Ready 4 Pushback

298
Careers #18

If you're looking to enter the commercial aviation industry, we've got the right podcast for you!With pilot and interview coach Nik Fialka as your host, we will deliver exceptional and insightful content to help you understand the landscape of professional aviation. We will help you organize your thoughts, score interview points, and ace the aviation recruitment process. You will get a deep dive into all the facets of the aviation industry by hearing directly from leaders and recruiters. You’ll learn how to stay composed and articulate yourself with impact as we uncover airline-specific pilot selection demands, analyze the aviation industry's culture, and give you great interview advice.Listen to the Ready 4 Pushback podcast to transform yourself and gain valuable perspective about your dream job!

Recent Episodes
  • Ep 234. Practice Makes Permanent: The Secret to Flying, Training, and Interviewing
    Apr 10, 2025 – 09:10
  • EP 233: Pilots, Don’t Ignore This! The Medical Battle That Almost Ended a Career
    Apr 7, 2025 – 41:30
  • EP 232. Pilot Career Survival Guide: Smart Strategies for Your Pilot Career
    Apr 3, 2025 – 18:25
  • Ep 231: Stop Making These Resume Mistakes: Hiring Hacks from an Industry Recruiter
    Mar 31, 2025 – 38:09
  • Ep 230: Stop Flying on Autopilot! Take Control of Your Aviation Future
    Mar 27, 2025 – 09:42
  • Ep 229: Mastering the Skies: Phillip Cooke’s passion for aviation and Flight Simulators
    Mar 24, 2025 – 33:39
  • Want to be a more successful and inspire others? Start leading like this!
    Mar 20, 2025 – 10:21
  • Justin Ritter, United Airlines Chief of Hiring, explains how to get hired in 2025!
    Mar 17, 2025 – 56:46
  • EP 227: Behind the Scenes of Metro Aviation’s Air Ambulance Operations with Director John Vance
    Mar 17, 2025 – 46:40
  • Ep226: Run Your Own Race: Why Comparing Yourself Holds You Back
    Mar 13, 2025 – 08:19
  • Ep 225: Chasing the Dream: How Tom Pinit Built His Career One Flight at a Time
    Mar 10, 2025 – 31:15
  • Ep224: Your Aviation Future Depends on It: How to Prepare and Ask Questions That Matter
    Mar 6, 2025 – 11:17
  • Ep223: From the ER to the Cockpit: Matt’s Path to the Airlines
    Mar 3, 2025 –
  • Ep222. Military to Civilian Aviation: Building Your Career with the Right Strategy
    Feb 27, 2025 – 16:51
  • Ep221: From Pakistan’s Skies to U.S. Airways: Talal’s unstoppable determination in Aviation
    Feb 24, 2025 – 35:15
  • Ep220: The Best Route to Becoming a Pilot: Training Paths, ATP Requirements, and Career Considerations
    Feb 20, 2025 – 14:42
  • Ep219 : ATP-CTP and Type Ratings: How Flight Training International Prepares You for Success
    Feb 17, 2025 – 40:51
  • Ep218: Flying with Wisdom: Why Prudence and Virtue Make You a Better Pilot
    Feb 13, 2025 – 09:50
  • Ep217: Earning your ATP and Type Rating: The Preparation, the Challenges and Keys to Success
    Feb 10, 2025 – 01:11:53
  • Ep216 - Following Wes’s Journey: From Setbacks to Success on the Path to Becoming an Airline Pilot
    Feb 6, 2025 – 51:08
  • Ep215 Tragedy and Reflection: Honoring the PSA Crew and Cherishing Those Around Us
    Feb 3, 2025 – 01:56
  • Episode 214 - Breaking Through the Clouds: How to Stand Out as a Pilot
    Jan 30, 2025 – 10:28
  • Episode 213 - Behind the Scenes of Flight Operations: Harry Yi’s Path from National Guard Pilot to Dispatcher
    Jan 27, 2025 – 01:12:14
  • Episode 211 - YES: It makes the world work.
    Jan 23, 2025 – 07:54
  • You can't miss it! 2025 Pilot Hiring Update recorded 1-15-25. Nik takes questions live online.
    Jan 20, 2025 – 59:19
  • Episode 210: The Pilot Network Helps Pilots Thrive. Elevating Aviation Careers Through the Power of Networking.
