Episode Summary: Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes at a zoo? In this episode, we return to Zoo Knoxville for a deeper look at the people , processes , and passion that power one of the most respected conservation-focused zoos in the country. This isn’t just about cute animals (though we’ve got those too). You’ll hear about the expert teams , the intensive animal training programs , and how even aviation logistics play a crucial role in global conservation efforts. From managing...
Jul 01, 2025•Season 2Ep. 9
Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore how aviation is driving workforce development in East Tennessee. Dr. Patty Weaver from Pellissippi State Community College and Jessica Blitz of Blount Partnership share how a powerful collaboration between education, industry, and local government is creating hands-on career pathways for students—starting as early as middle school. From engine donations by Continental Aerospace to new FAA-certified degree programs, we discuss the innovations helping m...
Jun 23, 2025•25 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this episode, we dive into the excitement surrounding the launch of Gulf Shores International Airport , a new travel hub already making waves in Alabama and beyond. Our guests reflect on the overwhelmingly positive community response, share behind-the-scenes insights on launching an airport, and look ahead to what’s next for the region. From expanded air routes and economic development to beach vacations made simpler and more affordable, this episode showcases how aviation can be a true game-...
May 26, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode of From the Runway Up , we welcome back Scott Broyles, President and CEO of the National Safe Skies Alliance (Safe Skies), to discuss how this unique nonprofit organization helps shape the future of aviation security. From insider threats and AI tools to the growing importance of situational awareness and risk mitigation, Scott takes us inside the mission of Safe Skies—and why its work matters now more than ever. We also chat about McGhee Tyson Airport’s growth, the value of coll...
Apr 22, 2025•35 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode of From The Runway Up , hosts Becky and Caitlin sit down with Eddie McGaha, Assistant Federal Security Director for TSA, to discuss everything you need to know about Real ID and TSA operations at McGee Tyson Airport. With the May 7, 2025, Real ID enforcement deadline quickly approaching, they break down the requirements, how to obtain a Real ID, and why it’s essential for air travel and access to federal facilities. Eddie also shares insights into TSA screening procedures, how to...
Mar 17, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode, hosts Becky and Caitlin discuss the Tuskegee Next program—a nonprofit initiative dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through aviation. The conversation highlights how the program builds on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen to provide flight training, career development, and networking opportunities for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals. Key Topics & Segments: Spotlight on Tuskegee Next: Discussion of the program’s origins, inspired by the historical legac...
Feb 24, 2025•22 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this episode of From the Runway Up , hosts Becky and Caitlin explore two impactful youth aviation programs in Knoxville, Tennessee, that are shaping the next generation of pilots and aviation mechanics. First, they talk with Eric Dragonetti , CEO of CAVU Pilot Flight School, about the future of aviation training and the rise of flight schools during the pandemic. Then, they chat with Jesse Katz , founder of the Sky Program, a hands-on youth initiative focused on aircraft restoration and aviat...
Jan 27, 2025•44 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the evolution of air service at McGhee Tyson Airport and its significant role in East Tennessee’s economy. Featuring industry experts Bill Swelbar and MKAA’s own, Jim Evans, we discuss how the airport has adapted to shifting airline strategies, developed strong partnerships with carriers, and fostered economic growth through increased tourism and travel options. From the complexities of attracting new airlines, like Southwest, to the potential for i...
Dec 16, 2024•43 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Episode Description McGhee Tyson Airport’s Flight Plan is a comprehensive 10-year initiative aimed at enhancing the airport’s facilities and passenger experience to meet the needs of a growing East Tennessee community. Kicking off with the construction of a new parking garage, the plan includes expanded parking, roadway improvements, and upgraded terminal spaces. Community leaders and stakeholders expressed excitement about the economic and travel benefits the project will bring to the region. W...
Nov 27, 2024•21 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Episode Description Did you know that McGhee Tyson Airport is just one hour away from the most visited national park in the US? More than 12 million people visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year, generating a more than $1 billion economic impact for our region. In this episode, we speak with Caitlin Worth of the National Park Service as she shares the parks’ history, secrets, and future developments. Guests in this Episode Caitlin Worth is the acting management assistant and pub...
