Podcast appearances and mentions of Jon Gray

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this episode, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely have a conversation with Chief Pilot Frank Peck of the Omaha Police Department. Frank brings a unique and well-rounded perspective to law enforcement aviation, having spent many years with the Nebraska State Patrol, including time as a K9 handler where he experienced firsthand the value of air support. He eventually shifted his focus to aviation, advancing from a part-time Tactical Flight Officer to Captain and Chief Pilot of the Aviation Support Division.During his tenure, Frank led significant expansions in aircraft capabilities, mission equipment, and aviation facilities, all while actively supporting troopers from the air. He now brings that wealth of experience to the Omaha Police Department, where he continues as Chief Pilot. Known for his hands-on leadership style, Frank is committed to continually improving every aspect of the unit he leads.Don't forget to like and subscribe to The Hangar Z Podcast. We truly appreciate the support so we can bring these important conversations to you. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, Quantum Helicopter and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this episode, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely have a conversation with Chief Pilot Frank Peck of the Omaha Police Department. Frank brings a unique and well-rounded perspective to law enforcement aviation, having spent many years with the Nebraska State Patrol, including time as a K9 handler where he experienced firsthand the value of air support. He eventually shifted his focus to aviation, advancing from a part-time Tactical Flight Officer to Captain and Chief Pilot of the Aviation Support Division.During his tenure, Frank led significant expansions in aircraft capabilities, mission equipment, and aviation facilities, all while actively supporting troopers from the air. He now brings that wealth of experience to the Omaha Police Department, where he continues as Chief Pilot. Known for his hands-on leadership style, Frank is committed to continually improving every aspect of the unit he leads.Don't forget to like and subscribe to The Hangar Z Podcast. We truly appreciate the support so we can bring these important conversations to you. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, Night Flight Concepts and Spectrum Aeromed.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this episode, host Jon Gray, along with co-hosts Jack Schonely and Bryan Smith, sit down for an in-depth conversation with Tactical Flying's Ryan Welch.Ryan, a seasoned law enforcement officer turned Major League Baseball authenticator, shares his remarkable journey from serving 16 years with the San Diego Police Department to becoming a senior tactical flight officer, specializing in airborne thermal imaging and airborne law enforcement tactics. In the conversation we discuss the vital role of training, mentorship, and community involvement, as well as the evolution of technology in law enforcement operations. From scenario-based training to the integration of unmanned systems, Ryan, a tactics instructor for Tactical Flying, provides invaluable insights into ensuring operational safety and effectiveness, highlighting the critical importance of ongoing, continuous training.Whether you're interested in aviation, law enforcement, or leadership, this episode delivers expert knowledge and inspiring stories from a truly accomplished professional.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Garmin and Metro Aviation.

Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy joined the K&C Masterpiece after losing two games to the Angels to discuss what's gone wrong in this series for the club, what to make of Jon Gray's disastrous inning of work last night, who or what he'd like to see the team add at the MLB Trade Deadline, and more.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this episode, host Jon Gray, along with co-hosts Jack Schonely and Bryan Smith, sit down for an in-depth conversation with Tactical Flying's Ryan Welch.Ryan, a seasoned law enforcement officer turned Major League Baseball authenticator, shares his remarkable journey from serving 16 years with the San Diego Police Department to becoming a senior tactical flight officer, specializing in airborne thermal imaging and airborne law enforcement tactics. In the conversation we discuss the vital role of training, mentorship, and community involvement, as well as the evolution of technology in law enforcement operations. From scenario-based training to the integration of unmanned systems, Ryan, a tactics instructor for Tactical Flying, provides invaluable insights into ensuring operational safety and effectiveness, highlighting the critical importance of ongoing, continuous training.Whether you're interested in aviation, law enforcement, or leadership, this episode delivers expert knowledge and inspiring stories from a truly accomplished professional.Thank you to our sponsors BLR Aerospace, Robinson Helicopter and SHOTOVER.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and guest co-host Terry Miyauchi speak with prior Japanese Coast Guard Pilot Hajime "Jimmy" Sagane.Jimmy speaks excellent English, but for the best experience, we recommend watching this episode on our HeliCASTS YouTube page to enjoy the benefits of closed captioning. During our conversation, Jimmy recounts the historic and tragic events that unfolded after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan on March 11, 2011. This devastating quake triggered a massive tsunami that claimed over 20,000 lives and critically damaged the Fukushima nuclear power plant's cooling system.Jimmy shares gripping firsthand accounts of the heroic efforts during Japan's 2011 earthquake and tsunami, including the challenges of search-and-rescue missions, the use of helicopters in cooling efforts, and the emotional weight of recovery work. Join us as we dive into a compelling conversation about resilience, preparedness, and the dedication of those who serve in public safety aviation. Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopter, Spectrolab and Wysong Enterprises.

