The Journey Is The Reward (dot) ORG

On episode 84, Micah and I continue my coverage of the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast at Surfers Paradise, Australia. But first, we hear from Chef Kathy about her return trip from Las Vegas... and she really was lucky because she won the lottery! Listener Lu wants to know about flight attendants and if they have preferred routes. Then I get to comment on how United still isn't being helpful on the ground.  We learn why I decided to fly home early before we play some interviews from the airshow. The first interview is with Angela (not Emma) and Mark of the Freedom Formation. They are part of the team that makes up the largest flying collection of Vans aircraft. I also get to talk with Mandy Hentschel and Nathan Blackberry of Westpac, the rescue / lifesaving service of Australia. I conclude my interviews with Angus Ashcroft from the Gold Coast Training and Flight School, a unique flight instructor program located at the Gold Coast airport. And if anyone is interested in joining me on a trip to Africa in September or October, 2025, please let me know so I can get you more information. Opening and closing music for The Journey Is The Reward podcast is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir, recorded live in the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 83, Micah and I continue our discussion about my trip to Surfers Paradise, Australia for the Pacific Air Show Gold Coast. We get to play some of the interviews I conducted. But first, Purser Scott writes in saying he was sorry he didn't have a chance to get a photo with me. Wow, someone wanted a picture of Mr. October of the Hemisphere Magazine. Due to the length of the show, we didn't play any other listener feedback or our Listener Lu Wants To Know segment. Micah and I dive right into the Interviews with Kevin Elliott, founder of the Pacific Air Show, Tom Tait, the Mayor of Gold Coast, Craig Hobart, President of the Southport Flying Club, Air Commodore Mika Gray of the RAAF and we close with an interview with Garry Cooper, a RAAF pilot who was awarded two USAF Crosses. Please make sure to check out the more extensive interview Steve and Grant conducted with Garry Cooper on their Plane Crazy Down Under podcast. https://www.planecrazydownunder.com Episode 20. Opening and closing music for The Journey Is The Reward podcast is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir, recorded live in the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On this Bonus episode Micah and I talk with U2 stalker Chef Kathy. Chef Kathy won a pair of Golden Tickets to see the Premier showing of the U2 Movie, V-U2 An Immersive Concert Film, at The Sphere in Las Vegas. We talk about her flight out to Las Vegas, my drive there from Pasadena, and the premier showing of V-U2 An Immersive Concert Film. Opening and closing music for The Journey Is The Reward podcast is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir, recorded live in the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 82, Micah and I talk about my trip getting to Surfers Paradise, Australia for the Pacific Air Show Gold Coast. But first, Listener Uli writes in asking how to leave a review from an Android Device. Then Chef Kathy asks Capt Dana for some tips in using the Big Green Egg. Listener Lu wants to know if we know what all the flight attendents are looking out for when we board their aircraft. During the main segment, Micah and I talk about how United is letting me down again on the ground and how LAX catering is trying to compete with Newark for the worst food service on the planet. We also talk about my execelent service on Virgin Australia on my flight from Sydney up to the Gold Coast. The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 81, Micah and I have the privilege of interviewing the Flight Team interns from the California Science Center. But first, Listener Paul writes in to let us know he wasn't happy with our production quality / sound levels. Through a bunch of emails, thinks get pretty hysterical. Then I talk with Micah about not having any regrets... but he still won't upgrade his ancient PC to a Mac... at least not until Microsoft stops support for Windows 10. Listener Lu wants to know if we have ever witnessed any physical violence on a airplane. This question stems from the incident where a United Airlines flight attendant has part of his shirt bitten off by a human passenger. We then play the recorded interviews we conducted with the Summer Flight Team Interns from the California Science Center. And I can not stress enough how great these kids are and how lucky we were to be able to interview them. They are very special people and it was great to be able to help inspire them during the 8 week program. We hope you enjoy the interviews! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 80, Micah and I talk food and aviation with Captain Dana of Acme Airlines. But first, Listener Shawn wants to know if we have ever encountered / been stuck away from home during an operational meltdown? Listener Lu wants to know if we would ever order the Mick Jagger Sandwich from the Tick Tock Diner in Clifton NJ? Micah then talks about the US Interstate highway system and the numbering scheme behind it. We then interview Captain Dana on his not so traditional career in becoming an airline Captain for a major US airline. He did a lot of different jobs to get into the left seat. And, of course, we end us talking about food as both Capt. Dana and Micah are foodies! