How an 18-Year-Old Flew Around the World…Alone

Lachie Smart was just 18 years old when he became the youngest person to fly solo around the world in a single-engine aircraft. What started as a wild idea with no money, no flying experience, and a stack of rejection letters turned into a 54-day journey across 45,000 kilometers and 24 countries. In this episode, Lachie takes us inside the storms that nearly knocked him out of the sky, the moments of doubt that almost ended the dream, and the unexpected kindness of strangers that reminded him why he kept going. From dodging pirates and nearly being shot down in the Middle East, to crying over a cheese sandwich baked by a stranger in Sri Lanka, his story is as human as it is daring. We talk about what it really takes to pull off a record-breaking journey, why naivety can sometimes be your biggest advantage, and how persistence through 200 no’s finally turned into a yes. This is an adventure about risk, resilience, and the courage to start before you feel ready. Let’s dive in! Connect with Lachie: Website Instagram Youtube . Follow along on other platforms: Instagram Tiktok Youtube ~ KEYWORDS aviation, circumnavigation, flying, adventure, sponsorship, youth empowerment, public speaking, travel, resilience, personal growth, travel podcast, pilot, overlanding, flying around the world