SimpleFlight Radio

Reliving The Aviation Experience. Part One - In-Cockpit Audio Recording Jun 01, 2023

Like most people that love aviation, I find myself addicted to the experience. Our community shares that passion regardless of all the other things that make us different. And it's that love that drives our desire to share the experience with others. Hence the reason for Simpleflight Radio. It provided me the venue to share with all of you. And not too many years ago, I started PF Flying, a YouTube channel that brings both in-cockpit audio and video to our followers.

The experience has led to me learning about all the power of recording my flights and sharing them with all of you. It also led to a new love tied to producing the output in a way that resonates with people. Along the way, I have made a lot of mistakes that are relatively common across the pilot community. So when Max Trescott (aviationnewstalk.com) approached me about producing a show or two on the ins, outs, gotchas, and best practices of recording aviation, I jumped at the chance.

I enjoy my discussions with Max, because there always seems to be great value in our shared experiences and our listeners seem to share that sentiment. So thanks to Max for allowing me be a guest on his show and replay it here.

Today's show is all about the audio end of the topic. Stay tuned for Part 2, in which we will focus on video. Hope you love listening as much as we enjoyed talking about it.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Situational Awareness with Max Trescott Nov 06, 2022

Apologies to our loyal listeners for the gap between shows. Schedules, Family, Work, and Life are competing for time. I love SimpleFlight and refuse to let it go. Thanks for your patience, while we work it out.

In the meantime, I continue to have so many wonderful conversations with pilots across the country. One of my pilot buddies is Max Trescott and we tend to have wonderful philosophical conversations at the end of our respective days. The focus is always on being better, safer pilots, and imparting that knowledge to others. Max commented on how we should record our impromptu conversations as we drive from point A to point B. So let it be written, so let it be done! Let's call it Pilots In Cars (PIC)! Lately, I have been diving deep into Situational Awareness, as it appears to be an opportunity for pilots to take their skills to the next level. Max and I dug into that recently and we had the good sense to record the conversation. Max posted it on his podcast (aviationnewstalk.com) and I did the same here. We're very interested in your comments, experiences, and questions, so please let us know what you think. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Blur Skies and Tailwinds!

Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, Engine Out 5/31/22 (S10E3) Jun 04, 2022

Yes, SimpleFlight Radio is still here. We took an extended break, but not without missing all of you. Some of you have found me with my YouTube channel, PF Flying. If you checked it out, you saw that I had a catastrophic engine failure at about 1500 ft AGL. When it happened, I was completely caught off guard, but the surprises didn't stop there. With over 2300 hours, I always feared an engine out. I didn't think about it often, but if someone was to ask, it would've been in my top 3 list of things I didn't want to experience. I wondered how I would handle it. Would I be frozen by fear and panic? That's when surprise #2 hit me. I felt no fear, I had no indecision, and I had complete confidence I was going to be OK. So join us in our first episode for 2022, with Brandon and myself doing a completely unscripted hangar talk session about what happened, how it happened, and what came after the dead stick landing. I learned a lot about myself and more specifically, how my brain was the key to a successful outcome. I believe the same can happen for you, so encourage you to listen and learn about how to increase your chances for success when facing an emergency. We'd love to hear your thoughts and questions. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Aviation Journey's (Part 2), Bob Reynolds, 12/29/21 (S10E2) Dec 30, 2021

As 2021 comes to a close, it's a good time to reflect on the year that was. As we made progress against Covid, the battle rages on. Still, 2021 was a great year for General Aviation. Many people have decided now is the time to start their aviation journey. Flight Schools are extremely active and plane inventory & availability is tight as people start to check off bucket list items at a fast pace. That not only goes for new pilots, but existing ones that are reaching new heights.

That is the case for Bob Reynolds. As you may recall, Bob joined us in the summer of 2020 after taking advantage of the airline slowdown by landing at every Bravo airport in the lower 48 (except Regan). And he didn't stop there. Since then, Bob earned his Cirrus Vision Jet type rating and has been building time via some great adventures. Join us on this week's episode as Bob talks about his new aviation journey, including the costs, challenges, and the joy of following his dream. Our dreams may be a bit different, but Bob sets the standard by which all of us can measure ourselves regardless of the destination. We'd love to hear your thoughts and questions. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Navigating Insurance, Wendy Wenk, 9/15/21 (S10E1) Sep 21, 2021

As Oshkosh came and went in 2021, the Simpleflight Crew celebrated the completion of our 9th year. During the time of Covid, we didn't get a complete season out, but are very excited for our 10th season. So we wanted to start this season with something we've not talked about previously and that is a hot topic. After all our shows, we thought it would be an impossible task. And yet, it was right there in front of us. Aviation Insurance. Join us on this week's episode as we are joined by Wendy Wenk, President of Wenk Aviation Insurance (www.wenkaviation.com). With almost 40 years in the business, Wendy and her staff help aviators navigate the often confusing landscape facing pilots and organizations. Especially since the dynamics have been turned upside down over the last few years. Brandon and Marc sought to understand the world of coverage, premiums, dynamics and best practices. Wendy's long term perspective was eye opening and informative. We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did. We'd love to hear your thoughts and questions. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Aviation Dreams Can Still Happen. June 6,2021 (S9E10) Jun 07, 2021

Once bitten by the Aviation "Bug", pilots dream about flying experiences to come. It may be a particular mission or a specific make and model of aircraft that the pilot wants to fly. Dreams come in all shapes and sizes. As a pilot gets a cadence going and becomes comfortable with their aviation life, a sense of contentment leads to a mental happy place and a zen-like experience. Interestingly, new aviation experiences add to that feeling, but always seem centered on the same foundation of a love of aviation. But then, when you least expect it, a new experience can come along that shatters the calm and replaces it with a high energy realization that there is more to achieve and now is the time to do something about it.

That's what happened to Marc after getting a chance to sit up front in a M-600 with a flying buddy. Marc has flown other "next level" aircraft, but for some reason, this time resulted in a life changing moment. The feeling, the sound, the decisions, the experience felt like a new world that was calling to him. So listen in as Marc talks about it with Brandon and tries to understand what just happened. The discussion also led down a path focused on different flying experiences and how aviation gives back based on what you put in. It was a fun conversation. We hope you agree. We'd love to hear about your aviation dreams and any "life changing" moments that happened along the way. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Around The World - GA Style, Alex Gronberger, May 16, 2021 (S9E9) May 18, 2021

For many GA pilots, a cross country trip usually means several hundred miles, a hotel room, and a return trip. But for a few people, a bigger calling exists. Join us on this week's episode as we are joined by Alex Gronberger, who is about to join his wife and embark on an around the world trip in his 2009 Cirrus SR22. His trip has already started, as he departed Buenos Aires, Argentina on March 4th, stopping in the Midwest to have his plane fitted with a brand new engine. Just planning for a new engine provides a hint of the amount of preparation required to make the trip a reality. Selling all of his belongings (including his house), having his wife earn her private ticket, asking for a one year sabbatical from his employer, and we can all start to feel the commitment and dedication that drove Alex to make this decision. We may not be able to join Alex on his trip (checkout Earthrounders.com), but listen in and share in his excitement for this adventure of a lifetime. We'd love to hear about your aviation dream and the journey you took to achieve it. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Oshkosh! Our Community's Common Unity, with Dick Knapinski May 04, 2021

The word Community is made up of two root words... Common Unity. That one thing that bonds people together. To an Avgeek, we share a love of aviation... and it is EAA's Airventure that unites us all in a special way. One of the signals of Airventure, is the release of the annual NOTAM. As April came to a close, the NOTAM arrived making last year's disappointment a distant memory.

https://www.eaa.org/-/media/Files/AirVenture/FlyingIn/NOTAM/2021/2021-NOTAM.ashx

For attendees, Airventure is an awesome event which brings excitement and smiles to all that participate. Have you thought about what it takes to put an event together that hosts hundreds of thousands of people? Add to that the unknowns (e.g. weather, etc.) and an extremely dynamic logistical puzzle that impacts thousands of stakeholders. It is then you start to realize the requirements for multi-faceted planning, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills. Enter, Dick Knapinski, Director of Communications for EAA. As a 29 year veteran of the organization, Dick leads a team of people all focused on making Airventure something special for all of us, regardless of our connection. Join Brandon and Marc as they sit down with Dick to hear how EAA pulls the event off, with nary a hitch. We also get into a few behind the scenes stories that will leave you wanting for more. Can't wait to share those stories at KOSH! We'd love to hear about your favorite Airventure story. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Air Zoo @ KAZO, Fun To Say, Fun To See, March 7, 2021 (S9E7) Mar 08, 2021

As the world starts thinking about getting back to normal, the question comes up, "What is normal?" For each of us, it's a different answer. Among the community of avgeeks, it generally means joining with other pilots in getting back in the airplane and finding destinations.

For many, an aviation museum is a special place, as it connects us with aviation across the generations. There are many places of note across the United States, but one gem is found at the Kalamazoo Michigan airport (KAZO). Never heard about it? This is your chance to get up close and personal with what makes the AirZoo at KAZO (airzoo.org) a perfect destination for all those that love aviation and their friends and families.

Join Brandon and Marc as they sit down with President and CEO, Troy Thrash and the AirZoo's Restoration Manager, Greg Ward. It's obvious both these gentlemen love what they do and take pride in being part of a special team. You'll learn what makes the museum tick, how it operates, and how the team includes the customer as part of the family.

Maybe a SimpleFlight meet-up @ KAZO is something that can happen in 2021. Now that's a new normal we can all live with.

We'd love to hear about your favorite Aviation Museums and recommended destinations. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Taking Off In A New Direction, Jerry Meyer, January 31, 2021 (S9E6) Feb 01, 2021

With 2020 behind us and with high hopes for a great 2021, what better way to change our mindset, than sitting down and talking aviation. During our last 9 seasons, the SimpleFlight crew has had the pleasure of hosting north of 200 guests., with a focus on finding amazing people doing amazing things in aviation. And this week's show is no different.

In some people's opinion, the LSA market has not lived up to its expectations, but there are companies that saw the LSA as an opportunity to reach out to new customers and deliver on new missions. One such company is Icon Aircraft (https://www.iconaircraft.com/).

With Brandon running into technical challenges, Marc went solo in talking with Jerry Meyer, Director of Marketing for Icon. While not a household name to many of us in GA, Jerry brings a strong background in aviation (naval pilot) and brand management to his role at Icon. There were a lot of questions for Jerry and we invite you to listen in and learn about Icon's aircraft, it's culture, its go to market strategy, and what makes the company so special.

We're wondering if any of you are flying the Icon A5 or other Amphib. We'd love to hear your experience and have you enlighten the rest of us landlubbers about the joys of landing on a "wet" runway. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Year End Hangar Talk, December 13, 2020 (S9E5) Dec 15, 2020

2020 has been a notable year. How is that for an understatement. For many of us, aviation serves as an escape from the pressures of daily life. It can be relaxing, energizing, and fulfilling, with an added benefit of providing an attitude reset. How ironic that various "shelter-in-place" or other constraints, served to limit aviation's accessibility just when it was needed most.

But with all that, there was plenty of positives and aviation did contribute many happy moments. This week's episode gives Marc and Brandon an opportunity to look back and take note of the ups and downs that characterize 2020.

Like a relaxing Sunday flight, the guys just let the topics come to them and let the stress of 2020 melt away. The conversation spanned a lot of topics, including training, maintenance, aircraft systems, pilot attitudes, etc. We're interested in hearing how you spent the year of Covid, and if you found positive moments you can hold on to. Please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

In 2021, we plan to get back to weekly shows and tighten the relationship with our listeners. Most important, the three of us wish you a new year filled with good health, happiness and lots of aviation. Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Pacific On The Right, Curtis Pierce, Nov 1, 2020 (S9E4) Nov 03, 2020

After the last three shows on airplane ownership, it's only natural to talk about what comes next. And of course the answer is, TAKE A TRIP. But where? I suspect if I asked all of you, the answer wouldn't be to take a 5,000 mile, 63 hour international flight over 2 1/2 weeks.

But that's exactly what tonight's guest did. Join us as we "sit down" with Curtis Pierce, a Phoenix-based airline pilot, proud Mooney owner, and now an author. His memoir, "Pacific On The Right", takes us back 20 years as a young CFI, Curtis joined with a freshly minted private pilot, who bought a new 172 and decided to reposition it to Santiago, Chile.

Listen as Brandon and Marc discuss, the planning, the language and culture challenges, weather, and even landing at an airport that hadn't seen an airplane in over 5 years. Talk about a challenging first flight!!! How about you? What was your longest flight? Anything international? What did you put in the log book. We'd love to hear your story. Please share it with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Ownership Part 3 - Leaseback, September 20, 2020 (S9E3) Oct 13, 2020

The last two shows have focused on airplane ownership from both a sole owner and a partnership perspective. As we close out our trilogy, Brandon and Marc are joined by Steve Rogers, owner of a beautiful 2004 Glass Panel Archer. Steve bought the plane off the manufacturing floor in 2005 after making the decision to pay for it by "leasing it back" to a flight school or flying club.

A lot has happened over the last 15 years with technology, the economy, costs, etc. Yet through it all, the Archer continues to look and fly like a new airplane. That is due to a flying club that treats it like they own it, and even more important, to an owner that is committed to the safety and pride factor of anyone that flies her. Steve is often called the best leaseback owner that any flying organization could have. He loves owning the plane and loves helping people achieve their aviation dreams in his plane.

We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as Brandon and Marc did. Not only was it educational, but we enjoyed talking to someone that loves helping others in aviation. Would you ever purchase and leaseback an airplane? What kind of person does that? Interested to hear your perspective. As always, please share your views with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Plane Ownership - Part 2, Edward Forman, September 6, 2020 (S9E2) Sep 15, 2020

As a follow up to our last episode, the SimpleFlight crew reached out to Edward Forman, a pilot that embarked on a mission to find a plane and some partners to help him build proficiency and get more utility out of general aviation. The big questions revolved around number of partners, type of partners, how much to spend, and what make and model of plane would best meet the mission.

While each purchase process stands on its own, the conversation with Edward highlights key factors that have to be considered, including the equipment, where to source the plane, where to hangar the plane, finding a maintenance shop, and discovering that a 9 year old plane won't be perfect. If an unfamiliar model is purchased, the transition to a different platform also needs to be considered.

All in all, Brandon and Marc touched on a lot of aspects of the plane purchase and ownership process. But we're sure there are other perspectives. And we'd like to hear yours. As always, please share your views with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Stay The Course, Andy Thome, August 23, 2020 (S9E1) Aug 25, 2020

As SimpleFlight Radio starts its 9th season, we decided to sit down and revisit with Andy Thome, who was our guest twice in the last three months of 2019. At that time, Andy was going through an airplane purchase process and shared his experience from start to finish. His purchase of a 1959 Piper Comanche 180 in December, was not the end of the story. Quite the opposite. Similar to a TV newscast that warns its viewers that the following story could be quite disturbing, we must warn you the journey Andy has been on will probably make you cringe. The good news is there is much to be learned from the story, including how Andy is dealing with the less than perfect experience he continues to face.

As a pilot, we are taught how to deal with adversity and stay focused on taking our journey to a safe and successful conclusion. That is exactly what Andy has done for the last several months. So sit back, relax, and listen and learn from Andy as he shares the story of his journey since buying his plane in December of 2019.

Brandon and Marc wonder if they would've navigated the process as well as Andy. We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Bravo! Bravo! Bob Reynolds, July 12, 2020 (S8E18) Jul 28, 2020

Covid-19 has impacted so many people across the globe in some physical or emotional way. The specifics are tough to recount. To say we need to find a way to "de-stress" is an understatement. For many of us, we find our escape in flying. And tonight's guest, takes that to an extreme.

Meet Bob Reynolds, a Chicago pilot that uses his SR22 to see the USA at safe, but low altitudes. His last minute trips to points of interest from coast to coast will probably leave you green with envy. Despite the distraction and impact of the Corona virus, Bob saw an opportunity to take his mission to the next level.

Bob heard about pilots taking advantage of the reduction in air carrier flights, by adding their local Bravo airport to their logbook. That included many Chicago private pilots who landed at O'Hare. Bob said, "why stay local?", as he set out to land at every Bravo airport in the US. It's an incredible story and we're honored that Bob was willing to share it with all of us. Please join us for a ride of a lifetime.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

An Electrifying Career, Wayne Temple, May 24, 2020 (S8E17) Jun 09, 2020

There are a lot of paths to a job in aviation. Some are unconventional. And sometimes the job itself is unconventional. Welcome to this week's episode of SimpleFlight radio. Join us as Marc and Brandon spend time with Wayne Temple, a Helicopter Line Pilot and COO of Wake Aviation (wakeaviation.com). His story about how he became the only active Journeyman Lineman/Wire pilot in the country is interesting by itself. But to learn about what the job entails and what a day in the life is like, is compelling.

You might assume that a job flying helicopters carrying people and equipment that hang below the aircraft, while operating within feet of structures and high power lines is not a career that elicits comfort for most people. Yet, you'll hear Wayne talk about how he essentially earned his license on the job and has accumulated 9,000 hours doing what he loves. Of note is the fact that he has zero time flying fixed wing aircraft. This is someone that found his dream job at an early age. It's a great story and we hope you agree.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Ladies Love Taildraggers, May 10, 2020 (S8E16) May 15, 2020

All pilots are passionate about aviation. It's the one thing that creates a bond. As Marc likes to say, it's our Common Unity. And that's what makes us a COMMUNITY. But it doesn't stop there. There are families within the family. Some are based on aircraft types (there are more than 100 aircraft type clubs), while others are pilot segmented groups (e.g. 99's, NAFI, AbleFlight). And there are even a few organizations that bring both together.

And that brings us to Ladies Love Taildraggers (ladieslovetaildraggers.com). Marc and Brandon talked with Judy Birchler and Kelly Jeffries, who started the organization in 2009 and now have over 2500 members. Listen in and catch their contagious enthusiasm as they share not only what they put into the group, but what the members come away with. Spoiler alert... it starts with FUN!

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Build A Plane; Build A Life, Mike Ojo, April 12, 2020 (S8E15) Apr 21, 2020

Marc commonly says that YouTube is his favorite app. The main reason comes down to access to education and people doing really cool things. And as no surprise, Marc spends a lot of time watching aviation videos. One of the "Tubers", Mike Ojo (mojogrip.net) became a favorite of Marc's, due to his love of aviation and diversity of topics he covered.

With Brandon out of pocket, earning his VisionJet Type rating, Marc went solo in talking with Mike about the genesis of his channel and the back story of how it came to be and where he's taking it. Then recently, he made a major shift, with the decision to purchase and build a Sling TSI. And he's bringing all his listeners along for the ride.

Listen in to this episode of SimpleFlight Radio and learn what it takes and the surprises that come along with purchasing a kit plane. You'll also hear Mike talk about not building a plane, but rather building a life around flying. Now that's a concept we can all get behind.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Beyond Pilot Error, Karlene Petitt, March 29, 2020 (S8E14) Apr 07, 2020

With Covid-19 being so front and center in everyone's mind, it's very common and appropriate to hear people sending wishes for safety and good health. Certainly, SimpleFlight wishes the same for you and yours. The path to getting to a healthier state, starts with a cultural change that now requires us to stand apart physically. Ironically, the desire to be safer, may also require a cultural shift.

Brandon and Marc welcome back Karlene Petitt to SimpleFlight Radio. As an international airline pilot, author, pilot advocate and aviation safety subject matter expert, Karlene spoke to the crew about her doctoral research into the relationships between safety culture, pilot training, aircraft knowledge, aviation passion, and the impact of automation usage. The goal was to determine the root cause of performance issues. And unlike what we are used to hearing, it goes far beyond "pilot error".

Listen in to this episode of SimpleFlight Radio, and hear first hand, the surprising results of her research. We enjoyed the conversation and hope you do too.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

OSH Mass Arrivals - Chip Gentry, March 8, 2020 (S8E13) Mar 10, 2020

With our reoccurring theme of aviation bucket lists,, many would say flying into KOSH during Airventure is near the top of the list. But once you've done that, how do you top it? How about being a part of one of the mass arrivals. Sounds pretty good, but how do you prep GA pilots to take on the risk and responsibility of flying in formation to the world's business airport?

That's what Brandon and Marc wanted to find out when they sat down with Chip Gentry – Director of Legal Affairs and Assistant Director of Operations's for the Cherokees to OSH mass arrival team (https://www.cherokees2osh.com). Suffice it to say, there are a lot of considerations for logistics planning, pilot preparation, and coordination across pilots, airports, and airspace. This year, the 60th anniversary of the Piper Cherokee, brings special meaning, as the group is capping participation to 60 PA24, PA28, and PA32 pilots.

Listen in to this episode of SimpleFlight Radio, as Brandon and Marc sit down with Chip to go behind the scenes to find out how a group of people can team together to ensure the end result is a safe and smooth arrival. We hope you enjoy the show.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Flying Fun Alaska, Ray Weber, February 9, 2020 (S8E12) Feb 11, 2020

It seems every pilot has an aviation bucket list. Sometimes its a type of airplane, an experience, or a destination. And sometimes it's all three. Regardless, the lists are wide ranging and not often duplicated. But there is an exception. A flight to Alaska is found on most lists.

It's easy to understand why. No other state is as dependent on general aviation as Alaska. The challenges it presents to pilots is legendary. Even getting there adds the challenge of flying through another country. Once there, with a reputation that precedes it, the inexperienced pilot might find it both beautiful and foreboding. All of this adds up to a very special feeling about what it would be like to fly there. Which brings up the question, what is it like to start your PPL training in Alaska? Do the same rules apply? Do CFI's in Alaska teach differently than those in the lower 48? These are the questions Brandon and Marc had. And thanks to one of our loyal listeners (Edward from Alaska), we were introduced to Dr. Raymond Weber of the University of Alaska Anchorage. Dr. Weber, is a member of the faculty in the Aviation Technology Division, with a background in Aviation Safety.

Listen in to this episode of SimpleFlight Radio, as Brandon and Marc sit down with Ray to learn about the special considerations that comes with teaching and learning to fly in our 49th state. We hope you enjoy the show and end up adding an Alaskan adventure to your personal bucket list.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Listener Potpourri, January 26, 2020 (S8E11) Jan 26, 2020

With a late cancellation of SimpleFlight's guest, our listeners came to the rescue. We asked them if they had any questions, and they came through in spades. Armed with topics to discuss, we knew we would need help with the ATC-related questions. Enter repeat guest, Eddie Trujillo, our favorite C90 (Chicago Approach) air traffic specialist. From there it was Marc, Brandon and Eddie, taking each question and making a hangar talk session you're sure to love.

