The Afterburn Podcast

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Former U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter pilot John “Rain” Waters hosts The Afterburn Podcast. Bringing people together to share their journey along the "path" of life.

John "Rain" Waters

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    • May 7, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 58m AVG DURATION
    • 218 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Afterburn Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in military aviation or the experiences of combat veterans. This podcast provides an opportunity to hear the incredible stories of these heroes and gain insight into their lives. As a combat veteran myself, I am proud to have this platform where these stories can be shared with the world. The host, Rain, does a fantastic job of interviewing guests and creating an engaging listening experience.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the wide range of guests that are featured. From military aviators to soldiers on the ground, each episode offers a unique perspective and captivating story. The interviews are conducted in a conversational manner, allowing for deeper insights into the experiences and emotions of these individuals. Additionally, Rain's knowledge and passion for aviation shines through in his interviews, making them informative and entertaining.

    The storytelling and documentation of history in this podcast is exceptional. The episodes are filled with fascinating facts, significant historical dates, and accurate information about military operations. These stories provide valuable insight into our nation's history and educate younger generations about the importance of joining our military forces. The podcast also offers practical advice for those interested in pursuing a military flying career or a career in aviation more generally.

    While there aren't many negative aspects to this podcast, one potential criticism might be that some episodes contain technical acronyms and initials that may be challenging to understand for listeners without a background in aviation or the military. However, Rain does his best to explain these terms when they come up, ensuring that everyone can follow along.

    In conclusion, The Afterburn Podcast is an outstanding show that offers a valuable platform for combat veterans to share their stories with the world. It provides fascinating insights into military aviation and serves as an educational resource for those considering careers in aviation or simply interested in learning more about it. Rain's hosting skills make each episode enjoyable to listen to, and I highly recommend this podcast to anyone looking for engaging and impactful content.



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    Latest episodes from The Afterburn Podcast

    Dos Gringos is Back! Live Concert 7 June 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 14:27


    Before Netflix made their documentary, Dos Gringos captured the true spirit of the USAF Thunderbirds. Born in the trenches of a fighter squadron and fueled by the finest Jeremiah Weed, Dos Gringos turned the fighter pilot life into a soundtrack—raw, irreverent, and unapologetically real. On June 7th, "Trip" and "Snooze" reunite for a one-night-only gig that'll rock your socks off in support of the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. They'll reflect on the wild ride that made their music legendary in ready rooms across the globe.The Event: DosGringosDenver.ComListen to Dos Gringos on Spotify: Spotify LinkFlyteCo Brewing Tennyson: Flyteco TowerTrip's Spirits: Winglore SpiritsDate: Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 5:00–8:00 PMLocation: FlyteCo Tower Brewery, 3120 Uinta St, Denver, CO 80238 (Note: Event is at an offsite location)What's going down:Dos Gringos, the iconic Fighter Pilot Band, is storming FlyteCo Tower to rock out and fuel a mission that's as high-octane as their music: hauling a Thunderbirds F-16—painted in that classic red-white-and-blue—across state lines to land at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This isn't just a concert—it's a full-throttle push to ship a 30,000-pound jet from Texas to Denver.Tickets:• $100 GA: Rock with Dos Gringos & help get the F-16 on its way. Open seating.• $250 VIP: Tower-top tour** + band meet-up + VIP seating overlooking the action + premium Winglore Spirits tasting.

    #133 Trent “Teddy” Meisel | F-16 Fighter Pilot

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2025 77:09


    In Episode 133, John “Rain” Waters sits down with F-16 pilot Trent “Teddy” Meisel for a gripping and emotional conversation. Teddy walks us through his journey from small-town Oklahoma to the cockpit of the Viper, including a traumatic ejection over South Korea that nearly cost him his life. "Teddy" is also the founder of  @4th_GenHuntingCo This episode dives into the moment-by-moment chaos of that day in May 2023, when a systems failure during a combat exercise forced him to make the ultimate call—pulling the ejection handle. Teddy reflects on what went wrong, how his training kicked in, and what it's like to come back from an ejection both physically and mentally. Rain and Teddy also discuss the realities of Total Force Integration, life in a Guard unit, and the camaraderie forged through the crucible of flying fighters. Plus, hear how Teddy founded 4th Gen Hunting Co. and how the outdoors became part of his recovery journey. This is more than a story of survival—it's a deep dive into resilience, pilot culture, and the unforgiving nature of modern air combat. 4th GenHuntingCo: https://www.4thgenhuntingco.com/

