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The Malibu Guru

Casey Aviation

The Malibu Guru Podcast is your go-to source for all things PA46. Whether you’re flying one, thinking about buying one, or just love aviation, this show is for you. We dive into everything from aircraft acquisition, training, and ownership tips to real-world flying experiences. What sets us apart? We talk directly with the people who know the PA46 best, the owners, pilots, and experts who make up the vibrant PA46 community. These are real conversations with real people, sharing insights, lessons learned, and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

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33 episodes
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Avg 46 min
English

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#282
Friday · 1 hr 18 min
Second Class Comeback: Flying Again After A Heart Attack
Can you really get your FAA Second Class Medical back after a heart attack? Joe Casey did, and now he's sharing how. In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe is joined by his Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), Dr. Carlton Lewis, for an honest conversation about his heart attack, the challenges of regaining his FAA medical, and the road back to flying. From navigating the FAA's medical certification process to dealing with atrial fibrillation (AFib), Joe shares the setbacks, lessons learned, and steps that ultimately led to getting his 2nd Class Medical back. Dr. Lewis offers an AME's perspective on what pilots should know about their health, how to prepare for a medical exam, and how to navigate the FAA after a major medical event. Whether you're facing a medical challenge or simply want to protect your ability to keep flying, every pilot should hear this episode. Registration is now open for Fall 2026 M-Class! Join us November 12–13 for two days of training, connection, and everything PA-46. Reserve your spot today: https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more aviation stories, PA-46 insights, and real conversations from the flying community. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#281
October 23 · 58 min
From Fighter Pilot to Bush Pilot: The Incredible Story of Don Watrous
From flying supersonic fighter jets to navigating the remote Alaskan wilderness, what keeps a pilot coming back for more after 45 years in the cockpit? In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe sits down with Don Watrous, a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, test pilot, and current Alaska bush pilot with an extraordinary aviation career. From flying F-15s, F-16s, and F-18s to operating a turbine-powered de Havilland Otter on floats in Alaska, Don has experienced nearly every side of aviation. Joe and Don discuss his remarkable career, the challenges of flying in Alaska's unpredictable weather, and the incredible experiences that come with exploring some of the most remote places on Earth. But beyond the aircraft and adventures, Don shares a perspective that every pilot can appreciate: it's not about how high or fast you fly; it's about the love of flying itself. Learn more about Emerald Air Service: https://www.emeraldairservice.com Registration is now open for Fall 2026 M-Class! Join us November 12–13 for two days of training, connection, and everything PA-46. Reserve your spot today: https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more aviation stories, PA-46 insights, and real conversations from the flying community. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#279
October 16 · 35 min
A Culture Shift Is Coming to the PA-46 Market
What happens when a $500,000 engine overhaul costs nearly as much as the airplane itself? Is the PA-46 community about to change the way we think about TBO? The culture of aircraft ownership plays a major role in how we fly, maintain, buy, and sell our airplanes. But as more Piper Meridians and JetPROPs approach engine TBO, that culture may be on the verge of a major shift. In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe Casey sits down with Matt Courtney to discuss the evolving culture of PA-46 ownership and the decisions facing turbine owners as engine times climb and overhaul costs continue to rise. Should owners overhaul their PT6 engines at the manufacturer's recommended TBO, or can proper maintenance, trend monitoring, and engine condition justify flying beyond it? And perhaps more importantly, how will these decisions affect aircraft values and the future PA-46 market? Joe and Matt explore the differences between the King Air and PA-46 communities, engine maintenance programs, the economics of high-time engines, and why today's ownership decisions could reshape the market for years to come. As the PA-46 fleet continues to age, one thing is certain: the culture we establish today will help determine how these airplanes are valued and operated tomorrow. Registration is now open for Fall 2026 M-Class! Join us November 12–13 for two days of training, connection, and everything PA-46. Reserve your spot today: https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more aviation stories, PA-46 insights, and real conversations from the flying community. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#278
