Advertise on podcast: The Flight Club Podcast

Marine One pilot John “Rico” Ballinger spent over 20 years as a Marine aviator, deploying into combat zones, and leading elite Marine aviation teams, yet the hardest transition of his life came after he left the military. In this powerful episode, John shares his journey from the cockpit to civilian life, the grief of losing his daughter, the near collapse of his marriage, and how he rebuilt his identity from the ground up. Now a private jet broker and co-host of the Second Act podcast, he opens up about resilience, purpose, and why the relationships you invest in today determine your future. This is a story about falling, starting over, and finding meaning in your second act.

Behind the glamour of private jets lies a world of pressure, precision, and extraordinary service. Flightess founder Jamie Gibson, one of the leading voices in corporate aviation, shares what it really takes to be a corporate flight attendant. From safety training that saves lives to the emotional and logistical demands of high-net-worth travel, Jamie breaks down the unseen work, the culture of “shared suffering,” and the expertise required to deliver luxury at 40,000 feet. Tune in to learn how corporate crews operate, what separates private aviation from the airlines, and why true hospitality is always an act of service under pressure.

Take flight with industry leader Josh Allen in this episode of The Flight Club Podcast. From running large-scale aircraft operations to founding Charter Flight Support, Josh reveals the grit, innovation, and human connections driving aviation’s high-stakes world. Discover the untold stories behind AOG emergencies, ethical challenges, and the future of flight powered by AI and purpose, not profit.

Welcome to the Flight Club Podcast! Join us for an electrifying episode with Keenan Wyrobek from Zipline as we explore how autonomous drones are revolutionizing aviation. Discover Zipline’s 100 million miles flown with zero injuries, life-saving medical deliveries in Rwanda, and their vision to end pilot error. Uncover jaw-dropping insights on navigating extreme weather and reducing environmental impact with quiet, efficient flights.  Ready to soar into the future of flight? Listen now and subscribe for more thrilling aviation stories!

Welcome to Flight Club Podcast! In this captivating episode, our host joins forces with aviation legend Ben to uncover the astonishing journey of aviation—from daring jungle landings to thefuturistic realm of air taxis and pilotless planes. What You'll Uncover: -The dramatic shift in aviation over 20 years, from high-stakes cash deals to cutting-edge tech innovations -The truth about pilotless aircraft: Will they dominate the skies of tomorrow? -Air taxis unveiled: Could they be the ultimate solution to end traffic woes for good? -Ben's gripping tales of navigating Brazilian jungles and remote airstrips to deliver aircraft -Insights from seasoned pilots like Ben on the rise of autonomous flight technology Embark on a thrilling ride as we connect aviation's bold history with its game-changing future. From Ben's heart-pounding landings in Palmas to the dawn of urban air mobility, this episode embodies the enduring passion of flight and the boundless horizons ahead.  Whether you're a die-hard aviation buff or intrigued by the idea of flying cars, Ben's stories will reshape your vision of flight's future. Eager to dive into the next era of aviation? Hit subscribe and share this episode with anyone dreaming of the skies and wondering, "What's next?" #Aviation #AirTaxis #PilotlessPlanes #FutureOfFlight #FlightClub #UrbanAirMobility

In this episode we sit down with Andrew Day, the Senior Vice President for WYVERN Ltd, the premier private aviation safety risk management organization! We go all in on the current state of safety in aviation, tackling topics like aviation safety in 2025 and how the number of reported accidents has gone down since 2024, Andrew’s role at WYVERN Ltd and his unrelenting commitment to keeping aviation the safest method of travel in the world.  This is a long one, but it’s filled with so many gems every single aviation professional can appreciate!  Let me know what you think! Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast here: https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Follow the Flight Club Instagram for clips and more info on future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Watch the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/@FlightClubPodcast More on Andrew Day: Website: https://safetystanddown.com/en/andrew-day WYVERN Ltd: https://www.wyvernltd.com Leave us feedback or a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or platform of your choice! This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor and Jacob Richman as Social Media Manager. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co

In this episode we sit down with Dexter Holland, frontman of The Offspring to talk about his lifelong love of aviation! We get into how he balances touring with flying, what drew him to aviation in the first place, why he loves his Cessna Citation CJ1, and what it was like flying himself across the country during Offspring tours. We also talk about pilot discipline, the focus it takes to fly jets single pilot, and why learning in LA airspace made him a sharper aviator! You’re going to love this one! Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast here: https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Follow the Flight Club Instagram for clips and more info on future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Watch the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/@FlightClubPodcast More on Dexter Holland: https://www.instagram.com/dexterhollandholdinghismic/?hl=en Leave us feedback or a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or platform of your choice! This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor and Jacob Richman as Social Media Manager. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co

In this episode, we sit down with a true legend in aviation’s history, Clay Lacy! We discuss Clay’s early life, how his passion for aviation began, amazing stories behind some of his most notable flights, his greatest films, and all the fun stories along the way! This was a massive honor for me because Clay Lacy is one of my biggest inspirations in aviation. Let me know what you think of the episode! Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast here: https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Follow the Flight Club Instagram for clips and more info on future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Watch the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/@FlightClubPodcast More on Clay Lacy: https://www.claylacy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/claylacy/?hl=en Leave us feedback or a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or platform of your choice! This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor and Jacob Richman as Social Media Manager. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co

