The Old Fly Guy Network

Go deeper inside the restoration hangar at the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum as the volunteer restoration team tackles some of the most difficult challenges in bringing a legendary Douglas SBD Dauntless back to life.In this episode, the team reveals the incredible craftsmanship, engineering, and problem-solving required to restore aircraft when original parts no longer exist. From custom-fabricated .50 caliber machine guns and functional 3D printed hydraulic pumps to painstaking engine restoration and historically accurate markings, every detail matters.Using modern tools like 3D scanning and printing alongside traditional machining and hand-built craftsmanship, these retired professionals combine decades of experience with a shared passion for preserving aviation history.But this story is about more than aircraft.It’s about teamwork, mentorship, and the culture that drives the restoration process forward every day. Built on the foundation of C.A.T.S. — Culture, Attitude, Teamwork, and Service — this team demonstrates what happens when skill, dedication, and history come together inside the hangar.

Step inside the restoration hangar at the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum and meet the people bringing aviation history back to life.In this first episode of our restoration series, we introduce three passionate volunteers working on the legendary Douglas SBD-1 Dauntless—an aircraft that played a critical role in World War II and is now being carefully restored piece by piece.From custom-built tools and hand-formed aluminum skins to decades of experience in machining and aviation maintenance, this team represents the heart of what makes restoration possible. Their work isn’t just technical—it’s deeply personal.Built on a foundation of Culture, Attitude, Teamwork, and Service (C.A.T.S.), these volunteers are preserving more than an aircraft—they’re preserving the stories, craftsmanship, and legacy of those who came before.This is just the beginning.In the next episodes, we’ll go deeper into the skills, stories, and dedication behind one of the most remarkable aircraft restoration efforts in the country

Step inside the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum in Kalamazoo, Michigan—one of the most immersive aviation and space museums in the United States, where history, engineering, and education come together in a truly unique experience.In this episode, we sit down with President & CEO Troy Thrash as he takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum and shares the vision behind its transformation from a small collection of aircraft into a world-class aviation destination.From the moment you enter the “cloud tunnel,” you are immersed in over 100 aircraft and spacecraft, interactive flight experiences, and one of the most impressive aviation environments ever created. Highlights include the legendary Lockheed SR-71B Blackbird, hands-on STEM exhibits, and a massive indoor aviation mural that brings the history of flight to life.This episode also sets the stage for the deeper story behind the Air Zoo’s restoration program, including WWII aircraft recovered from the bottom of Lake Michigan and rebuilt through thousands of hours of volunteer craftsmanship—such as the iconic Douglas SBD Dauntless.Beyond the aircraft, the Air Zoo is also a center for education and inspiration, with STEM programs designed to engage students, spark curiosity, and introduce future generations to careers in aviation, engineering, and science.The museum’s evolution, aircraft collection, and educational mission reflect a broader story of growth, innovation, and community impact—making it a standout destination for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.✈️ This video includes key aviation museum topics such as WWII aircraft restoration, the SR-71 Blackbird, and STEM education programs, helping improve search discoverability and relevance across aviation and educational audiences.✈️ Natural inclusion of aviation and aerospace themes strengthens how this video is categorized by YouTube for education, history, and documentary-style viewers.✈️ Related topics such as aviation museum tours, aircraft restoration, and military aviation history help the video appear in suggested content alongside similar aviation documentaries and museum features.✈️ Broader coverage of aviation history, STEM learning, and museum storytelling improves semantic search performance for long-tail discovery queries such as “aviation museum tour” or “aircraft restoration process.”✈️ Inclusion of major aviation landmarks, aircraft, and leadership storytelling helps improve viewer engagement by establishing credibility, authority, and context from the very beginning.✈️ This is more than a museum tour… it’s a story about preserving the past while inspiring the future of flight

In the second half of our conversation with the next generation of aviators at Rocky Mountain Flight School, the story shifts from inspiration… to reality.What does it actually take to build a life in aviation?From financial pressure to time away from family, these early-career pilots open up about the real challenges behind the dream — and why so many people never make it all the way through.In this episode, we go deeper into:The true cost of becoming a pilot — and why many don’t finishThe personal sacrifices required, from long training periods to time away from homeHow quickly career plans can change in an unpredictable industryWhy aviation is an endurance race — not a shortcutThe role of mentorship and community in staying on trackHow to avoid burnout and keep the passion for flying aliveBut through it all, one thing stands out:The people who make it aren’t just talented — they’re relentless.This is where ambition meets reality… and where the future of aviation is truly shaped.

