Épisodes

  • Ep. 037 Military A License Progression with Jeff Nelson
    Nov 28 2025

    Summary


    In this episode of the podcast, the host Beer engages in a conversation with Jeff Nelson, who shares his unique journey into skydiving through the military. Jeff discusses his experiences in the National Guard, his path to obtaining his A license, and his aspirations in civilian skydiving, including wingsuit flying and free flying. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, challenges faced during recovery from eye surgery, and the camaraderie within the skydiving community.


    Socials:

    ⁠www.facebook.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.youtube.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.instagram.com/beerpodcast24⁠

    ⁠www.x.com/beerpodcast24⁠


    Email us at: beerpodcast24@gmail.com


    Takeaways


    Jeff's journey into skydiving began through the military.

    He obtained his A license after a unique path.

    LeapFest is a significant international parachute competition.

    The transition from military to civilian skydiving can be seamless with the right preparation.

    Jeff emphasizes the importance of experiences over prestige in his military career.

    He aims to progress in free flying and wingsuit jumping.

    The skydiving community is supportive and encourages sharing knowledge.

    Jeff's military background provides him with unique skills in skydiving.

    Personal experiences, like eye surgery, can impact skydiving activities.

    The camaraderie among skydivers enhances the overall experience.


    Keywords


    skydiving, military, freefall, parachuting, A license, wingsuit, LeapFest, National Guard, skydiving community, civilian skydiving


    Titles


    From Military to Skydiving: Jeff's Journey

    LeapFest and the Skydiving Community



    Sound bites


    "I love deep fried turkey."

    "I just got the A license."

    "I want to buy a rig."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Skydiving Stories

    10:45 Jeff's Unique Military Skydiving Journey

    18:55 Military Free Fall School Experience

    21:51 Transitioning to Civilian Skydiving

    24:51 Navigating the A License Process

    30:05 Back Surgery and Jumping Again

    32:58 Career Path and Military Experience

    38:30 Current Role in the National Guard

    42:19 Future Goals in Skydiving


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    53 min
  • Ep. 036 From Amish to Skydiver with Moe Troyer
    Oct 4 2025

    In this episode, host Brian McCauley interviews Moe Troyer, a skydiver from the Cleveland Skydiving Center. Moe shares his journey from growing up Amish to becoming a passionate skydiver. He discusses his early experiences with skydiving, the challenges he faced with addiction, and how skydiving became a positive outlet for him. Moe also talks about his current activities at the drop zone, his goals for the future, including obtaining his pro rating, and the impact of a serious injury on his skydiving career.


    Socials:

    ⁠www.facebook.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.youtube.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.instagram.com/beerpodcast24⁠

    ⁠www.x.com/beerpodcast24⁠


    Email us at: beerpodcast24@gmail.com


    Takeaways


    Moe started skydiving in 2013 after growing up near a drop zone.

    He faced addiction issues but found recovery through skydiving.

    Skydiving provided a high that surpassed his previous drug experiences.

    Moe has around 1300 jumps and is working towards his pro rating.

    He experienced a hard opening that led to a serious neck injury.

    Moe's background as an Amish person shaped his work ethic and lifestyle.

    He enjoys swooping and has a passion for accuracy in landing.

    Moe has done numerous demos, including jumping into golf courses and stadiums.

    He emphasizes the importance of practice and precision in skydiving.

    Moe's story highlights the transformative power of skydiving in overcoming personal struggles.


    Keywords


    skydiving, Moe Troyer, addiction recovery, Amish background, Cleveland Skydiving Center, hard opening, pro rating, skydiving demos, swooping, parachuting


    Titles


    From Amish to Skydiver: Moe's Journey

    Skydiving as a Path to Recovery



    Sound bites


    "I grew up watching skydivers swoop."

    "I was doing heroin for a bit there."