In this episode, we sit down with John Cox, CEO at Safety Operating Systems to talk about all things aircraft safety!  Worried about the buzz surrounding aircraft accidents in 2025? People like John Cox have a massive role to play in why air travel has never been safer! We tackle everything you need to know about how aircrafts operate at such high safety levels, why accidents are so rare, emergency response planning, SMSs, growing airspace technology, the mental health and safety culture in aviation and much more! GoFundMe for Crafton Family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/Casey-Crafton Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast here: https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Follow the Flight Club Instagram for clips and more info on future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Watch the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/@FlightClubPodcast More on John Cox: https://www.safeopsys.com/about Leave us feedback or a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or platform of your choice! This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor and Jacob Richman as Social Media Manager. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co

In this episode, we sit down with Neil Casey, a successful film writer and actor who developed a passion for aviation and can’t get enough of it! We explore Neil’s life before aviation, including his work as a writer on SNL and his roles in various notable projects. Then we fast forward to 2014, when Neil moved to Los Angeles and decided to explore the world of aviation. We cover topics like why he started flying, the experience of buying his first airplane, flying solo, aviation adventures with his son, and even flying coast-to-coast—and much more! Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast here: https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Follow the Flight Club Instagram for clips and more info on future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Watch the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/@FlightClubPodcast Leave us feedback or a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or platform of your choice! More on Kevin LaRosa II Website: https://www.k2larosa.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k2larosa/?hl=en This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor, Jacob Richman as Social Media Manager, and Adam Chabiniak as Marketing Director. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co

Ever wondered what it takes to become a stunt pilot or aerial coordinator in film and television? In this episode, host Jason Middleton sits down with Kevin LaRosa II, the aerial coordinator and stunt pilot behind Top Gun: Maverick! Kevin shares his journey, reflecting on his childhood and following in the footsteps of his father, also an aerial coordinator. He talks about stepping out of his dad’s shadow to carve his own path as a successful pilot, taking on various aviation jobs that eventually led him back to working in film and TV. Kevin offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Top Gun: Maverick and shares valuable advice for anyone looking to pursue a career in aviation. Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast here: https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Follow the Flight Club Instagram for clips and more info on future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Watch the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/@FlightClubPodcast Leave us feedback or a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or platform of your choice! More on Kevin LaRosa II Website: https://www.k2larosa.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k2larosa/?hl=en This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor, Jacob Richman as Social Media Manager, and Adam Chabiniak as Marketing Director. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co

In this episode of the Flight Club Podcast, host Jason Middleton sits down with Shawn Dugan, a veteran aerial firefighter who pilots massive aircraft like the DC-10 and Boeing 737 in dangerous fire fighting missions. Shawn shares his inspiring story, tracing his path from a childhood fascination with firefighting pilots to becoming a leader in the field. The episode dives deep into the dangers of aerial firefighting, the importance of teamwork and communication, and how pilots manage the fine line between safety and effectiveness while battling wildfires. Shawn also discusses the international scope of his work, the role of humility and creativity in high-risk flying, and the profound sense of purpose that comes from protecting communities from devastating fires. Packed with engaging insights, this episode offers a unique look at the unsung heroes of aerial firefighting and the challenging, yet fulfilling, nature of their work. Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast  https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Connect with our guest Shawn Dugan instagram.com/shawnluisobispo 00:00 Introduction to Aerial Firefighting 00:30 Meet Shawn Dugan: Aerial Firefighter and Winemaker 01:49 The Dangers and Discipline of Aerial Firefighting 03:35 Managing Risk and Chaos in Aerial Firefighting 06:08 Shawn's Journey to Becoming an Aerial Firefighter 08:24 The Art and Passion of Aerial Firefighting 17:30 The Perfect Drop: Aerial Firefighting Techniques 22:19 Coordinating Aerial Firefighting Operations 25:30 Crew Resource Management and Checklists 26:02 Navigating Fire Zones and Helicopter Coordination 27:25 Ground Coordination and Firefighter Support 28:41 Military Influence and Pilot Training 35:05 International Firefighting Experiences 42:21 Balancing Urgency and Precision in Firefighting 45:10 Mentorship and Learning from Experience 52:53 Family and Personal Reflections 54:16 Conclusion and Gratitude This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Valerie Patterson as Video and Audio Editor, Evan Weidenkeller as Director of Photography, Malcolm Perry as Social Media Manager, and Adam Chabiniak as Marketing Director. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co 