October 9 · 1 hr 40 min
PMOPA Alaska 2026: The People Behind the Adventure
What happens when a group of PA-46 owners point their airplanes north and take on Alaska? In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe sits down with several of the pilots from the 2026 PMOPA Alaska trip, along with some of their spouses, to hear the stories behind the adventure. You’ll hear from Helen Cernik, Paul Stefaniak, Rusty and DawnElla Rust, Don Moore, Kenneth and Lori Van Ray, and finally Don Watrous of Emerald Air Service. They share what it was like flying their own airplanes through the Last Frontier, seeing Denali and massive glaciers from the air, fishing in Alaska, getting up close with bears, and experiencing Alaska from the cockpit of a PA-46. Along the way, they talk about the challenges, lessons learned, favorite moments, and the friendships that made the trip just as memorable as the flying itself. This is Alaska through the eyes of the people who made the journey. Interested in joining Helen Cernick on an upcoming adventure? Learn more about future trips with Fly Boundless at https://www.flyboundless.com Registration is now open for Fall 2026 M-Class! Join us November 12–13 for two days of training, connection, and everything PA-46. Reserve your spot today: https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more aviation stories, PA-46 insights, and real conversations from the flying community. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com 📱 Stay Connected Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaseyAviation
#277
October 2 · 43 min
PMOPA Alaska 2026: Flying the Last Frontier in a PA-46!
There are flying trips, and then there’s flying a PA-46 to Alaska! In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe and Deanna Casey look back on the 2026 PMOPA Alaska adventure, led by Helen Cernick of Fly Boundless. This year’s trip included just four aircraft—two M600s, a Meridian, and a JetPROP—creating a smaller, more personal experience with more time to explore, fly, and take in Alaska's incredible scenery. From Sitka to Talkeetna, Homer, and Ketchikan, the trip was packed with unforgettable moments: glacier flying, fishing, hiking, kayaking, views of Denali, a seaplane excursion, and up-close encounters with Alaskan brown bears. Joe and Deanna also talk about what it really takes to fly a PA-46 to Alaska, including weather, terrain, fuel planning, remote airports, instrument approaches, and how the Meridian, JetPROP, and M600 handled the trip. PMOPA Alaska 2026 was more than a destination. It was a chance to experience what these airplanes can really do, build friendships along the way, and see Alaska from a perspective few people ever get to experience. Interested in joining Helen Cernick on an upcoming adventure? Learn more about future trips with Fly Boundless at https://www.flyboundless.com Registration is now open for Fall 2026 M-Class! Join us November 12–13 for two days of training, connection, and everything PA-46. Reserve your spot today: https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more aviation stories, PA-46 insights, and real conversations from the flying community. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com 📱 Stay Connected Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaseyAviation
#276
September 25 · 42 min
Matching the Machine to the Mission with Adam Weatherby
What do high-performance rifles and turbine airplanes have in common? For Adam Weatherby, it’s all about choosing the right tool for the mission, and sometimes that mission includes an elk that won’t fit in your airplane. In this episode of the Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe welcomes Adam Weatherby, third-generation leader of Weatherby, Inc., for a conversation about aviation, hunting, faith, and the pursuit of performance. Adam shares the story behind his family’s firearms legacy, the company’s move to Wyoming, and how innovation continues to shape its rifles and cartridges. They also explore Adam’s progression from a Cessna 206 to a Piper JetPROP—and why a Twin Commander became the right fit for his next chapter. From remote hunting trips to business travel, Adam explains how his changing mission shaped his aircraft choices. Whether you’re a pilot, aircraft owner, hunter, or Weatherby fan, this conversation brings together two worlds built around precision, performance, and purpose. Explore Weatherby rifles, shotguns, and gear at: https://weatherby.com Register for M-Class! https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#275
