The crew tackles listener Zach R's dilemma about "feeding our souls and starving our wallets" when it comes to aviation passion. Ted broadcasts live from under his airplane wing at Oshkosh (complete with random interruptions from Captain Jeff and the APG crew), while Ben, Brian, and special guest Nathan Ballard brainstorm creative ways to make flying more affordable and fulfilling.

From discovering that online aviation communities are full of CFIs that are "perfectly willing to be its best friend for the low, low rate of 60 to $70 an hour" to discussing whether being an "airport bum" is actually sound career advice, this episode is packed with practical tips for the budget-conscious pilot.

The gang explores everything from airport socializing and grass strip adventures to the reality that a Piper Dakota is "a lot of plane" for soul-searching flights. Plus, Nathan shares insights from his transition to professional flying, Ted dodges media interviews while podcasting, and Brian mourns his recently deceased MR2 (RIP).

Show Links:

Nathan Ballard YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NathanBallardSaferFlying

Midlife Pilot Podcast:

• Website: https://midlifepilotpodcast.com
• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/midlifepilotpodcast

• Email: [email protected]
• Merch: https://midlifepilotpodcast.com/merch

Organizations & Resources:

• NAFI (National Association of Flight Instructors): https://nafinet.org
• EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association): https://www.eaa.org
• Civil Air Patrol: https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com
• AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association): https://www.aopa.org
• Freedom Aviation Network: https://freedomaviationnetwork.org

Flight Planning & Apps:

• ForeFlight: https://foreflight.com
• Garmin Pilot: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/115856

Aircraft Manufacturers:

• Flight Design (CTLS): https://flightdesignusa.com
• Piper Aircraft (Dakota): https://www.piper.com

Events:

• EAA AirVenture Oshkosh: https://www.eaa.org/airventure

Airports Mentioned:

• Peachtree DeKalb (PDK): https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/airports
• John Tune Airport (JWN): https://www.flynashville.com/john-c-tune-airport