Whenever you have a question or comment, let the SimpleFlight crew know. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Aviation Pathways, Jarred Dellinger, December 29, 2019 (S8E10) Dec 30, 2019

When Marc earned his PPL in the mid-70's, he learned from young CFI's, who were on a path to the airlines. Getting a job was tough, as young pilots were competing with military pilots and those that were having their training paid for by the GI Bill. Fast forward 40 years, and while it's still tough to get with the majors, the candidate pool and job landscape has changed dramatically.

Those looking to earn their living in aviation have a lot of diversity in gender, background, age, and career goals. It is not unusual to find first time CFI's approaching retirement age, as they prepare for their second, or maybe, "final" career. For some, the CFI role is a stepping stone to flying passengers, while others view the instructor job as a way to share their passion for flight and to help others achieve their aviation dreams, as well as achieving their own.

Listen in to this episode of SimpleFlight Radio, as Brandon and Marc speak with Jared Dellinger, a Chicago-based CFI, who is enjoying his "new and improved" career as a CFI. As for his future in aviation, Jared is letting that be a work in progress. With the cockpit of a GA plane being "the best office in the world", there is no need to rush towards that next job. That's a very refreshing attitude and in that spirit, tune in and Enjoy The Ride!

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Reflections 2019, December 19, 2019 (S8E9) Dec 20, 2019

Happy Holidays!!! With the end of the year in sight, Brandon and Marc reflected on different areas of general aviation that have an opportunity to improve with just a little effort from all of us that love the industry so much. Certainly there are many highlights as well, so the guys touched on some of the things aviation got right.

All of us are interested in making aviation better, so we'd love to hear your thoughts on the good, the bad, and the ugly from your perspective. What are your pet peeves? What should General Aviation Stop Doing? Start Doing? Continue Doing?

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

From Plane Shopping To Purchase, December 1, 2019 (S8E8) Dec 02, 2019

If you haven't listened to the October 13 podcast, we suggest you take a few moments and do so now. You'll get a chance to meet two members of the Leading Edge Flying Club (KPWK), who each have a dream of plane ownership. During the show, we learned they each brought a different mission, budget, and philosophy to their decision making process. Both have made significant strides towards their goal. There's a lot we can all identify with.

On this week's episode, we'll reconnect with Andy Thome to get an update on his progress (spoiler alert - he bought a plane). Yet, other than a picture, he still has not had a chance see the plane in person, as "she" goes through a series of steps before she can be flown to her new home. It's an interesting story and quite an education for the rest of us. We hope you enjoy the show.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Carbon Cub To Chicago, November 17, 2019 Nov 18, 2019

For those of you that read Rinker Buck's memoir, "Flight of Passage", you'll understand the romance associated with a cross country flight in a Piper Cub. If you haven't read the story, you only need to love General Aviation to understand the smile that comes with a low and slow flight of 1500 nautical miles across the Western and Midwestern United States. Imagine a pilot that has been flying for close to 50 years and amassed 39,000 hours, but never achieved a goal to make that kind of trip, until now.

This week on SimpleFlight Radio, Marc and Brandon welcome back Bob Schmelzer for his third visit to the crew's Chicago studio. Two and a half years ago, one of Bob's students ordered a brand new Carbon Cub (LSA). When it became clear the plane would be delivered in November of this year, the owner asked Bob if he would fly out to Yakima, Washington to pick up the plane and fly it back to its new home in Chicago. Seeing an opportunity to fulfill a goal of making such a flight, Bob jumped at the chance. After spending most of the last decade flying Boeing 777's between Shanghai and Chicago, the idea of flying at 100 knots just above the terrain, over three days, in a taildragger, must have created some interesting emotions and thought processes. Listen in and find out directly from Captain Bob, what he expected and what he experienced on his trek across the mountains and flat-lands bringing this little Cub to its new home.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Brrr, It's Cold Outside - Cold Weather Operations, October 27, 2019 Nov 02, 2019

With a forecast for snow on Halloween in Chicago, the topic of winter has entered our vocabulary too early this year. Yet, with its arrival, the topic of cold weather operations seems right on schedule. Non-pilots commonly ask if GA pilots fly in the winter. After all, won't icing be an issue. These same people are amazed to hear that its often the best flying of the year. Clear skies, smooth rides, and performance that can't be matched. And the scenery.... Pilot and non-pilot alike, will always be amazed at the beauty of flying under a full moon above a snow covered landscape. To see the ground light up as the moonlight reflects off the white snow is a life changing moment. Of course, on the other side of the coin, it's best to not talk about freezing preflights, snowy runways, and that ice thing we don't want to think about!

Winter flight operations has a lot of implications that go beyond airframe icing. This week on SimoleFlight Radio, listen in as Brandon and Marc discuss the special aspects of preflight, flight and postflight during this interesting time of year. Plus, the SimpleFlight crew remind us that it's more than plane and pilot. Let's not forget our passengers. So bundle up, shake off the rust and get ourselves ready for the wonderful flying ahead of us.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Plane Shopping, October 13, 2019 (S8E5) Oct 15, 2019

Whether it's Trade-A-Plane or Controller.com, many GA pilots spend a fair amount of time window shopping for their dream plane. It's fun and results in a smile. But then the spreadsheet comes into play as the prospective plane owner starts to rationalize and compare rental costs vs. the cost of ownership. Soon, the math starts to make sense and it's time to take next steps. Hey, this can happen!

But what are those next steps? What questions need to be asked and where are the answers found. Will my "significant other" support me? How do I broach the subject? All of a sudden the simple finance question has turned into a long and unknown journey into the abyss. Well, maybe not.

This week on SimpleFlight Radio, Marc and Brandon sit down with two members of Leading Edge Flying Club (KPWK), who are part of a larger group of members that are asking for some answers on how to go about buying a plane. Andy Thome and Edward Forman have similar missions, but different budgets and goals for what they are trying to achieve. Tune in to hear the process they've followed to date and the path they've laid out in front of them.

We're interested to have you join the discussion with your opinion and any questions you have of the SimpleFlight crew. And at the same time, share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Archie League Awards, October 6, 2019 S8-E4 Oct 08, 2019

Since 2004, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has been recognizing its members for extraordinary performance in turning a potentially bad situation into a "non-event". Or as they call it, "A Save". Named after the first Air Traffic Controller, The Archie League Medal of Safety awards are announced each September to controllers across the various regions in the US. See the link below.

The award winners commonly remark, they were just doing their job. While true, no one can argue with the positive results they achieve in the face of impending disaster. It's noteworthy that it goes beyond situational awareness and the ability to solve complex problems in the face of a ticking time clock. Being able to communicate as a reassuring voice to a distressed pilot cannot be overstated. On this week's episode of SimpleFlight Radio, join Marc and Brandon as they listen to multiple replays of the radio transmissions between ATC and pilots. It's no surprise there is plenty to learn from these examples, which leads to an informative discussion between our co-hosts.

As always, we're interested to have you join the discussion and tell us what you think. Please share your thoughts with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

https://natca.org/index.php/media-center/other-natca-awards/archie-league-awards Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Al Palicki, Making A Difference For 40 Years, September 17, 2019 Sep 24, 2019

A wise person once made the statement that if your smile is bigger on Friday than it is on Monday, it's time to find a new job. Big smiles on Monday aren't that common, but neither is tonight's guest, Al Palicki, General Manager for Signature Flight Support, at Chicago Executive Airport. Al tells us he feels like he hasn't had a day of work in the 40 years he's been coming to the airport.

Brandon and Marc sat down with Al, to talk about how his journey got started and the path he took to get to where he is today. In addition to learning about Al, the crew also delved into FBO operations, including the constraints, strategies, and philosophies Al brings to the job. What Brandon and Marc learned, is that in addition to rules that ensure a safe and customer first experience, it still comes down to the people and the culture created by an organization's leadership. We're interested to hear your thoughts, so please share them with the rest of the SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram Community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Getting Personal. Meet Brandon Anderson, September 3, 2019 Sep 04, 2019

The speed at which September arrived is indicative of the whirlwind summer the SimpleFlight crew experienced. Our tight schedules impacted the quantity of shows, but quality remained high. As we planned for the upcoming months it was clear that available free time for Al, was limited at best. For that reason, Al has decided to step away from SimpleFlight to focus on his many responsibilities at work and at home.

Marc and Joby sat down to create a short list of potential co-hosts. One of the first names on their respective list, was Brandon Anderson. Brandon, a former guest of the show, brings all the attributes our audience wants, starting with a passion for aviation. We're excited to have him join the crew. WELCOME BRANDON! There is so much more, as you will hear listening to this week's episode of SimpleFlight radio. In addition to learning about Brandon's background, the conversation touched on philosophical topics, like personal minimums. We're interested to hear your perspective on the items discussed.

As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Getting To Know You - Boldmethod, August 4, 2019 Aug 05, 2019

Oshkosh 2019 is in the books!!! It was a record breaking event, with many noteworthy outcomes that are sure to fuel an exciting year in aviation. One item we like, is that OSH represents the anniversary of our first show, 7 YEARS AGO!!!

We can't think of a better way to kick off Season 8, than with a repeat guest and a SimpleFlight favorite, Boldmethod!!!

Boldmethod (boldmethod.com) co-founders, Aleks Udris and Colin Cutler, join Al and Marc to give all of us a peek behind the scenes of the brand they've built and the life they lead. There are lots of surprises related to the time and effort required to get to the end result. What isn't surprising is the quality, energy, and insight they bring to all their followers. With this episode, whether you are familiar with Boldmethod or not, you're going to learn something you didn't know. We enjoyed the discussion and hope you do too. As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Why Not Me - Andrew Holmes, July 7, 2019 Jul 09, 2019

For some of us, our aviation dream started with a goal to earn a private pilot certificate. On this week's SimpleFlight Radio episode, you'll meet Andrew Holmes, whose dream was to buy a jet, but knew that the process must start with him learning to fly, and to do so with dedication, patience, and no short-cuts. What Andrew learned during his training, is that flying is a skill that is acquired through practice. What Al and Marc learned about Andrew, is that he is someone who is dedicated to being a safe pilot and brings a significant respect for the learning process, and it goes without saying that if Andrew sets a goal, he will achieve it. With this episode, our goal for you, is to have you ask yourself the question, "Why Not Me?" As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!

Point A to Point B, "The Experience" - June 15, 2019 Jun 20, 2019

Sometimes getting to sporting events is quite the hassle, often taking multiple days to enjoy a 3 hour game. Well now, the game has changed. Listen in to this week's episode of SimpleFlight Radio as Marc and Al sit down with Todd Rubin, of Big Game Air (biggameair.com). Todd and his business partner wanted to go see a college football game and for reasons you'll hear, had to do so via a business jet. Finding others that could help pay for the flight turned out to be an easy task, which gave them the idea of making a business out of getting people to sports venues. But it is so much more. Todd understood the travel was only a small piece of the puzzle. Listen in and learn how this "accidental entrepreneur" put it all together to create an Experience! As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

A General Aviation Journey, Kirke Machon, May 27, 2019 May 29, 2019

Pilots and Avgeeks share a special bond which can usually be described in one word.... Passion. In today's world, it's not uncommon to find pilots that are making their way back into the sky after an extended hiatus. What is less common is to come across a pilot that after being "bitten" by the flying bug, immersed himself into the journey that included earning his private and instrument ticket, the purchase of a plane, and taking trips that previously were only dreams. That's when the story makes a 180 degree turn. Because in this case, the pilot voluntarily decided it was time to walk away. Listen in to this week's episode of SimpleFlight Radio as Marc and Al sit down with Kirke Machon, a Chicago-based GA pilot that embarked on and completed a journey that most only dream about. And once the dream was complete, had the strength and conviction to walk away. We found the discussion empowering and uplifting. We hope you do as well. As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

The People Behind an Airport - Jaime Abbott - Executive Airport Director May 14, 2019

We often think of airports as just pieces of concrete, maybe a control tower, and a place to land. Its easy to forget about the people behind the scenes putting their best foot forward to make your airport run! This week, we sit down with Jamie Abbott, the Executive Director at our home airport - Chicago Executive (KPWK). Jamie has some incredible stories on how he and his team work hard to keep the airport safe, valuable to the community, and make a home for your favorite Aviation Podcast, SimpleFlight Radio! As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Navigating The Process; Kseniya Polinsky, April 28, 2019 May 06, 2019

Ask most pilots, and they will tell you that learning to fly was one of the most rewarding and challenging things they have done in life. And while similarities exist, each pilot's journey is unique. Something that can be depended on are the many challenges that will be faced throughout the training process. This week's episode of SimpleFlight Radio has Marc and Al talking with Kseniya Polinsky, a friend of the show, who recently earned her Private Pilot certificate. Like all of us, Kseniya, had to answer the questions of how to go about getting started, finding a school, a CFI, and establishing a timeline that made sense for her, while life around her continued to change. Kseniya's story serves as a reminder that the path is not always straight, but it is within the student's ultimate control. The crew enjoyed hearing about her strategies for understanding and navigating both the human and technical factors that come into play during the process. Of course, establishing, and when necessary, reestablishing momentum is a topic we can all identify with. We hope you you enjoy the conversation as much as we did. As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Airline Dispatcher, James Tochihara, March 31, 2019 Apr 02, 2019

As a General Aviation pilot, many of us think of flight planning in terms of weather, NOTAMs, fuel planning, altitude selection, routing, timing, and ensuring the pilot and plane are capable of making the flight. From there it's executing the plan. Simply, Plan The Flight and Fly The Plan. The burden is on the PIC. In the world of the airline pilot, many GA pilots assume the Dispatcher does all the flight planning and then delivers the plan to the Captain, without further discussion. Nothing could be further from the truth. This week's episode of SimpleFlight Radio has Marc and Al talking with James Tochihara, former International Dispatcher for United Airlines. One lesson learned is the Dispatcher is an essential crew member responsible for the safe and comfortable completion of the flight. That means, their vigilance, communication, and decision-making continues until the plane is parked safely at the destination gate. James takes us through the role, responsibilities, and skills that come into play, as well as a day in the life of a Professional Airline Dispatcher, including the emotional connection to every flight they touch. September 11th was discussed, with James recommending a video (https://bit.ly/2UmhCKS) to hear the story from 5 dispatchers. So welcome to this week's episode. We hope you find the conversation as enlightening as we did. As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Field of Dreams, Steve & Tina Thomas, March 24, 2019 Mar 25, 2019

It's a surprise to no one that the most common conversations in aviation, center on people and planes. And why not... it makes for great hangar flying. This week, Al and Marc were reminded of another very important aspect of aviation... The Airport. We're not talking about the runways, but how the airport serves as a hub for bringing people and planes together. Airports have personalities that are born out of the stories and the people who make them happen. This week, the SimpleFlight crew visited a shining example of the perfection that happens when it all comes together. Poplar Grove Airport (C77) is a very special place. It's not because of chance, but rather the owners of the airport, Steve and Tina Thomas, designed it that way. They built a culture years ago, which they protect, strengthen, and live 7 x 24 x 365. After a tour of the field, which was too short for their liking, the guys had a chance to sit down with Steve and Tina and talk about how they make the magic happen. When you listen to this week's show, you may hear about a flight school, a maintenance shop, a museum, and an air-park, but what you'll feel and think about is the history, the passion, and a very special community. You can read about Poplar Grove on their website:(www.poplargroveairmotive.com), but if you ever in the Midwest, drop by C77 and say hi to Steve and Tina (and the dogs). You may never want to leave. As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

Beautiful By Design, Chris Custer, March 10, 2019 Mar 12, 2019

Ask a pilot, which is their favorite plane, and they may answer with a plane they've never flown before. We know that sometimes an airplane "speaks" to a person. It may be the history, the sound, the performance, or maybe it's because of it's lines and appearance. LIN 2010, Cirrus continued its streak of innovations by introducing the Xi appearance option. It gave owners the option of making their plane a truly personal "one of a kind" experience.

Chris Custer, Lead Xi Designer for Cirrus Aircraft, joins the SimpleFlight crew in this week's episode to discuss the program from the designer's point of view. This includes the challenge of working with an owner to help them vocalize and translate their vision into a reality that takes the ownership experience to a higher level.

Chris' passion for design, combined with the pride he takes in helping customers navigate the many decisions they must make, comes through with "flying colors" in the discussion. We hope you enjoy Chris' story as much as Marc and Al did.

As always, we love hearing from you and ask you share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

We More Than Me - Captain Nathan Dial Feb 18, 2019

As President of the Leading Edge Flying Club in Chicago, Marc meets a lot of "avgeeks"; each with a story that connects them to our special aviation family. Recently Marc met Nathan Dial, an Air Force Captain who moved to Chicago on a 3 year sabbatical to earn his PhD.

Prior to coming to Chicago, Nate was flying C-130's as a Flight Commander of Group Current Operations, 55th Electronic Combat Squadron, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, in Tucson. His resume of accomplishments and decorations is lengthy, and especially impressive, considering its all happened in less than 10 years.

Not surprisingly, Nate's success has been the result of his intelligence, hard work, and understanding that the successful completion of every flight is based on how well the crew works as a team, and not due to any single crew member.

We know you will enjoy getting to know Nate. Let us know if you have any other questions you'd like us to ask him.

Also, please share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Thanks for being a part of the SimpleFlight Family!!!

ADS-B - Its more powerful than you think! January 22nd, 2019 Jan 22, 2019

It feels like ADS-B is almost about ready to get started. We only have one year left before the FAA mandate in 2020 for ADS-B Compliance! Did you know that ADS-B has been an old idea built up of multiple technologies?

Steve Bussolari was one of the original thought leaders and key contributor of building out the ADS-B system. He has so many stories to share from his time developing this new network while working in the MIT labs.

We take it for granted the amount of weather information, traffic information and resources available in our flying. Imagine in the early 1990's having an LCD screen in a Cessna 172 displaying traffic through an ADS-B device. You look out the window at 12 o'clock and 3 miles there is traffic in the exact spot that is displayed on the screen - you would probably be really excited!

Please share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Here is to a great start of 2019!!

* * * Congratulations to our Avgeek shout out!! This week our shout out goes to all the professional ATC controllers! Hopefully things will return to normal for all of you working in all the air traffic facilities! If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Go / No Go, December 16, 2018 Dec 17, 2018

This past week, Marc found himself at his airplane at 6AM in anticipation of a 7AM departure for some minor maintenance at an airport some two hours away. The only issue was his home airport (KPWK) was fogged in with forward and vertical visibility near zero. When it became apparent the fog would not lift, he canceled. He posted the situation on Facebook and Instagram, @simpleflightradio, kicking off a diverse set of opinions.

The Go / No Go decision comes with every flight, regardless of weather, equipment, pilot experience, passengers, or reason for the trip. Getting to an answer is not always straight forward, but a great discussion topic. Enjoy the show. We are interested to hear what you think and how you come to a decision. Please share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

Please note, Al, Marc, and Joby are participating in many holiday events over the next three weeks, so we're going to hold off posting any shows until January 7th. In the meantime, visit our web page (simpleflight.net/podcast) to take a trip down memory lane and re-listen to some of your favorite shows from the past 7 years.

Wishing all of you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

* * * Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @wcrahen This week's "Avgeek of the Week, correctly answered our Instagram post asking for the three criteria necessary to land coming out of an instrument approach. @wcrahen correctly identified that you must, be in a continuous position to land (stabilized approach), have the required visibility, and have some element of the runway environment in sight. Great job and ties nicely to this week's discussion. If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Cockpit Complacency, December 9, 2018 Dec 10, 2018

This week, Al confesses to some troubles in the cockpit, that ultimately point to an enemy of a pilot .... Complacency! Marc and Al take the conversation to a deeper level and come to the conclusion, that the very things pilots strive for as part of a safety culture, including process, standardization, and a rigid acceptance of checklists, can contribute to routines that may detract from the quality of a flight and potentially, its safety.

But fear not, the crew brainstorms strategies and tactics that can counteract those outcomes and add new skills and enjoyment to your flying. And even better, the subject is not yet closed. We'd love to hear from you about ways you keep your skills fresh and remain alert to minor anomalies that may have a significant impact on safety. Please share your ideas with the entire SimpleFlight Facebook and Instagram community @simpleflightradio

* * * Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @lineguy99 lineguy99 correctly answered our Instagram post asking for the make and model of a top down and cutoff picture of a single engine aircraft. He knew the picture was of a Piper Mirage, based on the nose cowling, the fuselage, and the DeIce boots. Thought we made it tough with the two bladed prop, but you can't put anything by our Avgeek of the Week If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

The Flying Club Community, December 2, 2018 Dec 04, 2018

This week, Marc and Al had some special guests that made their way to the SimpleFlight studio at KPWK. Gavin Black, Andrew Haefner, Pierce Lane, and Bill Engelking flew from their respective home bases in Knoxville and Duluth for the show. That, in and of itself, epitomizes what flying clubs are all about. It's all about adding a social aspect to our flying and infusing some energy into the aviation experience.

What's different about their flying club, is that they are part of the Cirrus Employees Flying Club. While they enjoy unique benefits associated with a club sponsored by an aircraft manufacturer, the value they receive is in many respects, common across all flying clubs. It's an interesting mix of differences and commonalities.

We're interested in your thoughts on the value of flying clubs. Join in the conversation on facebook. @simpleflightradio

* * * Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @stephenrunkel @stephenrunke l correctly answered our Instagram post asking for the requirements associated with oxygen usage in the cockpit of our general aviation planes. Stephen knew that FAR 91.211 requires the PIC to use oxygen after 30 minutes at 12,500 feet, use it continuously at 14,000 feet, and offer it to passengers at 15,000 feet. Not regulatory, but it's also recommended that oxygen is used at 5,000 feet for night operations. This is due to the improvement in night vision when oxygen is used. If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Final Approach - Bob Schmelzer, November 25, 2018 Nov 29, 2018

This week, we speak with Bob Schmelzer, who has spent the last 40+ years, flying for United Airlines. Just this past week, Bob turned 65, which by FAA rules, required him to retire from the airlines. With 27,000 of his 37,000 hours being at United, it is certainly an end to an era.

The good news for GA is that Bob has never stopped training primary and advanced students working towards a rating, and even evaluating pilots while acting as a FAA designated pilot examiner. He stands as a role model for giving back to aviation!

Listen in and join the SimpleFlight crew in learning about Bob's experience leading up to his last airliner flight, then feel his emotion as he describes that last flight, and finally what lies ahead for him.

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @Bmp590 @BMP590 correctly answered our Instagram post asking for someone to identify what famous hangar was pictured. Our Avgeek of the week knew that the picture was none other than Red Bull's Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport. It is a unique building which houses the historical Flying Bulls aircraft fleet and a collection of Formula 1 race cars. Hangar-7 also offers space for art exhibitions. And with its Restaurant Ikarus, two bars, an Outdoor Lounge and one café, it is not just an events location, but a meeting point for art lovers and bons vivants, too.

