Return of the Non-Rev Lounge: 2026 Kickoff and Airline Jobs Discussion

Monique and Tyler return to the Non-Rev Lounge podcast to kick off 2026, reflecting on five years of podcasting, holiday travels, and the excitement of listener feedback. They discuss their recent travel experiences, challenges of airline travel around the holidays, and share advice for non-revenue passengers to ensure smoother travels. The episode also dives into a detailed discussion about the worst jobs in the airline industry, and Tyler shares an exciting personal announcement about gaining flight benefits with a new airline.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:53 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey
01:48 Listener Feedback and Engagement
03:04 Holiday Experiences and Travel Stories
04:41 Challenges of Airline Travel
09:47 Military and Heavy Bags
12:00 Non-Rev Travel Tips
21:12 QR Codes and Travel Observations
25:06 Unexpected Flight Preferences
27:27 Travel Plans and Hotel Upgrades
31:49 Navigating Airline Jobs
35:25 The Worst Jobs at the Airport
46:24 Exciting Announcement and Farewell

StaffTraveler is offering a 10% code for any of our listeners who buy their eSIM.

Use the Promo code ST10NONREVLOUNGE https://share.stafftraveler.com/nrl-esim

✈StaffTraveler is a great app that can assist your non-rev travels! Use it to find the loads for your non-rev travel! Use this to sign up:

https://stafftraveler.com/nonrevlounge

Non-Rev Adventures: From Mongolia to Anchorage – Gate Agent Etiquette

In this episode, Kelsey, Nicole, and Tyler discuss their recent travels and experiences as airline employees. They delve into their career backgrounds, and Nicole shares insights from her previous job in global operations, including process simulations and passenger recovery. The conversation shifts to their latest trips: Tyler's challenging adventure in Mongolia, Nicole's achievement of her 50th state milestone in North Dakota, and Kelsey's memorable experiences in Curacao and Alaska. They also highlight the importance of proper non-rev etiquette, offering practical tips for airline companions, and discuss Temporary Duty (TDY) opportunities, contemplating dream locations for brief work stays. This episode provides an informative and entertaining take on the fascinating worlds of aviation and non-revenue travel.

00:00 Catch-Up and Career Updates
02:28 Airline Operations and Challenges
04:28 Transition Back to Airport Work
06:40 Steel-Toed Boots and Safety
10:42 New Airport Developments
14:39 Travel Adventures and Experiences
15:19 Mongolia: A Unique Journey
29:37 Travel Logistics and Challenges
35:29 Caribbean Getaway: Curacao
40:14 Oshkosh Airshow Highlights
42:22 Air Show Highlights and Fireworks
42:36 Tribute to Rob Holland
42:49 Photography and Tickets
43:05 Family Fun and Free Swag
44:08 Air Traffic Coordination
45:00 North Dakota: The Best for Last Club
45:30 Exploring Fargo
47:17 Alaska Adventures
49:50 New England Road Trip
55:32 Gate Agent Etiquette and Non-Rev Tips
01:08:42 Temporary Duty Assignments (TDY)
01:12:28 Travel Dreams and Recommendations
01:17:48 Conclusion and Farewell

Our African Safari Adventure: Tyler and Jake's Memorable Trip

In this episode of the Non Rev Lounge, host Tyler and his son Jake discuss their recent family trip to Africa. They recount their exciting safari experiences, including close encounters with elephants and witnessing a leopard drag a zebra up a tree. They also talk about staying at the Black Rhino Reserve, exploring Cape Town, visiting Table Mountain, and seeing penguins at Boulder Beach. They share details about their lodging, local food, like ostrich, and the logistics of their long journey back home. The episode is filled with heartfelt moments, tips for travelers, and a special shout-out to their guide, Universe, and Jake's grandparents.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:53 Introducing Jake and Podcast Plans
01:12 Discussing the Africa Trip
02:12 Safari Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
07:06 Lodging and Amenities
09:36 Dining Experiences
13:25 Safari Routines and Tips
15:49 Journey Back Home
16:32 Flying South African Airways
16:45 Exploring Cape Town
18:20 Table Mountain Adventure
20:12 Penguins at Boulder Beach
21:26 Cape Point and Two Oceans
22:54 Robben Island and Nelson Mandela
26:03 Reflecting on the Trip
27:53 Travel Tips and Final Thoughts

This is the lodge we stayed at if you are interested.

https://www.kgorogorolodge.com/

StaffTraveler is offering a 10% code for any of our listeners who buy their eSIM.

Use the Promo code ST10NONREVLOUNGE https://share.stafftraveler.com/nrl-esim

✈StaffTraveler is a great app that can assist your non-rev travels! Use it to find the loads for your non-rev travel! Use this to sign up:

https://stafftraveler.com/nonrevlounge