In this Old Fly Guy – Virtual Flightline episode, combat aviators Rusty O’Brien and Mace Carpenter break down one of the most complex and dangerous realities in today’s Iran conflict—a war you can’t easily see… and can’t easily win.Drawing on their experience flying during Operation Desert Storm, they explore how Iran has evolved into a highly capable asymmetric threat. From massive underground tunnel networks—designed to hide and launch missiles from deep within mountains—to the growing use of drones and mobile strike systems, this is a very different fight than the one they experienced decades ago.At the center of the conversation is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway responsible for a significant portion of the world’s oil supply. The question isn’t just whether it can be defended—it’s whether disruption there could dictate the outcome of the entire conflict.Rusty and Mace also dive into the reality of modern warfare:Why bunker-busting weapons may not be enoughHow low-cost drones are changing the economics of warThe growing influence of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard CorpsAnd why even partial missile capability still poses a serious threatThis isn’t theory—it’s perspective from those who’ve flown combat missions in the same region. If you want to understand what makes this conflict different—and why it’s so difficult—this conversation delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

In Part 1 of our Rocky Mountain Flight School series, we turn from experience to the next generation of aviators — but this is only the beginning of their story.In this first half, we sit down with three early-career pilots whose paths into aviation couldn’t be more different:A childhood dream sparked by the Blue AngelsA bold career change at 30A multi-career entrepreneur discovering aviation through businessAt Rocky Mountain Flight School, they’ve all found something in common:Passion, persistence, and a commitment to helping others succeed.But this isn’t just a story about getting started.In this first half, we explore:How people really find their way into aviationThe financial and personal sacrifices behind the dreamWhy flight instructors become mentors, motivators… and sometimes therapistsThe reality of starting and stopping due to costWhat it takes to push through when things get hardWhat emerges is a powerful truth:There’s no single path into aviation — only the willingness to keep going.And this is just the beginning.👉 In Part 2 (second half), we go deeper into:Career realities (airlines, 135, business aviation)Burnout, balance, and long-term sustainabilityWhat the future of aviation really looks like from their perspective

In this episode of Old Fly Guy Network, we reconnect with seasoned flight instructor and mentor Matt Beyer at Rocky Mountain Flight School to explore a side of aviation that often gets overlooked — the power of mentorship, community, and the journey beyond the airlines.Matt shares how major life transitions — from becoming an empty nester to starting a new chapter — have reshaped his perspective on aviation and life. What emerges is a powerful reminder that aviation isn’t just a career path… it’s a lifelong pursuit shaped by passion, curiosity, and connection.We dive into:Why mentorship is at the heart of aviationThe reality that not every pilot is headed to the airlinesHow discovery flights spark lifelong journeysThe importance of community and continuous learningHow Rocky Mountain Flight School is building a culture of safety and belongingMatt’s vision for bridging the gap between pilots, flight schools, and the FAAThis episode sets the stage for Part 2, where we sit down with the next generation of aviators to hear how their vision of the future compares.Because aviation isn’t just about where you’re going… it’s about who helps you get there

In this Old Fly Guy Episode – Virtual Flightline episode, F-111 combat veterans Rusty O’Brien and Mace Carpenter bring decades of real-world experience to one of today’s most complex and dangerous conflicts—Iran.Drawing from their time flying during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, they break down what’s happening today through the lens of those who have planned, flown, and executed combat missions in the same region.This conversation goes far beyond headlines.They explore the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, where nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply moves through a narrow and highly vulnerable corridor—and what happens if that flow is disrupted. They also dive into Iran’s evolving military capabilities, including anti-ship missiles, drones, and the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a uniquely motivated and ideologically driven force.But one of the most important takeaways is this:Air power alone is not enough.From the realities of air-to-air refueling risk to the need for joint operations across air, sea, and intelligence domains, Rusty and Mace explain why modern conflict requires far more than precision strikes. They also reflect on the challenges of defining strategic objectives, communicating intent, and managing global perception in a conflict that could have far-reaching economic and geopolitical consequences.If you want a clear, experienced-based perspective on what’s happening—and what it really means—this is a conversation you don’t want to miss

