The Journey Is The Reward (dot) ORG

On episode 43, Micah and I keep the family interviews going as we talk with his Kreplach brother Eric of Franko Maps.

Although we don't have any listener mail per se... we did hear from Connie and Tatjana, my two friends I met in Africa. Connie lives in Zambia and Tatjana lives in Denmark but we met in Cape Town. Listen to episode 39!

As a follow-up to episode 41, Listener Lu asks about our stuttering and how we overcame it... or at least cover it up.

Micah and I then have a great discussion with Eric about cartography and his other projects.

One would think in these days of technology that we would never need a printed map. Well, we discuss not only why you could use a map and various uses of maps... including wall art. We also talk about his publications on Trains (an aviation geeks second love) and light houses. Yes, Eric has publications covering maps, wall art, trains and light houses. The conversation was very fascinating

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 42, Micah and I get to interview the person responsible for me being on this planet and the one who fostered my love of travel... and enabled The Journey by providing a portion of the financing.

Sadly, there is no Listener Mail or a question from Listener Lu this episode. We wanted to devote the entire episode to Mom! With luck, we will be able to bring you those segments again on episode 43.

I know I can't say it enough; however, thank you mom for everything you have done for me. As I tell others... it's all your fault. All my good qualities are a result of you and dad. All my bad characteristics... I know better and I take full responsibility for them. :-)

On this show, Micah and I talk with mom about how she got involved in travel, her first flight, regrets, what she still would like to do, and her love of cruising.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 41, Micah and I record a live show.

Listeners might think I have made a mistake, especially when you listen to the start of the show, but that's intentional. I want everyone to hear what the show would normally sound like, raw and unedited... including all of our stuttering. 

We start the show by listening to an 8 minute clip by James Robinson where he talks with author and journalist, John Hendrickson. John has a speech impediment and the clip is hard to listen to... but I think it's one of the best pieces ever created explaining stuttering and how the listener should listen. I know that sounds repetitive, but it's what you have to do... you have to listen.

Then we comment on the emails submitted by listener Jachym from The Czech Republic, and Listener Chris, who is happy that we will be continuing the podcast.

Listener Lu wants to know if I will still be a slave to United and where I want to go next, and on what aircraft. The answer might surprise you.

We also go over some additions and corrections from Episode 40. (I don't have an issue admitting when I have made a mistake. I just wish it didn't happen so often!)

Then we talk about my not so great trip to Tampa to see mom. Micah and I tried to make a recording with mom but I experienced a bunch of technical issues and we never got the recording. However, we are scheduled to record with mom and will bring you that recording in episode 42... if all goes well.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 40, Micah and I discuss all the fun facts, figures and statistics of the Journey. 

But first we answered questions from Listener Ric and Claire. Ric, who is Micah's brother, ask if the Journey was worth it. Claire asks about how to safely find local places and adventures.

Listener Lu wants to know what interesting facts and figures surprised me the most. And that question is answered throughout the show.

There are a lot of great facts, figures and statistics. But you will have to listen to the show to learn all about them.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 39, Micah and I continue our discussion of my final trip to Cape Town, South Africa.

We did not publish any listener mail this week due to the length of the show but we did hear from Listener Lu.

On this show, we talk about the rest of my time in South Africa, all the things I did on the ground being a single tourist. I had a great time and met with some wonderful people / local South Africans. I was also able to help Vovo with a business idea.

Then Micah and I talk about my amazing flight home, complete with flight plan from Captain Mo. Thank you Dispatcher Gregg for making it happen. The flights home, CPT to EWR and EWR to LAX were truly amazing. The crews couldn't have done a better job in making me feel so special.

I was also able to enjoy a Pork Roll (Taylor Ham) sandwich at The Club in Newark. That was a great way to enjoy breakfast as the food on the plane wasn't all that great.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 38, Micah and I discuss my final trip to Cape Town, South Africa as part of The Journey Is The Reward Project. This will be the first of two parts as there was simply too much to talk about.

