The Ready Room Podcast

In late April, 2004, Nicholas Berg was grusomelly beheaded, by hand, by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. The 5 minute and 37 second long video was recorded and distributed thoughout the internet for all the world to see. It was an instant hit. It would be the worlds sobering and tragic intoduction to the tactics and commitment that would come to represent al Qaeda in Iraq. It would prove to be a monumental domino among many that would soon fall. On this episode... - The Nick Berg story - Ramadi and Fallujah crumble - Zarqawi attacks his home - Jordan and the United States join forces - Keeping the pressure on - "Thats him" - Looking into American eyes, as he took his last breath   This episode was recorded in late March, 2024.  

As the historical dominoes are lining up, a critical and world changing even happens on September 11th, 2001. It will be a major tipping point in the events that follow in the months and years to come. For the United States the gloves are now off, and the memory of that fateful September morning will fuel a fire that will see the deployment of U.S. Military forces to both Afghanistan and Iraq. The dominoes are lined up, and they will slowly fall, one by one.  The dominoes... - September 11th, 2001  - Invasion of Afghanistan - Assassination of U.S. Diplomat Laurence Foley - Invasion of Iraq - The disbanding of the Iraqi military and Baath party - The arrival of Zarqawi 

Historically, when the proper dominoes are arranged and then fall in the correct order, amazing and positive things can happen, unfortunately, however, that same reality exists for evil and darkness as well. This is the story of ISIS, a very real form of indescribable evil that still exists and even thrives in parts of the world today. On today's episode I welcome 2-time Pulitzer Prize winning author and Washington Post correspondent, Mr. Joby Warrick, to discuss his 2016 Pulitzer Prize winning book, Black Flags, the rise of ISIS. We discuss his background as a journalist, his road to developing a passion and interest in Middle East politics and events, and how the dominoes of history laid a framework for one of the darkest and most evil ideologies to ever exist, and allowed it to germinate and spread throughout much of the middle east. This is part 1 of our 4 part series. Enjoy!

79 years ago today, the battle of Iwo Jima was raging in the Pacific theatre of WWII. At the conclusion of the campaign over 18000 Japanese and over 6000 Americans lay dead. This very short mini-episode is a recording of a eulogy that was presented by Rabbi Roland Gittelsohn at a memorial service after the battle. It is simply known as "The Highest and Purest Democracy". Listen to the words. Thank you.

United States Marines are known as the few and the proud, and of those few, barely 7% are women. It takes an extremely adventurous and willing soul to join an organization that has a twisted sense of satisfaction in doing the most difficult things, under the worst conditions, at the absolute worst time, but yet, will do them happily while wearing a sadistic smile and with a pride that only other Marines can understand. On today's episode I welcome my good friend, Ret. USMC Maj Nicole Jansen-Hinnenkamp, callsign Cougar, who served 20 years on active duty as both an enlisted Sailor, and Marine Corps Officer. We talk about the work ethic and humor that became her trademark, how she excelled as a woman in the Marine Corps, as well as a very moving story on dealing with tragedy. Then we finish it up with some highlights that can only happen when you are a woman flying in combat that is blessed with a beautiful voice. Enjoy!

According to Merriam Websters dictionary, the word Intentional is defined as “done by intention, intended” In other words, not random, not by chance, and not accidental. And according to the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, “Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution. It represents the wise choice of many alternatives. Choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” On today's episode I welcome career coach, yoga instructor, TED-X speaker coach, and host of “The Intentional Mind” podcast, my good friend, Angela Barnard. We discuss how she has evolved into a living breathing example of ambition, intentionality, and humor, and how applying an intentional mindset to your life can yield a fulfillment and freedom that will open up doors you never knew existed. Enjoy!  