    "I had to quit drinking completely."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Skydiving and Moe's Background

    09:31 Growing Up Amish and Leaving the Community

    18:40 Struggles with Addiction and Finding Skydiving

    25:00 Life After Addiction and Current Endeavors

    28:24 Injury and Recovery Journey

    31:52 MRI Results and Ongoing Pain

    33:44 Skydiving Experience and Ratings

    44:53 Goals and Future Aspirations in Skydiving


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    51 min
  • Ep. 035 You're How Old!?
    Sep 24 2025

    In this episode of the Beer Skydiving Podcast, hosts Brian and Joe discuss their recent skydiving experiences, including a trip to Hawaii and the importance of safety and skill assessment in the sport. They delve into the Dunning-Kruger effect, confidence in skydiving, and the nuances of wingsuit transitions. The conversation also touches on the process of becoming a rigger, packing parachutes, and future goals in skydiving. Additionally, they engage with their audience through live streaming and promote their merchandise.


    Socials:

    ⁠www.facebook.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.youtube.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.instagram.com/beerpodcast24⁠

    ⁠www.x.com/beerpodcast24⁠


    Email us at: beerpodcast24@gmail.com


    Takeaways


    Skydiving requires trust in others' skills and knowledge.

    The Dunning-Kruger effect highlights overconfidence in skills.

    Confidence can lead to poor decision-making in skydiving.

    Wingsuit transitions require practice and patience.

    Understanding gear is crucial for safety in skydiving.

    Becoming a rigger enhances personal safety and knowledge.

    Live streaming can enhance audience engagement.

    Merchandise can help build a community around the podcast.

    Planning for future jumps is essential as seasons change.

    Self-awareness is key to improving skills in skydiving.


    Keywords


    skydiving, wingsuit, Dunning-Kruger effect, confidence, Hawaii, rigger, parachute packing, transitions, live streaming, podcast


    Titles


    Skydiving Adventures: From Hawaii to Wingsuits

    Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect in Skydiving



    Sound bites


    "I forgot my helmet!"

    "Ignorance is bliss, right?"

    "I look like an arm-rich-man."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    02:53 Skydiving Adventures and Experiences

    05:48 Travel Tales: Hawaii and Cirque du Soleil

    08:47 Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect

    11:45 Assessing Skills in Skydiving and Wingsuiting

    14:35 Wingsuit Comparisons and Experiences

    17:31 Live Streaming and Audience Interaction

    20:19 Navigating Altitude and Canopy Dynamics

    21:51 Becoming a Certified Rigger

    23:12 Understanding the Practical Test for Riggers

    25:14 Preparing for Rigging Courses

    30:17 The Importance of Self-Reliance in Skydiving

    34:53 Mastering Transitions in Skydiving

    39:01 Chasing Speed in Wingsuits

    40:07 Solo Skydiving and Coaching Insights

    41:45 Wingsuit Flying and Skill Development

    45:11 Age and Experience in Skydiving

    47:51 Personal Reflections on Aging

    50:43 Weather Challenges and Skydiving Plans

    52:40 Merchandise and Community Engagement


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    55 min
  • Ep. 034 Wingsuit Flying and Rigging
    Sep 17 2025

    In this episode of the Beer podcast, host Brian McCauley shares updates on his skydiving journey, including his experiences with wingsuiting and the challenges he faces as a beginner. He discusses the importance of safety and awareness in the sky, especially when flying with tandem jumpers. Additionally, Brian talks about his progress towards becoming a senior parachute rigger, highlighting the steps he needs to take to achieve this goal. The episode concludes with a reminder for listeners to send in their questions and comments.


    Socials:

    ⁠www.facebook.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.youtube.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.instagram.com/beerpodcast24⁠

    ⁠www.x.com/beerpodcast24⁠


    Email us at: beerpodcast24@gmail.com


    Takeaways


    The podcast is a quick update before a vacation.

    Pre-orders for jerseys are being taken to reduce costs.

    Brian has made progress in wingsuiting, including mastering barrel rolls.

    Flying with others presents new challenges for beginner wingsuiters.