1pm hour of The K&C Masterpiece!

This Is Quick: What the President of Blackstone prioritizes when hiring On this week's rapid-fire Q&A, Blackstone President and COO Jon Gray sits down with LinkedIn's Editor-in-Chief Dan Roth to share what he looks for in new hires, how he stays focused, and the right way to give tough feedback. Among the insights: Why he always asks candidates to “tell me your story” The soft skill he values most in interviews (hint: it's not on a resume) The productivity habit he sticks to, no matter what time zone he's in To get more great insights from leaders direct to your inbox, subscribe to the free This is Working newsletter here.

Blackstone President & COO Jon Gray joined Bloomberg's Sonali Basak to talks earnings & tariffs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rangers manager Bruce Bochy discussed Jon Gray's return and what his role will be, the club's hot start coming out of the All-Star break, Josh Jung's return, when Nathan Eovaldi will start next, & more.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and guest co-host Terry Miyauchi speak with prior Japanese Coast Guard Pilot Hajime "Jimmy" Sagane.Jimmy speaks excellent English, but for the best experience, we recommend watching this episode on our HeliCASTS YouTube page to enjoy the benefits of closed captioning. During our conversation, Jimmy recounts the historic and tragic events that unfolded after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan on March 11, 2011. This devastating quake triggered a massive tsunami that claimed over 20,000 lives and critically damaged the Fukushima nuclear power plant's cooling system.Jimmy shares gripping firsthand accounts of the heroic efforts during Japan's 2011 earthquake and tsunami, including the challenges of search-and-rescue missions, the use of helicopters in cooling efforts, and the emotional weight of recovery work. Join us as we dive into a compelling conversation about resilience, preparedness, and the dedication of those who serve in public safety aviation. Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics, Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch and Spectrolab.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine. Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series Jack Schonely and Jon Gray are extremely honored to be joined by retired United States Navy Commander Scott “Scooter” Moyer.Scott served 21 distinguished years as a naval aviator, flying the iconic F-14 Tomcat. His impressive list of decorations includes the Distinguished Flying Cross, The Meritorious Service Medal, seven Combat Air Medals, and various other personal and unit awards.Over the course of his career, he logged more than 4,600 hours, 725 carrier landings, and flew over 80 combat missions.Among his many achievements, Scott was also selected to join the Navy's elite Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron, an honor reserved for the very best.Join us as we explore his incredible journey from aspiring pilot to college student, to Naval aviator, to Blue Angel, and eventually, a career in commercial aviation.Please like, subscribe, and leave us a review so we can continue to bring great conversations like this to you.Thank you to our sponsors BLR Aerospace, Precision Aviation Group and SHOTOVER Systems.

SportsDay Insiders Kevin Sherrington, Evan Grant and Shawn McFarland discuss [00:40] the Rangers' position at the All-Star break and what Chris Young should do. Do Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, plus the imminent return of Jon Gray, change the narrative of a roller-coaster offense? What's Adolis Garcia's future with the Rangers? [26:46] As a dyed-in-the-wool New Englander, Shawn gives his take on new Cowboys' backup QB Joe Milton, a former Patriot, as the guys speculate on whether he's a legitimate backup to Dak Prescott. [36:16] They also discuss Cooper Flagg's summer season and Paige Bueckers' viral moment at a news conference.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SportsDay Insiders Kevin Sherrington, Evan Grant and Shawn McFarland discuss [00:40] the Rangers' position at the All-Star break and what Chris Young should do. Do Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, plus the imminent return of Jon Gray, change the narrative of a roller-coaster offense? What's Adolis Garcia's future with the Rangers? [26:46] As a dyed-in-the-wool New Englander, Shawn gives his take on new Cowboys' backup QB Joe Milton, a former Patriot, as the guys speculate on whether he's a legitimate backup to Dak Prescott. [36:16] They also discuss Cooper Flagg's summer season and Paige Bueckers' viral moment at a news conference.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How do the savviest investors navigate today's uncertainty? Jon Gray, President of Blackstone, one of the world's most successful asset management firms, shares the timeless principles that helped grow the firm from under $1B to over $1T in assets. He reveals how to spot great businesses, invest with conviction, and think decades ahead. This episode is a masterclass in building lasting wealth—especially in turbulent and uncertain times. This is a rare window into the mindset of someone who's helped shape a trillion-dollar investing firm.Whether you're new to investing or a seasoned pro, this conversation will sharpen how you think.