In Part B of this two-part Old Fly Guy episode, the conversation with F-111F aviators Rusty O’Brien and Mace Carpenter moves from preparation to execution—focusing squarely on Desert Storm and how the F-111F delivered decisive results. With decades of shared flying experience, Rusty and Mace take viewers inside the real-world tactics, logistics, and mission planning that made the F-111F the most effective strike aircraft of the conflict.This episode explores innovative techniques like radar ducting, precision strike tactics using laser-guided munitions, and the behind-the-scenes logistical efforts that kept the jet flying night after night. Rusty and Mace share personal stories from training missions and combat sorties, highlighting how crew cohesion, trust, and familiarity were just as important as technology. Often overshadowed by air-to-air fighters, the F-111F’s Desert Storm record speaks for itself—and Part B ensures its mission, impact, and legacy are finally given the attention they deserve.

In Part A of this two-part Old Fly Guy episode, we return to the cockpit with F-111F aviators Rusty O’Brien and Mace Carpenter to focus on why the F-111F was so critical during Desert Storm. With more than 60 years of combined military service, Rusty and Mace take us inside the mission planning, readiness, and strategic role the F-111 carried into the Gulf War—building on its Cold War roots as a nuclear deterrent and evolving into one of the most effective precision strike platforms of the conflict.This first half explores the foundation: NATO nuclear alert missions, the intense preparation required to maintain constant readiness, and how those disciplines translated directly into Desert Storm success. Rusty and Mace explain how technology, crew coordination, logistics, and trust in the aircraft allowed the F-111F to deliver devastatingly effective strikes with fewer sorties and reduced risk. Part A sets the stage for Part B, where we’ll dive deeper into combat execution, emergency scenarios, and personal moments that defined the mission and the legacy of the F-111F

The F-111F Aardvark was built for missions few aircraft could survive—and even fewer could execute with precision. In this first episode of a new Old Fly Guy series, we sit down with two of the men who flew it into history. Rusty O’Brien (27 years active duty) and Mace Carpenter (34 years of service) share what it was really like to fly the F-111F during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and other global operations where success depended on speed, teamwork, and trust in the jet.This conversation focuses on the aircraft itself—what made the F-111F so unique, why it was chosen for deep strike missions, and how terrain-following radar, variable-sweep wings, and precision weapons turned it into a night-fighting force multiplier. Rusty and Mace explain how crew coordination between pilot and WSO was essential, how missions were planned and flown at low altitude and high speed, and why the F-111F proved its value when it mattered most. This episode sets the stage for a broader series exploring the missions, people, and legacy of one of the most consequential strike aircraft in aviation history—told by those who were there.Top 5 Takeaways from This EpisodeThe F-111F Was Purpose-Built for Missions Others Couldn’t FlyThis episode explains why the F-111F wasn’t just another fighter or bomber—it was a precision strike platform designed to penetrate defended airspace at low altitude, high speed, and in all weather, long before stealth became the norm.Technology Alone Wasn’t Enough—Crew Coordination Made It WorkFlying the F-111F required absolute trust between pilot and weapons systems officer. Viewers gain insight into how teamwork, communication, and shared responsibility were just as critical as the aircraft’s advanced systems.Terrain-Following Radar Changed the Rules of Air CombatThe ability to fly low and fast, day or night, redefined how deep-strike missions were executed. Rusty and Mace describe what it was like to rely on the jet’s systems in environments where there was no margin for error.Desert Storm Validated the F-111F’s Design and DoctrinePrecision bombing during Desert Storm proved the effectiveness of the F-111F and helped shape modern strike warfare. This episode connects the aircraft’s performance directly to broader changes in how airpower is employed today.The F-111F Legacy Is About People as Much as the AircraftBeyond the jet itself, this conversation highlights the culture, camaraderie, and responsibility carried by the crews and support teams. The episode preserves lessons and experiences that still resonate with today’s aviators and aviation enthusiasts.