    #132 Denmark's F-16 Demo Pilot | Troels "TEO" VangTroels

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 63:44


    In this episode, Captain Troels “TEO” Vang joins The Afterburn Podcast host, John “Rain” Waters. As one of the most experienced F-16 pilots in the Royal Danish Air Force, TEO offers an in-depth look into the life of a European Viper driver with more than two decades of combat aviation experience. From missions over Libya, Iraq, Syria, and the Baltics to leading Denmark's F-16 solo display team across Europe, TEO shares powerful insights into tactical flying, military leadership, and the future of fighter aviation. He and Rain discuss the cultural and structural contrasts between the U.S. and Danish Air Forces, and how Denmark's 37-hour workweek model may be the secret to long-term pilot retention. TEO also unpacks the evolution of the Danish demo jet—including the iconic “Dannebrog” paint scheme honoring the world's oldest national flag and the F-16's 50th anniversary. Whether he's intercepting Russian aircraft or wowing crowds at international airshows, Captain TEO exemplifies the mindset and mission of the fighter pilot brotherhood. Subscribe for more veteran stories, tactical airpower insight, and global combat aviation perspectives.

    Future of the Wild Weasel - Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 58:34


    In Part V of the SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) series, host Mike “Flash” McVay sits down once again with A-10 pilot Ridge "Kelso" Flick to dive deep into the critical role the Warthog plays in SEAD and close air support operations. Drawing from his extensive experience flying the A-10 in hostile environments, Kelso shares insights into how low-level tactics, survivability, and precision targeting come together in the face of modern air defense threats. From Cold War-era training to post-9/11 combat deployments, this episode explores how A-10 pilots adapted to evolving SAM and AAA threats while maintaining their mission to protect ground forces. Kelso's perspective offers a unique look at the intersection of close air support and SEAD, highlighting the courage and coordination required in every mission.Stay tuned and subscribe for more frontline stories and tactical lessons from the world of combat aviation and special operations.

    SEAD Part IV - Operation Iraqi Freedom

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025 133:33


    Mike “Flash” McVay welcomes a seasoned fighter pilot and Wild Weasel veteran to break down the evolution of the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses mission in the Viper community. From crafting airplanes out of bobby pins as a toddler to executing real-world SEAD missions over Baghdad, this guest's career spans decades of pivotal moments in combat aviation. Listeners will hear how a single incentive flight in an F-16 transformed a lifelong dream of flying Eagles into a passion for the Viper's multi-role capabilities.The guest shares his formative years at Nellis as a maintenance officer during the transition from F-4G to F-16CJ in the Weasel role, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the mission set developed. He discusses deployments supporting Operations Northern Watch and Southern Watch, including a gripping account of being in Turkey when 9/11 occurred and the following political complications. As the conversation shifts to Operation Iraqi Freedom, he recalls leading night SEAD sorties over Baghdad, vividly describing the chaos, coordination, and execution of real-time missions under fire.

    Through the Yellow Visor - Fighter Pilot Podcast Host Jell-O's Book

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 5:28


    Through the Yellow Visor: https://amzn.to/4jaAfc6Get a signed copy: https://www.fighterpilotpodcast.com/product-page/through-the-yellow-visorIn this short promo episode, host John “Rain” Waters highlights an exciting new release from fellow aviator and podcast host Vincent “Jell-O” Aiello, founder of the Fighter Pilot Podcast. Jell-O's new book offers a rare, first-person look into the making of a real fighter pilot—from his early dreams sparked at an airshow, through flight school, and ultimately to the elite ranks of TOPGUN as a F/A-18 Hornet instructor. The book doesn't shy away from the highs and lows, including a near-fatal medical scare late in his career, making it a must-read for anyone serious about understanding the reality of combat aviation. Stay tuned—Jell-O will be joining Rain in an upcoming full-length episode following the SEAD series to share more insights from his journey.If you're passionate about military aviation and fighter pilot culture, don't miss this. Be sure to subscribe and keep listening for more veteran stories and tactical airpower discussions.Through the Yellow Visor: https://amzn.to/4jaAfc6Get a signed copy: https://www.fighterpilotpodcast.com/product-page/through-the-yellow-visor