Nov 18, 2021•36 min
Episode Description Aviation has played a crucial role in the development and growth of East Tennessee since the early 1900s. As McGhee Tyson Airport celebrates its 84th Anniversary, this podcast highlights some of the inspirational people and aviation milestones that have occurred in our region. We are joined by Bob Davis, a local historian and pilot, who has spent years researching TYS and DKX. Aviation buffs are welcome! Guests in this Episode Becky and Mr. Davis at a luncheon in 2012 where M...
Oct 15, 2021•38 min
Episode Description In celebration of International Podcast Day, we bring you a podcast episode all about airport podcasts. We speak with the podcasts hosts from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (podcast: The Austin Approach) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (podcast: The Fly Angle) about their airport’s podcast: why they started them, what topics are most-popular, and how airport podcasting fits into their overall airport communication plan. These podcast hosts also share best pra...
Sep 30, 2021•38 min
Episode Description A lot has changed in aviation hiring practices in the past two years. Some of the change is the direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, while some attribute the change to a Silver Tsunami. Never heard that term before? Us either! Tune into this episode to learn all about it from Blake Astran, J.D., Vice President of Business operations for ADK Consulting & Executive Search. Guests in this Episode “Blake joins ADK with years of executive recruiting experience primarily foc...
Sep 27, 2021•27 min
Episode Description Airlines for America (A4A) is a leading voice in advocating for crucial measures and policies that promote safety, security and a thriving US airline industry. In this episode, Rebecca Spicer, Senior Vice President of Communications for A4A, joins us as we discuss commercial air service pandemic recovery and the actions airlines are taking to sustain and build their operations moving through the end of the year and into 2022. You’ll even take away a few travel tips to utilize...
Aug 31, 2021•30 min
Episode Description Traveling this summer? You’re not alone! With more people taking to the skies this summer, this episode provides you with six quick tips you can take to make your travel experience simple and safe. From parking tips to COVID-19 resources, this episode has all the information you need to know before you go. Mentioned in this Episode Allegiant’s new flights to Austin, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Myrtle Beach American Airlines resumes flights to Miami International Delta now offer...
Jul 01, 2021•14 min
Episode Description Airfield lighting is one of the many requirements that keep an airport compliant with the FAA’s Part 139 Certification. Have you ever wondered what the different airfield lighting colors signify? Or how much time and resources it takes to keep the airport terminal ‘lit’ 24/7? In this episode, we talk with Ken Eckert, MKAA Facility Manager, and Sam Knisley, MKAA Airfield Electrician, to answer all of your questions about current airport lighting and what to expect in the futur...
Jun 29, 2021•28 min
Episode Description Summer travel season is among us! While you’re preparing for your vacation or looking for planning inspiration, many questions can arise. Are there travel restrictions in this city? Do I need a negative COVID test to fly into this airport? We speak with representatives from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and Myrtle Beach International Airport, who share what you can expect when traveling to their city and what you should see ...
May 26, 2021•26 min
Episode Description The general aviation industry has experienced more than five consecutive years of growth, even throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. Serving this industry, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest general aviation association in America and offers endless advocacy and resources for current and future pilots. In this episode, we talk with Mike Ginter, Vice President of Airports and State Advocacy for AOPA, about why this industry continues to grow, how to b...
Apr 29, 2021•28 min
Episode Description This episode explores the vast amount of resources available to minority-owned businesses through airports and their local municipalities. Alan Jones, Director of Administration and DBE Liasion Officer with the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, and Pamela Cotham, Assistant Purchasing Agent and Small Business & Diversity Outreach Manager for the City of Knoxville, share their passion for fostering relationships and opportunities for companies that qualify as a Disa...
Feb 25, 2021•35 min
Episode Description It’s a new year, and we’re diving into another year of aviation-related podcast topics for your listening and learning pleasure. From new flights launching soon to what to expect when you enter the airport terminal building, this 20 minute episode will get you up to speed with what has been happening at TYS and what you can expect the next time you travel. Mentioned in this Episode McGhee Tyson Airport Statistics Flights Schools at Downtown Island Airport Photos: Long-term Pa...