There was not time to have any listener email... nor a question from Listener Lu. Hopefully we can add those segments back in next week as they really are the best part of the show.

However, on this show, we talk about my flight to SA with Purser Charles and my two new favorite flight attendants, David and my want to be cousin, Mrs Karen Coleman (sadly, no relation).

In addition, we talk about my first 4 days on the ground, doing walking tours, meeting new friends, wine tasting in Stellenbosch and all the other fun things I got to do. I contracted with Howie for two days and he drove me around to Cape Point National Park, Simons Town and Stellenbosch. I was able to sample some great wines at Hazendal, Delaire Graff Estate, Tokara Wine Estate, and L’Avenir... with my friend Ryan. Than I treated Howie to a great dinner at The Fat Butcher.

Please check back next week for episode 39 when Micah and I finish talking about this spectacular trip to Cape Town South Africa... and me reaching my 3 million mile goal in 13 months!

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 36, Micah and I talk about my incredible trip to South Africa with Listener Linda.

But first, Micah and I answer listener email... one of the best parts of the show.

Listener Andrew asked about what site or podcast we mentioned on episode 31.  Sadly, Micah and I didn't recall and suggested listening to the episode again.  If there are any questions or follow-up, we are happy to address it.

Listener Brent asked about my future commitment to United once I reach the 3 million mile goal.  Andrew has 2 million with American and United and finds it liberating to fly on any carrier and not be tied to United.  Listen to find out how I answer that question.

Listener Vin writes in again commenting on how we keep missing each other at airports and he appreciated my comments on Tahiti.  Yes, Tahiti was great but it was expensive.

Listener Lu, wants to know about our bucket lists of travel destinations.  Micah and I give a pretty bad attempt at answering this question as there are simply too many places.

Micah and I then talk about the trip to South Africa with Listener Linda.  We had such a great time seeing Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, a private game reserve, and Cape Town... all within a week.  Although we have some transportation issues, the stay at Nsala and the game drives conducted by Wesley we the best I've ever experienced!  I think Linda would agree.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 35, Micah and I continue our discussion about my trip to Israel.  There were no questions from Listeners or Listener Lu... because we recorded this episode right after we recorded episode 34.  We hope to get more questions for episode 36!

While on the ground in Israel, I was taken on a tour of the old City of Jerusalem and my walking adventure of the old port area of Tel Aviv.  Then we talk about my visit to the El Al MRO center,  I got to inflate a life vest, watch an evacuation slide inflate, got to interview Tal at the OCC... their dispatch center and a whole lot more.  Eyal was also able to set up meeting with me at Air One, an eVTOL manufacture.  We got to fly a VR flight simulator of their aircraft.  We met with the folks at Elbit Systems, makers of drones, HUDs and so many other devices.  Then we met with Fetcherr and discussed AI / Machine Learning pricing tools.

Micah and I also discuss the food.  Oh... all the food I got to experience!  Just incredible. 

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

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On episode 34, Micah and I discuss my first trip ever to Israel.  I was hosted by listener Eyal and what a wonderful host he is.  I can't believe all the meetings he booked for me and all the great adventures we went on in two days... but we will get into that more in episode 35.  Episode 34 discussed the flights both coming and going to Israel

But first, Micah and I answer listener email... one of the best parts of the show.

Listener Gail asked about the one thing we pack but wish we didn't.  Listener Pat asked about when I first started to think about reaching the 3 million mile goal and if I'll try for 4 million.

Listener Lu, who wants to know, asks about our first plane ride.  Hers was to California on Eastern Airlines and she was rewarded with a visit to DisneyLand.

Micah and I then talk about he airline portion of my trip to and from Israel.  And I must say... it was a VERY different experience flying into Tel Aviv from San Francisco vs my flight to Newark from Tel Aviv.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 33, Micah and I discuss my last recent trip to Singapore.

Micah conducted an interview with Listener Missy in Portland Maine.  Then we answer questions from Listener Dale about my longest trips.

Micah asked a question for Listener Lu who wants to know ... well, you will have to listen to find out.