On April 30, 1975, the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese Army, effectively ending the Vietnam War. In the days before, U.S. forces evacuated thousands of Americans and South Vietnamese. However, not everyone who wanted to escape, could. With South Vietnam now under communist control, life for those left behind became a completely new and challenging world, one that would eventually lead many to escape by any means necessary. On today's episode I welcome back Retired Marine Corps fighter pilot, LtCol “Charlie” Dinh for Part 2, to discuss his life As a Vietnamese refugee in the US. We talk about his combat experience as a Marine, some great lessons on selfless leadership, and then an absolutely amazing story on his full recovery from being paralyzed, and how self-pity will get you nowhere, but having a badass wife can elevate you in ways you never imagined. I am your host, SUSAN, and this is the Ready Room Podcast.

On April 30, 1975, the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese Army, effectively ending the Vietnam War. In the days before, U.S. forces evacuated thousands of Americans and South Vietnamese. However, not everyone who wanted to escape, could. With South Vietnam now under communist control, life for those left behind became a completely new and challenging world, One that would eventually lead many to escape by any means necessary. On today's episode I welcome Retired Marine Corps fighter pilot, WSO, and Forward Air Controller, LtCol “Charlie” Dinh for Part 1 of our 2 part series. We talk about his childhood in communist South Vietnam, how his family eventually escaped, what life was like as a Vietnamese refugee in Paris, France, and how going to HS in Los Angeles not knowing a word of English, is a great motivator to learn a language. Enjoy!

In 1962 President JFK announced to the world that the US would put a man on the moon by the end of the decade. And after 8 years of trials and tribulations, NASA had made it to the finish line. However, the challenge of crossing that finish line would prove to be a monumental and historic challenge. On today's episode I welcome back to the show, author, podcast host, and Space NERD, Mr. Rick Houston, for Part 2 of our 3 part series. We talk about the Apollo 11 story, and cover in detail the somewhat unknown but critical significance of the Apollo 12 mission. We also talk astronaut humor, what it's like to be talking on the radio when 900 million people are listening in, and how landing on the moon with only 18 seconds of fuel remaining, is just like taking a walk in the park. Enjoy!

American history is riddled with historic highs and lows, events of greatness, and events of despair. However, there have been the occasional moments when the nation as a whole was linked arm in arm in a common goal, and in 1962, that goal was to put a man on the moon. The process was a mystery, the objective almost a dream, but for those involved, no one told them it couldn't be done, so they did it. On today's episode I welcome Mr. Rick Houston. He is NASCAR historian, podcast host, NASA enthusiast, and the author of the book “Go Flight, the unsung heroes of MC”. We talk about his adventures as a journalist, his experience writing “Go Flight” and some amazing stories never been told from behind the scenes of NASA's mission control. As well as a short story about how having the last name Houston pretty much guarantees you will become a NASA nerd. Enjoy!

In August 2021 the DOD issued a mandate that all service members receive the COVID 19 vaccine. Failure to do so would result in punitive action and removal from military service. In the wake of that mandate over 7000 active duty service members amongst thousands of National guard and reserves have been separated from military service. Of those who stood their ground against the COVID 19 vaccine mandate, a large group represented by all services have banded together to fight back. On today's episode I welcome Marine Corps, LtCol Sonny Duncan. An F-35 operational test pilot and former Top Gun instructor that has helped lead the charge and hold the line for those younger service members who haven't had a voice. This is his story.

In August 2021 the DOD issued a mandate that all service members receive the COVID 19 vaccine. Failure to do so would result in punitive action and removal from military service. In the wake of that mandate over 7000 active duty service members amongst thousands of National guard and reserves have been separated from military service. Of those who stood their ground against the COVID 19 vaccine mandate, a large group represented by all services have banded together to fight back. On today's episode I welcome Marine Corps LtCol "Sonny" Duncan. An F-35 operational test pilot and former Top Gun instructor that has helped lead the charge and hold the line for those younger service members who haven't had a voice. This is his story.

