership is just as critical as developing flying skills. Mark brings the maintenance perspective, explaining the responsibilities of overseeing an expanding fleet and the systems required to keep aircraft safe, reliable, and productive. From managing component life limits and maintenance schedules to supporting aircraft in the field, he highlights how communication between pilots, mechanics, and leadership is essential to minimizing downtime and maximizing operational success. Together, they discuss Precision 's evolution from a small, family-style operation into a larger organization, the challenges of preserving company culture as new employees join the team, and why strong relationships across every department remain one of the company's greatest strengths. Whether you're a pilot, maintainer, or aviation leader, this episode offers valuable insights into building an operation where people, culture, and communication are every bit as important as the aircraft themselves. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy , Sirius XM and Airbus .

July 23, 202640 min

Bonus Episode: Air Angels | The Helicopter Community That Answered Hurricane Helene

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! When Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the southeastern United States, entire communities were cut off by flooding, landslides, and destroyed infrastructure. In those critical first days, civilian helicopter pilots from across the country stepped up to deliver supplies, rescue stranded residents, and support relief efforts where few others could. Halsey sits down with Valerie Smaldone and Monty Hobbs of Just Do Good Entertainment , Jason Quinn of The Real ResQ podcast , and David Smith, CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company , to discuss the making of Air Angels , the incredible volunteer response from the helicopter community, and why these stories of service deserve to be preserved. Together, they discuss how private pilots, volunteers, and ground crews organized an extraordinary relief effort, why helicopters proved to be one of the most effective tools during the crisis, and the countless people whose selfless actions made a difference when it mattered most. More than a film about helicopters, Air Angels is a story about community, compassion, and the unique role our industry can play when people come together to help those in need. It's a powerful reminder that some of aviation's greatest missions happen far from the spotlight—and that behind every helicopter is a team of people willing to answer the call. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Robinson Helicopter and Sellacopter . Links to the Real ResQ Podcast episodes mentioned. #201 Matt McSwain & Andy Petree #202 Volunteer Rally for Hurricane Helene #203 Marty Quinn Hurricane Helene Experience #204 Volunteer Pilot Experience during Helene #205 USCG Volunteer after Hurricane Helene #206 Inside Disaster Response | Bob Pasquale #259 Erica Zangwill & Dr. Craig McCotter from Air Angels Other episodes from The Helicopter Podcast covering the Hurricane Helene response. #98 Operation Helo | Eric Robinson #144 Heroic efforts of civilian helicopters | Pat Harrigan

July 21, 2026Episode 1851 hr 0 min

Episode #186 Why Business Aviation Needs Better Advocates | Ian Lumpp

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Ian Lumpp, executive sales director at GlobalAir.com , to discuss the role business aviation plays in the broader aviation ecosystem and the challenges the industry faces moving forward. Ian shares insights from his involvement with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), highlighting the importance of educating policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public about the value business aviation provides. The conversation explores common misconceptions surrounding the industry, including perceptions around environmental impact and the role business aircraft play in supporting organizations and communities. They also discuss advocacy efforts within aviation, the importance of engaging with lawmakers and regulators, and how innovation—from sustainable aviation fuel to advancements in aircraft design—continues to shape the future of the industry. This episode is a thoughtful look at why aviation needs strong advocates, how the industry can better tell its story, and what lies ahead for business aviation in an increasingly complex operating environment. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Metro Aviation , Robinson Helicopter and Sellacopter .

July 14, 2026Episode 18449 min

Episode #185: Developing the Next Generation of Long-Line Pilots | Andre & Kimberly Hutchings

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Andre and Kimberly Hutchings, co-founders of Volo Mission , to discuss what it takes to develop skilled external load pilots and build a culture of safety, leadership, and continuous learning. Drawing on decades of experience in helicopter operations and training, Andre and Kimberly share their perspectives on the unique demands of long-line and external load work, where precision, situational awareness, and teamwork are critical to success. The conversation explores the path many pilots take into utility flying, the importance of mastering the fundamentals, and why technical proficiency alone is not enough to excel in demanding operational environments. They also discuss the role of mentorship, leadership, and communication in developing the next generation of pilots, along with the importance of creating training environments that prepare aviators for real-world challenges rather than simply meeting minimum standards. This episode is a thoughtful look at the craft of external load flying and the people responsible for passing those skills on, highlighting why strong leadership, disciplined training, and a commitment to safety remain at the heart of successful helicopter operations. Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Helicopter Institute , Precision Aviation Group , and Robinson Helicopter .