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