Then Micah and I talk about my trip final trip to Singapore where I got back together with Listener Matt.  We celebrated Chinese New Year with some beer and US Navy aircraft servicemen.  We were also able to check out a great 24 hour spa.

We also discuss the special treatment I received on my flights and my meals at the Polaris Lounge.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 32, Micah and I discuss my trip up to Tahiti... or as I'm now calling it, Hawaii South with nice people.

We discuss the carbon footprint I'm generating as a result of a conversation that was spurred by friend Jim.  He is concerned that I'm killing the planet and his kids will pay the price.  Micah and I have an alternative view of the topic.

We also answer a question posed by Sarah regarding airport hotels vs city hotels.

Listener Lu wanted to know when I'm going to have mom on the show!.

Micah and I  discuss my adventures in Tahiti.  Let me tell you, the Island is a tropical paradise and I didn't want to leave!

We close the show with a quick discussion about listener comments and the normal bloopers.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international (Non-US) listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 31, Micah and I discuss my trip up to Seattle where I attended the Seattle Aerospace BBQ, hosted by Jet City Star, Isaac Alexander.

We also answer listener questions from Melissa and Jessica.  Melissa wants to know if we will continue the show after I reach the 3 Million Mile goal.  Jessica was wondering why so many women write in with questions and she wanted to know if I was on her Southwest flight from San Jose to Burbank.  The flight attendants made an announcement that I was on the plane and going for 3 million miles on United.  The announcement must have confused some of the passengers... why would someone going for 3 million miles on United be flying on Southwest.  :-)  But indeed, it was me!

Listener Lu wanted to know if Micah and I were ever involved in a shutdown of the airspace, similar to what happened over the holidays and then again with the DOTs issues with the NOTAM system.

Micah and I go on to talk about the Seattle Aerospace BBQ and my conversation with Jon Ostrower, aviation writer extraordinaire and publisher of the Air Current, an aviation news and commentary site. 

Prior to the BBQ, I was fortunate to walk around the Museum of Flight with Isaac Alexander.  It was great fun having him talk about all the various aircraft and aviation history of the greater Seattle area.

At the BBQ, I was fortunate enough to sit at the winning table of for the trivia contest.  My fellow table mates were in the space industry... which helped a lot as I didn't know any of the space related questions.  We won a big bag of SWAG (Stuff We All Get) and there weren't any fights over the very popular items.  A great time was had by all and I hope to return next year.

We close the show with the normal bloopers and then if you are interested, you can listen to the interviews I recorded at the BBQ with Isaac, Robin - the founder of Hype aviation, Nick - the founder of Jet Tip, and Dave Honan - a very talented plane spotter that shots some interesting subjects.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 30, Micah and I host another Windows and Aisles episode due to my lack of flying over the holiday season.

As there wasn't time for listeners to send in any feedback between our recordings, we didn't have any questions to answer.  Also, we didn't give enough time for the Listener Lu wants to know segment either.  Sorry about that!

However, this did gave us time to dive right into the interview with Chris Chaput, President of DG Fuels.  It was a great discussion on Sustainable Aviation Fuel and how they are going to produce this biofuel out of renewable materials and stranded energy.  (If you listened to this interview on the Airplane Geeks Podcast, you can skip this interview as it is the same recording.)

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 29, Micah and I host another Windows and Aisles episode.

We address a question from Listener Pete who wants to know our opinions on Biometrics and their use in the airline industry

We also talk about Jim's situation on getting back to Amsterdam with a very short, 40 minute, connection in Seattle.  Then Jim asks about soap dispensers in airplane lavatories.  

Listener Lu wants to know.... what we plan to do once I reach the 3 Million Mile goal.

We have a shout out to listener Andy who offer to teach us audio editing and we renew our request for donations to support the funeral expenses of one of the singers in the Madalitso Youth Choir, Nkoma.  She had a wonderful voice and smile!  All funds donated will go directly to support her funeral expenses. 

