From Creative Relay Media & AviNation USA

Take off with The Future in Flight Podcast!

Join us as we navigate the exciting world of flight, bringing you inspiring stories from young aviators, expert insights from industry leaders, and practical guidance to launch your aviation dreams.

Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a pilot, aerospace engineer, or aviation professional, we’re your trusted co-pilots on the journey to reaching new heights.

Subscribe and listen on a major platform

Our Mission: Help Launch Tomorrow’s Aviation Enthusiasts and Professionals

The Future In Flight Podcast is dedicated to inspiring and empowering the next generation of aviation enthusiasts and professionals. By sharing compelling stories, expert insights, and real-world experiences from industry leaders, the podcast provides valuable guidance for young pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, and aviation innovators.

Through engaging conversations and in-depth discussions, The Future In Flight Podcast serves as a launchpad for aspiring individuals, equipping them with the knowledge, motivation, and connections needed to soar in the dynamic world of aviation.

What happens when leadership meets grit, curiosity, and a genuine love for people? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker spotlights Michelle Leon, Operations Manager at Levil Aviation, and one of aviation and manufacturing’s most powerful emerging voices. Michelle’s journey spans hospitality, dental leadership, Lockheed Martin, and now cutting-edge avionics—and along the way, she’s mastered the art of servant leadership.

The episode also shifts gears into a high-energy segment on aviation photography, where Shawn and top creators break down how anyone—from smartphone shooters to DSLR pros—can capture jaw-dropping aircraft photos. From shutter speed to vapor trails, you’ll walk away ready to level up your aviation content.

Recent Episodes

Jamail Larkins︱Founder, AviationStart

A backcountry flying themed cover featuring two aircraft (including Sheldon Heatherington's Zenith) set against the Alaska mountains. Vintage comic book style.

Exploring STOL︱Bushwheel Basecamp

What People Say

Meet Your Host

Shawn Staerker brings contagious excitement to every episode of the Future in Flight Podcast. Broadcasting from “a hangar somewhere near the flightline,” he combines his decade of storytelling experience with a deep love of aviation to create compelling content that both educates and entertains.


Through powerful narratives and engaging interviews, Shawn shares his passion while building a community of fellow aviation enthusiasts. When he’s not behind the microphone, you’ll find him exactly where you’d expect – somewhere outside, head tilted skyward, probably distracted by either “dogs or airplanes.” And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

01

Shawn Staerker

Check Out Our Friends at The Wonder Women of Aviation Podcast:

Catch the latest interviews from game-changing women in aviation!

Listen on Spotify