Starting business is no joke, especially as a mother of two kids, 2 dogs, a cat, and is married to a fighter pilot husband who travels half the month. However, if you were a seasoned combat veteran, that has dealt with death and stress on a daily basis, balancing kids, marriage and business, might just be a welcome challenge. On today's episode I welcome US Army UH-60 Blackhawk pilot, and small business owner Lacey Sczekely. We talk about her time flying medevac chase in Afghanistan, the importance of standing your ground, and how she leverages her combat experience in her daily life as a wife, mother, and business owner, as well as short story on $1 engagement rings, and every girls dream of being proposed to in a FedEx parking lot. I am your host, SUSAN, and this is the Ready Room Podcast.

Did you know that fighter pilots make only the best life decisions? Did you know that fighter pilots are not affected by economic change and have pretty much figured out the secret of life? Yes, folks, it's true. On this very special 8 minute mini-episode, I present to you a Pulitzer Prize level research project written by a very young future fighter pilot. This upcoming aviation ninja covers down on all thing's fighter pilot, and will offer you some insight into becoming one of what the well know scholarly journal Uncyclopedia.com refer to as Zipper Suited Sun gods. If you think this all sounds absolutely ridiculous, you would be correct. Enjoy!

When you were 16 years old, what was your biggest fear? Not passing your drivers test, not having a date for the school dance, or maybe it was just getting through that damn chemistry class. Well, what if you were born in Syria, and at 16 yrs old, your daily routine was war, and your biggest fear was watching your friends die. And what if your reality was so dire, that you would choose to end your own life, rather than be captured and forced to experience a death most people cannot comprehend, at the hands of an evil most people can't even imagine. This is the life of the YPJ, the Women's Protection Units of Syria and their fight against ISIS. On today's episode I welcome back Ret. AF CCT MSgt Eric Ballester, who served with a team of US Army Delta Force operators as advisors to the YPJ and witnessed first hand the dedication, sacrifice, and ferocity that is manifested when a group of young Syrian girls fight for their home. Recommend you buckle up for this one. 

  Can you remember the rules to live by? Or how about ECAT fly away? Well if you've ever landed a jet on an aircraft carrier, this episode is for you. You know what its like to be just a few feet from death on a regular basis, and can laugh about it like it's no big deal. On this episode we break down the Paddles culture and what it means to be an LSO. We talk stories, feats of strength, history, and scary moments that we will never forget. I welcome back my LSO mentor and great American “Barf” Byers. We discuss the perks of being a paddles, his experience and highlights as an LSO school instructor, and how he connects “the Paddles culture” to every day life. Then we finish it all off with a fun little game called “how to throw Barf under the bus”. Enjoy!

The Congressional Medal of Honor is the United States government's highest and most prestigious military decoration. The stories associated with earning such an award are often inspiring, sad, and in many cases, down right unbelievable. If you ever have the chance to sit down with one of these individuals, I highly recommend you do. On todays episode I am humbled to welcome Medal of Honor recipient, and legendary story teller, Ret. US Army Command SgtMaj Bob Patterson, who, after his HS girlfriend pissed him off, decided to join the Army. We talk about his adventures in Vietnam, the day he earned the Medal of Honor, and plenty of stories that you just cant make up, like seeing two WWII legends in their annual fist fight. Enjoy!

Most 11 year old's don't jump out of air planes, most families don't have “life flight” on speed dial, and most kids don't grow up on an airport. However, if you've jumped out of a plane over 5000 times before you got your drivers license, and lived long enough to watch each of your 4 siblings hit the ground, and live, you just might have a story. On today's episode I welcome one of my bros, Marine Corps Major Jeff “DARYL” Mullins. An F/A-18 Hornet pilot, skydiving ninja, Top Gun graduate, and former Blue Angel. We talk about the benefits of remembering to pull your parachute, lessons from being a new guy in combat, and what it's like behind the scenes as a Blue Angel. Along with a cool story about SEAL team 6 and Tom Brady, as well as a fun life lesson on how to not get hit by a car. Enjoy!