    Jan 13, 2025 – 48:51
  • Ep 209: Ace Your Airline Interview: Build Confidence Through Reps and Preparation
    Jan 9, 2025 – 11:40
  • Nik talks with Jared Weiss from Hire Up, a subsidiary of Wheels Up. You'll learn how the Hire Up process works to place qualified pilots in exciting aviation opportunities. (Episode 208)
    Jan 7, 2025 – 26:59
  • Leadership. It Starts with Preflight Planning. (Episode 207)
    Jan 2, 2025 – 11:28
  • Ep206: Master Cultural Differences in the Cockpit to Build Stronger Flight Teams
    Dec 30, 2024 – 44:29
  • Ep205: Luck Favors the Prepared: Embrace the Power of Readiness in Aviation
    Dec 26, 2024 – 09:58
  • Ep204: What It Takes to Succeed in Combat Search and Rescue
    Dec 23, 2024 – 54:49
  • Ep203: Step-by-Step to Your Dream Job: How to Prepare for Your Aviation Future
    Dec 19, 2024 – 16:06
  • Ep202: Skywriting Success and Student Pilot Perspectives with Marshall Sherman
    Dec 16, 2024 – 50:01
  • Ep201: Aviation Success Secrets: Why Grit and Persistence Outshine Talent
    Dec 12, 2024 – 11:55
  • Ep200: Life After Navy Aviation: Chris and Whitney Robare’s Guide to Civilian Pilot Careers
    Dec 9, 2024 – 42:49
  • Ep199: Fly Smarter, Not Harder: Prepare to Handle the Unexpected
    Dec 5, 2024 – 06:24
  • Ep198: Land Your Dream Airline: Noah Smith’s Blueprint to the Big Leagues
    Dec 2, 2024 – 36:23
  • Ep197: RTAG Insights: Maximize Your Networking and Career Growth in Aviation
    Nov 28, 2024 – 15:10
  • Ep196: Why Upset Recovery Skills Are a Must-Have for Aviators with Randall Brooks
    Nov 25, 2024 – 52:20
  • Ep195: From Rejection to Reward: The Power of Persistence
    Nov 21, 2024 – 12:23
  • EP194: Mastering the Skies: How Tommy Suell Balances Aviation, Family, and Social Media
    Nov 18, 2024 – 19:24
  • Ep193: Navigating Turbulence: Leadership Lessons From Delayed Flights and Life
    Nov 14, 2024 – 12:14
  • Ep192: Wings of Change: The Transition From USAF Reaper to Cargo Pilot with Jonathan Songer
    Nov 11, 2024 – 01:00:55
  • Ep191: The Pilot Network: Transformational Relationships
    Nov 7, 2024 – 11:03
  • Ep190: Crafting Tomorrow’s Aviators: Building the Next Generation of Pilots with Cara Kirkland
    Nov 4, 2024 – 34:47
  • Ep189: A Comprehensive Guide to Executing the Go-Around
    Oct 31, 2024 – 14:55
  • Ep188: Driving Dreams: Transitioning from Car Dealer To Flight School Founder with Caleb Keller
    Oct 28, 2024 – 47:21
  • Ep187: Why Top Pilots Excel in Emergency Situations
    Oct 24, 2024 – 09:42
  • Ep 186: Essential Tips for Pilots on Home Loans & Investments
    Oct 21, 2024 – 34:39
Recent Reviews
  • jdabckajfbshjdc
    Great info for someone starting out
    Just about to start flight training. Great info here to help navigate the world of aviation
  • LeahElaine:))
    Student Pilot
    I’m starting flight training over the summer. This podcast, along with others, have gotten me super excited and more prepared for all that will come!!
  • Nicolas Bar.
    Excellent Source of Knowledge and Info!!
    Great episodes with amazing experiences and tips for everyone going into the professional field!! Queso sent me!
  • Junior 809
    Amazing
    Nik, Queso recommended me to listen to this podcast and I will say it is a blessing! The first episode I listened to was EP226. It was good to hear from you that during training you need to focus on yourself. Don’t compare yourself to others because there will be UPS and DOWNs. As someone who failed a landing on my private pilot check-ride I immediately felt like I needed to change my career goals/dreams. I am still pushing through. Comparison is the THIEF of joy!
  • Hutch-g30
    Amazing Aviation Podcast!
    What great information this podcast has to offer! It’s my favorite podcast to listen to, I have all of my flight students subscribe as well
  • Basil H.
    “Ride to Work” Podcast Listen
    Sir! Def on my “ride to work” podcast list! Love the honesty and variation! Honestly motivating! Blue Skies and Smooth Rides!