    #129 SEAD Part III - Operation Allied Force - Wild Weasel Fighter Pilot

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2025 85:40


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, we continue our Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) series hosted by Mike “Flash” McVay.Our guest, Sonny “Blink” Blinkinsop, brings decades of Wild Weasel experience to the table — from Vietnam-era air combat tactics to F-16 SEAD missions during Operation Allied Force. Blink dives into the mindset shift required when flying into heavily defended airspace, the evolution of SEAD tactics, and what it truly means to wear the Weasel patch.This episode covers real-world use of air-to-surface weapons like the AGM-88 HARM, F-16CJ combat operations, and the tactical and cultural challenges of suppressing enemy air defenses. Perfect for fans of fighter pilot strategy, modern air warfare, and U.S. Air Force history.

    #128 Desert Storm's Wild Weasels | Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses Part II

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2025 94:22


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, host Mike "Flash" McVay continues the exploration of the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) in Part II of the series. Joined by Pat “Curly” Pence, they delve into the evolution of the Wild Weasel mission during Operation Desert Storm. Curly recounts his progression from pilot training to becoming a Wild Weasel, sharing insights into the challenges and tactics of air combat against surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems. The conversation further explores the preparation for conflict, intelligence assessments of enemy capabilities, and the execution of strike packages. Curly highlights the realities of engaging with air defense systems and the significance of pre-conflict training missions. He also discusses the evolution of weapon systems in air-to-ground tactics. Additionally, Flash and Curly examine the intricacies of the High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM) system, its development, and tactical lessons from various military engagements. Curly shares personal accounts of radar engagements, underscoring the importance of system proficiency and tactics in countering SAMs. The episode also covers the transition from the F-4G to the F-16C Block 50, the critical nature of SEAD missions, and the ongoing necessity for effective intelligence in modern warfare.  

    Vietnam Wild Weasels | Deadly Evolution of Surface-to-Air Missiles

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 111:36


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, Mike “Flash” McVay hosts Leonard “Lucky” Ekman and Jim “Gringo” Webster, two original Wild Weasel fighter pilots from Vietnam, as they share firsthand experiences and insights from their military careers. This is Part I of the five-part Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) Series. The discussion follows their journeys from joining the military to their roles in some of the most dangerous combat missions of the Vietnam War. They dive deep into the evolution of the Wild Weasel mission, a high-risk operation designed to counter deadly surface-to-air missile (SAM) threats. “Lucky” and “Gringo” reflect on their intense training, the dangers they faced in combat, and the unbreakable camaraderie among fighter pilots. They recount harrowing encounters with SAMs, detailing the tactics and strategies Wild Weasel crews developed to survive and protect their fellow aviators. The conversation highlights the evolution of air combat tactics, the advanced technology used in their aircraft, and the role of intelligence in mission success. They share personal accounts of flying against formidable air defenses, the mental and physical demands of their missions, and the calculated risks that defined the Weasel community. This episode is a deep dive into the Wild Weasel legacy—its impact on modern air warfare, the sacrifices made, and the lessons passed down to future generations of fighter pilots.

    Surface to Air Missiles (SAMs) Lowdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 17:00


    The Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) mission has evolved alongside the development of Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) systems. In this episode of The Lowdown, host Mike "Flash" McVay takes a deep dive into the history and advancements of SAM technology, from its early origins to today's modern, highly integrated air defense networks.

    F-16 Bombing Accident, KC-46 Grounded, Su-57 Stop in Iran & More

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2025 12:50


    Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) Introduction

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2025 16:20


    The Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) mission, better known as the Wild Weasel mission, has been a critical component of air warfare since Vietnam. In this special five-part series, host Mike "Flash" McVay explores the evolution of SEAD from its early days in Rolling Thunder to Desert Storm, Kosovo, and today's modern air battles.

