On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell speaks with Madaline "Maddy" Hentz, a Freedom Writer whose journey from silent struggle to vocal advocate is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Madaline opens up about her battle with depression and a suicide attempt, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness. She shares how w…

Ian and David open Season Nine with an AirVenture wrap up, a scary Arrow landing, insight on the AOPA dual-fuel Baron and LyondellBasel's PAFi alternative, and a CFI accused of manslaughter. Stay tuned for guest Lee Finch and his Cessna O-1 Bird Dog.By AOPA

Ian and David share the latest AirVenture news with an on-the-scene report and several surprise guests make AOPA Hangar Talk appearances from show center at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.By AOPA

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell speaks with Tye Leggins, a Freedom Writer who has transformed his life from a troubled teen to a passionate advocate for change. Tye shares his journey of overcoming trauma and personal struggles, emphasizing the power of empathy and self-acceptance. He also discusses the critical role of…

Wright B Flyer chief pilot Rich Stepler explains the engineering, design, and flight characteristics of the Wright brothers lookalike aircraft based in Dayton Ohio. Ian and David remember longtime congressional GA advocate Jim Inhofe, discuss David's uAvionix skySensor installation for older aircraft, and preview EAA AirVenture 2024, including spec…

Aeroprakt manufacturer Yuriy Yakovlev speaks with Ben Moses about aircraft manufacturing continuing during the country's war with Russia. Plus Ian and David break down recent unleaded aircraft fuel developments, warn pilots about avionics thefts, welcome new ASI leader Mike Ginter, and chat about personal aircraft maintenance.…

Virginia-based PT-19 warbird pilot Michael Kuhnert teaches tailwheel pilots in the stout, Golden Age trainer that introduced thousands to military aviation. Plus Ian and David discuss how simulator training can save money and time, the FAA's stance on uncomplicated mental health issues, and defending low-altitude runway inspection passes.…

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell speaks with Trayvon Carter, an original Freedom Writer who has transformed his life from the basketball courts of Long Beach to a successful career in real estate. Trayvon shares his journey of overcoming racial profiling and systemic barriers, highlighting the critical role of mentorship…

Big Bend pilot Brent Pickette brings a pilot's paradise to life with The Summit, a travel escape to dark sky country where visitors stay inside caves. Plus commentary on the Roswell air races, new AirVenture arrival procedures, GAMA aircraft delivery numbers, and triple ace Bud Anderson.By AOPA

Finding Your Voice with Shanita Jones by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom WritersBy Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers

Mike Laver is one of the good guys. Owner of Aiken Aviation in South Carolina and Glendale Aero Services in Arizona, Laver knows how to treat pilots right. Plus Ian and David highlight the new FAA reauthorization law, IAOPA, and the AOPA D.C. flyover.By AOPA

Eagles Nest resident Doug Vayda is a central Florida seaplane pilot who enjoys the convenience of airpark living including daily 'breakfast club' flyouts for coffee and camaraderie. Plus Ian and David explain the latest finger-pointing between NATA, GAMI, and the availability of unleaded G100UL fuel; the FAA reauthorization bill; updates from Europ…

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with Freedom Writer Sue Ellen Alpizar to discuss her powerful story of resilience and healing. Sue Ellen shares the challenges of growing up in a dysfunctional household, the impact of losing her brother, and her decision to break the cycle of silence surrounding mental health.T…

Learn how Siai Marchetti S.211 owner Mauricio Frizzarin flies his jet and Aerospatiale SA 341 Gazelle helicopter from a hangar-home in West Palm Beach, Florida. Plus, Ian and David discuss feature stories you don't want to miss in the next AOPA Pilot magazine; Icon's bankruptcy; an NTSB safety lookout; Sun'nFun standouts; and the blame game between…

Hatz biplane builders Carlo Cilliers and Rick Van Lehn describe their challenges and successes during a collaborative effort to construct side-by-side Hatz biplanes. Plus Ian and David break down remote ID, the National Mall flyover, FAA’s mental health guidelines, and the Van’s Aircraft plan to emerge from bankruptcy. Become a member of the world'…

VREF's Jason Zilberbrand talks about aircraft pricing formulas, the pre-owned aircraft market, and how much your airplane is worth. Plus, Ian and David comment on the April 8 total solar eclipse, Redbird's state of the training industry, pixels versus paper in the flight deck, and more. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at w…