September 18 · 38 min
Aircraft Damage History: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Does an airplane's damage history make it a bad buy or a buying opportunity? In this episode of the Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe and Eric Earle look beyond the “damage history” label to explore what an aircraft’s past means for buyers, sellers, and owners. Drawing on real examples from the PA-46 market, they discuss component replacements, structural repairs, and why understanding what happened—and how it was repaired—is essential to evaluating an airplane. They also explain how repair quality, documentation, and time since an event can influence buyer confidence and resale value. They also cover what to look for in logbooks and FAA records, insurance considerations, and the importance of being upfront about an aircraft’s history. Whether you’re considering an airplane with previous repairs or wondering how an incident could affect your own aircraft’s value, this conversation will help you ask better questions and make a more informed decision. Register for M-Class! https://flycasey.com/m-class/ 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#274
September 11 · 49 min
PA-46 & TBM Accident Analysis: What the Data Reveals | Part 2
In Part 2 of our PA-46 and TBM Accident Analysis, Joe and David Forster continue breaking down what the NTSB data reveals about stall/spin accidents, loss of control on the ground, hard landings, in-flight damage, and other critical accident factors. More importantly, they examine what pilots can do about it. From flying the correct approach speed and maintaining coordinated flight to improving training, judgment, and checklist discipline, this final installment turns accident data into practical lessons every PA-46 and TBM pilot can use to fly safer. To access the data David compiled, please visit the link below: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/y96qrniksgl0uu9p589qo/AB7tdONBlsb_ducrzmBcQKY?rlkey=dl15pfxebxktqbqakrgkhnuko&dl=0 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com 📱 Stay Connected Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaseyAviation
#273
September 4 · 57 min
PA-46 & TBM Accident Analysis: What the Data Reveals | Part 1
What can hundreds of accident reports teach us about flying the PA-46 and TBM more safely? In Part 1 of this two-part series, Joe sits down with David Forster, who reviewed and categorized every available NTSB accident report involving PA-46 and TBM aircraft. Together, they examine what the data reveals about emergency landings, engine failures, stall-spin accidents, spatial disorientation, and the critical role of pilot training. They also discuss the limitations of accident data, the real people behind each report, and how learning from these events can help prevent the next accident. Part 2 continues next week with additional accident categories and important safety lessons for PA-46 and TBM pilots. To access the data David compiled, please visit the link below: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/y96qrniksgl0uu9p589qo/AB7tdONBlsb_ducrzmBcQKY?rlkey=dl15pfxebxktqbqakrgkhnuko&dl=0 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#272
August 28 · 36 min
Which PA-46 Works Best for Tall Pilots?
Are you too tall for a PA-46? In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe sits down with David Forester, a 6'5" pilot and JetPROP owner, to talk about something taller pilots know all too well: not every cockpit is built for you. David shares his experience searching for a PA-46 that actually fit, including which models worked, which ones didn’t, and the small differences in seats, cushions, panels, and interior layouts that can make a huge difference when you’re over six feet tall. Joe and David also compare their experiences as tall pilots, discuss why certain PA-46 models can be more challenging than others, and explain what taller buyers should look for before committing to an airplane. Along the way, David shares some of his aviation background, his journey through several unique aircraft, and how he ultimately ended up flying a JetPROP from his home airpark. If you’re a taller pilot considering a PA-46, this is an episode you’ll want to watch before you buy. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#271
August 21 · 30 min
Going All In: Justin Sybesma’s Journey to the TBM 850