    Canopy flying requires awareness of tandem jumpers' limitations.

    Brian is learning to navigate the sky safely with more experience.

    He is working towards becoming a senior parachute rigger.

    The process involves supervised pack jobs and a written test.

    Brian values the knowledge of packing his own reserve parachute.

    Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast by sending questions.


    Keywords


    skydiving, wingsuiting, parachute rigger, skydiving podcast, skydiving community, skydiving tips, skydiving experiences, skydiving safety, skydiving gear, skydiving training


    Titles


    Skydiving Adventures: Wingsuiting and Rigger Goals

    From Beginner to Rigger: A Skydiver's Journey



    Sound bites


    "I just continue to barrel roll every time."

    "I just like having the knowledge."

    "Keep jumping in blue skies."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Pre-Orders

    02:26 Wingsuiting Progress and Challenges

    15:38 Becoming a Senior Parachute Rigger

    18:59 Conclusion and Future Plans


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    21 min
  • Ep. 033 Marcie Hall, DZO at Cleveland Skydiving Center
    Sep 11 2025

    In this episode, Brian McCauley interviews Marcie Hall, a lifelong skydiver and owner of Cleveland Skydiving Center. They discuss Marcie's journey into skydiving, her experiences as a drop zone owner, the challenges she faces, and her memorable skydiving experiences. Marcie shares insights about the skydiving community, the importance of family, and the joys and challenges of being a DZO. The conversation also touches on the unpredictability of weather in skydiving and the thrill of big way jumps.



    Takeaways


    Marcie Hall started skydiving at 18 despite her family's background in the sport.

    She enjoys working in the manifest office at the drop zone.

    Marcie's family purchased Sky Dive Pennsylvania, which kickstarted her career in skydiving.

    She emphasizes the importance of being a fun jumper-friendly drop zone.

    Marcie has about 2,900 skydives and enjoys big way skydiving.

    She faced challenges in getting a turbine aircraft for her drop zone.

    Marcie's experience includes a memorable jump where she faced severe weather conditions.

    She values the community aspect of skydiving and the friendships formed.

    Marcie's daughter Isla is already a part of the skydiving community.

    The unpredictability of weather is a constant challenge for skydivers.


    Keywords


    skydiving, Marcie Hall, Cleveland Skydiving Center, drop zone owner, skydiving experiences, challenges in skydiving, skydiving community, tandem jumps, big way skydiving, skydiving stories


    Titles


    Skydiving Adventures with Marcie Hall

    The Journey of a Drop Zone Owner



    Sound bites


    "I love it. I really do."

    "I was really lucky."

    "That was great!"



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Skydiving and Marcie Hall

    01:22 Marcie's Journey into Skydiving

    03:27 Becoming a Drop Zone Owner

    11:40 Challenges of Running a Drop Zone

    17:30 Skydiving Experience and Achievements

    23:08 Transitioning to a Turbine Aircraft

    26:33 Business Model and Growth Strategies

    29:42 The Business of Skydiving

    31:29 The Joys and Challenges of Drop Zone Ownership

    34:21 Balancing Family Life and Skydiving

    38:12 Skydiving Adventures and Experiences

    42:21 Memorable Skydiving Events

    47:06 Lessons from Skydiving Incidents


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    58 min
  • Ep. 032 How Do I Land A Parachute!?
    Sep 3 2025

    In this episode of the Skydiving Podcast, hosts Brian and Joe discuss various aspects of skydiving, including merchandise, personal experiences with wingsuit flights, and listener questions about landing techniques. They emphasize the importance of proper flare techniques, canopy control, and safety measures in skydiving. The conversation also touches on the progression in the sport, risk awareness, and the significance of listening to instructors. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights, making the episode both informative and engaging for skydiving enthusiasts.


    Socials:

    ⁠www.facebook.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.youtube.com/beeraskydivingpodcast⁠

    ⁠www.instagram.com/beerpodcast24⁠

    ⁠www.x.com/beerpodcast24⁠


    Email us at: beerpodcast24@gmail.com


    Takeaways


    Merchandise like jerseys and stickers are available for fans.