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 28, Micah and I discuss the adventures of my trip with Scott to Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.  What a great guy and what a great adventure!

There were no questions this week as we recorded this episode shortly after episode 27.  However, Listener Lu wants to know.... Do I know when my last flight will be and if I plan to do anything special?  Will United do anything special?  Listen to find out the What and When!

Instead of talking about the passenger experience, Micah and I really focused on the details of the land portion of our trip and the safari.  It was also great to catch up with an old friend, Connie, from the Royal Livingston Hotel.  She spent two days with us showing us around the Falls and her home town of Livingston.  She also joined us on a sunset river cruise.   Connie, we can't thank you enough for making our trip special!!!

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  Sadly, I get to report that one of their singers, Nkoma, passed away.  She had a wonderful voice and a great smile.  She will be missed.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 27, Micah and I host our second back to back Windows and Aisles Episodes.   

We address a question from Listener Mark in Argentina who was asking about why we like to fly.

We also heard from listener Sharon who is new to the show and asked about what we do on long international flights?  How do we keep ourselves occupied?

Listener Lu wants to know.... what is the most outrageous behavior we have seen on a plane and if Micah or I have ever been one of THOSE customers.  Sadly, we both share a story were we were. 

Then Micah and I share an interview we conducted with Steve Carlson of T-Mobile where we talk about the Un-carrier On... a new product from T-Mobile.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 26, Micah and I host our 3rd Windows and Aisles Episodes... formerly known as Bits and Pieces.  This is because I wasn't flying due to the Thanksgiving holiday here in the US and I had foot surgery which has kept me grounded for a few weeks.

We address a question from Listener Uli regarding tips and tricks around the airport.  I also talk about Mom again.  I even quoted a poem I wrote to her when I was 5 years old.  It's Peabody material or at least should be considered for the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Listener Lu wanted to give us some NJ Tude for ripping on Newark Liberty Airport, but I think Micah and I held our own.  And of course, Micah had a song that fit the topic.

On the show, Trisha from The Interactive Group, talks about Safety Cards.  I'm sure there is a ton of information about the cards that you never knew.  Micah and I had a blast talking with her and learned a lot in the process of our interview.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 25, Micah and I discuss my very short trip to Singapore.  It was so short, my flight over took longer than I was on the ground in Singapore.

Sadly, there was no listener feedback because we recorded two episodes back to back and there wasn't time for listeners to write in.  However, Listener Lu wanted to know about mask wearing.  Micah and I address the types of mask we wear to help keep everyone safe.

On the show, we talk about my two hour delay out of SFO... because a passenger decided to leave the plane after boarding and not tell anyone.  We also talk about making an impression on flight attendants, in a positive way, and being remembered for it.

I was able to deliver some Costco goods to Listener Matt.

My ground time was so short, I didn't bother getting a hotel but learned a great lesson about boarding passes and getting beck into the Lounge.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 24, Micah and I record the show about my trip to Tampa while on a trip to Singapore.  We first talk about some corrections and some 747 music, Micah shares his opinions on the web site of Scott's Cheap Flights and then we listen to our first audio feedback from Listener Claire.  Eric of Franko Maps gets thanked for sending me Fish ID cards.  And we answer the next questions from Listener Lu for her segment, Listener Lu Wants To Know.  Oh... and Micah asks me about the Fee Free Pho Noodles at the Star Allience Lounge at LAX.

During the show, we talk about my upgrade to Premium Plus on a 777 from LAX to EWR.  I had a first on the flight from EWR to TPA where the Captain came back to thank me for the gifts and for my almost 3 million miles with United.

We finish the show talking about my misconnect in Newark and how United agents wouldn't let me talk with a Service Director... But in the end, it all worked out OK.  United provided me with hotel room and some food vouchers.  Not enough value on them to cover the cost of breakfast, but still... I was given some food vouchers. 

On the last segment, Newark to Los Angeles, I had to sit in regular economy... there wasn't even an economy + seat available.  :-(

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On this "Bits and Pieces 2" episode, Micah and I present three recordings.