Justin Sybesma’s path into aviation has been anything but slow. Since beginning his flying journey in 2020, he has continued to push himself through new ratings, new experiences, and eventually into ownership of a TBM 850. In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe Casey talks with Justin about stepping into the turbine world, adjusting to the TBM's speed and performance, and the importance of good training, mentorship, and the right partnership. Justin also opens up about how a serious injury changed his perspective and reinforced his desire to make the most of life, family, and the opportunities aviation can provide. From learning to fly to tackling one of the most capable single-engine turboprops in general aviation, Justin’s story is about continuing to learn, taking on new challenges, and enjoying the journey. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#270
August 14 · 33 min
Your PA-46 Questions Answered + Meet Baylee Ross
In this Q&A episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe is joined by Baylee Ross, the newest member of the Casey Aviation Sales Team, to tackle some of the biggest questions coming from the PA-46 community. How strong is the PA-46 wing, and should pilots be concerned about turbulence? Is a TBM worth the extra cost over a Meridian? What should owners know about the move toward unleaded aviation fuel? And does Lycoming’s extended TBO really change anything for PA-46 owners? Joe also breaks down power settings, engine temperatures, cylinder longevity, and shares a few practical JetPROP ownership tips along the way. If you fly, own, or are considering a PA-46, this episode is packed with real-world insight on safety, performance, maintenance, and ownership. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#269
August 7 · 1 hr 3 min
From Flashlights to Flight Gear: What We Carry
What do we actually carry with us every day, and why? In this episode, Joe and Eric open up their pockets and flight bags to compare the gear they use both in and out of the cockpit. From flashlights, knives, watches, and AirTags to headsets, tools, medical supplies, and other everyday essentials, they talk about what has earned a place in their bags and how their setups have changed over time. It’s a fun, practical conversation about staying prepared, and there’s a surprise ending, so be sure to stick around until the very end! Be sure to tune in to our YouTube Channel to watch this podcast and to check out our other aviation content! https://www.youtube.com/@caseyaviation Below is a list of items mentioned in the podcast: OLIGHT Arkfeld Pro: https://a.co/d/0aGOTFBk Streamlight 73302: https://a.co/d/0a3O2zmx Waterproof Pocket Flashlight: https://a.co/d/056wkp2t Benchmade Bugout Mini Knife: https://www.benchmade.com/products/533 CIVIVI Chevalier Folding Knife: https://a.co/d/01EwSlC9 Deejo 27G Folding Knife: https://a.co/d/017MkGPu Montana Knife Co - Wargoat: https://www.montanaknifecompany.com Scallywag Tactical Knives: https://www.skallywagtactical.com Smith & Wesson - Bodyguard 2.0:https://www.smith-wesson.com/ HK VP9CC: https://hk-usa.com/vp9cc/ PHLster Holsters: https://www.phlsterholsters.com Apple AirTag: https://a.co/d/0et7Fq1K Underdog Sunglasses: https://underdogglasses.com Flying Eyes Sunglasses: https://flyingeyesoptics.com Explorer Lighter: https://a.co/d/02rjHaB4 OtterBox Phone Cases: https://www.otterbox.com Garmin Watches: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/blog/aviation/garmin-aviation-smartwatches-tools-for-flying-and-more/ Nomatic Backpack: https://www.nomatic.com Advanced Warrior Solutions Backpack: https://www.advancewarriorsolutions.com Garmin inReach: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/c/outdoor-recreation/satellite-communicators/ Leatherman: https://a.co/d/01Xb5glR NFlight Mic & Headset: https://nflightmic.com 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#268
July 31 · 1 hr 22 min
No Brakes, Wrong Fuel, and a Sideways Nosewheel | Monty Chicola
In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe Casey sits down with longtime PA-46 owner Monty Chicola to hear the stories, close calls, and hard-earned lessons that come from thousands of hours in the cockpit. Monty shares how he got started in aviation, why he bought his first airplane sight unseen, and how the Piper Mirage changed the way he traveled with his family. He also recounts several unforgettable moments, including losing a brake, landing with the nosewheel turned sideways, and discovering that his Mirage had been filled with 80 gallons of jet fuel. Along the way, Monty explains the three rules that have guided him through more than four decades of flying: commit to being competent, take care of yourself before every flight, and never be afraid to say, “No, we’re not going.” This conversation is packed with real-world PA-46 experience, practical safety advice, and the kind of aviation stories that can only be earned over a lifetime of flying. Be sure to subscribe to the Casey Aviation YouTube channel for more episodes of The Malibu Guru Podcast, PA-46 training, maintenance discussions, aircraft ownership advice, and aviation content. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#267
July 24 · 23 min
Does the JetPROP Conversion Stress the Airframe?