    Wingsuit flight experiences can be thrilling but require practice.

    Proper landing techniques are crucial for safety.

    Flaring at the right height is essential for smooth landings.

    Canopy control is vital for safe skydiving.

    Progression in skydiving involves continuous learning and practice.

    Risk awareness is important in making safe decisions while jumping.

    Listening to instructors can significantly improve skills.

    Practicing packing can lead to more jumps during courses.

    Community engagement enhances the skydiving experience.


    Keywords


    skydiving, wingsuit, landing techniques, flare techniques, canopy control, skydiving safety, skydiving community, skydiving podcast, skydiving experiences, risk awareness



    Titles


    Skydiving Podcast: Flare Techniques and Safety

    Wingsuit Adventures and Landing Insights



    Sound bites


    "Same shit, different day."

    "The Earth is definitely not flat."

    "Listen to your instructors."



    Chapters


    00:00 Welcome to the Skydiving Podcast

    01:30 Merchandise and Community Engagement

    04:38 Wingsuit Flight Discussion

    09:41 Email from a Listener: Landing Techniques

    17:53 Canopy Control and Safety

    23:46 Wind Conditions and Landing Strategies

    27:27 Mastering the Flare: Key Techniques for Landing

    29:50 The Importance of Muscle Memory in Skydiving

    34:00 Understanding Glide Ratios and Flight Control

    37:53 Practicing for Base Jumping: Skills and Techniques

    43:50 Risk Awareness: Knowing Your Limits in Skydiving

    46:51 The Psychology of Risk: Overestimating Skills

    54:46 Preparing for Base Jumping: First Steps and Training

    58:57 Packing and Pre-Jump Preparation: Essential Skills


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    1 h et 1 min
  • Ep. 031 Casey Mongoven with Freefall Data Systems
    Aug 27 2025

    In this episode, Casey Mongoven, the owner and CEO of Freefall Data Systems, shares his journey into skydiving, his experiences as an instructor, and the innovations he has brought to the skydiving community through his company. He discusses the challenges and rewards of running a one-man operation, the importance of customer service, and the future of skydiving technology.



    Takeaways


    Casey started skydiving at 33, inspired by a relationship.

    Skydiving provided a sense of excitement and purpose.

    He transitioned from academia to becoming an AFF instructor.

    Founded Freefall Data Systems to innovate skydiving technology.

    The first Bluetooth altimeters were introduced in 2017.

    Customer service is a top priority for Casey.

    He operates as a one-man business, managing production and development.

    Events and word-of-mouth marketing were crucial for growth.

    The Digi-LD3 altimeter features significant improvements.

    Casey emphasizes the importance of safety and training in skydiving.


    Keywords


    skydiving, Freefall Data Systems, Casey Mongovan, altimeters, skydiving technology, AFF instructor, skydiving innovations, skydiving community, skydiving safety, skydiving marketing



    Titles


    Skydiving Innovations with Casey Mongovan

    From Academia to Altimeters: Casey's Skydiving Journey



    Sound bites


    "It picked me up."

    "I became an AFF instructor."

    "I founded Freefall Data Systems."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Skydiving and Casey's Background

    04:30 The Journey of Becoming a Skydiver

    07:35 Transitioning from Fun Jumper to Instructor

    10:24 The Importance of Canopy Courses

    13:27 Wingsuit Flying and Its Challenges

    16:27 Founding Freefall Data Systems

    19:23 Customer Experience and Product Development

    22:25 Innovations in Skydiving Technology

    25:30 The Evolution of Altimeters

    28:31 Future of Skydiving Technology

    32:15 Innovations in Altimeter Technology

    33:24 Production and Manufacturing Insights

    35:33 Transitioning to Full-Time Entrepreneurship

    37:54 Balancing Work and Skydiving

    41:15 Marketing Strategies for Skydiving Products

    45:09 Navigating Business Growth and Challenges

    48:49 The One-Man Operation

    51:43 Hearing Protection in Skydiving

    54:12 The Evolution of Audible Altimeters

    58:26 Closing Thoughts and Product Promotion


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    1 h
  • Ep. 030 Joe Teaches me How to Wingsuit
    Aug 21 2025