The first is with Ryan of Flighty... a flight tracking application that offers so much more.

The second interview is with Listener Matt of Singapore.  We recorded two segments on my first of two back to back trips.  We biked around the Island on his Bromptom bikes, Matt got to try some new beers, and we finally had a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel.  (Hint:  It was delicious and worth every penny... Matt paid for it!  Thank you Matt!)

The third recording is an interview I did this past February with Scott of Scott's Cheap Flights.  Sadly, the web site statistics show that not many people went to the website to listen to the segment.  Therefore, I decided to include it in this podcast so everyone could hear about their great service.

There is no listener mail nor Listener Lu Wants To Know segments because this so episode is already so long.  Tune into episode 24 for more listener mail and questions from Listener Lu. 

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!  Seriously, we love hearing from you and responding to your emails as it is one of the best parts of the show!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the special Bits and Pieces 2 show!

On episode 23, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from listener Melissa, and more follow-up from listener Chris.  We also introduce a new segment, Listener Lu Wants To Know.

Listener Melissa wants to learn about what I eat along the way and lounge food.  Micah and I dive a bit deeper into the food experiences onboard and on the ground.

Listener Chris provides some follow-up about his trip to Japan in the '90s.

In the new segment Listener Lu Wants To Know, she asks Micah about The Kitchen in Freedom, Maine.  (I guess this really will be a foodie-based show!)

Micah introduces us to some more music, Singapore by Tom Waits, and then we talk about my two non-consecutive adventure days in Singapore.  Listener Matt and I biked around the Island and we finally able to enjoy a Singapore Sling at the Raffles Hotel.  On these 4 segments to and from Singapore, I was able to fly in every class of service.  Economy, Premium Economy and Polaris Class.   And we get to talk about food.  Did I mention the food in Singapore is great!

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On this Bits and Pieces episode, Micah and I try to get caught up on some things.

We answer listener mail, play in interview with Listener Matt, introduce a new segment called Listener Lu wants to know, and we talk about what I pack on my trips and generally try to catch up with things before my epic back to back to back trip to Singapore.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the special Bits and Pieces show!

On episode 22, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from listener Grant, and listener Chris.  

Listener Grant is still confused over how United calculates Frequent Flyer Miles and Million Miler Miles... and I don't blame him.  Its confusing.  Listener Chris successfully answers Micah's trivia question and is awarded a special prize.  He also talks about why people might be listening to the show and then he recalls seeing the South African cooling towers on an episode of The Amazing Race.

Micah talks about Jean Shepherd and the features of PocketCast.

We then talk about my adventures in Singapore, two whole days worth, and my air travels getting there and back.  Fortunately the Singapore Grand Prix was going on... but unfortunately the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel was very crowded and I never got my picture of the Singapore Sling mixing machine.  That will have to wait until next trip.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!! 

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. 

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 21, there is no listener emails.  Micah and I recorded this show back to back with episode 20... and we conducted a special interview that will show up on the feed in a little bit.  I'm sure you will really enjoy the interview!

Micah and I continue to discuss the trip to and from South Africa, the stops in Newark, and the activities I got to experience while in South Africa 

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!! 

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. 

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 19, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from Claire, Gustav and our balloonatic friend Grant.  Clair asks about the new construction at Changi airport and how they were able to build the new structure at an active airport without disturbing existing operations.  Listener Gustav asks about us being pilots.  Hint: We aren't and it's probably safer that way!. And finally listener Grant wants talks about his flying experiences on the A350 and A380... two aircraft I still haven't flown on. 

Micah and I then discuss my return trip to Singapore!  It wouldn't be a flight experience on United and this trip was no exception.  Listen to what happened and the very pleasant resolution.  Oh, there was also a parking issue that hopefully will be resolved soon.  I'm sure we will address that in episode 20. 

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!! 

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia. 