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with Freedom Writer Shanate Jones. They discuss the traumatic experience of Shanate's youth, like having her childhood home invaded by police, the challenges she faced with disrespectful authority figures, and overcoming depression. Shanate also discusses her time in the militar…

Fly Compton flight instructor Alex Barker helps Los Angeles inner-city youth discover flying; plus Ian and David comment on the NTSB's Tamarack reversal, the FAA's 'tarnished' NPRM process, Heli-Expo news, and more. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at www.aopa.org/join. Listen on a podcast app or AOPA Online.…

Cessna 182 pilot and "Flying Boat" filmmaker Dirk Braun shares details about a Grumman Albatross's transformation from a Tucson, Arizona, boneyard to a flying showpiece. Plus, commentary on the next AOPA Sweeps aircraft, Colorado lead studies, the hydrogen-powered Climate Impulse, runway safety, and the latest GAMA delivery numbers. Become a member…

NORAD Command officer and GA aircraft owner Lt. Gen. Steven S. Nordhaus explains intercept procedures in effect during the Super Bowl and other temporary flight restrictions; plus commentary on parking fees, Amelia Earhart, new Garmin radios, the DeltaHawk diesel engine, and the Piper M700 turboprop. Become a member of the world's largest aviation …

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, join Erin Gruwell as she speaks with original Freedom Writer Latilla Cain, who delves into her life's mission of championing for others. Through heartfelt stories, Latilla illustrates the importance of support, love, and understanding in forging paths to success and building stronger communities.…

Sarah Deener shares a pilot report on the Pipistrel Velis Electro while Ian and David break down the latest in unleaded fuel, Hartzell raises prices, AOPA takes a stand with MOSAIC and BVLOS ops, and the $200K single-seat Helix eVTOL takes flight as an ultralight. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at www.aopa.org/join. Liste…

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, join Erin Gruwell and original Freedom Writer Carlos Barragan as they delve into Carlos' remarkable journey from the challenging streets of Long Beach to a life of purpose and success. In a candid conversation, Carlos opens up about his past as a graffiti artist known as 'Idol,' his struggle with fami…

'Top Chef' finlist and private pilot Bryan Voltaggio talks about food, flying, and his next challenge. Plus, find out about the new Cirrus G7, Garmin 430/530 trade-in incentives, and the latest on a hot air balloon case with national airspace implications. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at www.aopa.org/join. Listen on a p…

The FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) performance-based rules; unleaded fuels including GAMI G100UL, Swift 94UL, and PAFI UL100E; and Van’s Aircraft’s bankruptcy top the general aviation news stories of 2023. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at www.aopa.org/join. Listen on a podcast app or …

Pilot, actor Edward Norton and Angel Flight West's Josh Olsen on the organization's 100,000th mission in Norton's 1976 Cessna U206F, the 1999 AOPA Sweeps aircraft, which he has owned since the early 2000s. And stick around for commentary on Trevor Jacobs, the Collings Foundation, mental health advocacy, the EcoPulse, and financial challenges for Va…

In this episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by original Freedom Writer Melvin Logan to unfold a tale of change and growth. Discover how a single classroom note sparked a revolution in education, and follow Melvin's path from a troubled youth on the gang-riddled streets of 1990s Long Beach to a catalyst for change in classrooms across the globe. Now, as…

Popular Instagrammer Joe Costanza, known as @bananasssssssss, reveals his passion for aviation, photography, and the 1941 Piper J3 Cub he pilots when he's not flying a passenger airliner. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at www.aopa.org/join. Listen on a podcast app or AOPA Online.…

AvWeb Editor Emeritus and Aviation Consumer advocate Paul Bertorelli discusses the future of the aviation industry, retirement, his least favorite aircraft, and more. Become a member of the world's largest aviation community at www.aopa.org/join. Listen on a podcast app or AOPA Online.By AOPA

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell and original Freedom Writer Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra explore themes of ambition, identity, and hope. Tony shares his powerful story, starting with the significance of his name and the personal choice to adopt "Tony" as a means to avoid ridicule and mispronunciation by teachers. Thr…

David flies with AOPA's Mark Baker in a dual fuel Baron testing GAMI G100UL unleaded aviation gas, Ian explains the Robinson helicopter SFAR, pilot Whitaker is confirmed as new FAA leader, six southwestern venues consider Nat'l Air Races, and Flight Sim Coach Mike Catalfamo tells how simulator tutoring in your own home leads to efficiency in the ai…