If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Jason Schappert of MzeroA, November 18, 2018 Nov 19, 2018

This week's show features Jason Schappert of MzeroA.com. As pilots around the world know, Jason Schappert is a CFII and ATP rated pilot. He is the founder of MzeroA.com, and author of eight aviation flight training books. In 2008, Jason was named AOPA's Top Collegiate Flight Instructor, which was followed by being named an Outstanding Flight Instructor in both 2014 and 2015. Having amassed over 8000 hours of in-flight instruction since learning how to fly, he now provides help to many through his Online Ground School at mzeroa.com. What you will learn from Jason is how his values, business acumen, and focus on helping to create safer pilots translate to success! You're going to love this episode!!! In the hangar talk segment, Al and Marc talked about a topic that seems to have come too early this year. That topic is cold weather flight preparation. The guys talked about:

Tips for getting the engine warmed prior to start.
Required items for the cockpit.
What's wrong with a 50 foot extension cord.
Winter Flying Hacks.

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @waddlebus @waddlebus correctly answered our Instagram post asking for what TKS stands for. @waddlebus knew that the popular de-icing fluid's name came from the three companies that invented the fluid during WWII. That being Tecalemit - Killfrost - Sheepbridge. Their formula lowers the freezing point of water and has helped to provide greater utility for aircraft around the world.

If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Mark Baker - Leader & Avgeek, November 4, 2018 Nov 05, 2018

This week Marc and Al sat down with the President and CEO of AOPA, Mark Baker. AOPA has always been there for the General Aviation pilot, but the focus often seems to be centered on protecting our rights in Washington. It was great to talk to Mark on a pilot to pilot basis and come to understand his passion and commitment to GA is really no different than any of us. And the fact that he is dedicated to making aviation better as a result of his involvement, is proof positive he's the right person for such a critical leadership role.

In the second half of the show, Al and Marc dug into our Facebook postings from pilots asking for our perspective on several topics. Thanks to Mark L for asking for strategies to squash the jitters associated with straying from one's home airport. Listen and Learn as the guys talk about:

How to prep for the flight by starting at the finish line.
How technology can help get you ahead of the game.
Leverage other pilot's experiences.
Using predetermined landmarks to remove the stress of finding an airport.
Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @patriotpilot

@patriotpilot correctly answered our Instagram post asking for the make and model of the plane you see on our Instagram page. @patriotpilot knew it was a 1939 Cessna 165 Airmaster! Many pilots answered that it was a Cessna 195, but our #avgeek knew that the windows and strut system in the landing gear was that of the 165. Nicely Done!!! If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Connecting with AOPA! (Tom Haines) October 30th, 2018 Oct 30, 2018

Tom Haines! This week Marc and Al sat down with the Senior Vice President of Communication and Outreach for AOPA, Tom Haines. After 30 years of bringing aviation into the homes of pilots via magazines like AOPA Pilot, Tom helps us to see the world from the editor's point of view. Changing technology and the people who use it, creates a wide range of challenges in bringing the right content, in the right format to the right reader. Tom talks about the strategies he uses to stay connected with his audience. Listen and learn!

In the second half of the show, Al and Marc debriefed their flight to and from the Gulf Shores AOPA Fly-In:

How to select a refueling stop.
How technology can help make enroute flight plan changes.
When its OK to change your personal minimums.
Mismatch with ATC.

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @wlblueskies

@wlblueskies correctly answered our Instagram post asking for the final approach fix for the now closed Runway 32L ILS at ORD! If you'd like to be our #avgeek of the week and earn shout out on the show, follow us on Instagram @simpleflightradio

Thanks to all who came to see us in person at the AOPA Regional Fly-In at Gulf Shores, AL (KJKA)

Cockpit Hacks - October 22nd, 2018 Oct 22, 2018

Cockpit Hacks! This week its all about making things a little bit easier, simple and safer in the cockpit. You may have seen a few things on Instagram this week of a few of the cockpit hacks. In the show we promised we would include a link to the "LCD Doodle Pad" that we talked about this week. Many of you asked where to buy it, here it is on Amazon: CLICK HERE FOR: LCD Neon Doodle Pad

During our conversation, Al and Marc talked about these ideas:

FlightSteam and ADS-B
Using a Doodle Pad vs. an iPad scratchpad
Organizing your Radios
The process of leaving an airport

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! @muerto_garage

@Muerto_garage correctly answered our Instagram post asking who the 777's launch customer was and how many are in their fleet! The 777 program was launched in October 1990 with an order from United Airlines. In June 1995, United flew its first 777 in revenue service. The Boeing board of directors authorized production of the 777-300 on June 26, 1995, and the first 777-300 was delivered to Cathay Pacific Airways in June 1998.

Come See Us In Person! October 26th and 27th - Jack Edwards Airport - AOPA FLY IN

Seaplane By The Seashore (with Mike Poznansky), October 14, 2018 Oct 15, 2018

Mike Poznansky joins us this week. Mike has the good fortune to own two airplanes. But what makes his situation a little more unique, is that one of those planes is a Cessna 185 on amphibious floats. He lives a dual life, with a business need and one for adventure. Not surprising, Mike flies mostly for business, but looks for opportunities to increase the adventure side. You can follow Mike on Instagram: @mikepoz

During our conversation, Al and Marc talked with Mike about some interesting topics:

Why the interest in an amphibious aircraft
Reconfiguring the plane as a standard taildragger
West Coast vs. Midwest Flying
Strategies and ADM in each of his airplanes.

Let us know if you're interested in getting the seaplane rating! Congratulations to our Avgeek of the Week! Dave - @drdavedraws Dave correctly answered our question that we posted on Instagram. We asked what device Mike Poznansky was holding. Dave correctly answered that the device was a bilge pump used to drain the floats prior to flight. Come See Us In Person! October 26th and 27th - Jack Edwards Airport - AOPA FLY IN

Your Personal Minimums! (with Amy Voss) October 7th, 2018 Oct 08, 2018

Amy Voss joins us this week. She is a rockstar CFI, Mentor and is the Regional Training Manager for the East Coast at Cirrus Aircraft. She works daily with helping students, instructors and flight schools help people through elevating their personal minimums. Sometimes personal minimums are a lot harder than we think.

You can follow Amy on Instagram: @tri_everywhere

We covered in our conversation with Amy:

"Busting your personal minimums"
How to train to enhance them
Speaking up about situations that are beyond your personal minimums
A discussion of non-legal personal minimums

Tell us how you have expanded your personal minimums!

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the week! Jodie - @indiana.jodes Jodie correctly answered our question that we posted on Instagram. We asked what all the variants of the 747 are and she answered correctly. Jodie even included all the Military designations too. Come see us in person! October 26th and 27th - Jack Edwards Airport - AOPA FLY IN

Do PreFlights Have An Expiration Date? - October 1, 2018 Oct 02, 2018

This week on SimpleFlight Radio, Marc and Al discuss:

The PreFlight

With the impending return to flight of Marc's airplane, the SimpleFlight crew talked about the preparation for flying a plane that is fresh out of a major maintenance event.

For all it's structure and formalization, it's surprising to see the variability employed by pilots in conducting a PreFlight. That is true between pilots and even with one pilot in different situations. Listen in to hear Marc and Al discuss different factors, like:

First Flight of the Day, vs. Subsequent Flights
Type of Mission
Impending Weather or Deadline
Risk Profiles
"Mandatory" vs. "Optional" Tasks
PreFlight Hacks

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the week!

Eva K. - Eva_Koz_Photography

Eva's name was randomly drawn to receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card for submitting her responses to our Listener Survey during September. Thanks to all of you that took the time to share your feedback. If you want to earn a shout out on the show as the avgeek of the week, make sure to follow us @simplefligthradio on Facebook and Instagram.

Come see us in person!

October 5th and 6th - KMDH - AOPA Fly In at the Carbondale, IL Airport.

Bringing Professionalism into the Cockpit - September 24th 2018 Sep 25, 2018

This week on SimpleFlight Radio, we welcome:

Max Trescott

National CFI of the Year, Author, Avionics Guru, and host of his own podcast - Aviation News Talk

There is so much we can learn from somebody like Max. Here is what we get into with Max:

Night Flying
His Podcast - Aviation News Talk
Quality in flight training
Making a leap into an aviation career
Bringing professionalism in to the cockpit
The book he authored - Max Trescott's G1000 and Perspective Glass Cockpit Handbook

Congratulations to our Avgeek of the week!

David H - @gkdave

He answered our question correctly on Instagram. If you want to earn a shout out on the show as the avgeek of the week, make sure to follow us @simplefligthradio on Facebook and Instagram.

Come see us in person!

October 5th and 6th - KMDH - AOPA Fly In at the Carbondale, IL airport.

Remember you have only one week left to complete our listener survey and be entered to win the $50 Amazon Gift Card.

http://www.simpleflight.net/listener-survey.html

Fueled For Flight, September 16, 2018 Sep 17, 2018

Congratulations to our AvGeek of the week!

Micah Maziar - @Micahatc

He answered our question correctly on Instagram. If you want to earn a shout out on the show make sure to follow us @simplefligthradio on Facebook and Instagram.

Planning your flights for fuel is such a personal idea and problem to solve. Al and Marc go at it based off of some personal experiences with a few tips and tricks learned through out.

Come see us:

September 22nd, - KSQI - Whiteside County Career Day and Fly - IN

October 5th and 6th - KMDH - AOPA Fly In at the Carbondale, IL airport.

You have two weeks left to fill out our listener survey. We'd appreciate your help in making the show better. Please take 5 minutes to fill out the survey. If you leave your name and email, you'll be automatically entered to win a $50 gift card from Amazon.

http://www.simpleflight.net/listener-survey.html

Tripping Down Lake Shore Drive, September 9, 2018 Sep 10, 2018

The SimpleFlight crew welcomes back Air Traffic Controller, Eddie Trujillo. Eddie has been quite busy at C90 (Chicago Approach), including his recent checkout on North Satellite. That means Eddie is now working all sectors around O'Hare, and its quite a challenge. As we continue to collect survey responses (click the link above to add your voice), it was interesting to see multiple requests on how to fly VFR in a busy area like Chicago, including the beautiful Lake Shore Run. The timing couldn't have been better, as Eddie tackled that with great insight for how best to partner with ATC to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Eddie also talked about how his dream of being a pilot took him down a path in which he discovered his true passion... Air Traffic Control. But the main message in this episode is the Pilot / Controller partnership. We are all focused on the same goal, a safe flight. And together, we make it happen. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please like us on social media, share and subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Pathways to Aviation Success, September 2, 2018 Sep 03, 2018

In the spirit of "bringing the band back together again", Al Waterloo joined Marc in the studio for this week's show. The great news is that this is not a "one and done" event. Al and Marc have been working behind the scenes to put together a long term plan to deliver value for our listeners.

It starts with fanning the flames of our listeners passion for aviation, by connecting them to the people and things that bring aviation to life. So tonight Marc and Al launch SimpleFlight 2.7. Why not SimpleFlight 3.0; read on to find out more.

Joined by repeat guest, Tim Rylko, Marc and Al explored the unusual path Tim took to achieve his dream of flying for the airlines. As you may recall, Al was with the airlines and has been on multi-step journey to achieve his success as a Regional Sales Director for Cirrus Aircraft. Different paths, different end games, but both have been successful. What can we learn from their stories? What were the risks? What tough decisions stood in their path? All great questions and all answered on this week's episode. Listen and learn.

As for the comment about SimpleFlight 2.7 and 3.0, we need your help in architecting a show that meets your requirements, anticipates your needs, and exceeds your expectations. So please navigate to www.simpleflight.net/listener-survey.html to tell us what you want the SimpleFlight experience to be. Thanks in advance.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Transitions and Partnerships, August 26, 2018 Aug 27, 2018

Brandon Anderson had a goal. That was to bring aviation into his life in a big way. As he is an independent technology consultant, the path to reaching his goal was not so clearly defined. Diving in with both feet, Brandon headed out to the west coast to get on the fast track to earning his CFI, and then followed with his CFII.

Listen in as Marc learns about Brandon's first year as a CFI, with over 650 hours flown. The experiences, the surprises, and the opportunities that have come as a result of his investment, makes for an inspiring and meaningful discussion.

The conversation moved to the Pilot / Controller relationship and what are the ingredients to making it an effective partnership. Turns out, some key concepts, like Communication, Trust, and Focus are every bit as important as in any other partnership, like marriage, business, and social relationship. After listening, please fill out the contact form on the RADIO page and let us know your thoughts!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

The VFR Bandit - Unmasked, August 19, 2018 Aug 20, 2018

Some of our listeners may have heard the SimpleFlight crew refer to the "VFR Bandit". That moniker was earned by Adam Hirsen, a Chicago entrepreneur that used General Aviation to fly around the country for business. Not so unusual, until you understand that Adam had not completed his IFR training, so his frequent long trips all were made VFR. And as the legend goes, he never had to cancel. How does that happen? That's what we wanted to know, and so Adam joins us on this episode to dispel the myth, or tell us how he pulled it off. For the record, Adam has earned the right to move on from that title, as he recently earned his IFR ticket, which is a story in and of itself. Listen in as Adam takes us through his experiences conducting business, while training for what we all know as one of the toughest GA ratings that can be earned. It's sure to be a great conversation and look forward to you joining us. As with all SimpleFlight discussions, there is much to be learned from our fellow pilots. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Insuring Your Passion, August 12, 2018 Aug 12, 2018

Aviation insurance is a confusing and sometimes complex subject. Whether your looking to acquire insurance, or "use" it after an incident, aligning yourself with good people is critical to successfully navigating the path ahead of you. Join us this week, as we speak with Ryan Konrath of Wings Insurance (www.wingsinsurance.com), who not only acts as an aviation insurance broker, but brings with him the experience of being a GA pilot, as well as a member of a "121" flight crew. His path from pilot to broker, was not what one would expect, including himself. Listen in as Ryan takes us through the path he followed, and helps us all to understand the players, roles, and process associated with obtaining and using (gulp) your insurance coverage. The SimpleFlight crew found it educational and relevant. We know you will too. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

What Are The Odds, Part Deux, August 5, 2018 Aug 08, 2018

Last week, we talked about the small world we live in and Marc had a couple of proof points that demonstrated the concept. As it turns out, the small world theme continues.... only not in a positive way. So we ask again... WHAT ARE THE ODDS. What are the odds that during an oil change, you'll get a call from the maintenance shop that they accidently had a prop strike with your plane? That's what happened to Marc's plane, as the mechanic taxied the SR-22 to the maintenance hangar. The prop actually hit a "traffic cone", which damaged the prop and now calls for an engine teardown for an inspection. The inspection is being scheduled some 6 weeks out, so the story doesn't get much better. Tune in and listen to hear first hand how the whole thing happened and the resulting actions and decisions that come into play. Bring your Kleenex!!! ;-) =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

It's A Small World After All, July 29, 2018 Jul 30, 2018

What are the odds? That's the question Marc was asking a lot this week. For instance, what are the odds that he would sit down to dinner in a hotel ballroom in Oshkosh and talk to a table mate that is a neighbor of Marc's CEO on the other side of the world? And what are the odds that Marc would receive two unrelated calls on one morning from pilots vising the U.S from "across the pond" to meet him at the same time at the same hangar on the same day. The odds of Rhonda bumping into someone (literally) in Hawaii that is one of a few pilots that can fly a helicopter and then hang from the skids to trim trees and run high wires is probably in the same ballpark as Marc's. Indeed, this was a magical week. Let's just call it Oshkosh. Listen in as you hear about these chance events, as well as some of the goings on at Osh18. We know you'll echo Rhonda and Marc's sentiments about this show being a "fun one"

This was also a special date in SimpleFlight history. 6 years ago, SimpleFlight Radio was born. We are so excited about our 7th year, but are sad to see Rhonda step back from her "full-time" role. Our sincere thanks to her for the last 18 months and we look forward to her "part-time" involvement in the future.

=============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Pre-OshKosh B'Gosh, July 22, 2018 Jul 22, 2018

With Rhonda's and Marc's Atchison, KS trip being canceled, Marc had our good friend Tim Rylko stop by Hangar 5 to talk Oshkosh and all things aviation. Topics included the unusual experiences Marc encountered with his Saturday flying with low ceilings and high traffic volume heading to KOSH, causing a disruption to the normal weekend flying processes. In the end, it's a learning opportunity. The bottom line is it's OSHKOSH week, and that makes us happy. The show was recorded just prior to Marc grabbing the back seat in one of his pilot buddy's SR-22, to enjoy the ride to Fond du Lac, WI (KFLD). He'll have plenty to talk about next week.

Of special note, today is the 6th anniversary of SimpleFlight. Thanks for making it possible.

=============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Logging KOSH, You Can Make It Happen, July 15, 2018 Jul 16, 2018

Whether it's stated or not, getting to log a flight to KOSH during Airventure is a dream for many GA pilots. With some 14,000 pilots making it happen every year, the proof is there that it is not an unreachable dream. Kent Shook (of Pilotcast fame) joined the SimpleFlight crew to discuss best practices, tips, tricks, and the nuances of making the trek. Marc also joined in the conversation as he speaks yearly with pilots about the keys to a successful experience. So listen in and get your questions answered and learn a few tips and tricks along the way. OSH18 - Let the goosebumps begin!!! Find the 2018 Airventure NOTAM here => https://www.eaa.org/~/media/files/airventure/flyingin/2018-notam.pdf Marc talked about a "cheat sheet' he uses for his trip from KPWK to KOSH. You will find it at www.simpleflight.net/podcast in the show notes. Feel free to use it as a template for your own planning and flying checklist. It is shown as an example and not meant to replace proper planning and familiarization required for a safe and enjoyable flight. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Onward and Upward, July 8, 2018 Jul 09, 2018

Coming off our June 24th show, there was a lot of feedback about the controller / pilot relationship. Or more appropriately, it's about the partnership. Please join us as we welcome DeShondra Strickland to the show. DeShondra is an air traffic specialist in the Chicago Executive (KPWK) control tower. She was somewhat anxious to arrive at KPWK as the only female controller in the cab, but soon found the "guys" to be like family. Listen in to hear her perspective on the challenges of working traffic at one of the busiest airports in Illinois and why there aren't more women in the tower. Aviation is struggling to find the next generation of pilots, controllers, etc. and the female population is an untapped source of resources. So listen and learn from the ATC side of the "house". =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Risk Is In They Eye Of The Beholder, July 1, 2018 Jul 02, 2018

When tonight's guest called in sick, Marc and Rhonda took the opportunity to discuss what was fresh on their minds.... that being risk assessment, risk profiles, and mentor roles. It turned into an hour conversation that we all can identify with.

Does your risk profile change as you get older? Does it change with aviation experience? Whom do you trust as your advisor and how much will you let it affect your decision making?

These are the questions we all deal with in the course of applying aeronautical decision making to real life scenarios. The stakes are high, but the return in the form of becoming a better, safer pilot is there for the taking. We'd love to hear your thoughts about this topic. Use the contact us form on the radio page and Rhonda and Marc will discuss on next week's show. Until then,

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!!!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think!

Say What?, june 24, 2018 Jun 25, 2018

With Rhonda nursing an illness, Marc joined with Joby to discuss a topic that is near and dear to his heart... the pilot/controller relationship.

Just like a marriage, business partnership, or a friendship, the path to an effective partnership is through open and direct communication. But that's only half the puzzle. It also needs to be built on a foundation of knowledge that comes from focused training on both situational awareness and an understanding of the other person's point of view. That sounds relatively straight forward, but now add an environment with ATC trainees and student pilots, as well as a diverse set of aircraft types and speeds, and you find yourself with a mixed bag of inputs and outputs that can change quickly with potentially catastrophic results. Listen in as Marc discusses his experience and thoughts live from Hangar 5. We know you'll enjoy it. Send us your thoughts on the CONTACT FORM found on the Radio page of the SimpleFlight Web site (www.simpleflight.net/radio) ===============

We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Rocket to Canada, June 17, 2018 Jun 18, 2018

The SimpleFlight crew has learned a lot over the last 5 plus years. One of those items is that our listeners match our guests when it comes to interesting stories and experiences in general aviation. This week's guest is no exception. Michael Baraz owns a Mooney Rocket 305 and loves to use the plane to explore many destinations. His recent trip to Canada sparked interest for Marc and Rhonda on how to navigate the border crossing. Not just the flight itself, but the paperwork and process necessary to make it a stress free flight. So that's where the conversation started, but soon dovetailed into a great conversation about some of the great airports Michael has been able to add to his log book. Sounds like Catalina ought to be on everyone's bucket list. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Heads Up!!!, Ray Bracy, June 10, 2018 Jun 11, 2018

When SimpleFlight Radio was founded, it was based on the wonderful things happening in General Aviation. We always felt that things were "looking up" for GA. Tonight, that description couldn't be more appropriate. With so much energy and innovation in the industry, we are constantly amazed with the enabling technology that is being brought into the cockpit. The ease and sophistication of flying has changed significantly in the last few years. The glass cockpit proved to be a disruptive technology, as the industry moved away from "steam gauges". Now comes the next generation of aviation: The Heads Up Display (HUD). The benefits of flying with a HUD is similar to the revolution in improved Situational Awareness (SA) that came with flying an aircraft with a “glass" cockpit.

Ray Bracy, VP of Sales and Marketing for Epic Optix (www.epicoptix.com) joins the SimpleFlight crew this week to discuss their GA HUD solution, "The Epic Eagle". It provides visually enhanced flight information without forcing you to bring your eyes down into the cockpit; keeping you focused on what really matters. It brings the technology of military pilots to general aviation in a cost effective way. The Epic Eagle delivers color at amazing quality and brightness - a unique capability in the marketplace at an affordable price. In addition to learning about the Epic Eagle, we know you'll enjoy hearing about Ray's path from the Navy and Fortune 500 leadership, to being part of this exciting start-up.

