Interview with Maj. Taylor "FEMA" Hiester, Commander of the USAF F-16 Viper Demonstration Team

If you ever had the chance to interview a military fighter pilot, what would you ask... In this interview, I get to speak with Major Taylor “FEMA” Hiester, Commander and Pilot of the U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demonstration Team, to discuss health, wellness, and what it takes to remain mission-ready while flying one of the world's premier fighter aircraft. While many people assume elite performance is driven primarily by intense training or nutrition, Major Hiester emphasizes a surprisingly simple foundation: quality sleep. He explains how proper rest supports recovery, cognitive performance, decision-making, and the physical demands of sustaining high G-forces in the F-16. We also discuss readiness, resilience, fitness, and the habits that help military aviators perform at the highest level, both in the air and on the ground. Thank you to Major Taylor "FEMA" Hiester for sharing his time, expertise, and perspective. If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share to help more pilots and aviation professionals optimize their health and performance. If you are interested in having me speak Pilot Health & Wellness at your aviation event, contact me here: https://www.aviatemedical.com/events Fly Healthy. Fly Safe. Fly Often. ‪@FairchildAirForceBaseWA‬ ‪@F16Demo‬ ‪@femahiester‬