About this episode
Welcome back! In this solo episode, Nik records live from OBAP 2025 in Tacoma, WA, and shares a powerful reminder for pilots at every stage of their career: give yourself grace. Between long days, high stakes, and the pressure to perform—whether at a conference, in training, or in the cockpit—it's easy to stumble and even harder to forgive ourselves when we do. Nik uses a simple moment—a missed step, spilled coffee, and a stranger's encouragement—to highlight the importance of self-compassion and extending grace to others. He connects this idea directly to flying, leadership, and career growth, showing how empathy and forgiveness make us better pilots, crewmembers, and professionals. If you're working toward the next step in your aviation journey or just need encouragement to keep going, this episode is your reminder that progress doesn't require perfection. What You'll Learn: Why giving yourself grace matters during high-pressure moments in aviation and life How showing forgiveness and empathy makes you a stronger leader and teammate The connection between grace, CRM, and performing under pressure in the cockpit Why progress is about consistency and growth—not perfection A practical mindset to carry into job hunting, interviews, and everyday flying CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don't wait until it's too late. Use the promo code "R4P2025" and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com ! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot