Explore every episode of the podcast The Old Fly Guy Network

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sun N Fun 2025 Part 2

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

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

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

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

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

Join us on the Old Fly Guy Network as we take flight with Jonathan Kotwicki—airline pilot turned aviation entrepreneur—who left the skies of commercial aviation to carve out a one-of-a-kind flying haven in the heart of Alaska. From bush flying to building an aviation community around DC-6 and DC-9 Airbnb cabins, Jonathan shares how he created a pilot’s paradise at Big Lake, Alaska.

We explore the beauty and challenges of Alaskan flying—from glacier landings to weather unpredictability—and how Kotwicki’s training focuses on real-world, off-airport experiences. More than just stick-and-rudder skills, this episode dives into the value of pilot community, the importance of learning from each other, and the mindset it takes to thrive in aviation’s most rugged environment.

If you're an aviator, aspiring pilot, or someone who dreams of flying into the wild, you won’t want to miss this inspiring journey through Alaska’s skies.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Building a Pilot’s Retreat in Alaska

Discover how Jonathan transformed his passion for flying into a full-blown aviation destination, complete with private runways and retired jetliners turned into Airbnb's.

The Realities of Alaskan Bush Flying

From glacier landings to off-airport strips, learn what it takes to safely and skillfully fly in one of the most challenging—and rewarding—aviation environments in the world.

Training Beyond the Textbook

Explore Jonathan’s unique approach to flight training that goes beyond checklists and simulators, focusing on real-world scenarios like float flying, ski landings, and weather adaptation.

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we sit down with Robert Gerlach — a true pioneer of the Alaskan frontier. After venturing to Alaska in the early '70s in search of freedom and adventure, Robert carved out a life in the wilderness north of Talkeetna. From building his own cabin deep in bear country to creating a private airstrip through sheer will and ingenuity, Robert’s story is a testament to self-reliance, grit, and aviation spirit.

He shares gripping tales of transporting bulldozers by bush plane, fending off curious bears, and the ever-changing skies of Alaskan aviation. More than just a homesteader, Robert has become a steward of the flying community, dedicating decades to keeping local airstrips safe and accessible. His reflections span a lifetime of adventure, problem-solving, and community building in one of the last truly wild places on Earth.

Whether you’re a pilot, dreamer, or wilderness enthusiast, this episode will stir your soul and leave you with a deep appreciation for the legends who help keep Alaska alive and flying.

In this inspiring episode, we head north to the wilds of Talkeetna, Alaska, with bush pilot Joe McAneney. From humble beginnings in Western New York to soaring over glaciers in Denali, Joe shares his unique path to becoming a pilot in one of the most rugged aviation frontiers on Earth.

We explore the historic Talkeetna airstrip, the evolution of bush flying, and the powerful sense of community that binds Alaskan aviators. Joe opens up about his early days in Denali National Park, flying with K2 Aviation, landing on glaciers, and what it truly means to live and fly in Alaska.

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, an adventurer at heart, or just curious about life on the edge of the map—this episode offers incredible insights and heartwarming reflections from the Last Frontier.

🛩️ Topics Covered:

Why Joe left New York for Alaska

The golden age of the Talkeetna airstrip

Glacier landings & scenic flying with K2 Aviation

Lessons from Alaska’s aviation culture

Community, connection, and the soul of a small town

What’s next for Joe’s flying adventures

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we sit down with Gretchen Jahn, whose career spans from IT leadership to the helm of Mooney Aircraft, and decades of competitive air racing. Gretchen shares how her aviation journey began later in life, what it took to revive a legendary aircraft manufacturer, and the thrill and strategy behind women’s air racing. She also highlights the impact of the 99s organization and why mentorship is vital for the next generation of aviators.

Viewers will discover:

Late Start, Big Impact – How Gretchen transitioned from IT and horseback riding to aviation and leadership in aerospace.

Turning Around Mooney – Insights into reviving an iconic aircraft company through culture, customer trust, and confidence.

Air Racing Secrets – The strategy, teamwork, and challenges behind the Air Race Classic, and what it takes to stay competitive.

The Power of the 99s – How this organization shaped Gretchen’s career and continues to support women in aviation.

Mentorship That Lasts – Why Gretchen invests in guiding new aviators and how mentorship programs like “mother birds” help future pilots succeed.

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Podcast, Wade sits down with Denver aviator and flight instructor Matt Beyer, a lifelong pilot with a passion for mountain flying, safety, and community service. Matt shares his journey from childhood airshows to becoming Director of Safety at Rocky Mountain Flight School, where he’s dedicated to building a culture of safety and mentorship.
The conversation dives into the unique challenges of mountain flying—from weather shifts to terrain awareness—while exploring how building rapport with ATC, embracing personalized training, and giving back through Angel Flight and Civil Air Patrol can elevate the flying experience.
Whether you’re an aspiring aviator or a seasoned pilot, Matt’s perspective offers valuable lessons on safety, skill, and the joy of giving back.

Key Takeaways From This Episode:
Mountain flying isn’t like flatland flying — learn the unique skills, weather awareness, and terrain management needed to handle the Rockies safely.

Safety begins before takeoff — discover how procedures, habits, and culture at flight schools make or break pilot confidence.

ATC is your partner, not just a voice on the radio — hear why building trust and rapport with controllers can transform your flying experience.

Training isn’t one-size-fits-all — Matt shows how tailoring lessons to each pilot’s pace and goals creates safer, stronger aviators.

Flying can be a way to give back — through Angel Flight and Ci

In this episode of the Old Fly Guy Network, we dive deep into the unsung heroes of the SR-71 Blackbird program, the maintenance and technical teams. While the pilots “rented” the aircraft, the crews who maintained and engineered it truly owned the SR-71. Hear first-hand from Robbie Butterfield, Steve Justice, and Mike Hull as they reveal the challenges of keeping the world’s fastest jet ready for duty. From the unique demands of working with titanium to innovations at the Skunk Works, discover how cutting-edge design and relentless teamwork kept the Blackbird flying high at Mach 3.

✅ 5 Takeaways for the Viewer
Maintenance was ownership – why the SR-71’s reliability depended on the dedication of its crew.
Titanium challenges – how one of the hardest metals in the world shaped every aspect of maintenance.
Heat & speed solutions – insights into high-emissivity paint, materials science, and design tricks that made Mach 3 flight possible.
Continuous innovation – how Skunk Works engineers and maintenance teams constantly upgraded the jet.
Camaraderie & pride – the personal stories of those who kept the Blackbird soaring during the Cold War.

In this second episode of our four-part SR-71 Blackbird series, we step into the world of the men who trained the fastest pilots on earth. Legendary instructors Jerry Glasser, Buz Carpenter, and BC Thomas share how they prepared new SR-71 crews to handle one of the most complex aircraft ever built.
From hours in the simulator to high-stakes check rides, the trainers reveal what it took to fly above 80,000 feet and outrun threats at Mach 3. Every pilot’s path was different—but each was forged by rigorous training, precision, and trust.
This episode highlights the camaraderie, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence that defined the SR-71 program. It’s not just about flying fast—it’s about the trainers who shaped the pilots to survive and succeed.
Stay tuned as we continue the SR-71 series: next up, the maintenance crews who kept the Blackbird in the air, followed by the ops teams who turned missions into history.

What You’ll Take Away from This Episode:
How SR-71 trainers tailored instruction based on each pilot’s background and strengths.
Why simulator training was just as critical—and sometimes more stressful—than actual flights.
The essential role of teamwork and trust between pilots and RSOs at Mach 3.
How the trainers balanced being mentors, evaluators, and motivators.
Why camaraderie in the SR-71 program was key to mission success

Step into the cockpit of the legendary SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest jet ever built. In this first episode of our SR-71 series, we sit down with three pilots who flew at the very edge of space: Al Joersz, Ed Yeilding, and Noel Widdifield. Together, they share what it was like to push past Mach 3, navigate Cold War missions, and trust their aircraft—and each other—at 80,000 feet.
From pressure suits and precision flying to the teamwork that kept the Blackbird safe, these stories give a rare insider’s look into the record-breaking jet that still inspires awe today.
This is just the beginning of our SR-71 series—future episodes will spotlight trainers, maintainers, and the hidden teams that made the Blackbird soar.

✈️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How pilots prepared mentally and physically to fly at Mach 3.
Why teamwork with RSOs (Reconnaissance Systems Officers) was critical to survival and success.
What it feels like to climb to 80,000 feet—higher than 97% of Earth’s atmosphere.
The unique challenges of flying in a pressure suit for hours at a time.
How pilots managed emergencies when mistakes could be fatal.
Why the SR-71 still holds world records decades after retirement.

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