Keep Your Head Up!!! =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Living The Dream, Greg Willard, June 3, 2018 Jun 04, 2018

Most of our listeners don't know Greg Willard, and for good reason. Like many of us, Greg flies a bit under the radar, leveraging General Aviation as a wonderful enabler of so many non-aviation goals. Whether it is for business or pleasure, Greg sees the real value of using GA as a time machine. However, Greg's a little different than your average private pilot, as he has earned the good fortune to own and fly two beautiful planes, a Cessna Corvallis TT and an Aviat Husky. How he came to own these two planes and his experiences flying them is a fun story and raises several questions. How does he decide which one to fly? Does he let one mechanic work on both planes, or does he split the work based on familiarity and experience with each model? Does his spouse prefer one over the other? Does he? Marc had the same questions and Greg was happy to answer them with the passion and candor we expect from a fellow aviator. Listen and learn what it's like to own and fly two very different planes. As for how to decide which one to fly, I'm going with Eeny, Meany, Minie, Moe. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

The Art Of Flying - Rick Herter, May 20, 2018 May 21, 2018

Rick Herter (www.rickherter.com) is an artist with a pilot's soul. Born in southwestern Michigan, Rick grew up with a sketch pad in hand and took his first airplane ride on his thirteenth birthday. That first air adventure with a former W.W.II bomber pilot at the controls would make a lasting impression on the young artist.

After graduating from Spring Arbor University with a BA in art in 1984, he took his artistic skills and began working in the commercial art and illustration arena. Herter's interest in aviation was never far away. Rick approached the air show director of an annual Michigan air show offering to create a commemorative air show poster. That first poster went on to win a national award and the following season, the artist was commissioned to create work for shows in Pittsburgh, Denver and Cleveland. And the rest is history.

Tune in and listen as Rick retells that history lesson to Rhonda and Marc, and all of our listening audience. There's a story behind every painting, and his travels and experience in aviation are certain to paint us all green with envy.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

More Than Raspberry PI, May 13, 2018 May 14, 2018

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

Tonight's show is a real treat, and we're not just talking raspberry pie. Some of you may know that raspberry pie actually refers to Raspberry Pi, a small single board computer. Our guest, Sean Chuplis, owner of Crew Dog Electronics (crewdogelectronics.com), has produced an easy to assemble ADS-B receiver, which includes all necessary parts and software to bring ADS-B weather and traffic to your cockpit. The "Stratux" is compatible with most Electronic Flight Bags (EFB).

Sean's story doesn't stop there. As a matter of fact, that's just the tip of the iceberg. As an active reservist in the Air Force, he splits time between being a pilot for a major airline, flying the KC-10 refueler in the military, flying a G4, helping people realize their dream of flight as a CFI, and continuing his education through the military to understand the history of combat and how it can show us the future. The SimpleFlight crew touched on all of his areas of expertise, including an interesting problem caused by drones.

We hope you enjoy the show. Please send your comments to help us understand what is important to you and how we best earn your listenership.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

State of the Market, May 6, 2018 May 07, 2018

Listen in to this week's episode as the SimpleFlight crew welcomes back Janine Iannarelli to talk about the state of the aviation marketplace. As founder and president of Par Avion Ltd., which is based in Houston, Texas. she specializes in the exclusive representation and acquisition of business aircraft. Beyond aviation brokerage, Janine was reappointed and named presiding officer by Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Aerospace and Aviation Advisory Committee. And on the heels of that appointment, she was one of three inductees into the Aviation Hall of Fame of New Jersey. The crew learned Janine is also involved with women and youth organizations regarding career development and life skill sets necessary to navigate the business world, which includes reaching out to people from economically disadvantaged areas to educate them about the great opportunities that exist in many science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) fields. Education is the key. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Midwest Flyer, Read All About It, April 29, 2018 Apr 30, 2018

If you're not from the Midwest, you may not know about Midwest Flyer Magazine, but then again, you may be a huge fan, as so many people are across the country. For this week's show, Marc and Rhonda traveled to KMSN (Madison, WI) to broadcast live from Wisconsin Aviation to introduce you to Dave Weiman, editor-in-chief of this wonderful magazine.

Dave brings his readers hard-hitting editorials and columns from experts in aviation law, pilot health, flight training, aircraft maintenance, and airport development, to feature stories about pilots, planes, airport restaurants and travel destinations, and the most complete and current calendar of aviation events in the Midwest,

Dave and his wife, Peggy founded “Wisconsin Flyer” magazine in 1978, renamed the publication “Midwest Flyer Magazine” in 1980, and expanded the area served from one to 12 Midwestern states and has grown from 12 black and white pages in 1978 to 64 color pages today! But as its readers already know, its not about quantity, but rather quality. Listen in and meet the man behind the words and pictures we have all grown to love.

And a shout out to the fans that stopped by to listen to the show live. Our sincere thanks to them and our kind hosts at Wisconsin Aviation.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Austin Meyer, The X Factor, April 15, 2018 Apr 16, 2018

You may not know it, but Austin Meyer (www.austinmeyer.com) may have found his way into your home. Certainly it happens a lot. How you ask? Well as founder and developer of X-Plane Flight Simulator, Xavion Glass Cockpit, and as Filmmaker of The Patent Scam Documentary, and as an avid aviation enthusiast that built his own custom airplane, you may have brought him on your own via X-Plane, YouTube, or maybe just his blog. Certainly, the SimpleFlight crew made him part of our family as Rhonda and Marc talked to him about all things aviation and the impact he has had on all of us. And it's not just about X-Plane. When you listen to this week's show, you'll hear about Xavion, and wonder why anyone would fly without it. There's a lot more and we're excited to share the story behind his aviation successes, and excited to have you join in on the conversation, through your comments and follow on questions. Tune in this week to hear the rest of the story. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Digger Doug Dusting, April 8, 2018 Apr 09, 2018

Doug Gust, who made a name for himself as one of the most accomplished ATV Motocross racing stars competing around the world for team Suzuki since the 1980s, took note of crop dusters when he would compete at races being held in the Midwest. It was then he knew what he would do when retirement came around.

And that he did, "Digger' Doug grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, and now combines his background of farming and his passion for power sports in his new career, Crop Dusting.

An excavator by trade, Gust built a private runway on his property, purchased a plane, took flying lessons, obtained his license and began flying himself to each of his races. How many people do you know that builds a runway and buys a plane, before he even has his license?

It's quite a story, and one that you will enjoy. So push the PLAY button and listen to Doug himself speak to the highs and lows associated with the very challenging aspects of flying within feet of the ground at high speeds and steep maneuvers. AWESOME!!!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Inspiration At It's Best, Able Flight, March 25, 2018 Mar 26, 2018

If you haven't heard of Able Flight (www.ableflight.org), you're going to want to listen in this week!!! Able Flight’s mission is to offer people with disabilities a unique way to challenge themselves through flight and aviation career training, and by doing so, to gain greater self-confidence and self-reliance.

Executive Director, Charles Stites, created the organization because he and his team believe that the life-changing experience of learning to fly is best shared, and therefore designed the Able Flight Scholarships to enable people with disabilities to pursue that experience.

In addition to Charles, we are joined by Justin Falls a 2016 graduate of the Able Flight program. Since an accident that resulted in Justin becoming a quadriplegic (with limited use of his hands), he has earned his doctorate, works as a pharmacist, and oh yes, he earned his sport pilot certificate at Purdue University (Purdue is a partner with Able Flight). Awe inspiring!!!

Each year, Able Flight provides scholarships to deserving individuals, who have become disabled due to disease, accidents, and combat (among others). The disabilities are diverse and for the class of 2018, includes individuals dealing with loss of limbs, paralysis, and loss of hearing.

These participants are truly amazing people and serve as an example to us all about what the human spirit can accomplish.

We know you'll enjoy the show, so listen in and get ready to be inspired. You'll be glad you did.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Look, Up In The Sky, It's A Boat, It's A Plane..., March 18, 2018 Mar 19, 2018

On this week's show, the SimpleFlight crew welcomes Dirk Braun, who is digging into the history of the Grumman Albatross flying boats and the curious cast of characters who fly and preserve them today. Dirk regards The Albatross as the ultimate adventure machine, and has set out to tell the story via a documentary. Now in production, "Flying Boat" (https://www.facebook.com/flyingboatfilm/) will be Braun's feature debut. It will profile the pilots, history buffs and surfers who use them today while also exploring the aircraft's history. The Albatross was in its heyday in the 1930s, when its popularity coincided with the elegance and adventure of early aviation. Braun says these are relics from the golden age of aviation. They're like flying yachts." What really came through to Rhonda and Marc is the sincere passion Dirk has for this endeavor. As he said, it touched his soul. So listen in and catch Dirk's contagious enthusiasm for what truly is a special mission for him. We know you'll enjoy the show. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

A C.A.P. with No Ceiling, March 11, 2018 Mar 12, 2018

Rod Rakic returns to visit with the SimpleFlight Crew. But this time, it has nothing to do with his entrepreneurial endeavors with Open Airplane and Fly Otto. Rather this time, we focus on his work with the Civil Air Patrol (www.gocivilairpatrol.com). The C.A.P. has one of the largest single-engine piston aircraft fleets in the world, operating 560 powered planes that fly about 100,000 hours annually in support of search and rescue, disaster relief, air defense, cadet orientation flights and Air Force-assigned missions. Its mission is often misunderstood, so listen in as Rod educates us on it's history and how its 58,000 members selflessly devote their time, energy and expertise toward the well-being of their communities, while also promoting aviation and related fields through aerospace education and helping shape future leaders through C.A.P.’s cadet program. We know you'll enjoy the show, so take a listen and provide us feedback on what you liked best. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Is This Heaven? No, It's Clayton, Georgia, March 4, 2018 Mar 05, 2018

With apologies to the movie, Field of Dreams and the city of Dyersville, Iowa, there is a field in the NE corner of Georgia, which some would make the argument, is the real field of dreams. It's not a baseball field by the way. It's an airfield, which goes by the name of Heavens Landing (www.heavenslanding.com). The man behind the dream is Michael Ciochetti, Jr., who may be best known as an American stock car racing driver. Mike is a former competitor in the ARCA Racing Series, and planned to compete in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series before suffering a career-ending injury. And that began his career as an aviation and real estate entrepreneur. Heaven’s Landing is a 635 acre gated community surrounded by thousands of acres of National Forest. The aviation centerpiece of Heaven’s Landing is a 5,069 foot paved concrete runway with pilot controlled lighting and a GPS approach. If you've ever wondered about living in an airport community, here's your chance to find out first hand what airpark living is like, in an absolutely beautiful setting. Listen in and be part of this heavenly conversation. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think!

Did You Hear The One About...., February 25, 2018 Feb 26, 2018

In this day and age, we can certainly use a bit of humor. As a matter of fact, anything that makes us smile is a good thing. For example, AVIATION. So what could be better than Aviation humor. Maybe nothing, as Rhonda and Marc found out spending the evening with Dave Lombardo. We know you'll agree that Dave is proof positive that flying and fun go together.

As one of the founding members of the aviation-themed social media brand, "ATC Memes" (atcmemes.com), David combines his experience and skill in both aviation and audio to create a unique brand of aviation satire and humor. The acceptance is noted by the popularity of the brand with both aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Speaking of brand, Dave and his co-founders have built quite the following with their aviation swag and apparel. Check it out at radarcontact.com.

Listen in and have a bit of fun yourself.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Time To Hangar Fly, February 18, 2018 Feb 19, 2018

It's time to do some hangar flying. Listen in and catch Rhonda, Marc, and Joby talk about the importance of debriefing each flight, checking experience, age, and ego at the door. The Blue Angles, set the standard by which all debriefs should be measured. Maybe we don't have to be as in depth, but philosophically, there should be no difference. Check out this link to see it in action. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFGL04LiMgc The debrief Is only the first step. Incorporating what was learned into follow on flights completes the value. And flying with people who bring different perspectives to the cockpit, completes the picture. Marc talked about his flight with ATC, who not only critiqued his radio work, but also commented on how hard it was to see traffic. Good learning for all. And no hangar flying sessions would be complete without a little window shopping. Rhonda continues to move forward in her aircraft purchase process, coming a bit closer to the goal. What do you think she'll buy? Sounds like she is leaning towards Mike. If you don't understand that comment, listen in and find out what plane may be in her future. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Up, Up, and Away, February 11, 2018 Feb 12, 2018

Most of the guests on SimpleFlight radio have demonstrated a commitment to general aviation via their experience and love for fixed or rotary wing aircraft. This week's guest, Alan Zielinski, has done that, but also adds a very special aspect by spending a lot of time in lighter than air "free" balloons. And he's taken it even further by bringing other pilots to the lighter than air world by being both a CFI and Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) for the unique world of flying hot air balloons.

With 35 years and over 10,000 hours of accident free flying, Alan serves as a mentor for many and an example for all on how to get the most out of aviation. Click and listen to get a peek into his world and understand what the world looks like from "the basket". Up, Up, And Away, in my beautiful balloon!!!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

SUPER SAFETY, February 4, 2018 Feb 04, 2018

Will your Sunday the 4th be SUPER? It will if you find a way to listen to the SimpleFlight crew as they talk with Aviation Safety Guru, Jim Krieger. Jim retired as the O'Hare Tower Chief a couple years ago, but he continues to focus on airport safety. It's not just about keeping airplanes from running into each other, but also there looms very dangerous moments with line crews, maintenance personnel, baggage handlers, and even flight crews leaving the airport to head home and driving across taxiways at the busiest airport in the world.

You'll cringe, laugh, and be amazed at all the things that happen under the radar, while outwardly, we live in a system that is the safest in the world. And it's people like Jim that make it better every day. AMAZING!!!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

61 Years And Counting, January 28, 2018 Jan 29, 2018

How many pilots do you know that have been flying for 61 years and never flown for the airlines? As a matter of fact, how many pilots do you know that have been an active pilot for 61 years?

Well, today is your chance to meet Lou Wipotnik. Lou is perhaps best known as a flight instructor, teacher and seminar speaker. He has actively taught since 1968 and holds instructor ratings for airplane single-engine land and sea, single and multi-engine, helicopter, glider and instrument. Lou also has served as an FAA Accident Prevention Counselor and FAASTeam Representative. One of the most active volunteers in the Chicago area, Lou shares his passion for aviation, teaching safety seminars, instructing at Wings Weekend and participating in EAA Young Eagles events. Lou has received a number of awards for his service as an FAA Aviation Safety Counselor and aviation speaker. But what he has experienced is a story yet untold.

Join Rhonda and Marc to meet Lou up close and personal as they take a trip down memory lane to learn about Lou's amazing experiences, as well as what the future holds for this very special and ageless aviation ambassador. So buckle your seat belt and enjoy the show.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

EXPOsing Aviation Safety, January 21, 2018 Jan 22, 2018

As we head into next weekend's #2018ChicagoAviationExpo, Marc and Rhonda have the extreme pleasure to welcome Madeleine Monaco and Eddie Trujillo (@radarcornflakes) to the Hangar 5 studio to talk about the show and it's value for pilots across the Midwest. And the surprise benefit for all our listeners is a chance to "meet" these aviation superstars live.

Madeleine is the face of the 99's in the Chicagoland area, as well as president of the Chicago Executive Pilot's Association. We all know of her, but tonight we had a chance to get to know her. Eddie, a Chicago Approach controller and speaker at the Expo, has been a guest of the show on multiple occasions, and a fan favorite. In addition to talking about the Expo, he also discussed the impact of the government shutdown on all aviation. It's not a pretty picture.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Aviation As A Service, January 14, 2018 Jan 15, 2018

What's wrong with commercial aviation today? Some may say nothing, while others complain about delays, cramped seating, security lines, and the huge time investment, hoping that some time will be saved.

Dave Koch, with over 50 years of aviation-industry experience, including 22 years with a major air carrier, sees an opportunity to replace those negative views with a positive experience, focused on providing more than just a destination. Dave's company, AirChicago Jet Card (flyairchicago.com) promises a private jet travel experience at commercial first class fares. How does he accomplish that? We have the same question as Dave joins us on the eve before AirChicago Jet Card's inaugural flight.

Listen to the SimpleFlight crew as they talk with Dave to learn about how he came to this point and how he is contributing to the changing face of commercial aviation.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Chasing Earhart, January 7, 2018 Jan 08, 2018

Chris Williamson has always been fascinated with the story of Amelia Earhart. What started as a focus on the mystery surrounding her disappearance and how she died, has evolved into a passion to learn how she lived.

He wrote his very first report in 3rd grade on Amelia and now has started a project with the hopes of bringing even more attention to the worldwide fascination with Amelia. Chris hopes that his website (www.chasingearhart.com) will serve as an ongoing case study that will inspire more and more people to research and form their own fascinations and opinions with one of the most iconic figures of our time. Join the SimpleFlight crew as they talk with Chris to learn more about his mission, goals, and the back story behind his lifelong commitment to finding the truth. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

8 Hours From Bottle To Throttle, December 31, 2017 Dec 30, 2017

Welcome to the end of 2017!!! What a wonderful year for SimpleFlight Radio. A year of great guests and most important..... great listeners! Our sincere thanks for your loyalty and providing the spark that keeps us going.

On this eve of starting 2018, we decided against canceling this episode in favor of a prerecorded show (so Rhonda & Marc can enjoy the New Years Eve festivities). The stars appear to have aligned, as Marc's son. Jeff, happened to be in town. Jeff recently started a podcast on two of his passions.... Games and Craft Brews. So what's the connection to aviation? Turns out that craft brews are very regional in nature, so as Marc travels around to different cities, Jeff suggests different breweries to visit. I can't think of a city I've visited that didn't come with a recommendation from him. It's an interesting world these beer aficionados live in. Listen in and find out for yourself.

And stay with us in 2018, as we deliver an impressive lineup of guests and some cool technology additions to help us engage with our listeners in new and fun ways. It'll be a great ride and we look forward to all of you continuing to being part of the SimpleFlight family!

Most of all, we send you and yours best wishes for a fantastic 2018, filled with good health, happiness, and peace!!!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Here Comes Santa Claus, December 24, 2017 Dec 24, 2017

Rhonda and Marc couldn't feel any luckier. One of the toughest interviews to get is from the Jolly man himself, especially on December 24th. Turns out Nick is a big SimpleFlight fan and made sure to stop by Hangar 5 as he started on his way to deliver presents to all good children around the world.

Tune in to hear straight from the source as to what this day is like and how it pulls it off year after year. It's a conversation that's sure to please. Besides, everyone that listens to SimpleFlight Aviation Radio, is bound to end up on the "Nice" list. So what do you have to lose?

Happy Holidays from the entire SimpleFlight Crew!!!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

The Aviation / Law Enforcement Connection, December 17, 2017 Dec 18, 2017

Tonight, the SimpleFlight crew is joined by a local law enforcement professional, who also happens to be a 4,000 hour CFI. And when he's not busy with his career, he happens to own a business and takes Ukulele lessons each week. The big news is he has been selected for employment at a regional airline on their conditional acceptance program.

Sam Elvis has loved flying for years and finds himself on the brink of making his dream to fly a jet a reality. Listen in as Marc and Rhonda find out the story behind this diverse career, and also explore the often seen connection between law enforcement and aviation and the catalyst that is driving him to the airlines after a 20 year career.

Listen in and enjoy!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Tim's Whims & HIMS, December 10, 2017 Dec 11, 2017

Marc and Rhonda are pleased to welcome back Tim Rylko, a young man that established a goal of flying for the airlines, while he was going to MBA school. Over the next decade, he earned his ratings and was hired two years ago to a regional airline.

Tim joins the SimpleFlight crew to talk about the differences between air carrier and GA flying, what are his near term goals, and why he still loves flying in a piston single with his hands on the controls and his will controls the time and destination.

Tim also comments on the Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS), which is an airline rehab program that has a greater than 80% success rate. Listen in and find out why the success rate is so high compared to other programs.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

And So It Begins, December 3, 2017 Dec 03, 2017

Many of our listeners have realized some of their aviation dreams and are well on their way to achieving those that remain. But do you remember what it was like at the beginning, before you had the thrill of taking the controls and experiencing flight for the first time? Or how about actually starting flying lessons with so many experiences ahead of you, and so few behind you.

Listen in to this week's episode as Rhonda and Marc meet Joby Benoit, an aspiring pilot that brings the same energy and passion for aviation shared by us all. As he lives vicariously through those of us that have already traveled the path, you will take a trip down memory lane listening to Joby talk about the opportunities and challenges he faces at this early stage of achieving his aviation dream.

It's a great trip for all of us.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes or your favorite broadcast source, and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Things That Go Bump In The Night, November 19, 2017 Nov 20, 2017

Just as Rhonda and Marc were preparing for the show on November 12th, a Cessna 210 was approaching it's destination at KPWK after an uneventful trip from South Dakota. ATC descended the plane to 2500 feet, a regular procedure for the RNAV/GPS 16 approach. And then it happened. A loud bang, a bunch of smoke and a stopped prop. All of this in IMC and long past sunset.

Listen in and hear from the pilot himself, John Korinke, about how he put his training to the test, establishing best glide, notifying ATC, and getting vectors to a closer airport (C81). In the end, he touched down short of the airport, but skidded towards the runway, coming to the stop on the numbers. That tops all of us when we talk about landing on the numbers. John walked away uninjured and feeling good about the result. But also learned many lessons. All of us as pilots, think about the unthinkable and wonder what it's like. Will we keep our emotions in check? How will it impact our decision making?

Here's your chance to hear it first hand from the left seat. John tells the story with lessons learned and questions answered. Believe me, you don't want to miss this show.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Boldly Going Where No Pilot Has Gone Before, November 12, 2017 Nov 13, 2017

They're Back!!! The Boldmethod, team of Colin Cutler, Aleks Udris, and Swayne Martin were pretty much regulars on SimpleFlight radio in the "early days" Focused on helping students become pilots and pilots to become better pilots, the guys have grown the company significantly. And with growth comes workload. So the visits to SimpleFlight lessened, but the relationship remained strong.

Now it's over 3 years later and much to catch up on. Listen in as Rhonda and Marc get an update on the organization from Colin, about where it's been, where it's at, and most important, where the guys are taking it. And as a special bonus, Colin used his time on SimpleFlight to introduce a new training course. It includes an introductory offer for this week only, so you're definitely going to want to check it out (Boldmethod.com). In the end, you'll love the hangar flying that transpired during the show. Just like old times.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Fly Like A Girl, November 5, 2017 Nov 06, 2017

Katie McEntire Wiatt was a 4th grade teacher that had an "aha" moment when she heard one of her student's say that she was one of those girls that wasn't very good at math. Katie had heard the same thing when she was in elementary school. That statement served as a catalyst for her to do something about the gap in confidence young female students felt compared to their male counterparts in the classroom, especially in relation to STEM subjects.