    #127 Brad Thomas | Surviving Black Hawk Down Inside Look | Ranger Regiment - Delta Force

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2025 79:50


    In this episode of The Afterburn Podcast, he reflects on his time in 3rd Ranger Battalion, the intense urban warfare of Black Hawk Down. Recently, Brad was featured in Netflix's Surviving Black Hawk Down. #blackhawkdown Brad takes us inside the realities of special operations, how gear and tactics evolved, and the raw, unfiltered truth about Mogadishu that Hollywood didn't tell. Brad Thomas has lived multiple lives—Army Ranger assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment and combat veteran of the Battle of Mogadishu. Brad later went on to serve as a Delta Force Operator. Following a career in the Army Brad tapped into his passion for music and went on to found the band Silence and Light with fellow veterans. Beyond the battlefield, we explore his passion for music, leadership, and veterans' mental health, as well as the upcoming projects with his band. If you're interested in military history, elite training, and how combat experiences shape veterans' lives, this episode is a must-listen. Brad's IG: https://www.instagram.com/bradthomas_official/?hl=en

    #126 Derek 'Woody' Oaks – C-130 to A-10 | Combat Flying & Leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2025 97:43


    In this episode of The Afterburn Podcast, Mike “Flash” McVay sits down with Col (Ret) Derek "Woody" Oaks, a pilot who made the rare transition from flying C-130 to the A-10. Woody shares his experiences flying combat missions, the challenges of transitioning between vastly different airframes, and the leadership lessons he learned throughout his Air Force career. From his time at the Air Force Academy to commanding a fighter group, “Woody” reflects on decision-making in combat, the art of close air support, and what it means to lead in high-pressure environments. Whether moving troops and cargo in the C-130 or delivering firepower from the A-10, his stories capture the essence of military aviation, camaraderie, and the evolution of airpower.

    #123 - What Happened to Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 | Jeff Wise

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 115:15


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, we dive into the mystery surrounding Malaysian Airlines Flight 370. The disappearance of MH370 remains a mystery. In this episode, former fighter pilot and current 777 pilot John 'Rain' Waters interviews aviation expert and author Jeff Wise on the mysterious disappearance of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370. Explore the detailed timeline, cyber vulnerabilities, military responses, and the controversial theories behind this aviation enigma. From the role of Inmarsat data to the shadow of Russian involvement, Wise provides unparalleled insight into one of the greatest mysteries in modern aviation. Discover how cybersecurity, geopolitics, and human factors intersect in this captivating discussion.

    #125 Fighter Aircraft Maintenance | Col Hall Sebren

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 90:48


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, Colonel G. Hall Sebren Jr., Deputy Commander of the Air Force Sustainment Center, discusses the critical role of aircraft maintenance in the U.S. Air Force. He shares insights on the challenges of maintaining fighter jets like the F-16, the importance of communication between operations and maintenance teams, and the complexities of keeping the nation's aircraft combat-ready. Col. Sebren also touches on the Air Force's sustainment strategies for legacy and modern aircraft, and his journey from Viper maintainer to senior leadership.

    #124 Lt General (ret) Dan "Razin" Caine | F-16 Air National Guard | 9/11 Scramble | JSOC | CIA

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 96:30


    Join host John 'Rain' Waters as he sits down with recently retired Lt. Gen. Dan ‘Razin' Caine, former Associate Director for Military Affairs at the CIA and F-16 Fighter pilot. In this episode, Lt. Gen. Caine reflects on his incredible journey from flying F-16s in the Air National Guard to leading special operations missions and working at the highest levels of intelligence. Discover untold stories from Desert Storm and SCUD hunts, lessons from the test center in Tucson, and insights on information sharing in the modern joint force

    #123 - What Happened to Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 | Jeff Wise

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2025 115:15


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, we dive into the mystery surrounding Malaysian Airlines Flight 370. The disappearance of MH370 remains a mystery. In this episode former fighter pilot and current 777 pilot John 'Rain' Waters interviews aviation expert and author Jeff Wise on the mysterious disappearance of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370. Explore the detailed timeline, cyber vulnerabilities, military responses, and the controversial theories behind this aviation enigma. From the role of Inmarsat data to the shadow of Russian involvement, Wise provides unparalleled insight into one of the greatest mysteries in modern aviation. Discover how cybersecurity, geopolitics, and human factors intersect in this captivating discussion.