Tucked along the runway in North Hampton, New Hampshire, the Airfield Cafe is more than a place to eat — it’s a story of family, perseverance, and community that spans generations.In this Old Fly Guy Network episode, we sit down with Scott Aversano and his children Ashley and Tyler to explore how the Airfield Cafe, first opened in 1996, became a cornerstone of the local aviation community. Scott shares the pivotal role played by his father, “Pappa Joe,” whose leap of faith into the airport restaurant business helped get everything started. After a previous family venture was impacted by an economic downturn, an unexpected opportunity — and encouragement from the airport community — led Pappa Joe to take over a small breakfast-and-lunch café at the airfield, planting the seeds for what would become a beloved institution.Through hard work and consistency, the family transformed the café from a modest 36-seat diner into a thriving operation employing nearly 70 people, all while staying true to its roots. The Airfield Cafe became a place where pilots, airport neighbors, and local families naturally came together — a bridge between aviation and community life.Scott also reflects on one of the greatest rewards of the journey: working side-by-side with his children. Ashley and Tyler grew up in the café, learning responsibility early and developing a shared passion for the business. Today, Ashley brings her business education and leadership vision, while Tyler’s engineering mindset fuels creative ideas like a conveyor-belt display for model airplanes. For Scott, watching his children grow — both personally and professionally — while helping shape the café’s future is as meaningful as the business success itself.This episode is a heartfelt look at legacy, family pride, innovation, and the unique role airport cafés play in keeping aviation culture alive. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most important things at an airfield aren’t just the airplanes — but the people who gather around the table.✈️☕ Visit the Airfield Cafe, meet the family, and experience a place where generations and aviation stories continue to take flight.The Full AIRFIELD CAFE Episode!  https://youtu.be/KPNgvbGxGQA

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Podcast, we flip the script and explore aviation from a side most pilots and aviation fans rarely get to see — the people who shape the skies from the ground. Wade sits down with Ralph Tamburro, a highly respected aviation professional with 31+ years at the FAA and more than a decade with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. It’s not just an interview — it’s a rare, insider-level conversation with someone who has worked at the very heart of the world’s most complex airspace.Ralph’s experience spans traffic management, operational oversight, safety, and modernization initiatives that directly affect how millions of passengers travel each year. Very few people in aviation have had a front-row seat to both sides of the system — the FAA and a major airport authority — and even fewer are willing to talk openly about what really happens behind the scenes.In this episode, listeners get unprecedented access to:How the FAA and the Port Authority collaborate, negotiate, and occasionally wrestle over safety and efficiencyWhy managing New York’s layered, high-density airspace is unlike anywhere else in the worldWhat actually goes into preventing delays, coordinating construction, and keeping airport traffic flowingThe slow march of technology in ATC — and what needs to changeThe human side of air traffic control, including decision-making, communication, and family legacies in the careerRalph shares candid stories and explains the complexities of air traffic management with clarity only a true insider can provide. His perspective is unique, unfiltered, and incredibly valuable for anyone who flies, works in aviation, or simply wants to understand how the national airspace system really works.

