About the Podcast
Breaking into commercial aviation is competitive. Ready 4 Pushback gives you the edge. Hosted by airline pilot and interview coach Nik Fialka, Ready 4 Pushback is the podcast built for pilots who want to stand out, get hired, and thrive in professional aviation. Each episode delivers practical, real-world insight to help you navigate the airline hiring process with confidence and clarity. We go beyond generic advice. You’ll learn how to: Organize your experience into compelling interview answers Earn interview points and avoid common hiring mistakes Stay composed under pressure and communicate with impact Understand airline-specific hiring expectations and culture Gain insider perspective directly from industry leaders and recruiters From interview preparation to career strategy, Ready 4 Pushback breaks down what airlines are really looking for and how to position yourself as a top candidate.
About the Host
Nik Fialka
Nik Fialka is a dedicated pilot, interview coach, and the driving force behind the Ready 4 Pushback podcast — a show committed to helping aspiring and professional pilots succeed in the competitive world of commercial aviation. As a seasoned aviation professional with decades of flight experience and a deep understanding of airline hiring culture, Nik brings real-world insight, practical interview strategies, and genuine passion to every conversation. Nik’s love for pilots goes beyond flying — he thrives on helping others unlock their potential and realize their career goals. Whether he’s breaking down interview techniques, hosting industry leaders, or giving honest guidance on what it takes to stand out to airlines, his mission is rooted in paying it forward to the next generation of aviators. Through his podcast and coaching work at Spitfire Elite Consulting, Nik elevates pilots by making the path to professional success clearer, more accessible, and more achievable. Known for his warmth, authenticity, and deep commitment to the aviation community, Nik has earned respect not just as a pilot and coach — but as a mentor who genuinely cares about the future of the industry. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for the major airlines, Nik is dedicated to helping you grow, perform with confidence, and achieve your aviation dreams.
