Uplink with Shaesta Waiz & Michael Wildes

Uplink with Shaesta Waiz & Michael Wildes

Aviation record holder Shaesta Waiz and Michael Wildes, pilot, journalist, and Chief Operating Officer for Dreams Soar, offer sharp, unfiltered insights and predictions into the biggest stories in and around aviation. Featuring guests who are leading voices from all walks of life, Waiz and Wildes offer context and deep dive into the latest news and the most impactful trends shaping and disrupting the aviation industry. Better yet, they discuss why it matters to you. Uplink: the aviation dialogue starts here.

Episodes

September 12, 2024 54 mins
Key topics covered include: Enhancing Airport Operations and Infrastructure Current Trends in General Aviation: Alex Gertsen discusses the latest trends in general aviation during the travel season, emphasizing how airports are preparing for increased traffic. Challenges of General Aviation Airports: Highlighting the unique challenges faced by general aviation airports, Alex addresses issues such as seasonal changes, staffing, ...
Mark as Played
The conversation continues. Join the Uplink—LinkUp and Uplink—LinkUp: DC Metro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mark as Played
Episode Notes About Julia Harrington: Lead Captain and Base Manager at Axis Jet in Chicago. Known for her pioneering role as a woman in the aviation industry. Balances her professional career with motherhood. Early Interests and Influences: Julia shares her initial fascination with Business Aviation. Recounts her experiences at the EAA AirVenture, sparking her interest in aviation. Discusses family influences and early role ...
Mark as Played
In this engaging episode of Uplink, we were honored to host Rob Wesley, Supplier Program Manager at Boeing Defense, Space & Security. Rob shared his expert insights into the evolving world of autonomous air combat, spotlighting the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program and the pivotal role of supply chains in aviation's future. Key topics covered include: The Revolution of Autonomous Air Combat: Rob Wesley demystified auton...
Mark as Played
In this episode of "Uplink: The Big Story," we dive into FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's illuminating testimony before lawmakers. This session provides a unique lens on the intricacies of American aviation management and future directives under his leadership. Key Discussion Points: Whitaker's Capitol Hill Briefing: An overview of FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's recent testimony, highlighting his insights on the state of ...
Mark as Played
In this episode of Uplink, we were honored to welcome Dr. James E. Sulton, III, a distinguished figure from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. The episode dove deep into the critical and ever-evolving world of aviation safety, where Dr. Sulton has made significant contributions through his professional work and his nonprofit, AviationEd. Dr. Sulton shared his personal journey into the aviation field, emphasizing his pa...
Mark as Played
In this episode of Uplink: The Big Story, we delve into the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, a critical legislation that stands at a pivotal juncture in American aviation history. We unpack the legislation's significance, its current status in the Senate, and the wide-ranging implications for safety, efficiency, and innovation in the national airspace. Key Discussion Points FAA Reauthorization Act Overview: We start with a brief ov...
Mark as Played
In our recent episode of Uplink, we had the privilege of hosting Michael Camal from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The focus was on the pivotal issue of human trafficking in the aviation sector. Michael discussed his journey and the development of the Blue Lightning Initiative, a crucial program aimed at training aviation staff to identify and report signs of human trafficking. The discussion expanded to the growth of th...
Mark as Played
September 12, 2024 36 mins
In this episode of 'Uplink: The Big Story, we delve into the ongoing saga of Boeing's 737 MAX 9 and its implications for the aviation industry. The recent FAA inspections of Boeing 737 MAX 9 airplanes, following a serious incident where a cabin panel detached mid-flight, have brought Boeing's manufacturing processes and safety protocols sharply into focus. With 40 of the 171 grounded planes requiring reinspection, the FAA's thoroug...
Mark as Played
In this special episode of the Uplink Podcast, we deeply dive into the transformative realm of airport accessibility, spotlighting the groundbreaking WHILL Powered chair system redefining mobility for disabled travelers. Our narrative begins with a personal reflection that sets the tone for the episode's focus: the paradigm shift in awareness accompanying parenthood and the newfound empathy for the obstacles faced by those travelin...
Mark as Played