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 18, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from listeners Vin, Paul and Lu.  Vin writes in about Southwest airlines lack of luggage tracking. Listener Paul asks about our favorite aircraft and who we would like to have on the show as a guest.  Hint: NASA figures into our answers. And finally listener Lu wants the details on #surprisemom.  Apparently, I didn't talk enough about mom and her reactions to my surprise visit.

Micah and I then discuss the details of my back to back trips to Lihue, Hawaii.  It was my first time to the Garden Island.  I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn because they had a protected area to go snorkeling.  I was also privileged to fly with some great United flight attendants!

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 17, Micah and I talk about how I miscalculated the requirements for achieving 1K status this year and how I "had" to take a surprise trip to see mom in Florida.  I seem to have forgotten about the dollar requirement for 1K status and I wanted to have it for my upcoming flight to Singapore as I will have a better chance for an upgrade.  Therefore, I decided to #surprisemom.  It was a very quick surprise trip to Florida to visit with mom... and wow, was she most certainly surprised when I walked through the front door!

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  

We hope you enjoy the show!

On episode 16, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from listeners Marc-Alexandre and Lisa.  Marc-Alexandre asks about not always flying on United and the environmental impact of my flying. Lisa can't believe I don't remember Land Shark from Saturday Nite Live.

Micah and I then talk about the devaluation of frequent traveler programs and the democratization of Lounges.  Then we discuss the 'Houston we have a podcast' show where they talk about women in STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.  I add my 2 pennies on how I always promoted women when I was Associate Producer on the Airplane Geeks podcast.  I strongly feel as though it's everyones responsibility to highlight woman and show girls they can do anything.  Aviation doesn't have to be a male only industry!  Sometimes girls just need to see someone doing a STEM related job and then they can envision themselves doing the same job.

We finish the show talking about the courier services I am offering and the two people who have chosen to fly with me to Africa and Zambia on upcoming trips.  It will be lots of fun being their tour guide!  But first, next up for me are two quick trips to Hawaii and then a courier trip to Singapore.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  We hope you enjoy the show!

In episode 15, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from listeners Uli and Ruben.  Uli explains the American Airlines boarding process and their tickets.  Ruben asks if we will continue the show after I reach my goal.

Micah and I then talk about why I few up to Sacramento on Southwest Airlines and not United along with my bags flying for free.  We talk about the passenger experience and how Southwest celebrated Shark Week.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  We hope you enjoy the show!

In episode 14, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from listeners Lu and Vin.  We talk about our tips and tricks for flight preparation, medical concerns, and staying healthy in flight.   Micah also tells the story about how we first met ... it was through the Airplane Geeks Podcast.

Then I get to turn the tables and interview Micah.  As I'm not traveling over the summer, I thought it would be a good idea for our listeners to get to better know Micah.  During our conversations, he talks about his family and especially his mom, Harriott.  (I so wish I had the opportunity to meet this incredible lady!)  Micah tells stories about his flying adventures with his mom and I get to surprise him with some rapid fire questions.

Thanks once again to all of our listeners and especially our international listeners.  Please write in and let us know how you found the show and why you listen.  We love hearing from you!!!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  We hope you enjoy the show!

In episode 13, Micah and I comment on listener feedback from Uli (Why and when is the best time to fly... what is our preferred time of the day to fly?) and Chris (Constructive criticism, German security confiscating my battery / charger device, and the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978.)

We then talk about my trip to Philadelphia on American Airlines.  Yes, I few on American and passed up on the opportunity to earn United Mileage Plus miles!  Listen to the show to understand why I chose not to get closer to my Lifetime 1K status.

We also discuss our international listeners and ask all listeners to write in and let us know why you listen and how you first learned about us?

We give a huge shoutout and thanks to our new contributors to the show, Hendrik and Phillip!  Thank you so much for helping us offset the costs of producing the show!

Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  We hope you enjoy the show!

In episode 12, I finally give credit to the Madalitso Youth Choir for their opening music and song.  I really messed up by not doing this sooner and I apologize to them for my oversight.  In the show, Micah and I comment on listener feedback and then we talk about the end of Covid testing to enter the US, we discuss the use of Apple Air Tags in luggage while traveling, and then we talk about the different classes of service on airlines and how they have changed over the years.  We end the show talking about creative use of Hilton and IHG Credit Card Benefits  

Again, opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  We hope you enjoy the show!