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 79, Micah and I don't have a guest or subject matter expert but as usual, we find something to talk about. Oh, and we finally get around to discussing our faboriate aviation museums. But first, Listener Paul talks about his issues with meetups. Than, Listener Hendrik talks about Lufthansa bringing back the A-380... and where to score the best economy seats. United First Officer Dell writes in with a thank you for the sky hook and card that I give out to crew. Thanks Dell for thanking me! :-) And then Listener Lu wants to know the origin of my signature closing, Fly Safely. Micah than talks about the Best Western, an often overlooked hotel property and a great experience with his Discover credit card. During the main topic, Micah had his recorder with him when Capt. Steven Ivy came to visit Portland, ME. It was great to hear about his roll as a Charter Pilot. Next we talk about our favorite aviation museums and read our listner submissions. Thank you everyone for writing in and Uli, thank you for sending in the pictures!!! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On this episode, we hear from Steve and Grant of the Plane Crazy Down Under podcast... and promote our participation in the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast. We are looking forward to seeing everyone on the beach at Surfers Paradise, August 16 - 18. Please look for a Tweet from us and or send an email to me, Steve and or Grant if you plan on attending the event. We are looking forward to seeing everyone Down Under! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 78, Micah and I discuss my trip back to New Jersey and Connecticut. I was able to visit with Chef Kathy, my brother and good friend Robert for his birthday and 4th of July celebrations! But first, Listener Andy corrects me about airshows which are performed on the beach. Chef Kathy asks about the Tillamook Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream which is being served on United. And then Listener Lu wants to know if I'll be hosting a meetup in Australia at the Pacific Air Show along with Steve and Grant of the Plane Crazy Downunder podcast. Speaking of meetups, Micah was able to meetup with Capt Dana of the Airline Pilot Guy podcast and he brought his recorder. During the main topic, we Micah and I continue our discussion of Newark airport, Taylor Pork Roll and the importance of meeting with family and friends. We also get into the great flight attendants I was able to interact with along with some great United ground service! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 77, Micah and I continue our talk with Ed Pizzarello of the Miles to Go Podcast.  There was simply too much to discuss during the first show, we had to have him back. But first, Listener Lu wants to know if I feel safe being up and about during flight. During the main topic, we continue our great conversation with Ed about his thoughts on the Miles and Points game. We discuss the virtue of collecting points vs just going after cash back, along with several other considerations with Miles and Points. The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 76, Micah and I talk with Ed Pizzarella of the Miles to Go Podcast.   But first, we hear from Listener Clair who is wondering if we are losing our minds because we continue to mention things in the past as though they are in the future. Listener John writes in asking if I miss traveling as much as I have in the past. And he wants to know if Micah will get in a airplane anytime soon? Then, Listener Lu wants to know if we have had any bad hotel experiences. During the main topic, we have a great conversation with Ed about his background, backing the wrong horse and a bit about his Miles to Go Podcast. The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 75, Micah and I discuss my trip to Baltimore. United and Hilton really took care of me when some unexpected things came up.   But first, we hear from Grant from the Plane Crazy Down Under podcast. He talks about all the vintage aircraft he has had the opportunity to fly on. Then, Listener Lu wants to know if I'll be at the Pacific Airshow to see the very last performance of the A-10 Warthog Demonstration Team at Huntington Beach. Although I won't be there, I let Micah know that I'll be attending the Pacific Airshow at Surfers Paradise in Australia! A good trade of venues I believe! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 74, I get to interview Micah again. He did a road trip up to northern Maine to watch the solar eclipse. Something I missed this year and I haven't seen one since I was in grade school in New Jersey.   But first, Listener Lu joins us again with a question. She wants to know if I'll be flying on the newly refurbished Lufthansa A-380s. In Additions, Corrections and Shoutouts, Micah might have found a home for Shreenand's Stearman. And I finally look of the names of our Patrion supporters. I'm so sorry this has taken me so long and I'm so pathetic at keeping track of these very valuable listeners. Currently, our supporters include, Alan, Vincent, Phillip, Hendrik and Kathleen. I know there have been others in the past and if you aren't on this list now, please let me know! Lastly, please send in a list of your favorite aviation museum and why it's your favorite. We will go over these on Episode 76! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 73, Micah and I continue our conversation about my extended Singapore trip with neighbor Shelley.   These was no listener mail and we are still wondering where Listener Lu is. We want to know! On this episode, Micah and I discuss the 8 days of adventure in Singapore and Malaysia. We also talk about the flight home and the United Club at LAX being closed. We hope you enjoy the show! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 72, Micah and I talk about my trip to Singapore with my neighbor Shelley.   