Advertise on podcast: The Old Fly Guy Network

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

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

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

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

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

In the fourth episode of the Old Fly Guy Network’s SR-71 Blackbird series, we go behind the curtain to explore the operational heart of the SR-71 program — the teams who turned intelligence requests into successful Mach 3 missions. While pilots and RSOs (Reconnaissance Systems Officers) carried out daring flights, every sortie began weeks earlier in the hands of a dedicated operations and intelligence planning team. This episode features insights from intelligence officers, planners, pilots, and RSOs who reveal how missions were crafted — from target selection to route design, fuel and refueling coordination, sensor timing, and international clearances. They share how the SR-71’s speed and altitude demanded extraordinary precision in planning — where a single miscalculation could mean a missed target or diplomatic incident. The conversation unveils the quiet coordination between the Air Force, CIA, and national intelligence agencies that made the Blackbird not only a marvel of engineering but also a masterpiece of operational art. This episode brings the series full circle — from design and maintenance to flight and mission planning — showing that the Blackbird’s success wasn’t just about speed; it was about teamwork, foresight, and flawless execution. ✈️ 5 Key Takeaways for the 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.

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

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

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

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

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 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.