The Bagfather

Ina Eldøy: The Future of Baggage Handling | A High-Tech Journey of Your Suitcase

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:25:40 +0000

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Ina Eldøy, founder of Norway’s BagID, a company reshaping the baggage handling experience through smart, reusable electronic bag tags.

The conversation explores how BagID is challenging the status quo of traditional baggage handling by introducing digital solutions that improve tracking accuracy, streamline check-in processes, and reduce reliance on disposable paper tags. Drawing on her deep aviation background, Ina shares the story behind BagID’s founding, the operational gaps she set out to solve, and how the company has evolved into a technology disruptor within the airline industry.

This episode also covers:
• Challenges of lost luggage, limited tracking, and inefficient baggage workflows
• How reusable electronic bag tags support sustainability goals by cutting paper waste and promoting eco-conscious travel
• The growing shift toward software-driven infrastructure across airlines/airports
• Building strategic partnerships with airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies to enable large-scale adoption
• Staying ahead of rapid technological change while meeting evolving passenger expectations
• The importance of diversity in aviation and technology, and empowering more women and underrepresented groups to lead innovation

The episode highlights how collaboration, adaptability, and forward-thinking technology are transforming one of travel’s most overlooked touchpoints: the checked bag. As you listen, consider: How can smarter baggage solutions redefine the passenger journey from curb to carousel?

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Alfie Watts: How To Travel Light & Live Large | Lessons from a Race Across the World Winner

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Alfie Watts, acclaimed travel influencer and winner of BBC’s Race Across the World, for an engaging conversation on modern travel and the art of packing smart.

Alfie, drawing on high-pressure competition, details his minimalist packing philosophy. He explains how traveling light reduces stress and increases flexibility, citing Race Across the World moments where strategic packing was key to adapting and succeeding.

This episode also covers:
• Tips for minimalist/carry-on-only travel without sacrificing the essentials
• Navigating airline baggage policies, avoiding excess fees, and handling lost or delayed luggage
• Budget travel tips, including finding affordable flights and maximizing limited resources on the road
• Managing international travel complexities

Technology in travel and how to balance convenience with staying present
• The emotional realities of life on the move, including resilience, adaptability, and personal growth through travel
• Emerging trends in baggage innovation, including smart luggage, sustainable materials, and shifting airline policies

Throughout the discussion, Alfie blends practical advice with personal anecdotes and humor, offering listeners both inspiration and actionable guidance. The conversation highlights how preparation, flexibility, and mindset can transform the travel experience; whether you’re racing across continents or simply navigating your next airport departure.

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Alfie Watts

https://www.instagram.com/_alfiewatts_/?hl=en

Youngest ‘Race Around The World’ winner

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Dr. Joel Greenberg: Reinventing Aviation Security Technology Through AI-Driven X-Ray Innovation

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Dr. Joel Greenberg, the founder and CEO of Quadridox, a company at the forefront of aviation security technology.

The episode delves deep into Quadridox’s groundbreaking advancement: the integration of X-ray diffraction technology with advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to revolutionize the way checked baggage is screened at airports. Dr. Greenberg provides an in-depth look at the origins of this technology, tracing its roots from early-stage academic research in material science and imaging, through years of development and prototyping, to its current real-world trials in major international airports.

This episode also covers:
• The technical and logistical challenges of bringing lab innovations into large-scale industry use
• Navigating regulatory requirements and collaborating with airport authorities and security agencies
• How Quadridox’s approach dramatically reduces false alarms, improving both efficiency and passenger experience
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, engineers, and policymakers
• The role of public trust and transparent communication in the adoption of next-generation security technologies

The conversation ultimately reflects on how innovation, cooperation, and vision can redefine global aviation security. As you listen, consider: How do you think emerging technologies should shape the future of airport safety and the passenger journey?

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Dr. Joel Greenberg

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-greenberg-phd-atquadridox/

President and CEO of Quadridox

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Blank Slate, Big Plans: Jan Wicki on Baggage at Noida International

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 01:00:00 +0000

We wrap up Series One of The Bagfather with Jan Wicki from Noida International Airport.

As a brand new greenfield airport, Noida offers a rare opportunity to design a baggage system with no legacy constraints.

Jan takes us inside the planning process, the priorities, and what it means to start fresh in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.

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Breaking the Paper Habit: Jasper Quak on the Rise of BAGTAG

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 01:00:00 +0000

This week on The Bagfather, we go deep with Jasper Quak, Managing Director of BAGTAG. We talk origins, obstacles and the growing momentum behind electronic bag tags. With a focus on sustainability, simplicity and scaling up, Jasper offers a clear-eyed view of what the future of baggage could—and should—look like.

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Heavy Lifting: Jason Odey on the Realities of Baggage at a Major Hub

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 01:00:00 +0000

This week, The Bagfather welcomes Jason Odey, the man behind baggage operations at Toronto Pearson. As Director of Baggage for one of North America’s busiest airports, Jason reveals the pressures, the wins and the behind-the-scenes strategies that keep things moving. It’s a rare look at the people and planning powering the passenger journey.

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Inside Aviation Security: A Global View with IATA’s Matthew Vaughan

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 01:00:00 +0000

We go behind the scenes of aviation security with Matthew Vaughan, Director at IATA.

With a unique perspective on both policy and practice, Matthew breaks down the realities of keeping passengers, baggage and systems secure in an era of constant change.

From tech innovation to international collaboration, it’s a deep dive into the world few travellers ever see.

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Zero Limits: BAGTAG and Ink on the Future of Travel Tech

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 01:00:00 +0000

In this bonus episode of The Bagfather, we bring together Jasper Quak from BAGTAG and Shawn Richards from Ink Innovation to discuss a partnership that’s reshaping how we handle baggage. From electronic bag tags to Ink’s newly launched platform Zero, we explore what seamless travel could look like—and how close we really are to getting there. It’s a candid conversation about collaboration, ambition and the next phase of passenger experience.

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Built for Baggage: Matt Senske on Smarter Systems and Real Results

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 01:00:00 +0000

This episode features Matt Senske of Efficient Technologies, a specialist in automation systems built for the baggage world.

We explore what works, what doesn't and why some robotics projects fail while others take off. For anyone looking to cut through the noise around airport automation, this episode delivers clarity, not buzzwords.

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Behind the Baggage: Darin Juby on Innovation, Airports and the Future

Wed, 28 May 2025 01:00:00 +0000

In Episode 6 of The Bagfather, we sit down with Darin Juby, a key figure in the world of baggage innovation. From leading baggage operations at Toronto Pearson Airport to his current role with Future Travel Experience, Darin shares valuable insights on what it takes to drive real change in airport operations.

We explore the highs, the hurdles, and the bold ideas shaping the future of baggage. Expect straight talk, smart thinking and a fresh take on where the industry is headed.

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Flying High: Mark Baker on Southwest Airlines’ Baggage Success Story

Wed, 14 May 2025 01:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Bagfather, we sit down with Mark Baker, Senior Manager of Baggage Strategy & Execution at Southwest Airlines, to explore how one of the world’s most recognised carriers keeps its baggage operations running smoothly. Mark shares insights into Southwest’s unique approach to customer service, operational efficiency, and the technology driving its baggage success. From lessons learned to future innovations, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the strategies that keep passengers—and their bags—happy.

A must-listen for aviation professionals, frequent flyers, and anyone interested in the magic behind seamless travel.

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Inside United Airlines: Innovation, Infrastructure and the Future of Baggage

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 01:00:00 +0000

In this special on-location episode of The Bagfather, Marlon and Jen take you inside the iconic Willis Tower at United Airlines’ Global Headquarters. Joined by Kaveh Dabiran, Managing Director of Planning and Development for Corporate Real Estate, they explore how United is leading the way in aviation innovation — from reimagining airport infrastructure and baggage systems to preparing for electric aircraft and the potential return of supersonic travel.

Discover how flexibility, technology, and forward-thinking design are shaping the passenger experience of tomorrow, and why baggage remains at the heart of it all. Buckle up for a fascinating journey into the future of flight, both on the ground and in the skies.

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Behind the Security Line: Craig Mosfords from the TSA

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 01:00:00 +0000

From United Airlines head office, in WIllis Tower, Chicago, we sit down with Craig Mosfords from the TSA for a behind-the-scenes look at airport security operations.

Craig shares surprising stories about the unusual items travellers attempt to bring through security and gives insight into how the TSA manages these challenges.

Plus, hear about what's next for the TSA as they adapt to new technologies and evolving security needs in the ever-changing world of air travel.

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Inspiring the Next Generation with The Airport Guy, Mohammad Taher

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 01:00:00 +0000

From Iraq, to Sydney, to Chicago! Recorded from Willis Tower, home to United Airlines, we sit down with Mohammad Taher, self-titled as "The Airport Guy." Mohammad is on a mission to bring new talent into the aviation industry, addressing the declining interest in aviation careers. How do we inspire the next gen to be part of aviation?

His passion for using STEM education as a gateway and leveraging social media to highlight the industry's exciting and rewarding sides really does encourage change.

Listen as he discusses the challenges and opportunities in recruitment, and how showing the ‘good parts’ of aviation truly can inspire the next generation.

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Welcome to The Bagfather: Unpacking the World of Baggage

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Meet Jen and Marlon, hosts of The Bagfather, learn a little more about them and get an inside look at the podcast's mission.

This episode introduces the world of baggage operations, travel logistics, and the stories behind the scenes of air travel.

Perfect for industry insiders and curious travellers alike.

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Introducing the Bagfather

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:28:27 +0000

Welcome to The Bagfather, the podcast exploring the world of baggage and aviation. In this series, we'll reveal the stories, innovations and secrets behind global travel.

Hosted by industry experts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba, The Bagfather covers everything from luggage breakthroughs to fascinating behind-the-scenes moments. It’s a must-listen for aviation fans, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about travel logistics.

New episodes released every fortnight.

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