Turkish Airlines Series

B.J. Cunningham speaks with Sedat Bornovalı—art historian, cultural translator, and one of Istanbul’s most compelling storytellers. From guiding world leaders through the layered halls of Hagia Sophia to spending a lifetime interpreting the evolving identity of Istanbul, Sedat reveals what it truly means to live inside history rather than simply study it. Trace his journey from a childhood surrounded by beauty to becoming a bridge between civilizations—translating not just languages, but entire worldviews shaped by Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Turkish legacies.Discover Sedat’s philosophy on memory and meaning—why history is not something we lose, but something that evolves and accumulates with every generation. From unexpected lessons sparked by children’s questions to profound encounters with figures like Pope Benedict XVI, this episode explores how perception, belief, and storytelling shape our understanding of truth. He also reflects on cultural connection in a globalized world, and how institutions like Turkish Airlines transform travel into a gateway for deeper human understanding.

In this episode, we explore one of the most meaningful experiences in travel: the sacred journey of Hajj and Umrah. From the spiritual significance of Mecca and Medina to the shared rituals that bring millions together in devotion, this journey is defined by reflection, unity, and purpose.Travel through the sights and sounds of the holy cities — from the timeless presence of the Kaaba to the serene courtyards of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi — and discover how each step carries meaning beyond distance. Along the way, we explore the rich history of Istanbul as a gateway for pilgrims, and how modern travel with Turkish Airlines helps make this journey seamless and deeply personal.Beyond the Hajj, the experience continues. From the coastal energy of Jeddah to the mountains of Taif and the calm shores of Yanbu, Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of spiritual depth and cultural discovery.

Behind every essential medical supply, every time-sensitive shipment, and every package that connects families across continents lies a complex web of logistics you may never see—but the world always relies on.In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Yücel Çınar from Turkish Cargo to explore the global commerce in constant motion. From one of the world’s most strategic locations, Yücel reveals how his team orchestrates the movement of millions of products through "Smartest"—the technologically advanced heart of their operations.Yücel shares fascinating insights into how cargo often travels right beneath your feet on passenger flights and reflects on the delicate balance between cutting-edge AI and the irreplaceable human touch. 

B.J. Cunningham sits down with BAFTA-winning filmmaker and visual storyteller Rob Whitworth. Trace Rob’s fascinating evolution from a traditional photography student to the creator of "flow motion," a groundbreaking cinematic style that blends time-lapse and fluid movement to capture the essence of the world’s most iconic locations. Discover Rob’s unique philosophy —rejecting static perspectives in favor of impossible, roving journeys that connect wide-angle vistas with the tiny, human details of everyday life. He also reflects on his celebrated collaborations with Turkish Airlines, discussing the technical and emotional process behind these films, and how the hospitality of the Turkish people left as much of an impression on him as the breathtaking landscapes themselves.

We journey back nearly 12,000 years to explore Taş Tepeler, the "Stone Hills" of Southeastern Türkiye. Follow us through the monumental pillars of Göbeklitepe and the ritual mysteries of Karahantepe as we uncover the dawn of human society and the very first settled communities.Trace the roots of humanity's great transformation at Taş Tepeler, where the very first farmers domesticated Einkorn wheat and forever changed how we live and eat. Discover how Turkish Airlines has brought this ancient history to life by serving the "World’s Oldest Bread" to passengers 30,000 feet in the air. From the golden, honey-colored streets of Şanlıurfa to the hand-etched stone monoliths of Anatolia, learn how you can effortlessly fly into the heart of history and witness where modern civilization began.