Feb 03, 2021•20 min
Episode Description Travelers have a lot of questions these days about what to expect at the airport and when onboard an airplane. In this episode, we answer 20+ of those frequently asked questions. We don’t just answer them— we take a deep dive into the questions with six different airport experts. From new flights, to runway construction, the REAL ID deadline, and updated concessionaire hours, you’ll learn it all after listening to these quick interviews. Guest in this Episode Mentioned in thi...
Nov 04, 2020•42 min
Episode Description Along with airlines and airports across the country, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is having to adapt its security checkpoint procedures in order to comply with current pandemic protocols. TSA’s new campaign, ‘Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.’, ensures travelers’ safety and security continue to be the number one priority by enforcing additional policies, such as social distancing, contactless identification verification, plastic shielding, and more. In this episo...
Oct 14, 2020•20 min
Episode Description Airlines are taking major steps forward in preparing their aircraft for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, we speak with Hilarie Grey, Managing Director of Corporate Communications for Allegiant Air, as she explains how her airline is ‘going the distance for health and safety’. After listening to her commentary, you will be an expert in all-things air filtration, antimicrobial protectant, and more. Guest in this Episode Hilarie Grey is the Managing Director...
Sep 14, 2020•26 min
Episode Description Making the decision to travel by air during a pandemic can be stressful. You may be curious about the boarding process or interested in how airlines are handling food and beverage service onboard the airplane. What’s it like going through the security checkpoint or even customs? In this episode, your questions are answered by four different frequent flyers: a pilot, leisure traveler, international traveler, and airport employee. They provide you stories of their recent travel...
Aug 27, 2020•37 min
Episode Description As aircraft return to the skies, McGhee Tyson Airport is beginning to see slow but positive increases in passenger traffic and air cargo operations. In this episode, we are joined by Jim Evans, the MKAA’s Vice President of Marketing & Air Service Development, who is closely monitoring even the slightest changes in aviation. In addition, listeners will learn about what TYS is doing to provide a safe airport travel environment. Guests in this Episode In this episode, we are...
Jun 17, 2020•26 min
Episode Description Over the course of two months, daily operations in the aviation industry quickly ground to a halt due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The effects were felt in airports around the globe. In this episode, we discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on McGhee Tyson Airport as well as other US airports from the perspective of industry experts. Guests in this Episode In this episode, we are joined by Patrick Wilson, President of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (...
Apr 29, 2020•50 min
Episode Description Airport websites have to meet the informational expectations of a lot of user groups. From novice travelers to seasoned frequent fliers, the website has to be easy to use and function for all parties. This episode explores the meticulous process McGhee Tyson Airport went through to develop their brand new website. Listen as Moxley Carmichael’s Charley Sexton, Creative Director, John McCulley, Senior Web Developer, and Katrina Roberts, Graphic & Digital Media Designer, sha...
Mar 06, 2020•28 min
Episode Description Not only does McGhee Tyson Airport see constant commercial and general aviation traffic, military aviation plays a large role in the overall operations at TYS as well. In this episode, we speak with the Wing Commander of the 134th Air Refueling Wing, Colonel M. Lee Harley, Jr. and learn about their global, state, and local missions. From talking about the 134th Air Refueling Wing’s history and its $246 million annual economic impact, to hearing about how they operate their ‘f...
Feb 26, 2020•22 min
Episode Description Airports are always striving to offer amenities that will make a passenger’s travel experience more enjoyable and less stressful. McGhee Tyson Airport just opened a new airport amenity for East Tennessee travelers, but more specifically for traveling nursing mothers. This new amenity, a Mamava pod, offers a private area for mothers to breastfeed or pump while inside the airport terminal building. In this episode, we hear from a Mamava executive about the company’s history, th...
Feb 14, 2020•24 min
Episode Description A lot has happened over the years at McGhee Tyson Airport. From the kick off of the 1982 World’s Fair, to the roaring engines of the first jumbo jets to enter the market, to the aftermath of 9/11, TYS has continued adapt to meet the challenges it has faced. Listen to long-time airport employees as they discuss how the airport has changed and what they see on the horizon for aviation in our community. Guest in this Episode Larry Eastridge is a Lieutenant at the Metropolitan Kn...
Jan 27, 2020•33 min
