 |
Aero ExplorationAuthor: Flying Midwest Media
The AeroExploration Podcast explores aviations past and the paths people are taking in the industry today. Join host Jim Schilling for stories of historic flights, modern aviation careers, and the passion that keeps us looking to the skies. Aviation has a past worth remembering, destinations worth exploring, and people worth meeting. This is AeroExploration. Language: en-us Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
Listen Now...
Episode 79 - We're All WRONG about the FAA: Inside the FSDO with Nick Matlock
Episode 79
Wednesday, 25 March, 2026
What really happens behind the scenes at the FAA?In this episode of the AeroExploration Podcast, we sit down with FAA Inspector Nick Matlock (@incommand0) to break down one of aviation’s most misunderstood roles. From his journey as a pilot to his transition into the FAA, Nick shares what it’s actually like working inside a Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).We dive into the stigma surrounding the FAA, common misconceptions among pilots, and how inspectors are working to improve safety—not punish aviators. Nick offers valuable insight into regulations, compliance, and how pilots can better work with the FAA instead of fearing it.If you’ve ever wondered what happens on the other side of the clipboard, this episode pulls back the curtain.In This Episode:Nick Matlock’s aviation journey and career transitionWhat an FAA Inspector actually does day-to-dayInside the FSDO: roles, responsibilities, and prioritiesBreaking the stigma: Is the FAA really “out to get pilots”?Any opinions or statements made by Nick are solely his own and are not made in any official capacity. They do not reflect the views, policies, or positions of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the U.S. Government.Connect with Nick:Social: @incommand0 (Instagram, TikTok, and more)AeroExploration: Check out the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@AeroExplorationJoin our Community:If you enjoy Fly the Transition and want to continue the conversation, consider joining our Discord community. To request an invite, simply reach out to Jim by email or social media.Sponsor Information:Support our sponsors and affiliates who help make this podcast possible!Affiliate Links:Lightspeed Headsets: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?campaign=flyingmidwest23&ref=101Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com/?ref=Flyingmidwest23Use code Flyingmidwest10 for 10% off your purchaseFly the Transition Merch:flyingmidwest.com/merchContact Information:Do you have questions or comments about the show? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? Reach out at jim@flyingmidwest.com or connect with Jim through social media or the website.🔊 Listen now on:✅ Apple Podcasts | ✅ Spotify | ✅ Google Podcasts | 🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