  • HoneyBuns, J.
    Great podcast
    I really appreciate what Nik is doing for the pilot community. We all benefit from his interviews and I am thankful that this podcast allows me to keep up with the current hiring market. Sharing this insight on his platform is without a doubt a game changer for those of us looking to succeed in the airline industry. I highly recommend listening to this podcast if you want to be up to date!
  • TFRAUGHT
    Great Podcast
    Nik keeps things real while staying positive. This podcast helped me stay motivated will building my flight hours, helped me see which type of aviation careers sounded more appealing to me, and helped me through all of my application processes.
  • APP lack of functionality
    Great Aviation podcast
    It’s been enjoyable listening to Ready4Pushback podcast, I’m looking forward for more informative podcasts with all that aviation info and market; how to be prepared and the real opportunities. With a throughly analyses of reality without bias or promoted content over influencing the dreams of people. Competition in pilots job are fierce now and must be exposed correctly
  • jcamp5150
    Great information!
    I just started listening to this podcast about a month ago and have been attending some of the webinars. If you want to learn more about the aviation industry and get more insight into what you need to do, give this podcast a listen!
  • JackV0s
    Best Aviation Podcast
    This is the podcast to listen to if you’re interested in the latest trends and developments in the aviation industry. Nik does an awesome job of talking about relevant topics while keeping it entertaining. Especially as somebody making that jump from Mil to 121, this is the best aviation podcast out there.
  • jpmizzou
    Motivating and Engaging
    Nic does a great job of keeping listeners up to date on the latest with the airline industry and hiring. His guests include key industry personnel that you would otherwise not likely have the opportunity to engage with. The podcast is both informative and motivating for pilots, or aspiring pilots, that want to join the airline industry. Keep up the great work Nic!
  • JC60driver
    Thanks Nik!
    The latest and greatest info on the airline industry! Great channel!
  • Dave_Alist
    Look No Further!
    If you’re seeking a podcast that equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills to secure your dream job in the aviation industry, “Ready 4 Pushback” stands out as an exceptional resource. Nik’s daily broadcasts provide valuable, contemporary, and relevant information to listeners, empowering them to prepare effectively for their future endeavors. This podcast has been instrumental in my own preparation for my aspired career.
  • sierrapapawhiskey
    Great insights
    Really enjoyable podcast, with short episodes that cover a wide variety of stuff that is helpful in folks at all stages of their journey in aviation. Recommend a listen.
  • Bnfms
    Don’t Miss This One!!
    I’ve been weeding through all of the aviation podcasts out there to help navigate the process of becoming a professional pilot. This is the one!! Every episode is full of practical, real world, experience based advice!
  • Uflmick
    Greatest Uncle Ever!
    If you’re wanting to do anything in the commercial piloting world and you’re not listening to Uncle Nutts podcast you’re missing out! Nik is seriously the Sherpa you need on this adventure! Subscribe now!
  • Yomama03
    Interview prep
    This is a really good podcast and topic as I’ve done several high-level interviews and panel interviews in my life and I definitely wish I had taken time to practice more. It’s one thing to be proficient in your chosen career and aviation and it’s another thing to be able to convey that to strangers and potential employers.
  • James32318
    Invaluable resource
    As an aspiring aviation professional, this podcast offers insightful discussion and pilot experiences helping me prepare for my future. Highly recommend.
  • BackyardCowboy
    Subscribe and heed!
    Nik is a must-listen if you’re aiming to take your aviation career to the next step. He offers great advice, encouragement and practical information to land your next gig and even just be a better all-around person to share the cockpit with.
  • PeteBeaux
    Ready to get you hired
    I've been struggling to get my foot in the door with a major airline for over a decade. Listening to Nik's podcast has provided me with the informational tools I've needed to finally start gaining traction in the process. Nik's optimistic and enthusiastic outlook has been truly inspiring. His advice has helped me make meaningful progress towards getting hired. Before discovering his podcast, I felt stuck, but Nik's guidance has revitalized my approach and given me a renewed sense of hope. The practical tips and insights he shares are invaluable for navigating the complex airline recruitment landscape. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone else who has been facing similar challenges in their pursuit of an airline career. Nik's content has made a measurable difference in my ability to get hired.
  • Lloyd-Water
    Fantastic Guide through the Crazy Aviation World
    So many resources and expert perspectives available in this podcast. Nik is a great host is one of the most genuine, personable guys out there. Give it a listen and start turning your own aviation plans and dreams into reality.