About that same time, Katie saw Patty Wagstaff and other female aerobatic pilots perform. It had a profound effect on her, and it was at that moment, she decided that aviation, with its diverse opportunities in everything from engineering to aerobatics, would be an excellent vehicle to tell the story. Now a few years later, she finds herself closing in on making her feature-length directorial debut with the documentary, "Fly Like a Girl." www.flylikeagirl.film

Listen in as Rhonda and Marc find out the the story behind the story, and understand why Katie is so driven to bring this topic to the forefront and change how young girls and women perceive themselves and what they have to offer to our world. To state the obvious.... you're going to love the show.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Please subscribe to the Podcast via iTunes and rate, review, and let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

A Shot And A Save, October 29, 2017 Oct 30, 2017

With Rhonda fulfilling her dream, by taking United's last International 747 flight, Marc was going to go solo tonight, but then Private Pilot, Bojan Belovic stopped by and sat in for Rhonda. Bojan recently returned from his native Serbia, where he checked off a bucket list item of flying in his home country. It was interesting to hear about the experience, and we know you will agree.

The conversation turned towards Air Traffic Control which ultimately led to a discussion about how ATC can change the course of a flight gone wrong to one that ends up right. Marc played multiple ATC clips of some pretty hairy situations. It'll give you the shivers.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think!

Farewell To The Queen Of The Skies, October 22, 2017 Oct 23, 2017

The Boeing 747 was launched in 1968, and United made its first commercial 747 flight in July 1970 with a trip from San Francisco to Honolulu. It was called the Friend Ship. On November 7, United Airlines will retire the "Queen of the Skies" on a farewell flight on the same route as her beginning. Other airlines are also retiring this iconic aircraft. Replaced by more efficient airplanes, it is doubtful that any aircraft flying today will replace the emotion and connected feeling that the 747 earned from pilot and passenger alike. The 747 in the 1970s was known not just for technological achievements but also for its glamour. With a lounge, cocktail service and sometimes even a piano, it held the promise of an elegant, relaxing travel experience. She didn't disappoint. This week's episode brings back a SimpleFlight Radio favorite, Karlene Petitt to chat with Marc and Rhonda about her experience as a pilot, trainer, and engineer in the 747. Join us and listen as Karlene helps us take a trip down memory lane, as we honor this magnificent and classy symbol of the promise of aviation.

Karlene's Doctoral Research Site: www.petittaviationresearch.com =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Psst, Have I Got An Aviation Tip For You, October 15, 2017 Oct 16, 2017

If you're like most pilots, you subscribe to Pilot's Tip of the Week, brought to you by PilotWorkshops.com. Founded by Mark Robidoux some 12 years ago, the organization has grown to over 185,000 like minded subscribers. The subscriber base has fueled some excellent training products, including the highly regarded IFR Mastery Series. It goes beyond delivering simple answers to simple questions. Rather, it delivers scenario-based training that makes the pilot think, and compares the student's answer to the different perspectives of a panel of experienced CFI's. Tonight's conversation with Mark was awesome, as we learned about why he started the company, the ongoing mission, and what the future holds. It's an exciting story that you don't want to miss!!! =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Aviation Alphabet Soup with Adam Smith, October 8, 2017 Oct 09, 2017

Over the last 5 years, SimpleFlight Aviation Radio has had multiple repeat guests. Generally their contributions to aviation have grown, but only from within the same role. Tonight, please welcome back Adam Smith, who was our guest on our first remote show back in November of 2012. At that time, Adam was new to AOPA, heading up the new Center to Advance the Pilot Community. We also learned about all the things he did with EAA and NMF (National Museum of Flight in Scotland).

After a year plus at AOPA, Adam was about to accept a new role with a West Coast company. But he was presented with an offer to work with the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), in building a museum that would connect the public with the CAF mission in a very emotional and experiential way. That offer hit home with Adam, and was one he could not refuse. Tune in tonight as Marc and Rhonda learn about his journey through the different organizations and a special announcement as to yet another change in direction as he continues his life's journey.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Warbird / Human Connection, September 24, 2017 Sep 25, 2017

The aviation community is as close knit as it gets. Tonight, the SimpleFlight Crew learned that it just isn't about airplanes, but also about making the connection between airplanes and the people that flew them. This becomes even more poignant when it comes to warbirds. Our guest, Shad Morris, Flight Engineer on CAF's Fifi (B-29) and T-6 Crew Chief at the Reno National Championship Air Race, is also one heck of a mechanic and an aficionado when it comes to aircraft engines.

Join Marc and Rhonda in understanding his passion for what he does and the importance of teaching the youth of today about the role these planes played in providing us the present we get to enjoy.

You're going to love this episode. Check out Fifi's web site www.airpowersquadron.org for more info on when and where you can see and get a ride in this iconic aircraft.

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Guess Who's Coming To Dinner, September 17, 2017 Sep 19, 2017

Some 5 years ago, Al Waterloo started SimpleFlight Aviation Radio in his hotel room at OSH12. The next week, he asked Marc Epner to join him, and together they grew the popularity of the show by broadcasting live, and connecting their listeners with amazing people doing amazing things in aviation. At the end of 2016, Al could no longer make the commitment to the show, so he left it in Marc's hands as he moved on in his aviation career.

While the show has continued to gain popularity, Al has continued his own growth as a successful sales rep for Cirrus Aircraft. Join us as Rhonda and Marc talk with Al about life after SimpleFlight. The three discuss his transition from airline pilot, to instructor/mentor, to sales professional, and even to husband.

It was great to reconnect with Al, and we know our listeners will whole heartedly agree. As Al always said... "It's AWESOME!"

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Going First Class, September 10, 2017 Sep 11, 2017

With a last minute cancelation of our guest, Marc and Rhonda added one more first to tonight's show. That being the first time they've done a show without a guest. With a theme of many first's, the crew didn't skip a beat as a lively discussion ensued across a plethora of topics.

It all started with new CFI Brandon endorsing off his first student to solo just prior to our show start. Paul did a great job and made Brandon proud. All of us remember our solo flight, and what a special feeling remains. Congrats to Brandon and Paul.

The conversation moved on to Marc's first annual with his plane. A big sticker price, but came with a great education on the control and philosophical approach to decision making with regards to new vs. used parts, now vs. deferred timing, and getting to know and trust your A+P, as well as the airplane.

Rhonda ignored the advice of so many, as she went for a First Class medical. Why she did it, made for interesting conversation. We both learned new things, and bet you will too.

From there the conversation turned to the Hurricane in Florida. Our thoughts are with those being impacted by Irma.

Finally, ATC Privatization was brought up. Please be active and vote with your words to your congressmen. Visit ATCNOTFORSALE.com, EAA.ORG, or AOPA.ORG for ways to contact your elected officials.

Enjoy The Show!

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We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Flying The Polar Pumpkin, August 27, 2017 Aug 28, 2017

Be honest, how many of you have a bucket list item that incluces logging a flight to the North or South Pole? This week's guest, Art Mortvedt, an Alaskan Bush Pilot, has been to Antarctica more than 20 times. With over 6,000 hours flight experience and 6 seasons of scientific logistics in the North Polar ice pack. Art had the SimpleFlight crew in the palm of his hands, as he regaled Marc and Rhonda with his adventures and experiences that very few of us can speak to with any level of expertise. This is truly a man that follows his passion, and there is no sign of slowing down.

Art is an elected member for the Explorers Club, New York, and a Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society, London. He has studied the traditional life-style of the Inupiat Eskimos and other traditional cultures in South Africa, Australia, the Cook Islands, Greenland and the Falkland Islands. Be ready to think big when it comes to your future flying goals. The bar has been raised.

Marc shared his experience in getting to and experiencing the Eclipse in Carbondale, IL (KMDH), and also checked off a new aviation experience, by riding right seat in a Jump plane. Rhonda gave us the good word that she passed her Aviation knowledge exam with flying colors. We expect no less!!! Enjoy the show! =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Total Eclipse of the Sun, August 20, 2017 Aug 21, 2017

With Rhonda traveling to the Big Easy and Marc primed to go solo, Mike Barbarone stopped by to do some hangar flying with Marc. Both Mike and Marc were bitten by the maintenance bug, potentially derailing their efforts to view the Total Solar Eclipse in the Path of Totality. Their planned destination is Carbondale, IL (KMDH), which boasts being the city with the longest viewing time of the total eclipse. With weather being an issue in Chicago, both Mike's and Marc's plane needs maintenance work before departing for the party. The event promises to be a great one. We hope all of you can take part in the experience (be careful and kind to your eyes).

Mike shared his experience at the Chicago Air and Water show, which was amazing. He had a prime viewing area off of Lake Michigan looking across and DOWN on the Blue Angels.

ATC Privatization was also on Marc's mind, so he and Mike talked about it, and while they don't always see eye to eye on politics, they are definitely on the same page on this topic. It's important all GA pilots be able to articulate why ATC privatization is bad the way its slated to happen, and at a $100 billion hit to the deficit. Five times more tan originally thought. Here's a link to a quick reference card that speaks to what's wrong with privatization and what is the right way to get to the vision of a modern and safe aviation system. http://bit.ly/2vQLdis

Thanks for listening. ===============

We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Say Again, Dave Pascoe, Liveatc.net, August 13, 2017 Aug 14, 2017

This week, the SimpleFlight Crew welcomes Dave Pascoe, founder of LiveATC.net .to the show. Liveatc.net is the only source for live and archive ATC feeds from around the world. And we love it!!! What started as a way for Dave to understand and become comfortable with ATC communications, became the single source for pilots, avgeeks, news media, etc. to hear actual pilot/ATC communications in every situation imaginable. Listen in and learn the story behind how it started and where the technology is heading.

You'll also hear how Dave gives back through his efforts in the Pan-Mass Challenge, a 170 - 190 mile bike ride to raise money for life-saving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. We can't wait for you to meet Dave. We know you'll love the show!!!

=============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think!

There is Whining in Aviation, Augut 6, 2017 Aug 07, 2017

There is whining in aviation, Jet Whining that is. This week, the SimpleFlight Crew welcomes Rob Mark to the show. If there happens to be anyone that doesn't know Rob by name, we can say confidently, you've come across him in a very diverse set of aviation circles. Rob is the Senior Editor at Flying Magazine and also edits the award-winning, aviation insiders blog Jetwhine.com, the editorial podcast The Aviation Minute, and co-produces the weekly aviation radio show, The Airplane Geeks. Each summer, Rob co-hosts “Attitude Adjustment,” a daily radio show at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh. And if that isn't enough, Rob is a regular aviation news contributor to Fox News, WGN-TV and CNN, having also served as an aviation news analyst for CBS, NBC, PBS, the BBC and a number of national radio outlets. Had enough? But wait, there's more. He is an Airline Transport Rated pilot type-rated in a number of business jets and has logged nearly 7,000 flying hours in the airline, Part 135 and Part 91 environment. He holds a current airplane, instrument and multi-engine flight instructor certificate and even spent 10 years as an air traffic controller and supervisor with the FAA. All this makes for a great show for #avgeeks of all persuasions. Tune in for some relaxed hangar flying with Rob, Rhonda, and Marc!

=============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

OSH / Texas Trifecta, July 30, 2017 Jul 31, 2017

Coming off the high, known to all of us as OSH17, Marc and Rhonda spent the first portion of the show talking about the record attendance at Airventure and the many memories that came back with them. From high altitude chambers, virtual reality, and root beer from Ardy and Ed's, they made the most of their 24 hour visit to the busiest airport in the world.

And they completed the triple play of Texas guests (starting with Teresa Stokes and Kevin Lacey) by bringing back Janine Iannarelli to update us with the trends impacting business aviation. The leading indicators haven't changed much, but the energy is good, and may be showing some signs of positive movement. Janine had some exciting news to share about recognition she earned in the industry and informed us of a couple of events coming up to drive more inclusion of women in aviation. Listen and Learn.

Happy Anniversary to Marc, celebrating his 5th year with the show.

We thank you for listening and wish you BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Beyond Repo-Man Kevin Lacey, July 23, 2017 Jul 25, 2017

When most people hear the name, Kevin Lacey, the show, “Airplane Repo” comes to mind. After all, the Discovery Channel played a large role in bringing Kevin into so many living rooms on a regular basis. But those that know Kevin, understand that he is much more than that. Kevin is channeling his passion for aviation to make a difference in the industry and specifically, in the youth that hold the potential for taking general aviation to new heights. We know you'll love getting to know Kevin in this episode of SimpleFlight Aviation Radio. Kevin, who is always a straight shooter, painted a positive vision of what's happening in his world, including a focus on a special group of young people in the Tango Thirty One Aero Club, as well as other investments he is making in young aviators, and made mention of a possible new TV show he has proposed. How appropriate that this week's show was broadcast live from OSH17, at the Hilton Garden Inn. Ironically, this show represents SimpleFlight's 5 year anniversary, which started at OSH12 from Al Waterloo's hotel room. Thanks to the support of the Oshkosh Hilton Garden Inn and its staff, Marc and Rhonda got a front row seat to the contagious enthusiasm generated at the hotel and even had a small group of fans join us to hear about the special things Kevin is doing for the industry. We know our show could not survive without our loyal listeners and the broad support we receive from across the industry. Our sincere thanks and commitment to keep the fun rolling, as we bring you amazing people, doing amazing things in aviation. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Take A Walk On The Wild Side, Teresa Stokes, July 16, 2017 Jul 17, 2017

We've had a string of guests who have quite diverse backgrounds, but this is the first time our guest is a wing-walker, who also happens to be a famous aviation artist, plays guitar, is an accomplished pilot (AMEL, IFR, Commercial), enjoys flying aerobatics, and restores, maintains, and drives classic cars. How does she find the time???? Teresa Stokes, who joined us from OSH, spent the evening with Rhonda and Marc talking about her last 29 years as a wing-walker with Gene Soucy ("Mr. Airshow"), and all the other things her talents have enabled her to do. We know you will be infected by her contagious enthusiasm, which serves as a reminder of the fun and adventure that life can hold for all of us. And if you are at OSH next week, check the schedule for her performance. After getting to know her, you'll find you enjoy her show even more!!! =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

General Aviation - Safety, Diversity, Inclusive, July 9, 2017 Jul 10, 2017

Mordechai Levin has a vision for aviation that goes beyond building the pilot community. Rather, it incorporates GA growth with safety, diversity, and inclusion of all who share the passion for aviation. While he has become well known in the Midwest for his weekend ground schools (www.masterflightfoundation.org), he also travels to students across the country providing individualized training built for how each student learns best. It is that approach that has him in a position to announce a new curriculum that will teach and prepare new students for both their private and instrument rating in 30 days!!! Yes, you read that right. Being a diversity and inclusion leader, Mordechai also works with the Master Flight Foundation to ensure people of all backgrounds have access and awareness of the opportunities that are available in the world of aviation, even though there may be a lack of personally identifiable role models for these pilot candidates. Listen and learn as Marc and Rhonda seek to understand Mordechai's approach to aviation proficiency and growth, and how it fits into his overall life's goals. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Pilots Get Their Swag On, July 2, 2017 Jul 03, 2017

John Joslin is a scientist and an instrument rated pilot. His aviation career started in 2002 when his girlfriend (now wife) bought him a discovery flight on a clear night over downtown Chicago. While in Chicago, John spent most of his time on the ground wishing he was in the air, volunteering with the Civil Air Patrol, and making the annual pilgrimage to Oshkosh. It wasn’t until after graduate school that John begin his flight training. His story isn't too different from any of us in the pilot community. We're all part of a special family and love to talk about it. But for some reason we've stopped celebrating our accomplishments and those moments that have special meaning to us. John is interested in changing that and has started by creating patches that commemorate a wide variety of aviation success (www.av8rswag.com). Listen in as Marc and Rhonda discuss why the swagger left, why we should want it back, and how to go about doing just that. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Open Airplane, Bringing Together Pilots, Planes, & Passengers, June 25, 2017 Jun 26, 2017

After a short 4 years, the SimpleFlight crew was pleased to welcome back Rod Rakic, co-founder of OpenAirplane, Inc., a company focused on bringing pilots, planes, and passengers together. The initial premise was to build an organization that operated similar to how auto rental agencies bringing drivers and cars together. Once established, Rod and his team launched a second offering, called FlyOtto, which matches passengers and flights together. The two "products" promise to increase activity within General Aviation, delivering real value to all stakeholders.

Listen in and find out how the company has done over the last 4 years and what changes we might see in the future! =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

What Does CFI, CEO, & USAF Have In Common - Joey Dumas, June 11, 2017 Jun 12, 2017

Joey Dumas has accomplished a lot in spite of his youth. Wile his students know him as a CFI at Chicago Executive Airport, many also know that he spends time as CEO of UnMannedKind (unmannedkind.com), a drone service company that is committed to the smart adoption of technology that will make the world a better and safer place.

And before all this, Joey was as a special operations surveillance pilot in the Air Force, where he earned the rating of instructor pilot and logged over 1,000 supporting ground combat operations. He has a BS in aeronautical engineering from the US Air Force Academy and an MBA from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business. We know you'll love the conversation that Rhonda and Marc had with Joey. Lots of interesting experiences and insight to share. Listen and Learn!!!

=============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

ADS-B On A Diet, June 4, 2017 Jun 03, 2017

Welcome to a new world. This week's guest, Ryan Braun, has a history of bringing innovative enabling technologies to market. This time he's outdone himself. As COO of uAvionix (uavionix.com), Ryan and his teammates have broken the code on bringing low cost, small size, and low power consumption ADS-B solutions to market. While primarily focused on the drone market, Ryan sees a tremendous opportunity to deliver collision avoidance solutions to both manned and unmanned aircraft. uAvionix is already delivering these solutions across general aviation. All aimed at making the skies safer, without making our wallets lighter. We invite you to listen in as Ryan paints a vision of the future that's well on its way to reality. =============== We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Close Encounters of the Drone Kind, May 28, 2017 May 29, 2017

Rhonda and Marc were joined by Adam Hirsen, to talk about his near collision with a drone in the Chicago airspace. If that name sounds familiar to you, it's probably because you have a great memory and you're a long time listener of SimpleFlight Aviation Radio. That's because it was over 4 years ago that Adam was one of our first guests on the show. Just a few weeks ago, a drone passed by Adam's plane, missing the wing by some 20 feet. The fact Adam was at 3300 feet is especially troublesome, since drones are limited to 400 feet by law and technology. While ATC did their job by collecting information from Adam, they never saw the target, nor was there anything they could do about it. Unsettling as it was, Adam remains a proponent of drones. Listen in to the conversation about the experience and what the future may hold for the co-existence of these two factions of the aviation community.

Thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

A Novel Approach to Aviation Safety, May 21, 2017 May 22, 2017

For anyone that thinks their life is busy, I encourage you to talk to Karlene Petitt. A wife of 36 years, mother of 3, grandmother of 8. a pilot for 8 airlines, with 7 type ratings, 2 masters degrees, and author of several novels, Karlene proves you're never too busy to make life happen. Karlene supports her passion for aviation safety through writing, inspiration, and speaking (karlenepetitt.blogspot.com). She joined the SimpleFlight crew tonight to discuss the trends in aviation safety and how technology and airline company training processes may be contributing to an erosion in pilot proficiency. Take a listen and you'll soon find out what aviation commitment is all about. Thanks for listening.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!!!

Aviation Business Taking Off, May 7, 2017 May 08, 2017

When Matt Hofeltd (www.capital-flight.com) decided to get into aviation, he jumped in with both feet and didn't let his initial vision limit the possibilities. HIs goal was to start a first class flight school, that would appeal to students new to the industry. He knew that meant taking a first class approach with everything he did. He differentiated himself by creating the foundation with two brand new 2017 Cirrus aircraft. From there the personnel and philosophy followed. It was then the complete picture started to form, with opportunities for helping buyers buy and sellers sell. People with aircraft needed a home for their bird, so a hangar business evolved, and to fuel the growing aviation community, Matt and his wife Jade, knew they had to provide an aviation calendar to bring everything together. Listen in as Marc and Rhonda speak with Matt and Jade in-studio to find how this wonderful journey started, and the progress made to date. It was a discussion providing a much needed optimism to our wonderful aviation community. Let us know what you think. ----------------------- As always, thanks for listening and being part of the SimpleFlight family. Wishing you.... Blue Skies & Tailwinds!!!

The Sky Is Always Bluer.... April 30, 2017 May 01, 2017

Over the last 4.5 years, we at SimpleFlight Radio have talked to a lot of "amazing people doing amazing things in aviation". And our listeners have loved the journey. What we discovered is our listeners, are pretty amazing too. And they have lots to teach us. This week, we took the opportunity to spend some time talking to a loyal friend of the show, Fred Canavan. Fred did what some of us think about doing, but rarely do we actually do it. But Fred turned his dream into reality. He decided that he wanted a professional aviation career at age 60. And that's exactly what he did. You'll hear his story about making that decision and executing it right on schedule. Flying a Part 135 PC-12 is a dream come true, but he's not finished yet. Listen in as we discuss the path he took, with all the decisions he made along the way. We'll find out together if there are any regrets or what he wished he knew before the trek started. The one thing we can tell you now is that Fred is on CLOUD 9!!! The other news you will hear, is that Marc and Rhonda made it official. Rhonda will join Marc as the regular co-host of the show. It's a partnership that is sure to please. Thanks for the positive feedback and thanks for listening. BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Gary Reeves - Master of Aviation Safety, April 23, 2017 Apr 24, 2017

If you spend time listening to the experts in aviation, you undoubtedly know Gary Reeves. A Master CFI with over 6,700 hours and an expert when it comes to knowing and teaching pilots to leverage the technology and systems in an airplane to ensure a positive flying outcome. Gary travels the country delivering free safety seminars for the FAA (www.pilotsafety.org) and is hired by pilots to fly to their home base and help them become masters of their personal aircraft based on three days of intense training (www.masterflighttraining.com).

Tonight Gary joins Rhonda and Marc to share what he teaches pilots across the country about how to stay safe. This includes the three common mistakes that lead to a bad outcome. He also enlightens our listeners about the benefits of declaring an emergency early, which ironically, is a key step in avoiding an emergency. The topics covered are quite wide and we know you will walk away from tonight's show a more knowledgeable pilot and ultimately a safer one. Our live listeners have already started sending emails to bring Gary back for more in-depth conversation. We violently agree!!!

Gary was recommended to us by a listener. We appreciate the suggestion very much and ask that all of you let us know who you would like to see as a guest.

Our sincere thanks for being a loyal listener to the show. Wishing you,

BLUE SKIES and STRONG TAILWINDS!