Watch & Subscribe to this Show on YouTube @FlightClubPodcast In this episode of Flight Club, host Jason Middleton chats with Alyssa Carson, an accomplished young pilot and astrobiologist, call sign 'NASABlueberry.' Alyssa shares her journey from NASA space camps to advanced training experiences like scuba diving, skydiving, and flying with the Thunderbirds. They delve into the exciting possibilities of Mars exploration, the latest space technology, and the quest for discovering life on Mars. Alyssa also highlights the importance of inspiring the next generation and following their dreams. Tune in for a forward-looking conversation on the future of space travel and the vital role of NASA and private space companies in these groundbreaking missions. Follow Alyssa:  https://www.instagram.com/nasablueberry/?hl=enhttps://nasablueberry.com  Follow Us on Instagram @FlightClubPod and learn more at https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ 00:00 The Impact of Space Technology on Earth 00:14 Introducing Alyssa Carson: The Future Mars Explorer 00:56 Alyssa Carson's Journey to Becoming 'NASA Blueberry' 02:21 The Importance of Exploring Mars 04:20 Challenges and Possibilities of Mars Exploration 09:49 The Role of Private Sector in Space Exploration 14:09 Understanding Astrobiology and Life on Mars 20:15 Preparing for a Mission to Mars 30:50 The Future of Space Exploration and Planetary Protection 33:30 Discovering a Passion for Space 34:27 The Influence of Media on Children's Interests 35:34 Space Camp: A Dream Come True 37:30 Parental Support and Encouragement 40:22 Exploring Career Opportunities in Space 43:15 Pursuing Skills for Astronaut Training 48:50 Flying with the Thunderbirds 55:33 Meeting Apollo Astronaut Jim Lovell 57:37 Advice for Aspiring Astronauts 59:13 Setting Up Future Generations for Success 01:00:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Jeremiah Schutlz as Video and Audio Editor, Malcolm Perry as Social Media Manager, and Adam Chabiniak as Marketing Director. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co 

In this episode of the Flight Club Podcast, host Jason Middleton sits down with Chris Kunkle, a passionate bush pilot and aviation entrepreneur. Chris discusses his unique experiences as a bush pilot in California, an area not traditionally known for such activities, and the tight-knit aviation community in San Ynez. He touches on his family's deep-rooted aviation legacy, including his grandfather, a World War II fighter pilot, and his father, an aviation entrepreneur. Chris also delves into the importance of assessing landing spots, the technique of water skiing with airplanes, and the vital rescue missions carried out by local aviators during natural disasters. This episode is packed with fascinating stories of aviation, family legacy, and the thriving aviation business in California. Learn more about the Flight Club Podcast  https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/flightclubpod/ Connect with our guest Chris Kunkle https://www.instagram.com/chris_kunk/https://www.instagram.com/centralcoastjetcenter/ https://www.centralcoastjetcenter.com/ This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Jeremiah Schutlz as Video and Audio Editor, Evan Weidenkeller as Director of Photography, Christian Ojala - FPV drone footage (Instagram @christian.ojala), Ethan O’Rourke - B Roll (Instagram: @pdzzy) Malcolm Perry as Social Media Manager, and Adam Chabiniak as Marketing Director. 00:00 Emergency Landing Over a Lake 00:18 Introduction to the Flight Club Podcast 00:21 Meet Chris Kunkle: A Legacy in Aviation 01:22 The Life of a Bush Pilot in California 01:59 Challenges and Secrets of Bush Flying 03:24 Community and Camaraderie Among Pilots 05:23 Assessing Landing Spots and Risk Management 11:29 Adventures and Preparedness in Bush Flying 17:28 Learning from Aviation Experiences 19:55 The Impact of Social Media on Aviation 24:38 Balancing Business and Creativity in Aviation 27:51 Aviation Beyond Airlines 28:34 Family Legacy in Aviation 29:18 Grandfather's War Stories 32:54 Father's Contributions to Aviation 38:00 Taking Over the Family Business 39:31 Future Plans and Community Impact 43:56 Aviation Community Support 47:25 Sky Angels: A Story of Resilience 48:57 Conclusion and Farewell

Watch & Subscribe to this Show on YouTube @FlightClubPodcast & Follow Us on Instagram @FlightClubPod and learn more at https://www.flightclubpodcast.com/ In this engaging and hilarious episode of the Flight Club Podcast, Craig Ferguson shares thrilling tales from his aviation journeys, discussing the challenges and joys he experienced while flying. From nerve-wracking flights to memorable solo experiences, Craig provides a humorous yet insightful look into his passion for aviation. He also touches on subjects like overcoming his fear of flying with inspirational advice from Kurt Russell, the importance of humility in aviation, and the camaraderie formed during memorable flights with friends. This episode promises a blend of humor, life lessons, and a deep appreciation for the art and science of flying. About Craig Ferguson Craig Ferguson is a Scottish-American comedian, actor, writer, and television host. He is best known for hosting the CBS late-night talk show The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, for which he won a Peabody Award for his interview with South African archbishop Desmond Tutu in 2009.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigyferg/  Links: https://linktr.ee/craigferguson  This is a Kilo Bravo Media production produced by Rainbow Creative with Kate Middleton, Jason Middleton, and Matthew Jones as Executive Producers, Patrick Edwards as Director of Photography, Jeremiah Schultz as Video and Audio Editor, Maria Fernanda-Martinez as Social Media Manager, and Adam Chabiniak as Marketing Director. Learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business by visiting them at KiloBravoMedia.com + RainbowCreative.co