I recently added a new podcast to my phone (that I use as my MP3 player) to try it out and all I can say is WOW! Airspeed Online (available for podcast subscription for free at http://airspeed.libsyn.com/) blew me away from the first minute I listened to it.
Stephen Force, in addition to being an aviation and technology lawyer (as he often mentions in the show) is someone who's enthusiasm for all things aviation is only matched by the production quality that he brings to the show.
His background in radio and music appears quite obvious in how well his podcast sounds, as well as the mix of natural and studio sound brings together a fantastic job of putting you in the left (or right) seat as he flies or talks to other aviators. But what I find refreshing is just how good his writing is.
Actually, I take that back. His writing is fantastic! All you have to do is listen to his podcasts to marvel at the amount of time I would imagine he spends on putting these together. He is eloquent without being too slick and his self-deprecating sense of humor is perfect. To prove it, here are some of my favorite episodes, each for their own reason.
- Intro Flights - This is a fantastic resource to point potential aviators at to learn more about what to expect and how to get started.
- Understanding Stalls - Ever had someone who just doesn't get it? In particular, media near you that need some education on aviation and how things work? I'd love to see this podcast be a part of the general education at J-Schools...
- GA is No Threat - Another great educational piece that sooo many reporters could benefit from.. Even better, by familiarizing themselves with this information, most pilots could better assist local media in understanding GA.
- Take Your Kids To The Airport - Again, another superbly written piece that every pilot should listen to and take to heart. Every pilot should take their kids, and perhaps their neighbors kids, ramp flying any chance they can get!
- So Long 18 - You can truly feel his pain at the loss of such a trusty steed.
- Upside Down and Hair on Fire... - Well written as always but I found Mr. Force's excitement to be contagious.
The list goes on but there are the ones that when I was listening to them I said to myself "You've GOT to blog about this!". If you want to read the show notes at the address we showed at first or you can read his blog postings at http://www.airspeedonline.blogspot.com/.
