Welcome to Episode 113 of The Journey Is the Reward! 

While our inbox might be empty, that's probably because we don't constantly remind you that you are the most vital part of this show! But hey, if you've got burning questions, insights, or just want to tell us how much you adore our dulcet tones, send them to ⁠[email protected]⁠. Micah and Brian are standing by, ready to answer all your queries. And if we've managed to ruffle your feathers, feel free to air your grievances at ⁠[email protected]⁠. Yes, that's a real email address, and yes, we do read every single one – consider it our in-flight suggestion box, with slightly more turbulence.

This week, Listener Lu sent in a fascinating query about the audacious individual who reportedly impersonated flight attendants and pilots on over 120 flights. It’s a story so wild, it practically wrote itself into a sequel of Catch Me If You Can – though this particular aviator wannabe certainly didn't stick the landing and, sadly, his career has been grounded indefinitely. Listener Lu also wanted to dive into the world of travel passes, specifically how those coveted travel agent and airline "buddy passes" actually work. As always, Micah and Brian have the inside scoop for Listener Lu.

Adding to our high-flying adventures, you might have caught Micah as a guest host on WBZ Radio in Boston, chatting with Bradley Jay about travel tips and the latest news. Micah, ever the opinionated traveler, truly soared through the segment!

Our main event this episode? Brian’s recent trip to New Jersey to visit the Queen, his mom. What started as a smooth taxiing experience on public transportation quickly veered off course, thanks to the notorious summer weather patterns in Newark. While United's 787s might be operating with a minimum crew of seven flight attendants – leaving some of us to wonder if they’re playing a game of musical chairs with the galley carts – Brian was still in awe of their exceptional service. Though, we must lament Brian's un-cleared upgrades; having to sit in the back of the plane can feel like a direct descent into coach class purgatory for a seasoned traveler. Thankfully, the incredible flight attendants ensured his journey, both to and from New Jersey, was as comfortable as possible, even with the inevitable weather delays. Because, let’s be honest, flying into Newark in the summertime without a delay is about as rare as finding an empty overhead bin on a fully booked flight!

And as always, our ears are blessed by the utterly soul-stirring, goosebump-inducing sounds of the Madalitso Youth Choir! Their Welcome and Goodbye songs, recorded straight from the Royal Livingston Hotel in Zambia, are pure magic.