  • dmack21
    Absolutely a must listen
    Fantastic crew that puts together great topics for anyone at any level mentor or career seeker to listen to
  • Moose-9717
    Great for the commute to work!
    As a flyer that is looking forward to applying to the majors soon, R4P is a great tool to help paint the picture of what life is like on the other side! Great listen on the ride to work!
  • kevromey
    Highly Recommend
    "Ready 4 Pushback" is an engaging and informative aviation podcast that offers a refreshing perspective on the world of aviation. Nik is a true motivator who will genuinely treat novice pilots with the same level of respect as industry leaders. One of my favorite episodes (114) features an insightful interview with the United Airlines Director of Hiring, where they dive deep into the recruitment process and what it takes to succeed in the aviation industry. The podcast's thoughtful discussions and expert interviews make it a must-listen for anyone interested in pursuing aviation as a career.
  • K Kirkendall
    5-stars!
    This is a fantastic podcast for those looking to improve themselves and/or their careers!Nik does a great job covering a multitude of topics that have been a great help to me in advancing my career in aviation.
  • Game_Cerat
    Great aviation podcast
    If you are interested in the aviation industry this podcast is for you. Nik is an unmatched resource for anyone looking to break into the industry.
  • -Dan
    Very informative for all pilots
    Nik speaks from the heart and is here to help pilots at all levels! From encouragement to young pilots just starting, to his insight into the airline industry, you must listen to all the news and tips he brings to each episode.
  • Drod268
    Road map to your dreams
    Nik is the man! Equally humble and knowledgeable in person as he is through a mic. What you hear is what you get. Keep it up Nik!
  • JackBecker007
    Best Aviation Podcast
    Nik does such a nice job bringing people together, emphasizing the importance of positivity and being yourself. I’ve been listening to Nik’s Ready for Pushback podcast since before I started flight training and now I’m halfway through my hours as a CFII. He helps me remember why I chose aviation as my second career. We’re lucky to have Nik on our team and I fully support his podcast.
  • peej21
    Awesome! Amazing!
    Love the show! My favorite podcast! Super helpful for all pilots, no matter where you are in your journey.
  • Eddy DePuy
    Best advice around
    Best advice around these days! Current and up to date information to advance your aviation career! Down to earth host, and engaging guest that keep you hooked from beginning to end of each episode.
  • lgrazzzz
    Must listen!
    Love listening to Nik share his experiences while flying. Such a fun insight to a world I know very little about. If you’re looking for a delightful listen- check this out!
  • TimelessSteell
    The “real” Jimmy
    I have Been on Nik’s show twice! He is a phenomenal dude, very respectful and makes sure you’re comfortable on the show. This show is an invaluable resource for pilots. Keep it up Nik! -Jimmy
  • Teshatoya
    A must-listen for anyone interested in aviation
    Nik’s extensive knowledge of the aviation industry shines through in every episode. The topics are consistently engaging, offering insights that appeal to both aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike. I had the pleasure of meeting Nik at a conference this year, and it was clear that the passion, expertise, and authenticity you hear on the podcast are exactly what you get in person. If you’re looking for a podcast that informs, inspires, and deepens your appreciation for the aviation world, this one is for you!
  • Will’s iReviews
    Bridging the Gap: How Ready 4 Pushback guides My Shift from Military to Commercial Aviation
    I was introduced to Ready 4 Pushback about three months ago, and since then, I’ve been doing everything I can to catch up on the episodes. It’s quickly become one of my favorite resources, feeling less like a podcast and more like having a conversation with a knowledgeable friend who genuinely wants to see you succeed in the aviation world. Nik has a way of presenting the good, the bad, and the ugly of the aviation industry, giving you a complete and honest picture so you can make informed decisions about your own journey. As I write this, I’m currently on episode 125, and with each episode, I find myself learning something new—whether it’s about the process, mindset, or actionable steps to achieve my aviation goals. The insights and advice are not only valuable but also motivating, helping me stay focused on the path ahead. For anyone considering a career in aviation or even just curious about the industry, this podcast is an absolute must-listen. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about empowerment and education. Thank you, Nik, for creating such a meaningful and inspiring show. I can’t wait to continue my journey through the remaining episodes and see what other wisdom you have in store for us.