In the fourth episode of the Old Fly Guy Network’s SR-71 Blackbird series, we go behind the curtain to explore the operational heart of the SR-71 program — the teams who turned intelligence requests into successful Mach 3 missions.While pilots and RSOs (Reconnaissance Systems Officers) carried out daring flights, every sortie began weeks earlier in the hands of a dedicated operations and intelligence planning team. This episode features insights from intelligence officers, planners, pilots, and RSOs who reveal how missions were crafted — from target selection to route design, fuel and refueling coordination, sensor timing, and international clearances.They share how the SR-71’s speed and altitude demanded extraordinary precision in planning — where a single miscalculation could mean a missed target or diplomatic incident. The conversation unveils the quiet coordination between the Air Force, CIA, and national intelligence agencies that made the Blackbird not only a marvel of engineering but also a masterpiece of operational art.This episode brings the series full circle — from design and maintenance to flight and mission planning — showing that the Blackbird’s success wasn’t just about speed; it was about teamwork, foresight, and flawless execution.✈️ 5 Key Takeaways for the ViewerMission Planning was the Real Launch Point – how SR-71 flights began on the ground with months of coordination.Precision Intelligence Integration – how military and government intelligence agencies worked together to define mission targets.Pilots & RSOs in the Loop Early – how flight crews influenced mission design long before takeoff.Operational Art Under Pressure – how planners accounted for fuel, enemy radar, and even geopolitical boundaries.The Human Factor – the professionalism and coordination that made each mission a success in a tense Cold War environment.

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we dive deep into the unsung heroes of the SR-71 Blackbird program, the maintenance and technical teams. While the pilots “rented” the aircraft, the crews who maintained and engineered it truly owned the SR-71. Hear first-hand from Robbie Butterfield, Steve Justice, and Mike Hull as they reveal the challenges of keeping the world’s fastest jet ready for duty. From the unique demands of working with titanium to innovations at the Skunk Works, discover how cutting-edge design and relentless teamwork kept the Blackbird flying high at Mach 3.✅ 5 Takeaways for the ViewerMaintenance was ownership – why the SR-71’s reliability depended on the dedication of its crew.Titanium challenges – how one of the hardest metals in the world shaped every aspect of maintenance.Heat & speed solutions – insights into high-emissivity paint, materials science, and design tricks that made Mach 3 flight possible.Continuous innovation – how Skunk Works engineers and maintenance teams constantly upgraded the jet.Camaraderie & pride – the personal stories of those who kept the Blackbird soaring during the Cold War.

In this second episode of our four-part SR-71 Blackbird series, we step into the world of the men who trained the fastest pilots on earth. Legendary instructors Jerry Glasser, Buz Carpenter, and BC Thomas share how they prepared new SR-71 crews to handle one of the most complex aircraft ever built.From hours in the simulator to high-stakes check rides, the trainers reveal what it took to fly above 80,000 feet and outrun threats at Mach 3. Every pilot’s path was different—but each was forged by rigorous training, precision, and trust.This episode highlights the camaraderie, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence that defined the SR-71 program. It’s not just about flying fast—it’s about the trainers who shaped the pilots to survive and succeed.Stay tuned as we continue the SR-71 series: next up, the maintenance crews who kept the Blackbird in the air, followed by the ops teams who turned missions into history.What You’ll Take Away from This Episode:How SR-71 trainers tailored instruction based on each pilot’s background and strengths.Why simulator training was just as critical—and sometimes more stressful—than actual flights.The essential role of teamwork and trust between pilots and RSOs at Mach 3.How the trainers balanced being mentors, evaluators, and motivators.Why camaraderie in the SR-71 program was key to mission success

Step into the cockpit of the legendary SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest jet ever built. In this first episode of our SR-71 series, we sit down with three pilots who flew at the very edge of space: Al Joersz, Ed Yeilding, and Noel Widdifield. Together, they share what it was like to push past Mach 3, navigate Cold War missions, and trust their aircraft—and each other—at 80,000 feet.From pressure suits and precision flying to the teamwork that kept the Blackbird safe, these stories give a rare insider’s look into the record-breaking jet that still inspires awe today.This is just the beginning of our SR-71 series—future episodes will spotlight trainers, maintainers, and the hidden teams that made the Blackbird soar.✈️ What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow pilots prepared mentally and physically to fly at Mach 3.Why teamwork with RSOs (Reconnaissance Systems Officers) was critical to survival and success.What it feels like to climb to 80,000 feet—higher than 97% of Earth’s atmosphere.The unique challenges of flying in a pressure suit for hours at a time.How pilots managed emergencies when mistakes could be fatal.Why the SR-71 still holds world records decades after retirement.