Chess is a game of thinking, of maneuvering, and of planning. When someone wins, both players go home. Well, what if you were playing chess against Russian Nuclear Submarines at the heart of the Cold War. What if your job, was to sink a Russian nuclear sub if the situation called for it? Could you do it, could you launch that torpedo, could you handle the stress of potentially having your finger on the WWIII start button? On today's episode I welcome Ret. Navy CDR Mike “Chippy” Quinlan. A 27 year veteran who actually lived the “Hunt for Red October”. We talk about his enlisted days tracking Iranian subs during the Iran hostage crisis, and his time as a P-3 AC commander playing chess against Russian nuclear subs, as well as a brief story on potentially the best port call in Naval history. Enjoy!

Many people are born with the entrepreneurial gene. However, rarely does someone realize they are meant to be their own boss and find their knack for business while flying combat missions in Vietnam. For a select few, the demands of war elevated their minds to new and slightly illegal levels of business creativity. With us today is best-selling author, finance ninja, and Marine Corps gunship pilot and Vietnam vet, Robert Kiyosaki. A successful entrepreneur whose first swing at business was selling $5 45 Cal pistols for $45. We talk about his childhood, his combat experience in Vietnam, and the unwritten brotherhood that comes with being a Marine. Along with some court martial shenanigans, some tough lessons in leadership, and how flying a helicopter can even get you date. Buckle up, folks, this is the lighter side of Robert Kiyosaki. Enjoy!

When tragedy strikes, most people crumble. The pain and loss is to much for them and life as they know it stands still. However, there are a select few, who have learned to turn tragedy into fuel, they can take an event that would rock most people, and use it as motivation, as inspiration, and as the driving force towards a new mission. On today's episode I welcome Ret. MSgt. Steve Nisbet, a USAF Pararescue Jumper who served at the highest echelons the U.S. Special Forces have to offer. We talk about his career, his role as a PJ, and how a tragic event and witnessing the death of a close friend has motivated him towards his new mission; a mission that continues to this day and serves  as the driving force towards his goal of supporting the warriors returning home from the battlefield. This is the story of Shields and Stripes. 

Once upon a time two Marine pilots opened a bar, and not just any bar, a self-serve bar. A bar where you pour your own beer, your own wine, and even your own mixed drinks. Yes, folks, this is real. And while you're enjoying your tasty beverage, you can rage out at some original Mario Kart, challenge your neighbor to a gigantic game of scrabble, or just sit back and enjoy one of the 80 different taps they have to offer. We talk about the decision, the process, the lessons, and differences between combat risk, and business risk, and also, some of the really cool perks of having 80 kegs of beer at your disposal. On today's episode I welcome one of my closest friends, Retired Marine Major Ramon “Fiesta” Ballester. An F/A-18 hornet pilot, amateur salsa dancer, and one of my favorite angry people. Cheers!

On May 2nd, 2005, 2 F/A-18 Hornets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 323, the “Death Rattlers”, collided over central Iraq. After two successful ejections, both pilots were tragically dragged to death in their parachutes after reaching the ground. The event rocked the families, the squadron, and the air wing. With us today is retired Marine LtCol Ben “Big Gay” Buerke, a MAWTS 1 IP, former Commanding Officer, and was a Captain with VMFA-323 on that deployment. We talk about his background, the culture of the Death Rattlers, and his personal account of that tragic day. But most importantly, we talk about how the squadron reacted, the leadership lessons learned, and how the Ready Room, the families, and the Marines took a devastating event and used it to galvanize them closer together.  In memoriam.  LtCol John "Dukes" Spahr USMC                                                            Capt Kelly "Trash" Hinz USMC 

There has never been a Marine elected President of the United States...yet. However, we have infiltrated the perimeter. Enter Brad Byers. From a blue collar Midwest kid to North Carolina Wrestler turned Marine Corps F/A-18 Pilot. We talk flight school, carrier aviation, and being a new guy in combat; along with some port call shenanigans and how you earn the callsign "Barf". But most importantly, we talk leadership and lessons learned while serving as the Senior White House advisor to the Secretary of Defense, legendary Marine Corp general, Jim Mattis. Enjoy!

