Mental Toughness: What Pilots Can Learn from a Police Detective w/Jim Schilling

Episode 21 In this episode, we sit down with Jim Schilling—a 20-year law enforcement officer, Operations Lieutenant in a Major Crimes Unit, and commercially certificated pilot preparing for his CFI checkride. Jim bridges two high-stress worlds: policing and aviation. Through his experience as a detective and peer support leader, he reveals powerful lessons about resilience, performance, and proactive mental wellness that every pilot can use. Jim shares how his department built a systemic model for mental health—including annual therapy check-ins, peer support programs, and family wellness clinics—and how aviation can adopt similar approaches. He introduces the “stress bucket” analogy, explaining how cumulative stress builds over time and why we all need healthy ways to “dump it out.” From using aviation as therapy to recognizing when not to fly, Jim underscores that self-awareness and training discipline are the true foundations of safety. His mantra says it all: “You don’t rise to the occasion—you fall to your highest level of education and training.” We also explore why silence fuels stigma, how talking openly can save lives, and how aviation can evolve toward a culture of shared wellness and resilience. Key Takeaways: Mental health isn’t weakness—it’s part of your system of readiness. The “stress bucket” reminds us to process trauma before it overflows. Even “aviation therapy” requires an I’M SAFE checklist. In a crisis, you fall to the level of your education and training—so train intentionally. Silence isolates; conversation connects. Jim also shares his creative journey as host of Flying Midwest Podcast and AeroExploration, where he inspires others to find joy, perspective, and purpose through flight. Follow Jim Schilling: AeroExploration Podcast — YouTube and Podcast Platforms Flying Midwest Podcast — homepage for Flying Midwest Media