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we sit down with Gretchen Jahn, whose career spans from IT leadership to the helm of Mooney Aircraft, and decades of competitive air racing. Gretchen shares how her aviation journey began later in life, what it took to revive a legendary aircraft manufacturer, and the thrill and strategy behind women’s air racing. She also highlights the impact of the 99s organization and why mentorship is vital for the next generation of aviators.Viewers will discover:Late Start, Big Impact – How Gretchen transitioned from IT and horseback riding to aviation and leadership in aerospace.Turning Around Mooney – Insights into reviving an iconic aircraft company through culture, customer trust, and confidence.Air Racing Secrets – The strategy, teamwork, and challenges behind the Air Race Classic, and what it takes to stay competitive.The Power of the 99s – How this organization shaped Gretchen’s career and continues to support women in aviation.Mentorship That Lasts – Why Gretchen invests in guiding new aviators and how mentorship programs like “mother birds” help future pilots succeed.

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Podcast, Wade sits down with Denver aviator and flight instructor Matt Beyer, a lifelong pilot with a passion for mountain flying, safety, and community service. Matt shares his journey from childhood airshows to becoming Director of Safety at Rocky Mountain Flight School, where he’s dedicated to building a culture of safety and mentorship.The conversation dives into the unique challenges of mountain flying—from weather shifts to terrain awareness—while exploring how building rapport with ATC, embracing personalized training, and giving back through Angel Flight and Civil Air Patrol can elevate the flying experience.Whether you’re an aspiring aviator or a seasoned pilot, Matt’s perspective offers valuable lessons on safety, skill, and the joy of giving back.Key Takeaways From This Episode:Mountain flying isn’t like flatland flying — learn the unique skills, weather awareness, and terrain management needed to handle the Rockies safely.Safety begins before takeoff — discover how procedures, habits, and culture at flight schools make or break pilot confidence.ATC is your partner, not just a voice on the radio — hear why building trust and rapport with controllers can transform your flying experience.Training isn’t one-size-fits-all — Matt shows how tailoring lessons to each pilot’s pace and goals creates safer, stronger aviators.Flying can be a way to give back — through Angel Flight and Ci

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we sit down with Robert Gerlach — a true pioneer of the Alaskan frontier. After venturing to Alaska in the early '70s in search of freedom and adventure, Robert carved out a life in the wilderness north of Talkeetna. From building his own cabin deep in bear country to creating a private airstrip through sheer will and ingenuity, Robert’s story is a testament to self-reliance, grit, and aviation spirit.He shares gripping tales of transporting bulldozers by bush plane, fending off curious bears, and the ever-changing skies of Alaskan aviation. More than just a homesteader, Robert has become a steward of the flying community, dedicating decades to keeping local airstrips safe and accessible. His reflections span a lifetime of adventure, problem-solving, and community building in one of the last truly wild places on Earth.Whether you’re a pilot, dreamer, or wilderness enthusiast, this episode will stir your soul and leave you with a deep appreciation for the legends who help keep Alaska alive and flying.

In this inspiring episode, we head north to the wilds of Talkeetna, Alaska, with bush pilot Joe McAneney. From humble beginnings in Western New York to soaring over glaciers in Denali, Joe shares his unique path to becoming a pilot in one of the most rugged aviation frontiers on Earth.We explore the historic Talkeetna airstrip, the evolution of bush flying, and the powerful sense of community that binds Alaskan aviators. Joe opens up about his early days in Denali National Park, flying with K2 Aviation, landing on glaciers, and what it truly means to live and fly in Alaska.Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, an adventurer at heart, or just curious about life on the edge of the map—this episode offers incredible insights and heartwarming reflections from the Last Frontier.🛩️ Topics Covered:Why Joe left New York for AlaskaThe golden age of the Talkeetna airstripGlacier landings & scenic flying with K2 AviationLessons from Alaska’s aviation cultureCommunity, connection, and the soul of a small townWhat’s next for Joe’s flying adventures

