Episode 89: The Backseat Pilot Story: From C-17 Instructor to Aviation Innovator

In this episode of the LD Aviation Podcast, host Lindsay Dyer talks with Nate Ehlers, an airline pilot, former C17 instructor, and founder of Backseat Pilot. Nate shares his story of starting on the ramp, moving into the cockpit, and eventually building a business that helps the next generation of flight instructors and students. His journey shows how hard work, curiosity, and saying yes to opportunities can completely change a career. ✈️ This conversation is about more than aviation. It’s about growth, mentorship, and finding purpose in every stage of the journey. Whether you are just getting started in aviation or already flying at the highest level, Nate’s story is a reminder that every flight path begins with persistence and passion for the skies. Check out backseatpilot.com Chapter Breakdown 00:00 – Intro: Behind the Scenes of LD Aviation 01:15 – Meet Nate Ehlers: Pilot, Instructor & Entrepreneur 03:40 – Early Beginnings in Aviation 06:10 – Discovering the Air Force Path 09:55 – The Military Selection Maze 13:05 – From Civilian CFI to C-17 Pilot 15:30 – How Military Training Shapes Civilian Flying 17:25 – Lessons from Teaching Across Fields 19:10 – Why Ground Operations Matter for Every Pilot 21:25 – Real-World Maintenance & Flight Stories 23:40 – Learning the Other Side: Dispatch & Ops Perspective 26:05 – The Power of a Plan B in Aviation Careers 28:10 – Furloughs, the 2020 Impact & the Reserve Advantage 30:30 – Networking on the Ramp & Building Connections 32:20 – Unexpected Detours that Shaped Nate’s Career 35:00 – How to Build Meaningful Aviation Relationships 36:20 – Turning an Idea into a Business: Backseat Pilot 38:50 – How a Simple Idea Took Off Mid-Flight 41:00 – Building Lesson Plans for Flight Instructors 43:15 – From Side Hustle to Aviation Brand 45:20 – Marketing Without Ads: The Power of Word of Mouth 47:10 – The Long Road: Patience in Building a Brand 50:05 – AI in Aviation Training: What’s Possible Now 54:20 – The Future of Learning for CFIs 57:00 – Building the Next Generation of Flight Training Tools 1:00:25 – From Lesson Plans to Full Training Systems 1:04:10 – Final Advice: Persistence in the Sky & Business 1:06:15 – Where to Find Backseat Pilot & Wrap-Up Guest Info: Nathan Ehlers Host Information: Lindsay Dyer Production, Distribution, and Marketing Jeanette Carrillo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices