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Final Approach

Human Stories from High-Stress Professions

What happens when a dedicated test pilot is suddenly grounded—not by mechanical failure, but by the unexpected call to become a caregiver?

Inspired by Jonathan’s memoir, Final Approach: A Test Pilot’s Story of Caring for Loved Ones, the podcast continues the conversation started in the book—offering not only a firsthand account of caregiving but a broader look at how people across demanding industries and circumstances care for others and, ultimately, themselves.

This show is for anyone who has faced the impossible decision, been caught off guard by life, or found themselves navigating a completely new identity. Whether you’re a caregiver, a professional in a high-stress job, or simply someone trying to reconcile your personal and professional life, you’ll find real stories, meaningful connections, and a reminder that even in our most difficult moments, we’re not alone.

Because sometimes, the hardest missions aren’t the ones we train for—they’re the ones we never see coming.

Recent Episodes

Welcome to another episode of Final Approach. I’m your host, Jonathan Knaul, and this week’s episode is a heartfelt journey through aviation achievement, family bonds, and the realities of caregiving, all told through the story of my good friend and colleague, Steve Rainey (call sign “Hooter”). We sit down at my home in Palmdale, CA,...
Welcome back to Final Approach. In today’s special episode, I’m thrilled to interview Julie Broad, the dynamic CEO and founder of BookLaunchers. Julie and her talented team helped me produce my own book, Final Approach: A Test Pilot’s Story of Caring for Loved Ones, and I’m excited to dive deep into what makes their work...
Welcome back to Final Approach, the podcast where we explore the story of caring for loved ones from the cockpit and beyond. I’m Jonathan Knaul, your host and author of the book Final Approach: Test Pilot’s Story of Caring for Loved Ones. Today’s episode is one you don’t want to miss: I’m joined by my...
Welcome to the very first episode of Final Approach: Human Stories From High-Stress Professions, a podcast dedicated to the untold stories behind caregiving, family, and high-paced careers. I’m Jonathan Knaul, your host, and for this debut episode, I’m joined by my incredible sister, Dr. Felicia Knaul, a world-renowned public health leader. Together, we open up...
What happens when a dedicated test pilot is suddenly grounded—not by mechanical failure, but by the unexpected call to become a caregiver? In Final Approach, host Jonathan Knaul—a former Canadian Armed Forces tactical helicopter and test pilot, aerospace industry leader, and current test pilot instructor—shares his deeply personal and vulnerable story of navigating one of...