Wisdom comes in all shapes and sizes. And when it comes to aviation wisdom, it comes in the form of a 13  year old 8th grader from Cleveland, Ohio, who was struck by the aviation bug 3 years ago and hasn't looked back since. Not only does he always sharpen his pencils, he also has a plan to own is own airport one day, and can speak airplane as good as any pilot I've ever know. On this episode I welcome Keagan Evans. A living breathing airplane encyclopedia that will educate you an all things airplane, even it means locking yourself in your car to avoid his barrage of aviation knowledge. We talk about his first time flying, his loyalty to a certain airline, and how its never too early to ask a commercial airline for a job, even at 13. Take some notes on this one, folks; this kid is going places!

Have you ever been shot at? Have you ever been shot at and witnessed two of your close friends being wounded right next to you, one shot through the neck, the other through the arm. Have you ever been shot at while trying to coordinate a medevac for your two friends that just got shot? Have ever been shot at while coordinating a medevac helo for your friends that were just shot while simultaneously coordinating an air strike on an enemy position only 150 meters away? Yea, I haven't either, but I know a guy who has. That's called Tuesday in the life of an Air Force Combat controller. On today's episode I welcome Ret. MSgt Eric Ballester. A 20-year combat controller with 10 combat deployments and stories for days. We talk 9-Lines, culture, and the unforgettable road to becoming a CCT.  

You ever traded baseball cards? Or food recipes, or ideas, or anything that falls under the category of normal? How about trading a leather flight jacket and sunglasses for an Army helicopter? Or some live lobsters for some AC units? Only the most resourceful and creative can navigate such deals. This is next level dealing. Enter retired Marine Col Don "Bubba" Beaver. A great American and storyteller who could write a book about his escapades and combat experience as a Huey gunship pilot in Vietnam. Oh, and if you ever slam a bunch of late night cocktails and get tagged in by the ships XO to fly a night MEDEVAC at 3 am to evacuate a wounded sailor from a nuclear submarine, call Don; he can talk you through it. Enjoy! 

Few people can take a perfectly good and honest story and embellish it to no avail, better than a Marine Corps pilot. And so it is that The Ready Room podcast was born. My name is Phillip Goebel, my callsign is SUSAN. I'm a hockey player from the Midwest turned Marine Corps F-18 Pilot.  If you google my name you'll probably find a mugshot, some college hockey stats, and a picture of a restaurant I owned back in the day. Lucky for me in 15 years on active duty I was blessed to serve with some absolutely amazing people, and even a few that slipped through the cracks. Regardless, in every situation and encounter, whether it was a high or low stress scenario, there were lessons learned, many that were learned the hard way, and some of which were paid in blood. The goal of this podcast is to extract these lessons and share them with the world. Through the avenues of intelligent conversation, humor, history, shenanigans, and culture; I hope to share with people stories and lessons that will resonate in their daily lives. It might be something as simple as, hey, don't get hammered with your old Tomcat buddies and crash your golf cart on the arresting gear, because that did happen, or something as serious as, how to genuinely take care of your people and how to get them to put every ounce of who they are into what it is they are doing. In my experience, I've found that a strong dose of humor paired with a good cup of coffee or a quality beverage or two, will help keep things rolling. I hope you enjoy it, if you don't, no worries, I encourage you to listen to Jocko Willink, Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan. There's tons of really good brain food out there that's worth checking out. And for those of you that do stick around, I hope you enjoy the ride. I am your host, SUSAN, and this is the Ready Room Podcast.