From Struggles to the Sky: Nick Smith’s Journey & the Birth of Part-Time Pilot Ground School

Episode 11 In this episode of The Calm Cockpit, we sit down with Nick Smith, founder of Part Time Pilot Ground School, to hear how his bumpy ride through flight training became the spark for building one of the most accessible online ground schools out there. Nick shares the highs, lows, and honest moments of his aviation journey—and how those experiences now help student pilots save time, money, and a whole lot of stress. We also dive into practical advice for navigating training with confidence; how to stay motivated when things get tough, why having a support system matters, and what to say when your family doesn’t quite get your flying dreams. Whether you're deep into your training or just thinking about taking off, this episode is full of encouragement and a reminder that the aviation path isn’t one-size-fits-all. Key takeaways: Embrace the messy middle of learning—your struggles can become strengths. Flight training is a big commitment, and communication with loved ones is key. There’s more to aviation than airline jobs—explore your options! Community and mentorship can make all the difference. Tune in for some grounded wisdom and a whole lot of support and ideas for your training journey! Links: Part Time Pilot Ground School Part Time Pilot YouTube Channel Part Time Pilot Private Pilot Study Group on Facebook