Is there a pilot on board? Guest Kevin Antcliff, Director of Product at Xwing discusses the benefits of Autonomous Regional Air Mobility. Plus, Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen announces departure, and SpaceX's Starship launch- success or failure? The acting administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, Billy Nolen, has announced that he will resign this summer, leaving the agency. The pressure is on for the White House...
Mark as Played
Join us on Uplink as we discuss the launch of SpaceX 'Starship' and its first orbital test flight. Plus, should taxpayers be compensated for the profits of SpaceX? Also, the National Aircraft Finance Association is hosting its 51st annual conference this week. We share some key topics the industry will discuss at the conference.  Our featured guest this week is Mr. Lou Seno. Seno serves as Chairman Emeritus and Special Advisor to t...
Mark as Played
This week on Uplink, we talk about an “uptick” of aircraft runway incursions and close calls. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have been 381 runway incursions reported so far in 2023. We ask the question: are we noticing more airline incursions now due to social media, or has it always been there and not reported on? Furthermore, we talk about the FAA Safety Summit that was hosted to address the increas...
Mark as Played
Did you go to Sun 'n Fun? What goes into a Blue Angels performance? Why is there still an aviation mechanic shortage, and how can we fix it? Do you really need to be a pilot to be FAA Administrator? This week on Uplink, we dive into ALL this. Also, Shaesta and Michael discuss the recent kerfuffle in the search for a new FAA Administrator after President Biden’s pick to head the FAA, Phil Washington, withdrew his nomination. We have...
Mark as Played
Every Monday, the Uplink podcast offers sharp, unfiltered insights and predictions surrounding aviation’s important stories of the day. Featured guests on the podcast include leading voices in various aviation sectors. The first episode of Uplink features Dr. Sharon DeVivo, President and CEO of Vaughn College in New York. In 2020, Dr. DeVivo was appointed chair of the Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force (YIATF), es...
Mark as Played
Key topics covered include: Early Exposure and Education Importance of Early Exposure: Kathryn emphasizes the significance of introducing aviation and aerospace careers to children at a young age, noting her own passion for aviation beginning at age 5. She suggests that the industry is currently missing opportunities by not targeting younger demographics and highlights the need for outreach to elementary and middle school student...
Mark as Played
In this episode of Uplink: The Big Story, we take a deep dive into the turbulent affair of the blocked merger between JetBlue Airways Corp. and Spirit Airlines Inc. This major development in the airline industry comes after a federal judge halted the $3.8 billion deal on antitrust grounds, leaving both airlines facing a future filled with uncertainties. The Grounded Deal: We start by exploring the judge’s decision to block the merg...
Mark as Played
Please note that the views and opinions expressed by the speaker are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, positions, or policies of any other organization or entity with which they may be affiliated. The content provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to represent the official stance of any other group or institution.   In this insightful episode of Uplink, we tackle the sensitive and c...
Mark as Played
Join us as we build the future career Hub for the aviation industry's workforce. The solution is here. Today is a new day for the industry. During our inaugural Dream On event, we share the next chapter of Dreams Soar, an aviation workforce solution. The catalyst for growth is inspiring, connecting, and empowering young professionals. Moreover, it needs to exist in one location. A hub. We’ve never been more excited about leaning in...
Mark as Played
Every Monday, aviation record holder Shaesta Waiz, and Michael Wildes, pilot, journalist, and Chief Operating Officer for Dreams Soar, offer sharp, unfiltered insights and predictions into the biggest stories in and around aviation. Featuring guests who are leading voices from all walks of life, Waiz and Wildes offer context and deep dive into the latest news and the most impactful trends shaping and disrupting the aviation industr...
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    The Joe Rogan Experience

    The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Special Summer Offer: Exclusively on Apple Podcasts, try our Dateline Premium subscription completely free for one month! With Dateline Premium, you get every episode ad-free plus exclusive bonus content.

    The Bobby Bones Show

    Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.

    24/7 News: The Latest

    The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.