Jon is President and COO of Blackstone—one of the world's largest and most highly valued investment firms, managing over $1.1 trillion in assets (as of 3/31/25). He shares his career journey, insights on leading through rapid growth, and his outlook on the evolving landscape of investing and innovation. Listen for a candid take on leadership, culture, and the future of finance.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine. Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series Jack Schonely and Jon Gray are extremely honored to be joined by retired United States Navy Commander Scott “Scooter” Moyer.Scott served 21 distinguished years as a naval aviator, flying the iconic F-14 Tomcat. His impressive list of decorations includes the Distinguished Flying Cross, The Meritorious Service Medal, seven Combat Air Medals, and various other personal and unit awards.Over the course of his career, he logged more than 4,600 hours, 725 carrier landings, and flew over 80 combat missions.Among his many achievements, Scott was also selected to join the Navy's elite Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron, an honor reserved for the very best.Join us as we explore his incredible journey from aspiring pilot to college student, to Naval aviator, to Blue Angel, and eventually, a career in commercial aviation.Please like, subscribe, and leave us a review so we can continue to bring great conversations like this to you.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Dallas Avionics and Wysong Enterprises.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely were joined by Johnny Gray III and David Baumann, two remarkable crew chiefs from L.A. County Fire Department's air operations. They take us on a compelling journey—from their athletic backgrounds to their vital roles in emergency services—highlighting the importance of teamwork, leadership, and mental resilience.Through personal stories, they share lessons learned from overcoming failure, navigating high-stakes situations, and the critical impact of mentorship and community involvement. Whether it's tackling devastating wildfires, honoring fallen heroes, or working alongside family, their experiences shed light on the enduring spirit of dedication and service that drives them.Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Garmin and Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch.

Jon Gray, President and COO of Blackstone, has a simple rule: Think long-term, even when everything feels like it's falling apart. The lesson isn't just for investors—it's for anyone building a career: Stay calm when chaos hits Separate temporary noise from lasting trends Turn uncertainty into opportunity After 33 years at Blackstone, Gray's built more than just wealth—he's mastered the art of thinking beyond the moment. To hear more from Jon Gray including what he's learned about leadership, watch the video below. To get more great insights from leaders direct to your inbox, subscribe to the free This is Working newsletter ⁠here