Listener Claire writes in and tells us how she can relate to Matt Smiths fear of flying as she talks about her experience with a Go Around in Denver. And sadly, there isn't a question this week from Listener Lu. Hey Listener Lu, we want to know where you are??? :-) In Additions, Corrections and Shoutouts, Listener Hendric updates us on European Compensation, EU261. I ask for help with the project I'm working on at the California Science Center. We are looking for anyone with experience in the field of aviation to make a donation of time, talent or funds to support a program for disadvantaged students. Micah and I then talk about my trip with neighbor Shelley to Singapore. She was surprised to learn we got upgraded to Polaris... which was very nice. The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 71, Micah and I talk about my trip to Medford Oregon with my neighbors to drink wine.   But first, we have some Listener Mail from Listener Todd. Todd reminisces about his time in Lodi, CA and not his son is working in the wine industry there. Then we answer a question from Listener Leslie. She wants to know about our oldest airplane we have flown on. And as usual, it's a difficult question to answer. Listener Lu wants to know if we see anything wrong with the new American Airlines pilots’ contracts? In Additions, Corrections and Shoutouts, I ask for help with the project I'm working on at the California Science Center. We are looking for anyone with experience in the field of aviation to make a donation of time, talent or funds to support a program for disadvantaged students. Micah and I also share our heartfelt condolences to Listener Matt and his family. Matt lost his mom who was 96 years young and just an incredible woman who I had the pleasure of meeting. Micah and I lighten up the conversation and talk about my experiences on Avelo. Sadly, they are no longer the airline I want to love. Then we conclude the show with a mention of the Singapore meetup at LeVeL33 on Friday April 19 at 7:00PM. LeVeL33 is located at the Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1 on the 33rd floor. I hope to meet you there! The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 70, Micah and I talk with Eric the Mapmaker about his trip on Alaska Airlines. He flew from JFK to Palm Springs to Seattle to Newark and has some interesting comments about his trips.   But first, we have some Listener Mail from Chef Kathy, who tells Micah about the U2 song he likes. Then we hear from Listener Ron who wants to know if we feel safe flying these days. And then we close the segment with an email from a United flight attendant explaining why planes might be serviced to the level of customer expectations. Listener Lu wants to know if pilots can fly for free? In Additions, Corrections and Shoutouts, I get to apologize to Listener Dag for forgetting it was Easter when he planned a visit and I had to cancel. :-(  We are reminding our listeners to send in a list of your favorite aviation museum and why it's your favorite. The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 69, Micah and I talk about my surprise trip to Tampa to visit with Momma Coleman.   But first, Listener Lu wants to know about tracking Taylor Swift's plane. Micah and I talk about Jack Sweeny and Ground Control, ⁠https://grndcntrl.net/⁠ There is also an addition about Maps from Listener Grant and an update from Mapmaker Eric. Micah and I then talk about my surprise trip to visit with Momma Coleman and my two wonderful flights with United. Even though I couldn't get my Bluetooth headset to work with the IFE system, I had a great time with the Purser and other flight attendants. I even received a very nice note from the Captain and learned a bit more about my United Challenge Coins!  The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 68, Micah and I talk with Chef Kathy about my road trip to Vegas, and her return flight, to see U2 at The Sphere. Sadly, we did not attend the same concert date.   But first, we answer questions from Listener Sue and Henry. Sue askes about how much Micah would pay to fly a non-US based airline for a better experience and Listener Henry asks about the features / benefits of United Global Services. Listener Lu wants to know about a diverted flight to Bangor, Maine and if passengers get banned from future flights or have to pay a fine when they cause the disruption. Oh, and during the show, we find out that Micah actually likes a U2 song. Maybe we can get him to the next U2 stalking event or concert? The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 67, Micah and I talk about my trip to Lodi, California where I helped a friend to start a website that reviews the wines and vineyards of the area. (For those unfamiliar with Lodi, CA, it's a pretty amazing place and nothing like the one horse town it used to be 20 or more years ago.)  But first, we have a few additions, corrections and shout outs. 1) A friend passes along some advice about flying United to Hong Kong 2) Eric the Mapmaker corrects himself and tells us which way is up. 3) Micah gives an update on Breeze. And before we get into the main topic, Micah and I pose a question to you, our listeners, which was asked by Listener Lu who asked us about our most favorite aviation museums. Before we answer that question, we want to hear from you. What’s your favorite aviation museum anywhere in the world, and why? Please wite in to brian@TheJourneyIsTheReward.org and let us know The opening and closing music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song and their Good By song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. We hope you enjoy the show!