April 9, 2017, Archie League Winners - Partnering For Life Apr 10, 2017

As promised two weeks ago, Marc highlighted three of the 2017 Archie League Award recipients. The Archie League recognizes ATC personnel who assisted a pilot in reaching a positive outcome, while facing a very challenging situation. Marc, Rhonda, and Tim shared their insight as the trio listened to the actual radio calls during these emergencies. Great outcomes due to great work by ATC. We wish we could discuss all the winner's efforts, but time doesn't allow it. Other topics covered, include new primary training standards that may actually be bad for the student pilot, follow up on a logging question that was raised last week, and the use (or lack of use) of autopilots by today's primary students. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

One Size Does Not Fit All, April 2, 2017 Apr 03, 2017

If you have any friends that don't understand the concept of hangar flying, have them listen to tonight's show. Marc invited back new Chicago pilot, Rhonda Khabir, and dialed in our long time friend, Tim Rylko from his LA home to talk about multiple news stories circulating in the GA community. What started out as a conversation about the push from AOPA to downgrade Cincinnati from Bravo airspace to Charlie. Why you may ask, well you'll have to listen, but it starts with the fact that KCVG no longer meets the criteria for designating an airspace as Bravo. It's unchartered ground, and perfect for a discussion. From there, the trio talked about ATC privatization, Contract vs. Federal towers, exorbitant fees charged by FBO's and how an air carrier pilot shakes off the rust after a 30 day leave from Part 121 flying. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we love talking to others who share our passion for aviation. Let us know what you think! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

ATC - Improving Safety Through Collaboration, March 26, 2017 Mar 27, 2017

Marc returns to the airwaves tonight, and is joined by fan favorite, Eddie Trujillo, an air traffic specialist with Chicago Approach (C90). Eddie just returned from CFS and has plenty to report and discuss. For those of you unfamiliar, CFS is hosted annually by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). CFS stands for Communicating for Safety and is the aviation industry's leading conference focusing on safety, technology and building relationships with other aviation professionals. It's the only conference of its kind to focus specifically on the air traffic needs of all members of the aviation community who are affected by the National Airspace System (NAS).

Also joining the show, was new Chicago pilot, Rhonda Khabir. Rhonda is a private pilot who brings a lot of energy and contagious enthusiasm to all her conversations. As a new Chicago-based pilot, she had lots of questions for Eddie and a very cool perspective on ATC myths. And you know Marc.... he loves ATC! Listen and Smile tonight! BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

The Adjustment Bureau, March 5, 2017 Mar 07, 2017

When pilots think of insurance, it's usually from a Pre-Claim perspective. But what about after a claim is made. That's when the insurance adjustor gets involved and figures out the damage and amount in question. It's an interesting world not many of us think about. Well that changes with this show. Michael Staszel of McLarens Aviation spends a lot of time flying to "incident" sites to see what happened, why it happened, and what it is going to cost the insurance company. His visits include many of the accidents we read about on a regular basis. Michael, who is an ATP rated pilot, joins us this week to give some insight of his daily life and provide the insurance adjustor perspective on GA accidents. I've had the pleasure of speaking with Michael, and know you will find this a great listen. BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Top of the (M) Class, February 26, 2017 Feb 27, 2017

One of the things Marc has loved about the last 4 1/2 years, is the ability to meet some real superstars in the aviation industry. This week is no different. SimpleFlight Radio welcomes Dick Rochfort to the show. Dick has been training pilots (rwrpilottraining.com) since the early 90's. He has differentiated himself by focusing solely on the Piper M Class (Malibu, Mirage, Matrix, Meidian) and putting himself in the position of delivering instructor level knowledge that goes far beyond stick and rudder skills. Check out his website and YouTube videos to experience it firsthand. The show was prerecorded, so no live social media activity tonight, but navigate to the podcast page on Sunday night and listen in. You'll figure out why Marc has always held a high regard for the professionalism and quality Dick has brought to the aviation community. We're sure you'll agree. BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Curious Jorge, February 19, 2017 Feb 20, 2017

We're back and better than ever. Well except for the technical issue I had, which forced me to cut out some of our interview. I'll get it back in by the end of the week. The show will go back to talking with the people that are living the dream with aviation, whether it be as a hobby or a way of life. Tonight we are joined by Jorge Velez, a long time passionate aviator, who has a lot of great stories to share. I think of Jorge as my personal aviation encyclopedia. He is the king when it comes to spotting an aircraft and being able to identify it and tell you its history. Listen and enjoy!!! We're excited to get back on track and reconnect with our listeners that have been the source of our energy the past four years. BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Happy New Year; New Beginnings Jan 07, 2017

Tonight's show was to be about a look back at the big stories of 2016 and some forecasts of possible big stories in 2017. There was a little of that, but the focus shifted to the "change-laden" year Al had in 2016. Shutting down his flight school, dealing with the implications of owning an airplane and then the implications of selling it, finding a job at Cirrus, and getting ramped up, and finally closing the year with a marriage proposal to his girlfriend. That's enough change in the year for most people, but not Al. He actually waited until tonight to announce yet another decision.... that he would be leaving the podcast to focus on his job, his family, and his other life goals. Listen in as the guys talk about what the show has meant to them and to aviation during the past 4 and a half years. So what's that mean for the show in 2017? Well Marc remains passionate about the show and its mission. And he also learned that the show is best with a co-pilot. So he will be taking a couple weeks off to evaluate how best to move forward while maintaining the foundation that has been built to date. Most important, we both wish you and yours a 2017 filled with good health, peace and much happiness. Thanks for listening and as we sometimes say to ATC.... Stand By!!! Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Fly Often, Fly Safely, December 21, 2016 Dec 21, 2016

So the guys said no more live shows until after the holidays, but if you tuned in on Sunday night, you got a live show!!! With Al unable to make any dates for the rest of December, Marc said the show must go on, so braved the -5F temps to head over to the airport and get something off his chest.... SAFETY. It's been a continuing theme, but with a couple of relevant examples, including a former guest of the show being involved in a fatal accident in the last 8 days, Marc wants to see a shift in GA culture, that "moves the needle". With your help, we can make that happen.

Thanks for being a loyal listener. BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Cold Weather Flying, December 8th, 2016 Dec 09, 2016

The word ice is bound to make most pilots shudder. And that has nothing to do with shivering. Whether its from fear or deep respect, pilots know that ice can bring an airplane down with only a little warning and there's not much you can do about it. But cold weather doesn't necessarily mean wing and airframe icing. Marc and Al talked about flying in the clouds and the different systems that can aid a pilot, if used judiciously and correctly. Other topics included engine heating, engine operation and lean of peak operations in the winter.

Winter flying affords us some of the smoothest, high performance operations of the year (and let's not forget about the great visibility), yet the cold temps seem to send many pilots into hibernation. We hope our cold weather flying discussion motivates you to explore just how great the flying can be.

Stay warm and have fun. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Thankful for Aviation, November 23rd, 2016 Nov 23, 2016

Thanksgiving week is all about appreciation. In aviation circles, that's a no brainer. There is so much to be thankful for and pilots generally are good about acknowledging those that make it possible. Tonight, Al and Marc did some Thanksgiving hangar flying and covered many topics including technology, communications, procedures, visions of the future, and remembering the past. We are thankful for your investment of time and energy in our show. We wish you a safe and peaceful holiday weekend. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Dude Where is My Jet!? November 14th, 2016 Nov 15, 2016

In a rare Monday night "appearance", Al and Marc got together to record this week's episode. The reason for the change is that Al was flying back from Canada last night. Or at least trying to. Al had issues with border patrol on each end of his flight, which made for an interesting discussion. More to this border crossing than maybe you thought.

The guys also talked a little bit about Marc's newest rating.... Remote Pilot for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. If you want to fly drones, you'll need this.. and its not a hard rating to get.

You'll have fun hearing Marc and Al catch up with all things aviation. Great to have them back together after a few week solo effort by Marc. Thanks for listening in.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Bonjour! Voulez Vous To Drone, November 13, 2016 Nov 14, 2016

With Al returning from Montreal tonight, he and Marc decided to record the show a day late. Not to waste an evening at the broadcast studio, Marc recorded a 20 minute tease on some of the topics that will be discussed on the full show.

It includes a rating a pilot can earn in one day!!! Listen and Learn.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

See and Avoid; Listen and Learn, November 6, 2016 Nov 07, 2016

With the time change that happened during the wee hours of 11/6, it serves as a reminder that things are changing out there. Night time comes earlier, ice becomes part of the vernacular in many parts of the US, and there are changes to the airspace, the aviation vernacular, and today's technology.

All this translates to a ratcheting up of stress points. Marc touches on several aspects of that during tonight's abbreviated show. He discusses the impact of more nighttime, more ice, more drones, new FAA language regarding braking action, and what he thinks about new required training from Cirrus before a pilot can fly their SR22 into known icing conditions. A plethora of topics, that all connect at the pilot.

Enjoy. Thanks for listening. BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!!!

Aviation Potpourri, October 30, 2016 Oct 31, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Al Waterloo and his entire family with the passing of his grandfather. Blue Skies Grandpa. Marc used tonight's time to talk about maintenance demons (how appropriate on the day before Halloween), aviation heroes, personal minimums, and some crazy runway accidents. He's feeling much better getting all that off his chest and sharing it with all of you, his aviation brothers and sisters. Thanks for listening. Have a great week and fly safe!!! BLUE SKIES & TAILWINDS!!!

ATC - Your Awesome Co-Pilot, October 23, 2016 Oct 24, 2016

When a flight goes south (and I'm not talking directionally), a pilot's mind starts to race, stress levels increase, and decision making is impaired. This is why a simple malfunction often times turns into a major tragedy. Knowing your emergency procedures can improve the odds significantly. But knowing how to call for help can provide a pilot a clear thinking and competent resource.

That call for help needs to go no further than your Push To Talk button. ATC is well known for their "saves" and each year a subset of those saves is nominated for the Archie League Award. A small team reads and discusses every nomination and ends up awarding the controller(s) who provided what some would call "above and beyond" assistance to a pilot. Those controllers state they were merely doing their job. Tonight Marc takes a look (and listen) of some of the 2016 winners. The situations are different, but the controllers all share the same traits.

We know you will enjoy the show!

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

What weather decision would you make? October 16th, 2016 Oct 17, 2016

I Thought Turkeys Could Fly - October 9, 2016 Oct 10, 2016

Who knew when we recorded our opening that it would someday serve as a lead in to our first story of the night.

The quote is from the famous WKRP in Cincinnati episode where Station Manager, Arthur Carlson (played by Gordon Jump), arranged to have live turkeys dropped from a helicopter as an advertising stunt. Needless to say, it was a bloody mess.

Just prior to tonight's show, Marc was made aware that this "Turkey Drop" was more than just a story in some comedy writer's mind. Deciding Karma was in play, Marc decided to open with this story.

Going solo tonight, Marc focused on a couple of educational topics that serve as a foundation for many a hangar flying session. He's interested in what you have to say as well, so tweet us, or send Marc an email at me02@aol.com.

Thanks for listening! Until next week, wishing you Strong Tailwinds and Sunny Blue Skies!!!

Two Weeks In.. October 1st, 2016 Oct 01, 2016

Two weeks ago, Marc and his two aviation partners bought an airplane. SimpleFlight did a show in which Marc and one of his partners, described the process and the surprises (positive and negative) that came up along the way.

Now two weeks later, Al wanted to hear from Marc how the ownership thing was going. Not surprisingly, Marc's loving it and has learned a bunch of things along the way. Listen in and catch some of that contagious enthusiasm Marc brings with him to the show.

Thanks for listening. Wishing you Blue Skies and Strong Tailwinds!!!

Living On Cloud 9, September 18, 2016 Sep 18, 2016

Tonight's show brings you up close and personal with guest Al Carrino and your very own Marc Epner, as they share an important aviation milestone that was reached this week. That being becoming an airplane owner. A long time dream for many of us, that lives up to the expectation, but not without a few surprises along the way.

Listen in as Al and Marc talk about the experience. Please let us know if you have any questions or comments. And next time you're in Chicago, give us a call and we can go flying!!!

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Finding the Cloud Tops with Aerovie, September 11, 2011 Sep 12, 2016

With the relatively crowded EFB space, you might wonder how a lesser known company can compete with the big guys. That was the problem facing Bryan Heitman, founder of Aerovie (Aerovie.com). Aerovie was established based on its ability to enter PIREP's electronically and directly into the national airspace system. What was missing from other solutions was an ability to get a diverse weather picture during the preflight phase. That's where Bryan found his way to differentiate. Listen and find out how you can get a SimpleFlight discount for this great app. Marc and Al also talked with him about his journey into aviation and the path ahead of him. A great conversation and one we know you will enjoy. As always, thank you for listening. Wishing you Blue Skies and Strong Tailwinds.

Aviation Goals - Firend or Foe, August 28, 2016 Aug 29, 2016

Talk to a pilot and you'll probably hear that they always had a goal to fly.... to become a pilot. But what about the goals that come after the Private Pilot's License. Unless it's a career choice, it seems the goals lose focus and become more nebulous. Tim Rylko sits in for Al tonight and talks with Marc about his observations as a west coast instructor and an Embraer 175 pilot. What can the CFI community do to encourage goals beyond earning the ticket. What can the rest of us do? It turns out, we can do a lot.

As always, thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!!!

Enjoy the Show!!!

All Star AME, August 21st, 2016 Aug 22, 2016

Dr. Chien is a full-time "complex case" Senior AME. His knowledge and experience in navigating the aero medical process has helped many pilots stay in the air. Bruce always has an interesting story to tell, and we expect him to help us understand 3rd class medical reform! Listen & Learn!

YouTube the Airliner Groove August 14th, 2016 Aug 15, 2016

Al and Marc showed their avgeek side tonight by talking about how they use YouTube to satisfy their aviation fix. Everything from engine starts, instrument approaches, new plane intros, and Al's favorite....old airline commercials!!! It really brought some nostalgic and fond memories back, bringing a smile to their respective faces. We hope you have the same feeling. The guys also shared some exciting and positive news about GA safety statistics, which shows the GA community is starting to focus on stupid pilot tricks. A short show tonight, but a lot of fun and should generate some great conversation and YouTube activity! Thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Crazy Calls of Charter August 7th, 2016 Aug 08, 2016

Al and Marc welcomed Grant Casstevens of DuPage Aerospace (www.dupageaerospace.com), a Chicago-based charter, maintenance, and aviation management company. The discussion went way beyond the basic inner workings of the charter business as the guys talked about wild catering requests, unusual passengers, and the daily challenges of running the business. What a great way to start SimpleFlight's 5th year. We know you'll love the show. And along those lines, our sincere thanks to all of you for being with us these past 4 years. We look forward to making this 5th year even better and to keep you as a loyal listener.

OSH16 Is In The Books. GA Cleared For Takeoff, July 31, 2016 Aug 01, 2016

Congratulations to all of us, as SImpleFlight Radio celebrates its 4th anniversary with this show. And what better way to celebrate and kick off our 5th year, than by talking about the current state of the market and a vision of what's to come. As usual, we welcomed Janine Iannarelli of Par Avion LTD (paravionltd.com) to lead us through the goings on in the business jet market. From there we talked to the piston side of things.

Of special note, was the high energy associated with OSH16 and the feel good vibe that was evident from start to finish. The air was filled with a sense of innovation, energy, and optimism. That combined with what looks to be record crowds, puts a big stamp of approval on our current and future state.

As always, Al and Marc would like to thank each of your for your continued loyalty and active involvement with the show. We are proud of what we've built over the last four years, and look forward to making year five, the best one yet.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

ForeFlight 21 Years Later! July 10th, 2016 Jul 11, 2016

Aviation years are not too different than dog years. Everything moves so fast, including obsolescence. So when you hear that ForeFlight started in 2007, it speaks loudly to the quality of the company that it has found a way to excel through all the changes in the aviation industry. Kudos to Tyson Weihs and Jason Miller for their ability to execute on the original vision and the courage to evolve that vision on an ongoing basis. Tyson joined Al and Marc tonight to share his perspective on the ride to date and insight on what's yet to come. Thanks for listening. Talk to you again next week. Until then, Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

Oshbash16 with @Av8rdan Jul 04, 2016

It's hard to believe that #OSH16 is just a few weeks away. Al and Marc couldn't have found a better guest to help us transition to that mindset, than Dan Pimentel (@av8rdanpim), creator of airplanista.com. Dan writes for some 7 aviation magazines, but is probably best known for his OshBash event, bringing avgeeks together to go beyond Airventure, and to do the Oshkosh event as its meant to be. We know you'll enjoy listening to the show as much as Al and Marc did recording it. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Are You Flight Aware, June 26th, 2016 Jun 27, 2016

One of the most popular aviation web sites in existence is flightaware.com. It is there so it's users can (among other things) check the progress and anticipated arrival times of both general aviation and commercial airline flights. While most of us are users of FlightAware, many of us don't know much about the inner workings of the company. Al and Marc talked with Ryan Jorgenson, a data analyst with the company, and learned that FlightAware is a rather large company that adds value to the marketplace is many diverse ways. Ryan also covered ways in which users can participate in the company's growth and earn a premium account along the way. Listen and learn! Thanks for listening! Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

Building Aviation Through Diversity, June 25th, 2016 Jun 20, 2016

Some 10 years ago, I was interviewed by a young woman from an airplane manufacturer about a possible job. I was sitting in the FBO engaging in the conversation, when the lineman came up to me asking if I needed fuel. The woman responded that no fuel was needed. She told me that always happens. Everyone assumes its the man that is the pilot. Despite the passage of a decade, that assumption is still prevalent. Of course that's because most pilots look like me. But thanks to our guest tonight, Tom Rege, of the Aviation Foundation (aviationfoundation.org), that may be changing. The Aviation Foundation's mission is to make aviation accessible and a reality for minorities and women, ages 16-21. Tom understands that to grow aviation, we must build on a diverse population who has the aptitude and passion for aviation. We know you will enjoy listening as much as we did.

Jason Schappert MzeroA.com June 12th, 2016 Jun 13, 2016

We all agree with the adage, a good pilot is always learning. The question is where to go for that learning. One such "place" is with Jason Schappert, a CFII, Author, and aviation educator, who has made a name for himself with pilots around the world. Through his web site, mZeroa (m0a.com) provides training to any and all members of the aviation community. Listen in to SimpleFlight radio to get up close and personal with Jason as he makes an "appearance" on tonight's show.

At Your Service, June 5, 2016 Jun 09, 2016

A pilot's view of an FBO, differs across pilot types. The single engine private pilot has very different needs, expectations, and payment expectations from the corporate pilot, who is paid to ensure the passengers are happy and on time. The view from the FBO is not so diverse, as regardless of type of pilot, the FBO staff wants to keep passengers comfortable, flight crews organized and airport tenants happy. At least the good FBO's provide the same customer service regardless of type of aircraft, operation, or fuel purchases. Tonight, meet Reyna Vigil, who recently moved to Chicago to manage the customer service staff at Hawthorne Global Aviation Services at KPWK. Reyna discusses her role and it's challenges and rewards for a job well done.

Thanks for listening.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

The Art of Search and Rescue May 29th, 2016 May 30, 2016

Tonight, Al and Marc were joined by Fred Canavan, a loyal listener from New Jersey, who is a Civil Air Patrol pilot. Fred loves Aviation and he found a way to give back to the public through his work with the Civil Air Patrol (http://www.gocivilairpatrol.com). As a mission pilot for CAP, one of his duties is to lead Search and Rescue missions. As you will soon understand, the process to locate a downed aircraft is as much art, as it is science. The good news is he and his colleagues have that skill. Marc and Al also discussed new developments at Icon Aircraft corporation, as it goes through the growing pains that all aircraft manufacturers experience. The guys talked about the airshows that kick off the summer flying season, including the exciting news that the OSH Notam has been published. Lastly, Marc brought up his experience flying below the Chicago Bravo, only to find a long line of airliners flying their final approach in that same space. Didn't have to have much of a scan to see 777's across his flight path.

Aviation Surprises, May 22, 2016 May 23, 2016

Aviation related or not, surprises can feel a little ominous. Tonight's show had plenty of surprise moments. First with a surprise visit from long time friend of the show, Alex Kottoulas. And that was followed by a surprise rendition of Happy Birthday to our own Al Waterloo.

The theme continued as Marc spoke about his first ever ramp check at KOSU, followed by a surprise visit by an uncomfortable bout of turbulence. What he did may surprise you.

The guys then played a game in which they ranked the importance of high end devices that are commonly added to an airplane, and finished the night talking about a mobile pilot shop.

Lots of discussion and a few surprises along the way. We think you'll enjoy it!!!

Thanks for listening. Blue Skies & Tailwinds!

Avionics Pie, May 15th, 2016 May 16, 2016

Quick, name an avionics manufacturer. Many pilots would name Garmin, Bendix-King, or maybe Rockwell Collins and Honeywell. After listening to the show, you might add another name to that list. Al and Marc talked to Ryan Paul of Avidyne on tonight's show. While Avidyne no longer OEM's their equipment to Cirrus and Piper, they've found exciting growth in their IFD 440/540/550 Nav/Comm GPS solutions. Focused on reducing pilot workload, Avidyne provides a "lower" cost and highly functional solution to today's general aviation pilot. Also of interest, was Ryan's path to achieving his dream job in aviation. After listening to Ryan, you'll understand how he made it happen. Amazing what a positive attitude and a contagious enthusiasm can do for a person!

Bridging The Training Gap May 1st, 2016 May 02, 2016

As Al battled storms flying in from the West, Marc kicked off the show talking about his need for a higher level of training, so he can fly like a professional, with the confidence and proficiency that comes with it. On cue, Al joined the show and relayed his experience flying in tonight. That same confidence and proficiency was obviously in play. The guys talked about how that higher level of training does exist, but not in great supply. Whether the lack of demand is because of the financial implications or for some other reason, is unknown, but served to fuel the conversation. Listen and join in on the discussion. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Business Jet Buzz, April 24, 2016 Apr 25, 2016

With Al on the road, or should I say in the air, Josh Blain joined Marc as his co-host for the show. The guys talked with Janine Iannarelli of Par Avion Ltd. who joins us quarterly to discuss the state of aviation with regards to the business jet market. Janine always brings a keen insight into the trends that drive the health of the market.

Josh and Marc also talked about a recent experience at a non-towered field, which did not go over well with Josh. And heads up about the Chicago Aviation Symposium on June 25th at Lewis University in Romeoville, IL (KLOT). It's all part of the Bridge The Gap initiative to bring controllers and pilots together in the spirit of safety. If you're in the Midwest, mark it down on your calendar.

Blue Skies & Tailwinds!

Weather at a Glance! April 10th, 2015 Apr 11, 2016

If you ask a general aviation pilot, what's the toughest topic to become proficient in, many will respond with Weather. And that goes beyond weather theory. Sometimes it's just collecting all of the data points and trying to pull it all together. Making that even tougher is the lack of consistency in how the data is presented. Maps, text, coded, and decoded are just some of the types we as pilots must pull together to paint a single picture. Enter WX24Pilot, a new IOS app brought to us by Paxton Calvanese. This weather app brings all of your flight planning data, including a pilot's personal minimums to a single place with a single graphical user interface. Using a circular clock type view, a pilot can quickly build a picture of the weather that will be faced on their planned flight. Now why didn't we think of that before? Can't answer that, but we are sure glad Paxton thought of it. Listen in to the podcast and also find a demo of the solution on YouTube. You'll be glad you did!Thanks for listening. Al and Marc love that your are part of the show's family.