Ian and David talk about the EPA ruling on leaded avgas, Hartzell changing hands, a proposed rudder AD for rag-wing Pipers, and the latest bizjet news from the NBAA convention. We also visit Andros Island in the Bahamas and get to know HGTV personality and private pilot Bryan Baeumler.By AOPA

Journey through a vivid tapestry of resilience and relentless spirit with Narada Comans on this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast. From a tumultuous neighborhood of Pittsburgh to the chaotic streets of Los Angeles during the infamous riots, Narada's childhood was a battlefield, punctuated by domestic violence, homelessness, and racial tension.…

Ian and David remember ASI’s Richard McSpadden, talk about lightweight aircraft batteries, used aircraft price trends, and ATC saves.By AOPA

Two-time engine-out-after-takeoff survivor and Virginia-based flight instructor Toto Marchand describes successful low altitude return to base maneuvers in two different aircraft, with tips and learning lessons for other pilots to keep handy. Plus, commentary on the latest GA news.By AOPA

Garmin's director of aftermarket sales Jim Alpiser talks about avionics and new technology designed to make aircraft ownership easier and safer. Plus, commentary on the latest GA news.By AOPA

Maui pilot and flight school owner Laurence Balter organizes fire relief efforts in Hawaii with a general aviation airlift bringing needed supplies to stricken residents. Plus, commentary on the latest GA news.By AOPA

Chicagoland flying buddies Bob Reynolds and John Skittone describe how they bested the 48-states-in-48-hours flying record. Plus, news commentary on the week’s headlines.By AOPA

In this week's episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell is joined by Dr. Robert Alsop, President of Waldorf University. Dr. Alsop and Waldorf’s commitment to fostering an environment where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged is truly inspiring, and we hope this episode leaves you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a differe…

Ian and David begin Season 8 with a report from EAA AirVenture 2023 including the sights, sounds, and people; AOPA's 85th anniversary flyover announcement; light sport aircraft regulatory expansion; the latest from Boeing's Pilot and Technician Outlook, and more.By AOPA

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Jayden Braddock, a student author who shares his journey of navigating an autism diagnosis and finding his voice through writing. Joining them is Jayden's mother, Dr. Freda Braddock, an educator who advocates for inclusive classrooms. Dr. Braddock offers advice to parents seeking accommodations for n…

Look up in the sky during EAA AirVenture and other airshows and you'll likely see the handiwork of Ghostwriter pilot Nathan Hammond, who travels across the country in a de Havilland Super Chipmunk to skywrite and perform in day and night airshows. Plus, news commentary with the week’s headlines.By AOPA

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by Jasmine Matthews, a disability advocate and student author from Dear Freedom Writer. Jasmine discusses her journey as a sight-impaired individual and the importance of redefining the language used to describe disabilities. They are also joined by Nare Garibyan, an esteemed author and educator who ha…

EAA Ford Tri-Motor pilot and aviation mechanic Bill Thacker describes flying the iconic 1928 radial-engine, cabin-class aircraft which requires a deft touch on the control yoke and a lot of rudder. Plus, news commentary with the week’s headlines.By AOPA

In this week’s powerful episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, host Erin Gruwell is joined by four dynamic individuals who are making a difference as activists and educators. Tara Bordeaux, Dean Abraham, Jasmine Nelson, and Aaron Bos-Lun share their personal experiences and insights, discussing topics like representation, identity, and the challen…

Pilots and Freedom Aviation Network founders Stephanie Lamar and Jared Miller founded the organization to bridge a gap in logistics support for survivors of human trafficking and their advocates. Plus, get caught up on the latest aviation news.By AOPA

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by original Freedom Writers, Melvin Logan and Carlos Barragan. Both Carlos and Melvin are inspiring and loving fathers who share what it was like growing up in Long Beach surrounded by poverty, racism, and gang violence. They discuss their survival, how they turned their pain into purpose, and breaking…

Jet pilot and Skyward Aviation founder Gene Pecar describes how aviation opportunities led to a career flying charters and establishing a network of aircraft that help save lives. Plus, news commentary with the week’s headlinesBy AOPA

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by Tony Award-winning actor John Benjamin Hickey – who plays Brian Gilford (one of the rival educators) in the film “Freedom Writers.” John shares his insights on the transformative power of storytelling, how his roles have influenced his outlook on life, and the lessons he’s learned along the way from…

This week David sits down with Robert Rose, CEO of Reliable Robotics, to talk about the future of flight and how robots are going to complement our world, not take it over. Plus news commentary with the week's headlines.By AOPA