This week’s episode of Take Off Talk features our very own Flight Coordinator, David Dailey! You may have heard us talk about David on multiple occasions and we couldn’t think of a better week to bring him into the mix. You will hear how David came to Angel Flight, as well as what we are all most excited about this holiday season.

When you take to the skies, real impact is measured in lives changed. In this episode, we meet Kley Parkhurst, Angel Flight East’s Pilot of the Year, whose volunteer flying has touched countless lives. Kley shares his journey from becoming a pilot in midlife to flying patients, pets, and supplies for causes like Hurricane Helene relief. Through heartfelt stories, he reveals how combining his love of aviation with service has brought him purpose, joy, and the chance to make a difference. From flying life-saving missions to coordinating pet rescues, Kley’s dedication exemplifies how passion can turn into meaningful impact.

Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with Derek Ray, an AFE passenger, who looks back on how Angel Flight saved his life. He shares how taking the flight cut his travel time by a huge chunk, allowing him to get to his heart transplant surgery on time. Derek also expresses his desire to volunteer for Angel Flight after their services drastically transformed his overall outlook in life.

Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with Elizabeth Ameling, CEO and Founder of one of Angel Flight’s partner organizations, Latisha's House. She shares how they provide safe housing and restorative care for victims of sex trafficking and exploitation, guiding them down the path of healing and recovery. Elizabeth presents the various methods they are using to help women deal with trauma and manage negative thoughts. She also shares some success stories of victims who refused to be held back by their traumatic experiences, spreading inspiration and awareness to all.

Jess Ames and Maddy Beck sit down with Michael Henricks, a husband and father who once tried Angel Flight’s Compassion Flight. He recounts how they flew her daughter to Boston for a medical operation, significantly reducing their trip to just an hour and 45 minutes. Michael shares how Angel Flight saved them not just time but even the life of her beloved girl. He also celebrates the strength and resilience of his wife and older daughter throughout this challenging journey.

Traveling with a sick child can be daunting, but for Taylor Conner, mom to Kendall battling a rare disease, it was nearly impossible. Taylor joins Jess Ames and Maddy Beck to share her heartfelt appreciation for the Angel Flight experience. She discusses how this vital service helped Kendall, who battles mitochondrial disease, travel safely to receive necessary medical care without the stress and burden of a long drive. This episode dives into the immense challenges Taylor faces when traveling long distances with Kendall for specialist appointments. Kendall’s fight is ongoing, and research is critical. Learn more about this disease and donate to Kendall’s research fund at the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.

Have you ever considered opening your home to someone in need? In today's episode on Take Off Talk, Maddy and Jess chat with Cathy Davis, the heart and soul behind Host for Hospitals, a local non-profit providing a lifeline for patients and families facing medical challenges. Listen and discover how Host for Hospitals offers a unique alternative to traditional hospital housing, creating a warm and welcoming environment for families traveling for specialized care. Cathy explains why becoming a host is an enriching experience, fostering connections and offering comfort during difficult times. She also shares inspiring stories about the program's impact on hosts and guests. You will also discover how YOU can get involved, open your home, and be part of something exceptional. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation that will inspire you to make a difference in others' lives.

Ready to soar beyond the clouds? In this episode, Maddy Beck and Jess Ames welcome Volunteer Pilot Luis Quinones, an aviator with a heartwarming story and a love for the skies. With nearly a decade of flying under his belt, Luis shares his unique journey from helicopter beginnings to his current adventures in his upgraded Mooney M20J. But it's not just about the flying; it's about the lives he touches through his volunteer work with Angel Flight East. From the poignant stories of those he's flown to the personal trials that shaped his resilience—including his kidney transplant story—Luis exemplifies the spirit of giving and adventure. This episode is sure to inspire and uplift. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a little bit of turbulence!