EP167 - Cockpit Tetris and Mess Management

Episode 167 tackles the challenge of cockpit organization with real solutions from three very different flying setups.

Brian's still battling the conspiracy to prevent his instrument checkride (spoiler: UPS trucks and snow banks are involved), while Ted shares wisdom from his Miata-sized cockpit about 3D-printed organizers, strategic cup holder placement, and why everything needs "ONE home." Ben discovers that big game hunting expos are surprisingly good aviation networking venues.

From Pivot cases and pulse oximeters to the life-or-death importance of proper seatbelt clipping, plus listener feedback that sparks a deeper discussion about test scores and aviation's competitive culture. Because when you're hand-flying an approach in the clouds and ATC changes your clearance, you need to be flying the airplane, not managing your mess.

Features the guys' real-world tips for everything from "hard-wired" Stratus installations to keeping cash hidden in baggage organizers for emergency out-calls. Plus: why Ted went from zero flight hours to helping rewrite aviation regulations in under five years.

Mentioned on the show:

* Dallas Safari Club: https://www.biggame.org/convention/

* Georgia World Congress Center: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_World_Congress_Center

* Nicholas Air: https://www.nicholasair.com/

* ASTM F37 committee: https://www.astm.org/membership-participation/technical-committees/committee-f37

* DPE and educator Seth Lake: https://vsl.aero/

* Seth's ACE guide: https://vslaviation.myshopify.com/

* TL Sparker: https://tlsportaircraft.com/sparker/

* BRS Parachutes: https://brsaerospace.com/

* Ted's "purse", holds the iPad Mini: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FZL4TZP

* Pivot case: https://pivotcase.com/products/a35a

* Calm Cockpit Podcast: https://calmcockpit.com/

* Flyfisherman Lefty Kreh: The Greatest of All Time: https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/lefty-greatest-of-all-time/516098

Website: https://midlifepilotpodcast.comPatreon: https://patreon.com/midlifepilotpodcast

Leave us a 5-star review and we'll read it on the air!