    Bro Chat 17.0

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2025 86:43


    In this episode, Jeff "Vader" Brandon, Jeff "Bender" Page, and John "Rain" Waters rejoin for a fighter pilot "bro chat" to cover various military topics, including the humorous aspects of military life, the complexities of awards and recognition, the hiring and training processes for fighter pilots, the escalation of global conflicts, and the importance of having clear strategic objectives in military operations.

    Lowdown 9 Jan | Serbia Gets Chinese Missiles | D.C. Vipers to MD | Saudi Arabia Eyes New 5th-Generation Fighter

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2025 11:07


    The Taliban Unveiled: Insights from 'Hollywood Gate'

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 58:33


    Watch Hollywood Gate at jolt.film/3N97E99 IG: @IbrahimNSHT IG: @joltfilm | https://www.facebook.com/joltspacefilm Documentary filmmaker Ibrahim Nash'at joins The Afterburn Podcast to share the extraordinary story behind Hollywood Gate, his harrowing year embedded with the Taliban during their rise to power in Afghanistan. Gain unparalleled insights into the human side of the Taliban, the challenges of capturing history in the making, and the global implications of their return to rule. Don't miss this candid and gripping conversation about filmmaking, geopolitics, and survival.  

    Peaceful Transfer of President Power

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2024 29:04


    “Toad's” Layman Geopolitics https://laymangeopolitics.substack.com/p/navigating-the-syrian-labyrinth

    Kyle Rempfer | From Combat Controller to Washington Post Journalist

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 83:35


    In this episode 120 of the  @AfterburnPodcast  host John 'Rain' Waters as he sits down with Kyle Rempfer, a former Combat Controller in the U.S. Air Force and current Washington Post journalist. In this episode, Kyle shares his journey from special operations to the newsroom, recounting stories from the battlefield and insights from his journalism career.

    CIA Analyst Captured | DF-26 "Guam Express" | U.S. Authorizes Strike WeaponLowdown 27 Nov 24

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2024 11:31


    Su-57 gets Roasted | J-35 Appearance | 737 Cargo Fire Lowdown 15 Nov 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2024 12:13


    Su-57 Mocked By Chinese Airshow Attendees: https://youtu.be/J_w2JttD944 Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter In this episode of The Lowdown, we dive into the latest military aviation and geopolitical developments. We discuss the Su-57 or rather the T-50 that made an appearance in China, the new Chinese J-35, a cargo fire on a 737 and more.

    Seamus "Flats" Flatley Legacy of Naval Aviation | F-14 Fighter Pilot & TOP Gun Graduate

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 86:26


    Retired Navy fighter pilot Seamus "Flats" Flatley joins  @AfterburnPodcast  for an episode that dives deep into Naval Aviation. Join Mike "Flash" McVay as he discusses with "Flats" a wide range of topics from the F-14 Tomcat's evolution into an Air-to-Ground platform, his experiences as a Forward Air Controller (FAC-A) during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and his time at Blackwater and the light attack aircraft program.

    Lowdown 4 Nov 2024 | $150,000 Soap Dispensers |

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 17:12


    Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter

    Life Flying Army Helicopters as a Blackhawk Pilot | CW3 Jon "Muttley" Behuniak

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 85:39


    In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, John "Rain" Waters sits down with Jon "Muttley" Behuniak, a seasoned Army aviator. They dive into the intense realities of helicopter operations, sharing experiences from a recent mission in Asheville that demanded quick thinking and precision. They explore the roles within the Army National Guard, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and adaptability in high-stakes situations. The conversation also covers the differences between helicopters like the Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook, as well as the emotional weight of medevac missions and the pressures of checkrides.