What new hobby has Jon Gray picked up in his recovery? Plus, Jon & Jacklyn talk faith, pets, and which player is most like which dog breed.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely were joined by Johnny Gray III and David Baumann, two remarkable crew chiefs from L.A. County Fire Department's air operations. They take us on a compelling journey—from their athletic backgrounds to their vital roles in emergency services—highlighting the importance of teamwork, leadership, and mental resilience.Through personal stories, they share lessons learned from overcoming failure, navigating high-stakes situations, and the critical impact of mentorship and community involvement. Whether it's tackling devastating wildfires, honoring fallen heroes, or working alongside family, their experiences shed light on the enduring spirit of dedication and service that drives them.Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Metro Aviation and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this engaging two-part series focusing on leadership, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Jim McDonnell, a respected law enforcement officer and newly appointed chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).During this engaging conversation, we explore Jim's journey from his roots in Boston to a distinguished career in law enforcement, emphasizing the vital role of leadership and the profound impact of small acts of kindness on both officers and the communities they serve.As they discuss the often-overlooked topics of mental health and trauma within the profession, Jim underscores the need for a supportive culture and better resources for first responders.He shares invaluable lessons learned during his internship with former LAPD Chief William (Bill) Bratton, as well as reflections on his career—from the Harbor Division to the 77th Street Homicide Division—and the challenges departments face in today's policing landscape.Join us as we examine the importance of community policing, the value of air support in law enforcement, and the pressing need for innovative solutions to enhance officer well-being. Jim also addresses the critical issues of recruitment and retention in policing, providing a realistic perspective on the future of the profession.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Quantum Helicopters and Summit Aviation.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this engaging two-part series focusing on leadership, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Jim McDonnell, a respected law enforcement officer and newly appointed chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).During this engaging conversation, we explore Jim's journey from his roots in Boston to a distinguished career in law enforcement, emphasizing the vital role of leadership and the profound impact of small acts of kindness on both officers and the communities they serve.As they discuss the often-overlooked topics of mental health and trauma within the profession, Jim underscores the need for a supportive culture and better resources for first responders.He shares invaluable lessons learned during his internship with former LAPD Chief William (Bill) Bratton, as well as reflections on his career—from the Harbor Division to the 77th Street Homicide Division—and the challenges departments face in today's policing landscape.Join us as we examine the importance of community policing, the value of air support in law enforcement, and the pressing need for innovative solutions to enhance officer well-being. Jim also addresses the critical issues of recruitment and retention in policing, providing a realistic perspective on the future of the profession.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Canyon AeroConnect and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, Jack Schonely and Jon Gray are on location inside the hanger of the Burbank Glendale Joint Air Support Unit. Pilot Pat Hamblin from the Glendale Police Department and Pilot Steve Conaway from the Burbank Police Department provide insight into inner workings of this unique unit. Both of our guests have very interesting journeys into law enforcement and aviation. We discuss, training, the benefits of a combined unit, airspace, cooperation with other surrounding air units, and the delivery of a brand-new Airbus H125 later this year.The background soundtrack is brought to you by Southwest Airlines departing Runway 15 at the Bob Hope Burbank Airport. We really enjoy these hangar podcasts.Special thanks to Massif Flight Suits for the support.Thanks you to our sponsors Metro Aviation,  Robinson Helicopter and Quantum Helicopters.

