The Helicopter Podcast

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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

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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.

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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.

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In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Keith Moreland of Rotorcraft Services Group (RSG) to discuss the relationships, communication, and leadership principles that help keep aviation operating safely and effectively.
Drawing on decades of experience supporting operators across the helicopter industry, Keith shares why strong pilot-maintenance relationships are built on trust, responsiveness, and a shared commitment to safety. The conversation explores the importance of open communication, understanding the challenges faced by both pilots and maintainers, and why collaboration is essential to successful operations.
They also discuss the value of professional relationships in an industry where reputations travel quickly and connections often span continents. Keith reflects on the importance of being available when operators need support, while sharing lessons learned from years of building trust with customers, colleagues, and industry partners.
The discussion also turns to leadership, mentorship, and the responsibility of developing teams that can thrive long after individual leaders move on. From eliminating single points of failure to sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for others to grow, Keith offers practical insights into building resilient organizations.
This episode is a reminder that while aircraft and technology continue to evolve, strong relationships, clear communication, and trusted teams remain at the heart of aviation.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy, Airbus and Helicopter Institute.

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!
In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Joe LaRue of Prairie Air, recorded at Verticon 2026, to talk about how the rotorcraft industry is evolving at the operator level.
Joe shares his path into aviation and how that led to building Prairie Air into a maintenance and operations-focused business centered around Robinson helicopters. The conversation highlights the importance of quality maintenance, record-keeping, and long-term support—and how those details directly impact safety and aircraft value.
They also discuss the growing need for workforce development and what it takes to bring new pilots and mechanics into the industry. Joe outlines his work with local schools and community programs, and why creating access and awareness is critical for the future.
The conversation also touches on emerging technology, including autonomous aircraft, and how those tools may fit into real-world operations rather than replace them.
This episode is a practical look at how operators are balancing tradition, technology, and people to move the industry forward.
Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Precision Aviation Group and Sellacopter