Disruptive Innovations, April 3rd, 2016 Apr 04, 2016

Change is good. It leads to innovation and in aviation, hopefully a cheaper, safer, faster, and better flying experience. Tonight's show dealt with the changing environment in aviation. Al and Marc talked about scheduled 135 operating companies and other "uber-like entities and how they are changing the industry. The conversation moved to new student pilot rules, which get in the way of an old and wonderful tradition of soloing on a pilot's 16th birthday. And then on to a discussion of how Icon Aircraft is working to set a risk mitigation precedent with a new buyer contract with many interesting caveats.Marc and Al finished strong by checking in with sometimes co-host, Tim Rylko, who is about to complete his three month training with his new employer. In a matter of a couple weeks, Tim will be flying with passengers in an EMB 175. Very exciting!Thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

Catching Up with Josh and Eddie, March 27, 2016 Mar 28, 2016

How appropriate, we recorded this show on Easter Sunday. It's a day when family gets together and catches up on the many changes that occurred over the past several months. Same with the SimpleFlight Aviation family. Josh Blain (of CFI fame) and Eddie Trujillo (Chicago Approach ATC) stopped by the SimpleFlight Studio to share what's been going on in their lives. Congrats to Josh for surpassing 1,000 hours (600 in the last 7 months), and Eddie talked about his ATC life as Chicago continues to change traffic flows and he progresses in his career.

Like all shows, you'll find a refreshing and informal feel to the conversation, which once again proves, that we are all part of the same family!!!

Blues Skies & Tailwinds!

Aviation Restoration from the Heart, March 6th, 2016 Mar 07, 2016

The picture on the left is of Betty Wall Strohfus, the legend who is at the heart of the work you will hear about in this week's show. Shortly after our live show on Sunday night, Betty passed away at the age of 96. An emotional time for all those connected with her. The following link serves as a tribute to Betty.

http://blogs.mprnews.org/newscut/2016/03/air-legend-betty-strohfus-dies-at-96

You're going to love this week's show as Marc and Al talk to Terry Baker, who heads up the American Aviation Heritage Foundation, which is in the process of restoring a WASP BT-13 (www.facebook.com/Americanaviationheritagefoundation). This is less about the airplane, and much more about the women who piloted the plane. You'll hear the emotion in Terry's voice as he talks about the people behind the project, who are emotionally and physically committed to honoring the legacy of the women of the WASP who were pioneers in every sense of the word.

Meet Your Pilot Partner, February 28th, 2016 Mar 01, 2016

In a bit of a twist, Marc and Al welcomed one of their listeners to the show. Ken VeArd, maker of the Pilot Partner Electronic Pilot Logbook, joined us to talk all things aviation. He also was kind enough to offer a life time promo code for those that sign up at pilotpartner.net. Listen to the podcast to find out how you can earn a lifetime benefit with the promo code. And thanks to listener Tom Wachowski, who gave very sound purchasing advice, by stating that Marc shouldn't talk himself into an aircraft for reasons outside his value circle. Sage advice indeed!Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Living Legends with Par Avion, February 21st, 2016 Feb 22, 2016

Marc and Al welcomed back Janine Iannarelli of Par Avion Ltd to talk about the goings on in the business jet side of General Aviation. Janine enlightened us to what's it like to walk with the stars at the Living Legends of Aviation Gala. It was great to hear that indeed, aviation is the great equalizer, thanks to the passion we all share for flying. The conversation moved to the very heated discussion of privatization of ATC. There are two sides to every story, and it appears the airlines are on one side of the table, with GA firmly on the other. Which of course led to the implications of this year's impending elections. Current uncertainty is one of the forces driving the current trends. Once that uncertainty is eliminated, it will be interesting to see where that will take us. Blue Skies & Tailwinds

Hangar Flying, February 14th, 2016 Feb 15, 2016

Marc and Al were joined by frequent guest, Josh Blain for a night of hangar flying. The conversation started with Josh's pursuit of an airline job, as Al and Marc surfed the web for salaries, hiring packages, and other relevant info. It was Marc's turn next as he described a recent experience in which he had a loss of instrumentation, which resulted in a momentary loss of orientation. Very educational and a reminder for us all. Other topics include a discussion of ATC privatization, an explanation of the snowflake symbol on approach charts, and other items that usually come up while hangar flying. So hop aboard and take a seat and let us know what you want to talk about.Blue Skies and Tailwinds

Achieving The Aviation Dream, February 07, 2016 Feb 09, 2016

Last week, Karl Fink inspired all of us by showing the way to live the aviation dream by making it part of our every day life. Tonight Al and Marc welcomed Tim Rylko, who spoke about achieving his aviation dream by making it his every day life. The difference between the two is slight, but for a young man who has been on a 15 year mission to fly for the airlines, it feels so much more momentous. Listen in as Tim talks about how it all started and some of the sacrifices he had to make to reach this important goal. A feel good story that'll put a smile on your face!!! Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Aviation Lifestyle Role Model, January 31st 2016 Feb 01, 2016

General aviation pilots usually think big, but settle for a $100 hamburgers and a lot of hangar flying. Tonight's guest, Karl Fink, sets the standard by which we should all measure ourselves. Whether it's for work, family, friends, charity, or for supporting his favorite college team, Karl uses aviation to achieve his life's goals. Isn't it time we stop dreaming about flying and get off the ground? We agree!!!Blue Skies and Tailwinds

Aviation Branding in 2016, January 24th, 2016 Jan 25, 2016

So much of General Aviation is stuck in the old way of doing things. Tonight, Marc and Al welcomed back long time SimpleFlight friend and aviation entrepreneur, Ian Hoyt. Ian's passion for connecting aviation to the rest of the world is found in Wilbur (Wilbur.co), his company that helps brands develop creative marketing solutions for the quick changing landscape in which we live. Not surprising, Ian's success comes from his ability to balance today's technology with foundational concepts that have withstood the test of time.

Modaero #nextgen Aviation Festival, January 17th, 2016 Jan 18, 2016

What are you doing on March 16th through March 19th? After tonight's show, you'll probably be heading to Conroe Texas to attend Modaero's #NextGen Aviation Festival. As the face of aviation changes, it's critical today's aviation event focuses on the younger demographic, without losing the existing cross generational foundation. Co-founders Brian Columbus and Jason Stewart spoke with us about their efforts to make an impact through aviation, entertainment, and education..... Right down to the drone races! Listen and hear about SimpleFlight's special promo code for the event. See you there.

For 40% off your Modaero Festival tickets use SIMPLE16 as a promo code when checking out. www.modaero.net

Flying Across The Pond With Philippe Polman - January 10, 2016 Jan 11, 2016

Tonight, we were joined by a colleague of Al's, Philippe Polman. You can't tell it from his name, but Philippe received his aviation training in the US. Today, he lives in the United Kingdom, which serves as a base for his work with Cirrus across all of Europe. We've heard so many rumors and stories about what flying is like across the pond, it was refreshing to hear the truth from Philippe. Everything from training, operations, costs, techniques, and rules. He even gave us some insight as to which apps were most popular (here's a hint... It's not ForeFlight). And as far as costs, can you imagine running over to the control tower to give the controller a credit card for your landing fee, while he is controlling traffic? It happens! But most of all, Philippe shares with us the experience of multi-country flying. Somehow flying to the south of France for a $100 le petit dejeuner sounds a lot more exciting than a burger in Anytown, USA.

Let us know if you liked the show and join us next week when we welcome a guest to talk with us about the next generation of aviation festivals! Thanks for listening!!!

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Kicking of 2016 with Pilotedge January 3rd, 2016 Jan 04, 2016

What a great way to kick off the year. Keith Smith, CEO of PilotEdge helped Marc welcome Al back to the show with a detailed description of a complex and challenging IFR flight with the strongest hurricane in the area. The decision making process he went through is very enlightening.Once you start listening to the podcast, you'll notice a new format, new website, and fresh feel to the show. We hope you like it. Either way, let us know.Happy New Year. Blue Skies & Tailwinds!

Bridging The Gap - ATC and General Aviation, December 27, 2015 Dec 28, 2015

Before we say goodbye to 2015, let's say hello to a very important partner for General Aviation pilots, your friendly local air traffic controller. Marc welcomed Eddie Trujillo from C90 (Chicago Approach) to talk about his career and his current project, appropriately called "Bridge The Gap". The purpose of the program is to open a direct line of communication between pilots and controllers within Chicago airspace with the goal bridging the gap between them. This program may be starting in other areas as well. Regardless, the lessons are the same... open and direct communication will allow both pilot and controller alike to understand the other's perspective, ensure questions are answered, and the airspace is safer. An excellent exchange, you will surely enjoy.

Additionally, many listener questions came in, which Eddie was able to answer. That in itself was very enlightening and educational. And just to spice it up a little, Marc played an audio recording of a prior GA emergency, which highlighted the necessity for pilots to contact ATC at the earliest possible moment, in order to maximize the value ATC can provide, as well as the best odds for a safe outcome. Listen and learn!

Here's wishing all of our listeners and their friends and family, a 2016 filled with good health and much happiness. And of course....

Blue Skies & Tailwinds!

A Time of Change, December 20, 2015 Dec 21, 2015

What a great time of year. A time of change and a time of giving. Marc focused on some of those changes, starting with the shift from shorter days to longer days. For him, a welcome emotional change. As the new year approaches, Marc also talked about getting back his Avgeek swagger. Something that has diminished due to less flying in 2015. With visions of more hours in 2016, he hopes all of you will join him in that goal.

A big change is on the horizon with the government seemingly on our side, with the Senate providing the next version of the Pilot Bill of Rights, including 3rd class medical reform. How cool would it be to know you have already had your last AME exam, and only need to stay healthy and have your personal physician approve you for flight every 4 years, and every two years, for you to take a free on-line course regarding Aeromedical Factors in flight. Well that's what's about to happen, if the house and the president follow the Senate's path. Is that good or bad? We heard what Marc thinks.... how about you? Send your comments via the Simpleflight.net web site.

In the meantime, thanks for listening and accept our best wishes for a happy holiday season and a healthy and happy New Year.

Blues Skies and Tailwinds!

Go / No Go Part Deux, December 13, 2015 Dec 14, 2015

Back in August, We discussed the Go / No Go decision, with a focus on a perfectly good airplane, which exhibited some anomalies with its annunciator lights. The manufacturer and A&P said it was working as intended, but Marc knew differently. Today, Marc brings up the same Go / No Go decision, but with respect to the pilots capabilities and the environment around him or her. Does the decision come down to legalities, safety, intelligence, personal minimums, or maybe a more objective criteria concerning having "outs". The discussion is not as cut and dried as one might think. Take a listen and let us know what you think. You can write Marc at me02@aol.com

Marc also spent some time going over current events. Congrats to Honda for its certification of the HondaJet. Other items that may interest you include a manned drone like aircraft, or the fact that the government is looking for someone that can help them take safe control of someone else's drone and earn a cool $100K for their efforts. And one warning, don't bring your hoverboard on your next flight!!!

Thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

The Aviation Leans - December 6, 2015 Dec 10, 2015

When you're flying, do you ever get the "leans". I know you're thinking about the sensation that a pilot can get when going into IMC conditions. A sense of leaning one way or another , when you're actually flying straight. This time, I'm talking about something a bit different. That being the red knob in your plane. You know, what some people think of as the on/off knob. Pushed all the way in, and the plane is able to be turned on. Pull all the way back, and it turns off. While true, many people don't understand what it means to be active with the mixture control throughout its travel. Sit back and listen and learn about what it means to be Lean of Peak... or Rich of Peak. When to lean and how to lean. If this is new to you, you'll be glad you took the time, and your wallet will thank you, your airplane will thank you, and so will the environment.

If you feel I missed the mark, then by all means, leave your comments at www.simpleflight.net or email me at me02@aol.com

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Best Aviation Practices - November 29, 2015 Nov 30, 2015

Avionics have come a long way over the last 15 years. Unfortunately, there are many pilots that have bought new avionics, but know little more than how to press the "Direct To" button. By understanding the nuances or tips and tricks of getting more out of these devices, a pilot will discover how it can lessen the workload, mitigate risk, and create better outcomes. Luckily our own Marc Epner is an expert at using the technology found in today's technically advanced aircraft. Listen in as Marc discusses some of the best practices in getting the most out of your audio panel, transponder, and GPS/Nav/Com.

Marc also brought us up to speed on the continuing Drone conversation, the FAA's warning to understand what important sounds your noise canceling headset may be preventing you from hearing, and the notable demise of a well known headset manufacturer. Plus, he took a slight turn to share his view of the items that should be covered in a safety briefing and what items a pinch hitter really needs to know.

Thanks for listening.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

Winter Operations - Keeping Safe November 22, 2015 Nov 23, 2015

After an absolutely amazing fall, Chicago reminded us that Winter can hit at any time. Coming off a 12" snowfall yesterday, it reminded Marc of the implications for pilots across the northern latitudes. And its not just about preheating your engine. Pilot's have the responsibility for considering the effect of cold and snow on the entire airplane, as well as taxiway and runway conditions. And how about the impending weather, and in the case of an off airport landing, is the plane equipped to keep the pilot safe until help arrives? Join with Marc as he discussed those very topics. In the end, your airplane and your family will thank you for your preparedness for Winter Operations.

Marc also talked about the retirement of Mike Ragsdale, a 37 year veteran behind the yoke at American Airlines. A friend, a mentor, and as professional as they come, Mike will miss flying, his passengers, and the MD-80. But maybe not as much as they will miss him. Capt. Rags has not been in a GA airplane in 37 years. It'll be fun to get him back to where it all started. Stay tuned for the report on his reaction!!!

With Winter upon us, Marc also asked the listeners what they would want as a gift. If you could pick any item out of Sporty's catalog, what would it be? Old School? New School? Expensive? Useful? Send us your thoughts and we'll pick up the conversation next time.

Congrats to Al for his new position at Cirrus Aircraft.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Magic Aviation Moments, November 15th, 2015 Nov 17, 2015

When you are flying, how often do you say (or think), "I love to fly". Probably a lot... and you are not alone. But how many times do you experience an aviation moment that is so memorable and so unique that it makes you realize how special flying is, and how sad that so few people ever experience those special moments. Well it happened to Marc last Sunday, as he flew back from dinner with his son in BMI. With a crisp nighttime air, unlimited visibilities, smooth as glass ride conditions, and a darkened cockpit, Marc experienced and shared with all of us, a almost life changing moment. Realizing what was happening, Marc paused and took the time to internalize and appreciate how special it was. It seems like we let those moments slip from our memories. They are too precious to let them go. What about you? We'd love to hear about your special aviation moments. Marc also covered some of the aviation holiday gift choices out there, including the new LightSpeed Tango Headset. ANR and Wireless, it has to potential to create a paradigm shift in the headset market. But with so many gifts carrying high price tags, do you really expect your friends and family to spend aviation type of dollars for that gift. My guess is no. What do you say? Marc finished with some aviation rambling, as only he (and every other pilot) can do. We hope you enjoy the show, and as usual.... THANKS FOR LISTENING. Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

Al's Engine Finale! November 1, 2015 Nov 02, 2015

Al found time to be in Chicago on Sunday night and finally could enlighten us as to what happened with his engine dilemma that he spoke to us about two months ago. What a learning experience for him...and now for us. Airplane ownership is more than just flying the plane. Listen in and learn the finer points of airplane ownership decision making.Marc and Al also talked about business current events in General Aviation, as well as some of the great and not so great technologies in the cockpit. And finally, Marc clued us in on possible the best FBO in the nation. We think you'll agree.Thanks for listening.Blues Skies and Tailwinds

A new approach? October 18th, 2015 Oct 22, 2015

What aircraft is the best trainer, especially for primary training? Glider or Powered, Tricycle or Tail Dragger, High Wing or Low Wing, or even yoke, side stick, or center stick? It seems those are the type of features that are discussed when the question comes up. But according to Marc, it's the wrong questions. First and foremost, one single feature should be the focus to determine which aircraft is the proper primary trainer. What do you think? Please let us know. Marc also found the answer to one of the elusive aviation questions he's ever asked. That being, what constitutes a log-able instrument approach? Both for VMC and IMC? Marc's asked the question many times, and each time gets a different answer. As luck would have, the FAA recently clarified exactly that.... and it wasn't the answer expected. But now we all know and hopefully a sign of things to come as the FAA seeks to clarify many of the gray areas we deal with on a daily basis. Finally, Marc talked about the skill of managing the energy and temperatures of the big bore engine. Many myths exist, but common sense suggests Marc is on the right track in his discussion. Interested in your feedback. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Stay Don't Go! October 11th, 2015 Oct 12, 2015

"They" say it takes two weeks to make a habit, which also means it takes two weeks to stop a habit by replacing with a new one. That works for us and against us. In flying, I have known too many people that have found themselves not flying for one reason or another. As time goes on, it gets easier to stay away from the airport. Soon the addiction becomes a fond memory, and then ceases to be a memory altogether. That is bad for aviation, and even bad for you. Flying is important to all of us. We're a community of people that finds peace, happiness, and comfort in flying. Why negatively impact your life by removing such a vital element? Marc talks about this topic and discusses ways to keep aviation in your life, even if you don't get up in the air. Marc also talks about some of the positive changes that have happened in aviation over the last month, including new technology and a kinder and gentler FAA. And what's this about the FAA dumping the area forecast (FA)? Maybe not such a bad thing. Change can be good. What do you think? Thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

Rarely Practiced Often Needed, September 9th, 2015 Sep 09, 2015

This week on SimpleFlight Radio!

How often do you practice manuevers that you might often need? If you're like most general aviation pilots, your answer will probably be, "rarely". Whether it's an engine out, runway trim, loss of automation, or the need for a go around, being ready for these incidents is more than just theory. This week's discussion also included examples that impacts the non-pilot in the aviation community. For example, how often does ATC practice commanding airliners to "go around" or to "abort a takeoff"? After listening to the ATC tape of the aborted take off of a British Airways 777 (engine fire) in Las Vegas, you'd guess that they practice it all the time (take a listen)!

Firing on Zero Cylinders, August 23rd, 2015 Aug 24, 2015

There are multiple perspectives to airplane ownership. Tonight, Al and Marc discuss the maintenance side. Not unlike a Doctor / Patient relationship, communication is key. How can an owner continually tell his mechanic that there is an oil leak that is getting progressively worse; have the A&P respond that the pilot is putting in too much oil, and then one week out of annual, tell the owner he needs 6 new cylinders? It's a true story. Listen in to get the rest of the story.

Blue Skies & Tailwinds

Go, No go!? August 16th, 2015 Aug 18, 2015

The IMSAFE checklist is a great tool for ensuring a pilot considers all factors when "clearing himself for flight". While Marc started off tonight's show discussing common mistakes pilots make when it comes to maintaining their medical, he quickly moved on to the equally compelling discussion of the fitness for flight of the airplane itself. When there is an indication (gauge, warning light, etc), by the airplane that there is a problem, and you are convinced it is not a problem, do you decide to depart? Even if it is a problem, do you make a determination that it is ultimately not going to affect the safety of the flight? Go or No Go? Where is the line? How do you make that decision? And what do you require of yourself as a back up plan, .... if any? And what about if there is no indication that anything is wrong, but you are sure that something is different from normal, but can't identify it. Or as happened to Marc, all indications were that all was good, but he felt the annunciators were not lighting as they normally did. The aircraft acted normally and all indications were that there were no electrical issues, but was surprised he couldn't get the alternator annunciator to light, even when turning the Alternator off? The manufacturer says he is wrong, but after flying an airplane for over 10 years, he knows when something is not "normal". Go or No Go? What would you do? Please let us know by writing Marc at me02@aol.com or navigate to http://www.simpleflight.net/radio.html and fill out the form at the bottom of the page. Thanks for listening. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Texas Flying! August 9th, 2015 Aug 10, 2015

Al had a great set of experiences flying across Texas recently, which became the focus of tonight's show. Did you know there was a restriction on flights leaving Dallas Love airport that limited commercial flying to adjoining states? It's true. From friendly FBO's, to empathetic flight schools, to fun check rides, and even cool military airports, Texas made quite the impression on Al. We think it will do the same for you.The rest of our time with you was spent on Hangar Talk type items, including the rarity of CFI's endorsing commercial students and AOPA's "one week to solo" initiative. As always an enjoyable hour. Thanks for listening.

Blue Skies and Tailwinds

Three Years of #Avgeeking August 2nd, 2015 Aug 03, 2015

It's hard to believe we've been on the air for three years. Proof that we are true avgeeks and that we love doing our show. Tonight's show was one stream of consciousness covering Oshkosh, current events, training, a look back at the past three years and what one can only describe as Hangar Flying. Many listeners tell us this type of show is their favorite as it makes you feel like you're sitting in the hangar talking "pilot" stuff with no goal other than putting a smile on your face and a warmth that flows through your veins. We thank all of you for being part of our family and look forward to growing and maturing together over the next several years.. Blue Skies and Tailwinds!!!

Oshkosh Perspectives July 26th, 2015 Jul 28, 2015

Fresh off of OSH15, Marc felt like an Airventure review from multiple perspectives was in order. It's easy to understand the view from a General Aviation Private Pilot, but what about from the perspective of an 11 year old, who has never been before? Or maybe a parent that took him there, that has never been part of the GA community. That's what we did tonight. Welcome to Nic Partington, who has recently discovered a love for aviation. Enter father John, who got up on Saturday and put Nic in the car for the 3 hour drive to Oshkosh. Walking the main drag, Nic saw first hand what a Citation, Cirrus, Icon, etc. looks like from the inside, up close and personal. And then the air show started. The formation flying, aerobatics, and the TORA TORA TORA reenactment certainly had an impact. Getting both Nic and John's feelings of their first Oshkosh provides great insight into the mind of the non-pilot. At the very least, we learned that regardless of the age or whether a person has a pilot's license or not, the passion and love of aviation is the same. We're all part of the same family! Returning guest, Tim Rylko, called in from California to provide is perspective on the show as well. Tim was yet again, part of the B2OSH, mass Bonanza/Baron arrival. His description of 120 airplanes taxing on the runway at Rockford, IL (KRFD) was awesome. What a great experience. You can bet next year, Marc will find his way to KRFD on the Saturday prior to OSH16 to watch 120 airplanes taking the runway and doing a mass departure in groups of three. It sounds like a show in and of itself. I can only imagine the OSH controllers heart rate when they hear "flight of 120" checking in!!! Once at Airventure, Tim visited the career center and found the regional airlines to be sincerely interested in helping him get on board. With signing bonuses, free training, and conditional offers prior to 1500 hours, TIm found multiple airlines quite interesting. The encouraging news is that the young men and women working for these airlines remain excited to be earning a living as a pilot, and looking forward to advancing in their career for many years. GREAT TO SEE and HEAR!!! Finally Marc shared his perspective of Airventure. Not surprising, he once again admitted going to the show for the airplanes and coming home thinking about the people. The industry is filled with like minded passionate aviators, who indeed make up a very special community. During his short day there, he met with many friends of the show, visited airplane manufacturers, headset vendors, sunglass innovators, and had introductions to individuals that were just there to enjoy the company of pilots from around the world. A very special show indeed! Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

High Intensity #Avgeek T's July 12th, 2015 Jul 14, 2015

Well maybe not Tease, but rather "T's". Al and Marc took a page out of earlier shows by bringing in a guest (Liam Kakavas) to talk about his new company, GearUp Design (www.gearup-design.com). Liam combines high quality T-Shirts, with aviation symbology to bring a new look to aviation attire. Check out his designs. Some personal favorites include "High Intensity" and "Minimums". Which is your favorite?