    Alex Grandahl | U.S. Army National Guard Blackhawk Pilot

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2024 114:31


    Join John Waters as he hosts this episode of the Afterburn Podcast with his guest, U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Alex "Malibu" Grandahl. In this episode, Alex "Malibu" Grandahl shares his journey from aspiring race car driver to Army aviator, detailing the challenges he faced along the way, including setbacks in his military recruitment process and the determination that fueled his pursuit of aviation. He reflects on the lessons learned from racing, the importance of resilience, and the unique experiences that shaped his path to becoming a pilot. Grandahl shares his extensive journey through military flight training, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced. He discusses the evolution of flight school, the differences in training between the Army and Air Force, and the realities of being a pilot in the Guard.

    Lowdown 14 Oct 24| Lord of War is Back

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2024 18:38


    Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter

    Lowdown 7 Oct 24: Su-35 Headbutt | Felon Air-to-Air

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2024 16:26


    Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter

    Lowdown 30 Sept 2024 : Dumb Tactical Vehicle

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2024 19:42


    Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter

    Dr. Kevin Shipp | How This Tiny Tennessee Town Keeps The U.S. Military Supplied With Nukes

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2024 39:30


    This is part three of a multi-series episode recorded on-site at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, TN. In this episode, Kevin Shipp, a seasoned expert with 16 years of experience at the Y-12 National Security Complex, discusses the critical role of Y-12 in the United States' nuclear deterrence strategy. From disassembling Cold War-era weapons to modernizing the nuclear triad, Kevin provides a behind-the-scenes look at how Y-12 ensures the reliability and safety of America's nuclear arsenal. Explore the history, challenges, and future of Y-12, and learn why nuclear deterrence remains a cornerstone of national security. Y-12 Careers: https://www.y12.doe.gov/careers/ Y-12 SkillBridge: https://skillbridge.osd.mil/

    Lowdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 24:33


    Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter

    Gene Sievers| Site Manager at Y-12 National Security Complex| The Tennessee Town That Built America's Nuclear Arsenal

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2024 32:02


    This is part two of a multi-series episode recorded on-site at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, TN. In this episode, we sit down with Gene Sievers, who is the Site Manager at Y-12 National Security Complex and retired Navy Captain. The Y-12 National Security Complex, located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, is a site that plays a crucial role in national security. It has a rich history dating back to the Manhattan Project and continues to be a center of excellence for enriched uranium production. Y-12 serves three main missions: maintaining a safe and effective stockpile for nuclear weapon secondaries, global non-proliferation efforts, and providing feedstock for Naval Reactors. The site is undergoing rejuvenation and modernization to meet increased production demands and clean up the legacy from the Cold War. Y-12 is a vital part of the nuclear triad, ensuring a credible nuclear deterrent. Y-12 Careers: https://www.y12.doe.gov/careers/ Y-12 SkillBridge: https://skillbridge.osd.mil/

    Lowdown 16 Sep 24: Navy SEAL Arrested, Threat of the Day: J-10C , F-35 is Too Loud, Americans sentenced to death in Congo

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2024 23:00


    “Stab” Holmes — father, loving husband, and F-16 fighter pilot in the D.C. Guard. — In August, he was diagnosed with an incurable tumor that grows in the brain stem, making surgery almost impossible. An attempt to remove the cancer was made but was unsuccessful. As you might imagine, there is a long list of expenses that rack up, from treatment to everyday needs such as childcare. Please consider supporting “Stab” and his family with a GoFundMe setup by fellow squadron mates. Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation and defense: https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter

    Inside Y-12 National Security Complex's Nuclear Security Mission | Dr. Martin Williamson #113

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2024 25:47


    Oak Ridge, TN. In this episode, Dr. Martin Williamson sits down to discuss nuclear security and the role of the Y-12 National Security Complex. Dr. Williamson is the Senior Director of Global Security and Strategic Partnerships for Consolidated Nuclear Security at Y-12. He is a Nuclear Engineer by trade and has over twenty years of experience with the National Nuclear Security Agency. Y-12 Careers: https://www.y12.doe.gov/careers/ Y-12 SkillBridge: https://skillbridge.osd.mil/

