The Old Fly Guy Network

The Old Fly Guy
  • 5.0 (3)
  • AVIATION

Our mission is to provide a platform to engage with leaders in the general aviation marketplace. Exploring the background of these leaders and how their journey in general aviation began. Discover what drives these aviators to share their knowledge. Learn what these aviators see for the future in aviation. Discuss the lighter side of aviation and be inspired to take to the skies to follow our dream of flying.

  1. DEC 6

    New York Airspace! What It Takes to Keep Millions of Passengers Safe Every Day, Expect Nothing Less

    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.

    1h 21m
  2. SR-71 Mission Control: The Minds Behind the Blackbird Flight Plan!

    OCT 11

    SR-71 Mission Control: The Minds Behind the Blackbird Flight Plan!

    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.

    1h 34m
  3. The Men Who Owned the SR-71 Blackbird!

    OCT 4

    The Men Who Owned the SR-71 Blackbird!

    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.

    1h 38m
  4. SR-71 Blackbird: Secrets from the Trainers......The Real Behind The Scenes!

    SEP 27

    SR-71 Blackbird: Secrets from the Trainers......The Real Behind The Scenes!

    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

    1h 21m
  5. Inside the SR-71: Untold Stories from the Fastest Pilots Alive!

    SEP 22

    Inside the SR-71: Untold Stories from the Fastest Pilots Alive!

    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.

    1h 11m

  6. AUG 30

    The Woman Who Brought Mooney Back to Life

    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.

    1h 20m

  7. AUG 23

    Safety, Mountains, and Mentorship: A Pilot’s Journey

    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

    1h 30m

  8. JUL 19

    Alaska Through the Eyes of a Pioneer

    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.

    1h 24m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Our mission is to provide a platform to engage with leaders in the general aviation marketplace. Exploring the background of these leaders and how their journey in general aviation began. Discover what drives these aviators to share their knowledge. Learn what these aviators see for the future in aviation. Discuss the lighter side of aviation and be inspired to take to the skies to follow our dream of flying.

Information

  • Creator
    The Old Fly Guy
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Old Fly Guy Network
  • Show Website
    The Old Fly Guy Network

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