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Your all-access pass to the world of baggage, aviation, and innovation.
Step into the fascinating world of baggage and aviation with The Bagfather. This exciting podcast delves into the untold stories, innovative breakthroughs, and behind-the-scenes operations that keep the global travel industry moving.
Hosted by Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba, both seasoned professionals with years of experience in the skies and on the ground, The Bagfather uncovers the challenges, triumphs, and transformations shaping how people and their belongings travel across the globe. From industry leaders revolutionising baggage handling to captivating tales from the tarmac, this is a must-listen for aviation enthusiasts, tech lovers, and anyone curious about the hidden logistics of travel.
Because in this industry, every bag tells its own story.
The Bagfather is a Fresh Air Production for Baggage Media. The producer is Julian Lorkin and the executive producer is Annie Day with editorial support from Caroline Blacklock-Vandy.
13 Episodes
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We wrap up Series One of The Bagfather with Jan Wicki from Noida International Airport. As a brand new greenfield airport, Noida offers a rare opportunity to design a baggage system with no legacy constraints. Jan takes us inside the planning process, the priorities, and what it means to start fresh in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on The Bagfather, we go deep with Jasper Quak, Managing Director of BAGTAG. We talk origins, obstacles and the growing momentum behind electronic bag tags. With a focus on sustainability, simplicity and scaling up, Jasper offers a clear-eyed view of what the future of baggage could—and should—look like.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, The Bagfather welcomes Jason Odey, the man behind baggage operations at Toronto Pearson. As Director of Baggage for one of North America’s busiest airports, Jason reveals the pressures, the wins and the behind-the-scenes strategies that keep things moving. It’s a rare look at the people and planning powering the passenger journey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We go behind the scenes of aviation security with Matthew Vaughan, Director at IATA. With a unique perspective on both policy and practice, Matthew breaks down the realities of keeping passengers, baggage and systems secure in an era of constant change. From tech innovation to international collaboration, it’s a deep dive into the world few travellers ever see.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this bonus episode of The Bagfather, we bring together Jasper Quak from BAGTAG and Shawn Richards from Ink Innovation to discuss a partnership that’s reshaping how we handle baggage. From electronic bag tags to Ink’s newly launched platform Zero, we explore what seamless travel could look like—and how close we really are to getting there. It’s a candid conversation about collaboration, ambition and the next phase of passenger experience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This episode features Matt Senske of Efficient Technologies, a specialist in automation systems built for the baggage world. We explore what works, what doesn't and why some robotics projects fail while others take off. For anyone looking to cut through the noise around airport automation, this episode delivers clarity, not buzzwords.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 6 of The Bagfather, we sit down with Darin Juby, a key figure in the world of baggage innovation. From leading baggage operations at Toronto Pearson Airport to his current role with Future Travel Experience, Darin shares valuable insights on what it takes to drive real change in airport operations. We explore the highs, the hurdles, and the bold ideas shaping the future of baggage. Expect straight talk, smart thinking and a fresh take on where the industry is headed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Bagfather, we sit down with Mark Baker, Senior Manager of Baggage Strategy & Execution at Southwest Airlines, to explore how one of the world’s most recognised carriers keeps its baggage operations running smoothly. Mark shares insights into Southwest’s unique approach to customer service, operational efficiency, and the technology driving its baggage success. From lessons learned to future innovations, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the strategies that keep passengers—and their bags—happy. A must-listen for aviation professionals, frequent flyers, and anyone interested in the magic behind seamless travel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special on-location episode of The Bagfather, Marlon and Jen take you inside the iconic Willis Tower at United Airlines’ Global Headquarters. Joined by Kaveh Dabiran, Managing Director of Planning and Development for Corporate Real Estate, they explore how United is leading the way in aviation innovation — from reimagining airport infrastructure and baggage systems to preparing for electric aircraft and the potential return of supersonic travel. Discover how flexibility, technology, and forward-thinking design are shaping the passenger experience of tomorrow, and why baggage remains at the heart of it all. Buckle up for a fascinating journey into the future of flight, both on the ground and in the skies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From United Airlines head office, in WIllis Tower, Chicago, we sit down with Craig Mosfords from the TSA for a behind-the-scenes look at airport security operations. Craig shares surprising stories about the unusual items travellers attempt to bring through security and gives insight into how the TSA manages these challenges. Plus, hear about what's next for the TSA as they adapt to new technologies and evolving security needs in the ever-changing world of air travel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From Iraq, to Sydney, to Chicago! Recorded from Willis Tower, home to United Airlines, we sit down with Mohammad Taher, self-titled as "The Airport Guy." Mohammad is on a mission to bring new talent into the aviation industry, addressing the declining interest in aviation careers. How do we inspire the next gen to be part of aviation? His passion for using STEM education as a gateway and leveraging social media to highlight the industry's exciting and rewarding sides really does encourage change. Listen as he discusses the challenges and opportunities in recruitment, and how showing the ‘good parts’ of aviation truly can inspire the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Meet Jen and Marlon, hosts of The Bagfather, learn a little more about them and get an inside look at the podcast's mission. This episode introduces the world of baggage operations, travel logistics, and the stories behind the scenes of air travel. Perfect for industry insiders and curious travellers alike.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to The Bagfather, the podcast exploring the world of baggage and aviation. In this series, we'll reveal the stories, innovations and secrets behind global travel. Hosted by industry experts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba, The Bagfather covers everything from luggage breakthroughs to fascinating behind-the-scenes moments. It’s a must-listen for aviation fans, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about travel logistics. New episodes released every fortnight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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