    Lowdown 9 Sep 2024 | F-35 Pilot Crashes Apache | Flamethrower Drone |

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2024 16:40


    Protect You and Your Family's data - Visit the sponsor of this episode https://aura.com/afterburn - Get a 14-day FREE trial!Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletterThis week we cover various topics including the F-35 pilot crashing an AH-64, the history of Korean Airways Flight 007, China's investment in Africa, Putin's visit to Mongolia, Ukraine's flamethrower drone, and more. HSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-afterburn-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    #112 Wade "Prada" Hetrick | The Mighty C-17

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2024 64:43


    Join John "Rain" Waters and guest Wade "Prada" Hetrick on Ep 112 of @AfterburnPodcast. "Prada" is a C-17 Weapons School graduate and instructor who shares his insight and experience flying the C-17, the C-17's performance capabilities, and How the C-17 fits into the operations against a near-peer adversary. 

    Lowdown 1 Sep 2024 | Mach 3.5 in an SR-71 | Ukraine F-16 Crashed | ISIS Raid Kills 15 | Drone Wingman

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2024 21:33


    Protect You and Your Family's data - Visit the sponsor of this episode https://aura.com/afterburn - Get a 14-day FREE trial!Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletterIn this week's lowdown, we discuss various topics, including an ISIS, F-35 TR-3 issues, Japanese airspace incursion and more. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-afterburn-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    #111 Forrest Underwood | Former AFSOC Pilot | Defense Innovation, A.I., and the Defense Industry

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2024 97:14


    A paradigm shift is happening in the defense industry with the integration of AI. AI has the potential to provide significant benefits to the warfighter. In episode 111 of @AfterburnPodcast  Mike "Flash" McVay and guest Forrest Underwood dive into the world of defense, technology, innovation, business, and how they interact in today's world. Helpful Acryonms: SIBR -Small Business Innovation Research | STTR - Small Business Technology Transfer | POM - Program Objective Memorandum | Primes - Lockheed, Raytheon, Boeing etc | CCAs -Collaborative Combat Aircraft | TRL - Tech readiness level | BD - Business Development | VC- Venture Capital/Capitalist

    Lowdown 26 Aug 24 | Soviets Atomic Bomb | Wheel O' Fear | Base Sabotaged | KC-46 Mishap

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 16:30


    Protect You and Your Family's data - Visit the sponsor of this episode https://aura.com/afterburn - Get a 14-day FREE trial!Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geo-politics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletterIn this week's lowdown, we discuss various topics, including Soviet Union's first atomic bomb, KC-46 landing with the boom extended, and more. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-afterburn-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    Lowdown 19 Aug 24 | Bud Anderson | Taliban Driving MRAPs | North Korean Laptop Farm

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 20:16


    Protect You and Your Family's data - Visit the sponsor of this episode https://aura.com/afterburn - Get a 14-day FREE trial!Free Lowdown newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geo-politics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletterIn this week's lowdown, we discuss various topics, including Colonel Bud Anderson, arms deals, espionage, military mishaps, and international conflicts.Our Sponsors:* Check out Policygenius: www.policygenius.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-afterburn-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    #110 General Minihan | Commander Air Mobility Command

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2024 65:02


    General Minihan is the Commander of Air Mobility Command. General Minihan is responsible for leading over 100,000 active duty, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve Airmen, and civilians to ensure execution of the air mobility mission for the joint force, allies, and partners.---Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial - No "Gotchas" - Cancel AnytimeRecorded on Riverside.fm https://www.riverside.fm/?via=afterburn----Support The Afterburn Podcast for on Patreon and gain early access and AD Free episodes. Plus access to “There I was…” stories. https://www.patreon.com/theafterburnpodcastJoin our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geo-politics https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter----Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://apple.co/3dLradTSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3SAeSUr----Afterburn Podcast Links:Website – https://www.theafterburnpodcast.comPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/theafterburnpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/rainwaters27/?hl=enOur Sponsors:* Check out Policygenius: www.policygenius.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-afterburn-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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