Marc and Al had interesting discussions that are in need of your input. In an engine out situation, what are your considerations for an off airport landing. Do you consider people on the ground or just those in the airplane? In the water or on the beach? Let us know what you think.Also discussed were some tips and tricks to get more out of your flying experience. FBO Hacks to get more value from your FBO visits and the benefits of requesting a "Through Clearance". You don't know what that is? Listen in and add that to your aviation vernacular.Next week is OSH week. Exciting times to say the least. Let us know if you'll be there. Would love to meet you. In the meantime, if you're flying in, be safe and have a blast.Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Back Seat Pilot, July 5th, 2015 Jul 07, 2015

Have you ever been flying with a pilot buddy and he/she decides to make a suggestion on how you could be doing a better job? Maybe something as simple as changing the MFD moving map from North Up to Track Up? Or using Comm 1 and Comm 2 in a different way then you're used to. Most times it doesn't feel too good, but sometimes it can save your life. Indeed its a fine line. When do you cross that line and when do you button that lip of yours and enjoy the ride? These are the questions Marc and Al discuss in tonight'sepisode. What do you think? Let us know how you determine whether to pipe up or shut up.How dependent are you on your tablet? Al has always been a big iPad user, and running out of battery in flight has been a constant worry. Well no more. He learned about moving to his iPhone for his inflight navigation, using less battery, less cockpit real estate, while increasing his outside visibility. Take a listen and hear how he made the transition.They guys also talked about pilot excursions to some great airports that seem to be off the beaten path. And what does Al do on his way down to those airports? Why grind his own coffee beans of course! Doesn't everybody??????? At least he doesn't have to put up with FBO coffee anymore. The question is, will it make Marc a coffee drinker? Time will tell, but Marc is not betting on it.Blue Skies and Tailwinds

Is Al a Bad Pilot? June 28th, 2015 Jun 28, 2015

We aren't talking about pilots that followed the evil side of the force, but rather good pilot's that for one reason or another, seem to have lost their way with some pretty basic skills. Al confessed to having trouble with his basic landing skills, after building a pretty good track record with the airlines, corporate flying, and teaching a lot of people how to land a single engine airplane. Marc was not immune either as he was reminded of his difficulty in Pipers, after becoming accustomed to landing SR 22's and a V-Tail. What is it that makes that happen? And how long will those skills desert us? Tough questions to be answered. The answer may just start with flying with an expert to advise and coach us. Just as Michael Jordan had a shooting coach and Tiger Woods employed a coach (bad example these days), all of us need an objective view of what's going on and what is necessary to correct it. It may be a CFI or a flying buddy, but if your results are changing, it means you're doing something different, and it'll take an outside view to diagnose and repair what's wrong. Marc also issued a request for all our listeners to chime in with things you do in a cockpit that aren't necessarily part of your flying duties. Whether its playing a game, having to relieve yourself during a flight, or learning new things about your avionics, we're interested to hear how you spend your time on a longer flight. And if you do use the "Johnny on the Spot" relief aids, how do you put yourself in a position (literally speaking), to effectively use the device.

Your Flying Soundtrack, June 21st 2015 Jun 22, 2015

Redefining Your Personal Minimums June 14th, 2015 Jun 15, 2015

I'm not sure why, but this weekend made me take pause from a General Aviation perspective. There were two fatal accidents in SW Missouri that caught my eye. The first, was a tragic story of a father, mother, and two children that were killed when the A36 took off from a friend's grass field, only to stall at about 100 feet over the tree tops. Their 5 year old is in critical condition. The second was a business owner that entered into a thunderstorm which ripped his Saratoga into pieces. As a pilot, I immediately jumped to the conclusion in the first accident that the field may have been short, soft, and probably at a high density altitude. With 5 people, even though three were children, luggage, and who knows how much fuel, I can imagine the pilot saw the trees coming at him, pulled back and took aim for the tree tops. My theory could be way off base, but if it is, then this type of accident probably happened somewhere else recently. Since no thunderstorm has ever outpaced an airplane, the pilot flew into the storm, expecting to get through it. My experience is that when there is an accident, pilots that read about it, generally figure out what went wrong in less than 30 minutes, which is proved right a year later, when the NTSB releases its findings that the pilot was unable to maintain control of the airplane when it (fill in the blank). The reason why our community is able to pinpoint the issue, is because the list of alternatives is finite, and we've been through this before. So the question is, if the list is so small and its the same mistakes over and over, then why aren't pilots (especially the good ones), staying out of those situations? The answer is discussed and discovered in tonight's show. As pilot's we are taught about proper flight planning to limit risks associated with making a flight. We are given cool mnemonics, like, IMSAFE (Illness, Medications, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, Emotion/Eating) and PAVE (Pilot, Aircraft, environmental, External pressures). We're also taught about dangerous attitudes: * Anti-Authority * Impulsive * Invulnerability * Macho * Resignation And to top it off, all pilots are taught to make and respect personal minimums. Seems like we have plenty of education on how to make intelligent decisions regarding a flight. The problem is that pilots are also taught to be procedural and to stick to a process, whether its GUMPS (Gas, Undercarriage, Mixture, Prop, Safety/Switches or the 5 (or 7) T's (Turn, Time, Twist, Throttle, Talk, Tires, Track). It doesn't matter if your plane doesn't have retractable gear, just skip that step. We can apply our acronyms to a diverse set of circumstances. The same is said for personal minimums. We're taught to determine our minimum ceilings, visibility, and cross wind component and commit that to memory. There are two problems with this. One, the list is incomplete. Doesn't it also make sense to add items like how much fuel should you have when you land at your destination, how much sleep you should have the night before a flight, and various other factors. Second, the personal minimum equation assumes it only changes when your confidence supports making the change. In reality, your personal minimums should change with each flight, based on what aircraft you'll be flying, the weather, the passengers, the destination airport, and so on. And why don't we do live by this concept? COMPLACENCY and MISPLACED CONFIDENCE. We fly between these two airports all the time, I can go. Never mind that you're flying in a different aircraft that doesn't have the horsepower and avionics that you're so used to flying. Never mind that you didn't sleep so well and that you skipped breakfast. It's decent weather, so I am good to go! True confidence comes from practicing with a purpose, proper planning, and understanding the factors and alternatives in play for each flying event. That confidence will drive a proper set of considerations in building your custom personal minimums for that flight. As pilots, we have the power to make a significant contribution to making our passion a safer and more rewarding experience. I have a saying that everyone is either committed or complacent, there is no in-between. Right now, which one is you? More important, starting from this point forward, which one will be you? BLUE SKIES and TAILWINDS!

Tips on Getting More Value from ATC: June 7th, 2015 Jun 08, 2015

Are You Aviation Radio Friendly?One of the greatest assets the U.S. Airspace has to offer today's pilot is the air traffic control system. But how do we leverage it, and how do we become a value added participant?That's what Marc and Al discussed tonight. Pilots that aren't comfortable in the system can slow it down and make it less effective for all other pilots. Some of the faux pas' include:

Not being prepared to speak. This usually ends up with the pilot doing a lot of thinking while the push to talk button is pushed.
- Be careful of holding the push to talk switch and leaving dead air!
- Watch the number of "Uhhhh's and Ummm's"
- Using a lot of extra words

2. Not knowing where they are.But for those that practice their communication by adhering to the following tips, will get more out of the system for themselves and their fellow pilots.1. Saying your initial call to ATC in your head first, prior to pushing the mic button and saying it the second time;2. Confirming your location with your avionics, prior to making a request call to ATC;3. Making sure you are primarily listening for your call sign while you are having a discussion with your passengers;4. Pausing prior to speaking to ensure the line is clear;5. Using Roger, Wilco, and Affirmative appropriately when responding to ATC;

6. Being confident and succinct in your communications.Also, be familiar with the services ATC provides all pilots whether it's VFR or IFR. ATC is there to help. You just have to know what they can do and how to ask for it.Blues Skies and Tailwinds.

3 Tips on Being a Better Pilot. May 31st, 2015 Jun 01, 2015

Marc and Al kicked off a new format tonight by bringing a quick hit to the airwaves. Tonight's topic is what three things will make you a better pilot. Marc took one tact, and Al another. Together, the came up with some things that will make you a more confident, comfortable, and proficient pilot.

Marc's List of 3 tips for being a better pilot:

Understand your aircraft's systems.
Purposeful Practice
Proactive Planning

Al's List of 3 tips for bing a better pilot:

Savor the moment when leaving the airport after flying
Be polite to ATC! Pilot Manners
Don't get behind on your logbook

Do you agree? Let us know either way. We'll pass on your tips on next week's show. We'll also introduce another topic that is sure to be insightful, intriguing, and fun!

Critical Decision Making, May 17th, 2015 May 18, 2015

Groundspeed Record!! May 10th, 2015 May 11, 2015

Flight for Success! May 3rd, 2015 May 05, 2015

Paradigm Shift, April 19th 2015 May 03, 2015

Cancel Here or on the Ground. April 12th 2015 Apr 17, 2015

More Hangar More Problems! April 5th, 2015 Apr 06, 2015

To Activate? Or To Not Activate? March 29th, 2015 Apr 02, 2015

Value of Airplanes March 22nd, 2015 Mar 23, 2015

International Flying! March 15th 2015 Mar 17, 2015

ATC Saves the Day, March 08 2015 Mar 17, 2015

Fabulous Women in Aviation March 1, 2015 Mar 04, 2015

Bump in the night! February 22nd 2015 Mar 04, 2015

Disable Aircraft - Now What? February 15th 2015 Feb 16, 2015

N-Ice to be here! February 9th, 2015 Feb 11, 2015

Say Type Aircraft.... January 25th, 2015 Jan 26, 2015

A Plethora of Potourri January 18th, 2015 Jan 22, 2015

Ground School on Steroids January 11th, 2015 Jan 12, 2015

The Power of Kit Planes January 4th, 2015 Jan 05, 2015

Shhh.....Don't Tell Al December 21st, 2014 Dec 22, 2014

Contact the Tower December 14, 2014 Dec 15, 2014

Bringing the Dream to Reality December 7th, 2014 Dec 08, 2014

Keep it Simple! November 30th, 2014 Dec 01, 2014

Pilot Workshops November 23rd, 2014 Nov 24, 2014

The Institute of Aviation is Back! November 16th, 2014 Nov 17, 2014

The Cirrus Life with Ryan Klapmeier, November 9th, 2014 Nov 10, 2014

Enjoy the Sandwich! October 26th, 2014 Oct 27, 2014

Flying the Dream! October 19th, 2014 Oct 20, 2014

Great Memories; Great Vision October 12th, 2014 Oct 15, 2014

Fire Side Chat (ZAU) September 28th, 2014 Sep 29, 2014

Through the Aero Glass September 21, 2014 Sep 22, 2014

Fall AvChat...take two! September 14th, 2014 Sep 22, 2014

Fall Av Chat, September 7th, 2014 Sep 08, 2014

Keep your Chops Sharp! August 24th, 2014 Aug 25, 2014

DIAMOND GIRL; YOU SURE DO SHINE August 17th, 2014 Aug 20, 2014

Rock Your Wings! August 10th, 2014 Aug 11, 2014

Aviation's Gen Y, August 3rd, 2014 Aug 04, 2014

'There we wuz' with Cap'n Aux July 27th, 2014 Jul 29, 2014

Discover Flying Internship, July 20th, 2014 Jul 21, 2014

Cockpit Coffee July 13th, 2014 Jul 14, 2014

Libby Parsons Superstar CFI July 6th, 2014 Jul 07, 2014

Disabled, Not Disqualified June 30th, 2014 Jul 07, 2014

Phighter Images - Flying Furniture June 22nd, 2014 Jun 25, 2014

Helping Wounded Warriors June 15th, 2014 Jun 20, 2014

Black Tie Aviation, June 8th 2014 Jun 09, 2014

Dave Coleman the Airplane Guy June 1st, 2014 Jun 02, 2014

Pioneer of Scenario Training May 25th, 2015 May 26, 2014

Flight for Safety, May 18th 2014 May 19, 2014

A New Perspective! May 11th, 2014 May 12, 2014

FlyteNow!! May 4th, 2014 May 05, 2014

Ahoy!! April 27th, 2014 Apr 28, 2014

Like all of our entrepreneurial guests, Chuck Shavit of CloudAhoy (www.cloudahoy.com) created his company out of a passion for aviation and a desire to address an aviation problem. In this case, the issue was being able to get objective and consistent feedback from his training flights. Chuck leveraged his technical expertise to create a solution that enables users to replay a flight from multiple perspectives. The user feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many enhancement requests that have been or will be found in the product. As guest audio technician, Trevor Wesolowsky stated, "CloudAhoy will save me two lessons over the course of my instrument training." Now that's value!Marc showed up to the SimpleFlight studio just prior to the show, and used the SimpleFlight "venting option" to talk about his free $1500 flight. Huh? After venting, it was all positive as Trevor, Marc, and Al talked about the great things going on in aviation. They three were pleased to host our frequent guests from Boldmethod (BoldMethod.com) who took us through a new checkride scenario, with pass/fail implications. Each weighed in. What would you do?Wishing everyone a great aviation week with strong tailwinds and sunny blue skies.

The Souls of Warbirds! April 20th, 2014 Apr 21, 2014

Changing The Airplane Accessibility Game April 13th, 2014 Apr 14, 2014

When Rod Rakic of OpenAirplane (openairplane.com) showed the world that aviation insurance companies were willing to accept a new paradigm in renting general aviation aircraft to pilots around the country, it was hailed as a great step forward for G.A. With his recent announcement of making those same aircraft available from individual owners, the industry once again applauds Rod on accelerating the momentum of GA's recovery. Listen to Al and Marc as they learn about the "Collaborative Aircraft Rental" and what it means to owners, pilots, and General Aviation. OpenAirplane is one of many exciting innovators in aviation. But what's it like for a legacy company trying to join the entrepreneurial force that makes up so much of today's headlines. Is it culture, new technologies, or even new twists on old technologies which determines the fate of these investments? And with new technologies, are they cool fads, or do they contribute to aviation safety. Listen in and then let us know what you think. Current events includes Cirrus' announcement of their better than average safety record, which comes after years of being on the wrong side of the average. Also talked about is the movement to Jet A and how Diesel engines are finding their way into legacy trainers, and Mooney funding a new aviation museum with its initial investment coming as a result of auctioning the first aircraft off their recently started production line. As always a great line up, made even more so by your loyal presence.

Picture This 08 Left, April 6th 2014 Apr 07, 2014

Aviation News Journal, March 30th 2014 Mar 31, 2014

Aviation Universe March 23rd, 2014 Mar 24, 2014

Live From The Center of the Aviation Universe No other radio show can make the claim that they broadcasted from the center of the aviation universe. Yet, that's exactly what SimpleFlight Aviation Radio did with their on-location radio show at..... you guessed it.... Aviation Universe Pilot Shop in Bensenville, IL! We were pleased to find a packed house of over 20 visitors who came by to enjoy the show and Pizza. Now that's the way to spend Sunday night. Many of you remember the special trips to the pilot shop, which meant plenty of "window" shopping and great conversations with those around you. The Internet has served to take that piece of the community away, but Lora Yowell and Richard Wells have shown the value of the pilot shop by being home to all aviation enthusiasts, including pilots, plane-spotters, and anyone that looks to the sky with dreams in their hearts. Lora and Richard talked of the community of loyal customers that are part of the Aviation Universe family, and how it has developed into a partnership with the local police, homeland security, and O'Hare Airport. And no aviation family would be complete without the dogs. Wilbur and Orville made themselves heard as well. Listen in and become part of the family (aviationuniverse.us). With Al on a King Air trip, Todd McClamroch (myflightblog.com) filled in with flying colors, as he and Marc talked about the latest with regards to Malaysian Flight 370, covered aviation current events, and spent time with our friends at BoldMethod.com (Aleks and Colin). The guys took us through a Pass/Fail scenario for a multi-engine candidate, who had a slight memory lapse during his checkride. Pass or Fail? You make the call. Aleks and Colin also donned their propeller hats as they took us through what really goes on with Vx and Vy climbs. They are definitely smarter than a 5th grader. Thanks for listening and thanks for being part of our Aviation Family. Hope you enjoy the show!!! Blue Skies and Tailwinds!

Flight Sim in Focus March 16th, 2014 Mar 17, 2014

Hail, Hail, The Gang's All Here March 9th, 2014 Mar 10, 2014

@Av8rdan March 2nd, 2014 Mar 04, 2014

Taking Others to New Heights February 23, 2014 Feb 24, 2014

She's All In! February 16th, 2014 Feb 17, 2014

Making Aviation Look Good! February 9th 2014 Feb 16, 2014

The Art of the Deal February 2nd, 2014 Feb 03, 2014

VMC into IMC January 26th, 2014 Jan 27, 2014

When tonight's scheduled guest had an unexpected and unavoidable issue come up preventing her from being on the show, Al and Marc had to pick up their scan and focus on aviating the show for the full two hour schedule. No problem for these two #avgeeks, who always have something to say about general aviation.Listen in as the show kicks off with a great debate about a pass or fail check ride scenario brought to light by the guys at BoldMethod (www.boldmethod.com). Would you pass the applicant?The rest of the show was a random stream of consciousness covering everything from the impossible turn, when to pull the chute, flight sims, aviation maintenance scholarships, and whether a stick shaker played a role in the Aspen Challenger crash.Wishing all of you, strong tailwinds and blue skies!

Its About Aviatrix Time January 19th, 2014 Jan 20, 2014

Al and Marc have talked to a lot of people who are focused on following their passion and making a positive impact in General Aviation. Tonight's guest is connected in diverse and new ways. Abingdon Welch heads up The Abingdon Company (http://theabingdonco.com), a company focused on providing fashionable and functional watches for women pilots. Beyond meeting this previously unmet need, Abingdon is focused in increasing the female pilot population through scholarships and advocacy. She is also an accomplished CFI (she was highlighted as one of Ariel Tweto's instructors on the show, "Flying Wild Alaska"), and also ferries aircraft around the globe. Listen in as Al and Marc officially anoint Abingdon a true aviatrix.The crew also talks to and congrautlates one of their loyal listeners, who had his first private pilot candidate pass his check ride. Other discussions include the new CACI rules, which empowers AME's to authorize medicals that previously required a Special Issuance. Finally, "The Case of the Missing GPS Approaches" is discussed, as Garmin released some 34 pages of exclusions on their recent database cycle.Thanks for listening. Wishing all of you blue skies and strong tailwinds!

General Aviation News January 12th, 2014 Jan 13, 2014

How would you like to be on the leading edge of everything going on in General Aviation? Which means getting rock star access to aviation events, airplanes, and the celebrities that make news in the industry. That's the life Ben Sclair leads as Publisher of General Aviation News (generalaviationnews.com). Listen in as Ben talks about the industry, how it's changed, and where it's going. Like all of our guests, Ben is passionate about making his living in aviation and being part of its revitalization.Marc and Al also talked about yet another comeback by Mooney Aircraft, after a 4.5 year wait to build and deliver the worlds fastest piston single production airplane. General Aviation is better with them back. The FAA announced their intent to rescind all letters of authorization of G.A. simulators in 2015. A move that Al applauds. Take a listen and find out why. Also hear about technology overload, a bird strike in a Cessna 210, and a contest to win an audio cable for the Black Box app (useblackbox.com).Thanks for listening and being part of the SimpleFlight Aviation radio family!

Holiday AvChat December 22nd, 2013 Jan 12, 2014

Seasons Greetings! Enjoy our holiday AvChat about everything aviation. Big take away....Bellanca Super Viking is a cool airplane!Enjoy! Happy Holidays! - SimpleFlight

2014 the year of the #Avgeek! January 5th, 2014 Jan 12, 2014

With the turn of the calendar, Al and Marc kick off 2014 in style by reintroducing you to Aleks Udris and Colin Cutler from BoldMethod (boldmethod.com). Aleks and Colin bring a new look and a new energy to helping people achieve their aviation education goals. Listen in as the conversation centers around keeping students interested and focused on moving forward in aviation training, by leveraging Blogs, CFI Tools, and their on-line courses. Aleks and Colin also talk about strategies for keeping costs down. After a two week break, Marc rejoins Al and spends some Hangar Talk time discussing Cold Weather Ops, PIREPS, the 100 year anniversary of Commercial Flight, and New Year Resolutions that will make all #avgeeks smile! Thanks for all your support in 2013. We have a great line-up for you this year and look forward to your input and support for 2014!!! Wishing you and yours a Healthy, Happy 2014, with lots of Flying !!! Blue Skies & Tailwinds!

Old School is Still Cool! December 29th, 2013 Jan 12, 2014

Old school is still cool! That is for sure, Dana and Paul Osmanski couldn't agree more. In 2013 they ended up taking over the CubAir Flight at the Hartford, WI airport. Paul and Dana don't refer to themselves as the new owners they are they call themselves the new care takers! They have such great energy and enthusiasm for classic airplanes its so much fun to listen to. CubClub.org is another organization that they look after. This is a fantastic community of Piper Cub owners that provides a TON of technical information on Piper Cubs. Make sure you check out their online store which offers are great variety of classic airplane gear. Al's favorite is the Piper Cub hat!Tonight we had a special co-host, Josh Blain who is a flight student at the University of Western Michigan's flight program. Al and Josh had a great #avchat about creative ways of finding aviation jobs for young people looking to launch their career. Josh is very active in the twitter sphere! Make sure you follow him at @BlainPlanes! Happy New Year! From the SimpleFlight #AvGeeks!

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