  • Star3473
    A Genuine and Inspiring Aviation Podcast
    Nik takes his selfless nature and attracts like minded guests to give back to the aviation community through thoughtful and well crafted podcasts. He helps to shine light on all parts of the industry for those just getting started trying to enter and for those who made it to their final destination airline. If you ever get the chance to meet him in person, you will quickly see how genuine he is and will only make you enjoy what he creates that much more special. 100% recommend placing Ready for Pushback into your queue and enjoy the heart put into each and every episode.
  • B. Burke
    BEST AVIATION PODCAST
    The Ready 4 Pushback podcast is a must-listen for anyone passionate about aviation, whether you’re just starting out or already in the industry. Each episode dives deep into the world of flight, with real stories, valuable insights, and interviews with experienced professionals. Nik has a genuine enthusiasm for aviation and presents information in a way that’s both engaging and educational. I highly recommend Ready 4 Pushback to anyone who wants to learn more about aviation from people who truly live and breathe it. A fantastic resource for future pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike!
  • Strafe P.
    Required Listening for Pilots!
    Nik is a solid guy with a ton of knowledge and a natural way of explaining things. He’s all about helping pilots grow and hit their goals. He’s on top of what’s happening in aviation and shares his insights with you every time. Each episode brings something fresh and worthwhile.
  • tony34dg
    Awesome! Meaningful
    First off this is the very time I listened to a podcast. It’s very relatable and I enjoyed it. Learned a lot! Oh and by the way Professor Queso sent me 👍🏼.
  • CA Antonio
    Simply The Best Podcast for Airline Pilots
    The amount of knowledge, wisdom, and advice that Nik shares in the Ready 4 Pushback Podcast is absolutely priceless. It is outstanding! He genuinely speaks from the heart about every topic that is covered. There is no one who keeps it more real than Nik. He understands what every pilot is going through to reach their dream and he genuinely wants to help you be the best version of yourself. I cant say enough about this podcast. There are so many great episodes.
  • Jigga boo 2
    Great Podcast
    Love listening to the podcast on my commute to work.
  • _Pythias_
    How do I do this?
    If you’re dreaming of soaring through the skies as an airline pilot, Ready 4 Pushback is an absolute must listen. This podcast has been an invaluable resource as I transition from a completely different career to the professional flight deck. Nik’s years of experience and airline hiring specific industry knowledge are invaluable. Aviation is overflowing with acronyms and jargon. I feel much more comfortable transitioning from another field with Nik doing the translating. Can’t wrap up this review without a shout out to his motivational monologues. This is a long and grueling process, thanks for the encouragement Nik!
  • DJ's Tron Box
    Inspiration and honest professional advice!
    Nik is providing mentorship and interviews with incredible pilots that you would otherwise never have the opportunity to learn from. Incredible stuff.
  • B767300f
    Very Educational and Informative podcast
    This is an absolute must-listen for anyone passionate about aviation! Nik, bring a perfect mix of industry expertise, engaging discussions, and fascinating stories from the skies. Whether you’re an aviation professional, enthusiast, or just curious about the world of flight, every episode offers something insightful. The guest interviews are top-notch, and the content is always fresh and informative. I especially love how they dive into both the technical aspects of flying and the personal experiences of pilots. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves all things aviation! Furthermore, Nik is very humble and is just a very nice guy.
  • J414G
    Excellence!
    Nik’s aviation-based podcast is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the world of flying. His deep knowledge of the aviation industry, combined with his ability to break down complex topics, makes every episode engaging and informative.
  • What’s This Button Do???
    “Good Dude” Alert
    Legendary insight for folks starting their commercial aviation careers. The guests that come from all different backgrounds are incredibly helpful and the occasional Uncle Nik motivational monologue are class acts. Great example being set for those of us on the journey and wanting to lift each other up.
  • AndyMcCollum
    A must for all aspiring pilots
    This podcast is a wealth of knowledge for anyone with dreams of a professional aviation career!
  • Flight_Doc_70
    Thanks Nik
    Great podcast with a slew of industry experts, guests that a navigating the pilot life, and personal experiences from the host. Highly recommend to anyone who is or may want to be in the commercial aviation world. Thanks Nik.
  • DIAGO8o8
    A must listen for up and coming aviators
    I’ve been listening for over a year now and this podcast has been invaluable while navigating this constantly changing industry. Highly recommend for anyone interested in aviation or looking for advice on becoming an airline pilot!
Disclaimer: The podcast and artwork on this page are property of the podcast owner, and not endorsed by UP.audio.