The Flight Club Podcast

Marine One pilot John “Rico” Ballinger spent over 20 years as a Marine aviator, deploying into combat zones, and leading elite Marine aviation teams, yet the hardest transition of his life came after he left the military. In this powerful episode, John shares his journey from the cockpit to civilian life, the grief of losing his daughter, the near collapse of his marriage, and how he rebuilt his identity from the ground up. Now a private jet broker and co-host of the Second Act podcast, he opens up about resilience, purpose, and why the relationships you invest in today determine your future. This is a story about falling, starting over, and finding meaning in your second act.

Creators and Guests

Host
Jason Middleton
CEO, Silver Air Private Jets

What is The Flight Club Podcast?

Aviators, welcome to Flight Club! Join your host Jason Middleton - a pilot, an aviation entrepreneur, and a huge fan of all the people that make aviation happen. The Flight Club Podcast is all about showcasing the diverse group of people that make up our aviation community, and the extraordinary things they're doing inside and outside of the cockpit. Join us as we explore the people and the stories that connect us as aviators. Welcome to The Flight Club Podcast.