More horsepower brings more performance, but what does it mean for the airframe? In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe Casey and Kenneth Hale take a closer look at how the JetPROP conversion affects the PA-46 airframe. They discuss common maintenance findings, structural life considerations, operating limits, and the importance of proper maintenance and disciplined flying. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#266
July 17 · 34 min
Upgrade or Sell As-Is? Preparing Your Aircraft for the Market
Thinking about upgrading your airplane before you sell it? You could spend thousands and still not get that money back. In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe sits down with Casey Aviation sales specialist Eric Earl to discuss which aircraft upgrades actually improve resale value—and which ones are better left for the next owner. They break down some of the biggest decisions aircraft owners face before bringing an airplane to market, including: • Should you install or upgrade onboard radar? • Is a new propeller worth the investment? • Should you overhaul an engine that is approaching TBO? • Will fresh paint or a new interior help the airplane sell? • Can a modern avionics panel increase value or speed up the sale? • Is it better to simply sell the aircraft as-is? The answer often comes down to timing. Upgrades can make an aircraft more attractive and help it sell faster, but most sellers will not recover the full cost, especially when the improvements are completed immediately before listing. Joe and Eric also explain why owners should consider upgrading earlier, enjoy the improvements during ownership, and bring a more desirable, ready-to-fly aircraft to market later. Are you preparing to sell your aircraft? Let us know which upgrades you are considering in the comments. Casey Aviation can help you evaluate your airplane, price it accurately, and develop a strategy to bring it to market. Learn more about Casey Aviation: www.flycasey.com
#265
July 10 · 21 min
Did JetProp Save Piper?
Did JetPROP change the future of Piper? In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe and Kenneth Hale dig into the history of the PA-46 and the rise of the JetPROP conversion. They talk about Piper’s challenges in the 1990s, why the PT6 was such a strong fit for the PA-46 airframe, and how JetPROP may have pushed Piper to bring the Meridian to market. It’s a fun look at PA-46 history, competition, innovation, and the airplanes that came from it — from the Malibu and Mirage to the JetPROP, Meridian, M500, M600, and M700. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#264
July 3 · 1 hr 15 min
A Pilot, a Professor, and a Purpose-Driven Mission | John Moalli
In this episode of The Malibu Guru Podcast, Joe sits down with John Moalli from Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands to talk about his aviation journey, his transition from Mooney to Baron to Cessna 206 and eventually into a JetPROP, and how aviation has shaped nearly every part of his life. John shares what it is like to live and fly from the San Juan Islands, why aviation is such an important part of island life, and how his JetPROP became the perfect airplane for his mission between Friday Harbor and Stanford. He also talks about his background in forensic engineering, his teaching at Stanford, his work helping students design solutions for people with disabilities, and the powerful role general aviation played in changing one young man’s life. This conversation is about much more than airplanes. It is about using aviation with purpose, continuing to grow as a pilot, and finding the right aircraft for the mission. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#263
June 26 · 41 min
Mythbusting PA-46 Maintenance: What Owners Really Need to Know
A-46 maintenance can be confusing, expensive, and full of myths, but knowing what is truly required can save owners major money. In this episode, Joe Casey talks with Kenneth Hale, Director of Maintenance at Casey Aviation Services, to debunk common PA-46 maintenance myths. They discuss parts availability, battery life, annual inspection costs, service bulletins vs. ADs, Part 91 maintenance requirements, the MORE program, M600 wing life concerns, and what buyers should understand before stepping into PA-46 ownership. Whether you fly a Malibu, Mirage, Matrix, JetPROP, Meridian, M500, or M600, this episode gives practical insight from the maintenance side of PA-46 ownership. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com
#262
June 19 · 20 min
Summer 2026 Aircraft Market Update: PA-46, TBM, and King Air
Is the aircraft market slowing down in 2026, or are good airplanes still moving? In this Summer 2026 aircraft market update, Joe Casey sits down with Eric Earl to discuss what is really happening in the PA-46, TBM, and King Air markets. With fuel prices rising, aircraft values shifting, and buyers trying to make sense of the current market, Joe and Eric break down what they see daily in aircraft sales. They discuss why the PA-46 market remains healthy, why efficient airplanes continue to attract serious buyers, and how TBMs and King Airs are performing in today’s environment. 🌐 Visit Us Online - Aircraft Sales & Brokerage: https://flycasey.com - PA46 Aircraft Maintenance: https://www.caseyaviationservices.com

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