    Summary


    In this episode of BEER: A Skydiving Podcast, the hosts discuss their recent experiences with skydiving, including first jump courses, challenges faced during jumps, and the importance of proper technique. They share insights on overcoming obstacles like potato chipping and line twists, and reflect on their progress in wingsuit flying. The conversation also touches on future plans for skydiving, understanding body position and configuration, and the journey towards becoming a master rigger. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of skydiving and wingsuit flying, discussing the responsibilities of riggers, the use of technology like AirTags, and the intricacies of body positioning during jumps. They share personal experiences, challenges faced during wingsuit deployment, and the importance of practice and learning from past jumps. The dialogue also touches on the performance differences between various wingsuits and the impact of suit adjustments on flying stability.



    Takeaways


    The first jump experience can be overwhelming but rewarding.

    Proper technique is crucial for safe skydiving.

    Potato chipping is a common issue for beginners.

    Relaxation and confidence improve flight performance.

    Understanding body position affects flight stability.

    Planning and preparation are key for successful jumps.

    Learning from mistakes is part of the skydiving journey.

    Future jumps should focus on refining skills and techniques.

    Becoming a master rigger requires dedication and practice.

    Skydiving is a community that supports learning and growth. Riggers have specific responsibilities and can innovate within their roles.

    Using AirTags can help locate gear but may present challenges during jumps.

    Proper body positioning is crucial for successful wingsuit deployment.

    Tracking jumps can enhance body awareness and control in the air.

    Wingsuit performance varies significantly between different models and adjustments.

    Zipper settings on wingsuits can affect flight performance and stability.

    Repetition and practice are key to mastering skydiving techniques.

    Reflecting on past jumps can provide valuable insights for improvement.

    Learning from experienced jumpers can accelerate skill development.

    Maintaining a calm and focused mindset is essential during jumps.


    Keywords


    skydiving, wingsuit, first jump, skydiving techniques, skydiving challenges, skydiving experiences, skydiving safety, skydiving training, skydiving community, skydiving adventures, skydiving, wingsuit, rigger, AirTag, deployment, body position, tracking, performance, experience, learning



    Titles


    Skydiving Adventures: First Jumps and Lessons Learned

    Overcoming Challenges in the Sky: A Skydiver's Journey



    Sound bites


    "You're fighting the suit."

    "He won't sign off on that."

    "It's just reps."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Skydiving Adventures

    02:43 First Flight Course Experience

    05:34 Jumping Techniques and Challenges

    08:29 Overcoming Obstacles in Skydiving

    11:28 The Importance of Relaxation in Flight

    14:18 Analyzing Flight Videos and Learning

    16:58 Progress and Future Goals in Skydiving

    19:43 Shredfest Highlights and Experiences

    22:03 Mastering Wingsuit Flight Dynamics

    24:51 Understanding Body Position and Configuration

    27:06 Navigating Deployment Challenges

    29:18 Preparing for Cliff Diving

    30:55 Rigger Training and Costs

    33:49 The Path to Master Rigger

    35:07 Air Tagging and Safety in Skydiving

    37:53 Adjusting Gear for Optimal Performance

    40:05 The Importance of Body Positioning

    43:31 Tracking and Wingsuit Synergy

    46:29 Wingsuit Performance Insights

    49:29 Understanding Suit Adjustments and Control

    50:47 Body Positioning for Optimal Flight

    52:53 The Importance of Exit Techniques

    55:45 Reflections on Early Jump Experiences

    59:18 Transitioning to Instruction and Coaching

    01:03:38 The Evolution of Flight Skills


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    1 h et 6 min