In episode 11, Micah and I continue our discussion of my trip to South Africa and Zambia.  We focus on the United portion of this trip as we covered the other parts of the journey in Part 1, Episode 10.  We also cover a flight segment on Lufthansa (JNB - FRA) and differences between flying in First Class vs Business Class.   In Part 2 of this African journey, we cover what went right and what went wrong with United... including a funny story with a new International flight attendant.  Opening music is provided by the Madalitso Youth Choir as they sing their Welcome Song, recorded at the lobby of The Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia.  We hope you enjoy it!

In episode 10, Micah and I discuss my trip to South Africa and Zambia.  In Part 1, we focus on the non-United parts of this trip as the United experience was simply too painful and fresh to cover.  We want to focus on the positives and discuss the other aspects of the trip... including some of the bookings and land activities.  This was my first trip to Zambia and seeing / experiencing Victoria Falls.  On this trip, I was also traveling with another couple, friends of mine for over 30 years!  In this show, we also answer listener mail by addressing the economics of this project, where the money is coming from and the expected benefits.  Basically, we discuss the math behind the project.  In episode 11, Part 2, we will cover what went right and what went wrong with United... so please check back for that episode!

In episode 9, Micah and I discuss my surprise trip to see mom for Mother's Day, her Birthday, and her wedding anniversary.  She had no idea I was showing up and I almost scared her to death!  We also discuss the lack of ground staff at Newark and how a great trip turned into a multi-hour delay... simply because United didn't have enough people scheduled to work.  For the first time in the show, we talk about listener feedback.  There were a lot of great comments, some positive and some negative.  However, they were all great and I agree with all of them.  This is a journey for me in producing this show and listener feedback will only make it better.  Therefore, keep 'em coming!

In episode 8, Micah and I discuss my recent flight on Southwest where I flew from Burbank to Sacramento.  It was a short flight and I learned a lesson... when flying on Southwest, you don't earn United miles...  Actually, I knew that but I explain why I flew on Southwest for this part of my Journey.  We also discussed masks, similarities of flying to Hawaii and Europe on single aisle aircraft, and we have a new Patrion member...

In episode 7, Micah and I discuss my adventures of flying to Hawaii, twice, over 2 days.  Yes, that's right, I flew to Hawaii, two Islands, twice within 48 hours. Sadly, I wasn’t able to have sand between my toes nor dip my them in the ocean. I never left the airports coming or going.

In episode 6, Micah and I discuss my Italian vacation... 2 years delayed.  And because the flight was on United, we have to talk about the customer service / experiences in Newark, NJ. I’m sure it’s not how United would like passengers to experience Newark.

This is the second part of the show where Micah and I discuss our trip to England.  Each of us had a bit of an adventure on our next flights. Micah returned to the US and I continued on to Austria.  Because the flights were on United, we had an adventure with the phone systems… along with other issues.

In episode 5, To help the folks at Plane Talking UK celebrate their 400th show, Micah and I travel together and discuss our adventures on getting to England, the changes in our flights on United, and the Plane Talking UK 400th celebration.

In episode 4, Micah and I discuss my quick trip to South Africa. Basically, it was a long weekend, visiting with a friend. The good news, I found a very inexpensive business class ticket. As this was my first long distance flight, I thought I would treat myself.

In episode 3, Micah and I discuss my first trip to Florida... however, it had a bit of a twist as I had to return to California to cover the Norther Pacific Airways Livery reveal for the Airplane Geeks podcast.  Therefore, it was two trips in one. The best way to accumulate miles!

In the second episode, Micah and I continue to explain what the show is about along with continuing to set expectations of the show.

This is the first episode where my Main(e) Man Micah and I discuss what the show, The Journey is the Reward (dot) ORG, is all about. We will set expectation and talk about what we plan to talk about.