Join us on the Old Fly Guy Network as we take flight with Jonathan Kotwicki—airline pilot turned aviation entrepreneur—who left the skies of commercial aviation to carve out a one-of-a-kind flying haven in the heart of Alaska. From bush flying to building an aviation community around DC-6 and DC-9 Airbnb cabins, Jonathan shares how he created a pilot’s paradise at Big Lake, Alaska. We explore the beauty and challenges of Alaskan flying—from glacier landings to weather unpredictability—and how Kotwicki’s training focuses on real-world, off-airport experiences. More than just stick-and-rudder skills, this episode dives into the value of pilot community, the importance of learning from each other, and the mindset it takes to thrive in aviation’s most rugged environment. If you're an aviator, aspiring pilot, or someone who dreams of flying into the wild, you won’t want to miss this inspiring journey through Alaska’s skies.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Building a Pilot’s Retreat in AlaskaDiscover how Jonathan transformed his passion for flying into a full-blown aviation destination, complete with private runways and retired jetliners turned into Airbnb's. The Realities of Alaskan Bush FlyingFrom glacier landings to off-airport strips, learn what it takes to safely and skillfully fly in one of the most challenging—and rewarding—aviation environments in the world. Training Beyond the TextbookExplore Jonathan’s unique approach to flight training that goes beyond checklists and simulators, focusing on real-world scenarios like float flying, ski landings, and weather adaptation.

In this inspiring episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we feature Josh Campbell, military aviator and host of the "Free Pilot Training" YouTube channel and podcast. Josh opens up about his powerful aviation journey—from believing flying was out of reach due to financial constraints, to becoming a military pilot and content creator committed to making aviation training accessible to everyone.Josh shares how his first flight during Air Force basic training in 2009 sparked a passion that never left, even through years of financial hardship. His story is one of resilience, creative problem-solving, and an unwavering belief in the possible. Today, he leads a growing platform that offers completely free, high-quality aviation training, helping aspiring pilots across the world take off.We dive into:• His setbacks and how they shaped his flying journey• The mission behind Free Pilot Training and removing financial barriers• The power of learning from mistakes and sharing real-world experiences• How mentorship and community are key to inspiring future aviators• His plans to expand free training resources including instrument rating content• And his now-famous Bigfoot metaphor: if you believe, it becomes possibleWhether you're a student pilot, a military hopeful, or someone who just loves aviation stories with heart, this conversation with Josh will leave you motivated, informed, and ready to fly.

Come along for the ride with Greg Campbell, the Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV), while he tells us of his aviation journey in the Commonwealth of Virginia. His roots are deep in Virginia and started with a passion to fly and a drive to do whatever it would take to make that happen. Greg will tell us about his desire to fly and his family’s support that allowed that dream to come true, with a unique twist. With Greg’s background in aviation and his experience in all aspects of flight operations, he was a natural choice as the aviation director in Virginia. We will hear about his commitment to the aviation community and how he and his team provide an environment of safety and long-term growth of aviation in Virginia. You will feel at home with Greg and learn that his aviation experience is a lifelong journey. Come spend some time with us!

Sun N Fun 2025 Part 2The Sun and Fun Aerospace Expo while known for its static and aerobatics displays, has a rich culture and history of aviators who travel across the country with their vintage aircraft. They not only want to share the stories and backgrounds of their unique and well-preserved aircraft but also participate in the aviation community that is felt across the airfield. While most have a history of decades of participation, the newbies also have the same level of energy and welcomed into the community. They are all so very proud of their aircraft and truly demonstrated a passion for these best friends(aircraft) and a commitment to keep them flying for all of us to enjoy. Come along on our journey to meet some of these aviators, hear the passion in their voice about their aircraft and be inspired to engage in this aviation community!

The Old Fly Guy was truly honored to join Brian Schiff in conversation at Hicks Field, Texas. Many of us know Brian for his calming demeanor taking us through the ins and outs of Foreflight with his detailed training sessions. We also know him for his engagement with many aviation organizations, with a focus on safety and proficiency. In Brian’s latest contribution to aviation, he has brought us the “Schiff Show”. While taking a little pun on his name, this variety program leaves us more empowered to be better aviators. You will quickly come to appreciate his selfless desire to give back to the art of aviation. With his family history in aviation, and a wonderful father mentor, he has demonstrated his craft in both the commercial and general aviation airspace. You will come away with a desire to follow his journey and improve your own personal safety minimums!

The Sun and Fun Aerospace Expo while known for its static and aerobatics displays, has a rich culture and history of aviators who travel across the country with their vintage aircraft. They not only want to share the stories and backgrounds of their unique and well-preserved aircraft but also participate in the aviation community that is felt across the airfield. While most have a history of decades of participation, the newbies also have the same level of energy and welcomed into the community. They are all so very proud of their aircraft and truly demonstrated a passion for these best friends(aircraft) and a commitment to keep them flying for all of us to enjoy. Come along on our journey to meet some of these aviators, hear the passion in their voice about their aircraft and be inspired to engage in this aviation community!

Jim brings his flying journey into focus, starting with the Piper Cub and leveraging it up to War Birds of WW II and modern high-performance aircraft. Jim’s passion for all forms of aviation has been an exciting platform to bring those one-of-a-kind pictures to all of us. And wonder how did he got that perspective? While Jim talks of luck along the way, he clearly has a skillset that makes his luck happen naturally. We discuss his family and faith and how they play a strong foundation for his drive and success. Jim also shares how he is establishing his legacy through his close relationships with his grandchildren and feeding the machine for future generations. Our conversation has a sense of calm, comfort and credibility while Jim paints his story in the sky for all of us to visualize. 

With a humble but self-confident approach, Rear Admiral Ed Allen (ret), takes us on a life journey starting from a grass airfield where his efforts on the flight line would get him general aviation flight time to commanding a naval aircraft carrier group for the United States navy. With 31 years of military service followed by a civilian career, The Rear Admiral shares some of his military experiences in the most high-performance aircraft of the time, commanding teams in the most demanding of situations and how he leveraged his experiences to support the private sector following his military service. He provided leadership during the era of Top Gun and was recognized for his outstanding performance receiving both the “Tail Hooker of the year” and the “John Paul Jones” awards in the same year, an accomplishment few have accomplished. And you will learn a few of his life lessons to lead and live by that will resonate as the foundation for his success, and we will all come away with a greater understanding of his accomplishments. So come join us and hear why Oh Yeah? Watch This! Is a man worth hearing from!

 Visiting with Sherman Gardner owner and operator of “In The Pattern” Aviation, we learn of his journey from the parish to the flightline. We hear about his leap of faith in transitioning from leading a young parish to leading a high-flying flight school and educational facility in Denton Texas. We hear of the life lessons learned in the parish and how he applies them in his development of both the technical and character maturity of his students and team. His focus on team as his real catalyst for success and client services leading to his core mission of making the “flying experience” one to remember for both the student and trainers. Sherman details his process of leadership, chain of command, expectations and flexibility in his organization. As you travel with us through his journey you will come to understand why his team is best in class, why he has fun and how we can all learn from him!

Visiting with Nick Adcock will bring you to realize that we all have a purpose in life and when you can leverage part of it into aviation, that makes it all the better! You will hear a full circle journey of general aviation, training, military and commercial experience while acknowledging his family as the foundation for his success. His honest and humble reflection on his own challenges and how he rallied back with the help of his family to continue his journey with an emphasis on paying it forward in every way possible. Come join us in Nicks journey, I took away several things to help me in my day-to-day approach and I know you will as well. Thank you Nick for sharing your story! 

Seth Lake of the VSL aviation podcast provides us with insight to his background in aviation and how it energized the VSL podcast and beyond. He highlights how the journey started for him and how he has kept it close to home, giving back to those who needed training and inspiration, while a vocal advocate for safety in the skies. You will find his commitment to family, faith, country and his community has given him the platform to live his dream and beyond. Seth is a unique person who has earned his way into his personal and aviation communities respect, and he asks for nothing more than to give back, well done Seth!

Sam Riggs of Coastal Seaplanes meets with the Old Fly Guy to share his journey in general aviation. His story is one of aviation technical expertise and a passion for music that brings a true balance in his pursuit of aviation excellence.