SportsDay Insiders Kevin Sherrington, Evan Grant and Shawn McFarland discuss the Rangers' season approaching the midway point in a special all baseball, all the time podcast. Who had Jacob deGrom being so good they'd have to hold him back? [14:50] Who had the offense in another funk? Josh Jung could be the latest to sit a few days after an extended slump, Evan says. The guys share their opinions on the biggest need when the trade deadline comes as well as what to do with Jon Gray once he comes back. [35:40] They also tell us if the Rangers make the playoffs and how far they go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SportsDay Insiders Kevin Sherrington, Evan Grant and Shawn McFarland discuss the Rangers' season approaching the midway point in a special all baseball, all the time podcast. Who had Jacob deGrom being so good they'd have to hold him back? [14:50] Who had the offense in another funk? Josh Jung could be the latest to sit a few days after an extended slump, Evan says. The guys share their opinions on the biggest need when the trade deadline comes as well as what to do with Jon Gray once he comes back. [35:40] They also tell us if the Rangers make the playoffs and how far they go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, Jack Schonely and Jon Gray are on location inside the hanger of the Burbank Glendale Joint Air Support Unit. Pilot Pat Hamblin from the Glendale Police Department and Pilot Steve Conaway from the Burbank Police Department provide insight into inner workings of this unique unit. Both of our guests have very interesting journeys into law enforcement and aviation. We discuss, training, the benefits of a combined unit, airspace, cooperation with other surrounding air units, and the delivery of a brand-new Airbus H125 later this year.The background soundtrack is brought to you by Southwest Airlines departing Runway 15 at the Bob Hope Burbank Airport. We really enjoy these hangar podcasts. Special thanks to Massif Flight Suits for the support.Thanks you to our sponsors Night Flight Concepts, Canyon AeroConnect and Trakka Systems.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this episode, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are joined by Dan Schwarzbach, executive director and CEO of the Airborne Public Safety Association, for an exclusive preview of APSCON 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.We'll cover training opportunities for both manned and unmanned aircraft and give you a sneak peek at what to expect on the convention floor. Plus, we'll talk about the host city of Phoenix and the many experiences it has to offer visiting attendees.After our conversation with Dan, we shift gears and welcome two candidates vying for the central regional director position at APSA—the only contested race this year. Jon and Jack give each candidate a platform to introduce themselves to the voting members of the central region.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Hangar Z Podcast—we truly appreciate your support.APSCON Phoenix is just around the corner! Be sure to stop by the Vertical Magazine booth on the convention floor. We hope to see you there.For more information, visit publicsafetyaviation.org.Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Precision Aviation Group and SHOTOVER Systems.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this episode, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely talk with retired Ontario Police Sergeant Eric Weidner to explore the vital role of canine units in law enforcement. Eric retired from the Ontario Police Department, where he served as the aviation unit supervisor. He is currently the chief operations officer at CNC Technologies. Before his time in air support, Sgt Weidner was a dedicated K9 handler for Ontario PD.The conversation highlights Eric's journey as a K9 handler, sharing the challenges he faced and the memorable moments from his career. We also explore how canine operations are evolving, particularly in relation to air support.Additionally, we emphasize the critical importance of training, trust, and collaboration between K9 units and air support units. The discussion also tackles and dispels common myths surrounding these operations, while offering practical guidance for effectively collaborating with K9 units to enhance overall mission success.Notably, Sgt Weidner was our very first guest on The Hangar Z Podcast. Be sure to check out Episode 1 to hear more about his career and experiences.If you enjoy this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, please leave us a review on the platform you use to listen to The Hangar Z Podcast—your support helps grow our community and showcases inspiring folks like Eric Weidner. Your feedback truly makes a difference!Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Garmin and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely recorded in person at Verticon 2025 in Dallas, Texas. The conversation explores the incredible operations of Two Bear Air Rescue as they interview Rob Cherot, a Two Bear Air Rescue pilot. In addition to Rob's work with Two Bear Air Rescue, he also flies for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks agency. Two Bear Air Rescue, based near Whitefish, Montana, is dedicated to saving lives by providing top-tier aviation search-and-rescue capabilities across the Northwestern U.S. The program is fully funded by philanthropist Michael Goguen, ensuring it operates at no cost to taxpayers.Rob is a seasoned helicopter pilot whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Rob's story begins with a passion for flight sparked at UND. Rob worked as a firefighter paramedic in Montana before becoming a skilled professional pilot in the rugged mountain terrain of Montana and its surrounding states.Over the years, he's flown everything from animal surveys and fish stocking to rescue operations, all while balancing multiple roles and building invaluable skills along the way. Whether it's navigating extreme weather or managing traumatic incidents, these stories showcase the resilience and dedication of these skilled pilots. Join us as we explore the profound impact of aviation in preserving communities, protecting wildlife, and serving the public—all set against the stunning backdrop of Montana's rugged terrain.If you enjoy this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, please leave us a review on the platform you use to listen to The Hangar Z Podcast—your support helps grow our community and showcases inspiring people like Rob. Your feedback truly makes a difference!Thank you to our sponsors Becker Avionics, Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch and Robinson Helicopter.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely recorded in person at Verticon 2025 in Dallas, Texas. The conversation explores the incredible operations of Two Bear Air Rescue as they interview Rob Cherot, a Two Bear Air Rescue pilot. In addition to Rob's work with Two Bear Air Rescue, he also flies for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks agency. Two Bear Air Rescue, based near Whitefish, Montana, is dedicated to saving lives by providing top-tier aviation search-and-rescue capabilities across the Northwestern U.S. The program is fully funded by philanthropist Michael Goguen, ensuring it operates at no cost to taxpayers.Rob is a seasoned helicopter pilot whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Rob's story begins with a passion for flight sparked at UND. Rob worked as a firefighter paramedic in Montana before becoming a skilled professional pilot in the rugged mountain terrain of Montana and its surrounding states.Over the years, he's flown everything from animal surveys and fish stocking to rescue operations, all while balancing multiple roles and building invaluable skills along the way. Whether it's navigating extreme weather or managing traumatic incidents, these stories showcase the resilience and dedication of these skilled pilots. Join us as we explore the profound impact of aviation in preserving communities, protecting wildlife, and serving the public—all set against the stunning backdrop of Montana's rugged terrain.If you enjoy this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, please leave us a review on the platform you use to listen to The Hangar Z Podcast—your support helps grow our community and showcases inspiring people like Rob. Your feedback truly makes a difference!Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, BLR Aerospace and CNC Technologies.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In today's episode, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are honored to welcome one of the most influential voices in American law enforcement retired Lieutenant Randy Sutton of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.With a law enforcement career spanning more than 34 years, Randy's impact has extended far beyond the streets of Princeton, New Jersey, and Las Vegas, Nevada.He became a familiar face to many through his appearances on the TV show COPS, which opened the door to acting roles in both television and film, including a part in the iconic movie Casino.Randy is also a prolific author, having written A Cop's Life, True Blue, The Power of Legacy, and his most recent book, Rescuing 911: The Fight for America's Safety. A respected and in-demand public speaker, he represented the law enforcement community at the Republican National Convention last year.Perhaps Randy's most enduring contribution is as the founder and chairman of the board of The Wounded Blue, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting injured and disabled law enforcement officers through support, education, assistance, and legislative advocacy.This is a powerful and inspiring conversation you won't want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Becker Avionics, Metro Aviation and SHOTOVER Systems.

Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!Buckle up for an unforgettable in-person episode of The Helicopter Podcast, recorded live at Verticon, with your host Halsey Schider and co-host Jon Gray, the voice behind the Hangar Z Podcast! Today's guest, Air Zermatt CEO Daniel Aufdenblatten, takes them on a wild ride through his remarkable life in aviation, starting from his childhood in the shadow of Zermatt's towering Swiss Alps, where helicopters were the lifeline of the mountains. Daniel recounts his bold move to the U.S., diving headfirst into flight training at Hillsboro Aviation (now Hillsboro Heli Academy) and racking up a jaw-dropping 1,800 hours in just two years with three companies. Daniel shares a laugh-out-loud story about his Air Zermatt job interview that landed him a role with one of the world's premier helicopter operations. He describes the steep learning curve of long-line work in an Airbus AStar (AS350 B2), including a heart-pounding tale of slinging concrete to a remote site, pushing the helicopter to the edge of its envelope. Daniel shares about the intensity of flying with night vision goggles (NVGs) in Switzerland's pitch-black rural nights, and offers insights on building self-confidence and embracing patience while mastering new challenges. Don't miss this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, packed with humor, heart, and the kind of rotor talk that will leave you inspired!Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, Vertical Aviation International and Hillsboro Heli Academy.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Helicopter Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In today's episode, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are honored to welcome one of the most influential voices in American law enforcement retired Lieutenant Randy Sutton of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.With a law enforcement career spanning more than 34 years, Randy's impact has extended far beyond the streets of Princeton, New Jersey, and Las Vegas, Nevada.He became a familiar face to many through his appearances on the TV show COPS, which opened the door to acting roles in both television and film, including a part in the iconic movie Casino.Randy is also a prolific author, having written A Cop's Life, True Blue, The Power of Legacy, and his most recent book, Rescuing 911: The Fight for America's Safety. A respected and in-demand public speaker, he represented the law enforcement community at the Republican National Convention last year.Perhaps Randy's most enduring contribution is as the founder and chairman of the board of The Wounded Blue, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting injured and disabled law enforcement officers through support, education, assistance, and legislative advocacy.This is a powerful and inspiring conversation you won't want to miss. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, BLR Aerospace, and Robinson Helicopter.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely talk with Sean Marston, who takes us through his incredible journey from military service to law enforcement, and ultimately into the helicopter air ambulance segment.Sean reflects on his early aspirations and the impactful experiences that shaped his career—as a deputy sheriff, and beyond. We'll discuss a new unit establishment he was a part of within the Harford County Sheriff's Office in Maryland. Sean offers a firsthand account of the challenges, including political opposition and the eventual shutdown of the unit, alongside valuable lessons about proving the worth of such programs.Sean talks about becoming the chief pilot at the Martin County Sheriff's Office, and the challenges and experiences as the chief pilot, and his insight on leadership development. We also have an opportunity to discuss the transition from law enforcement aviation to the helicopter air ambulance industry, as Sean was able to successfully make the transition after retiring from law enforcement in 2021 after over 27 years of service.Before we jump into the conversation, we'd like to ask for your support! If you enjoy The Hangar Z Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a rating and review. Your feedback not only helps us improve the show, but also helps others discover our podcast. We greatly appreciate your support!Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and SHOTOVER Systems.

Carl Quintanilla discussed the latest for stocks alongside Sara Eisen and David Faber – who both joined the broadcast live from the Milken Institute's investment conference in Beverly Hills this hour. A key focus? Berkshire Hathaway's Warren Buffett - surprising investors at the company's annual meeting by announcing he will step down as CEO… The team broke down his legacy and what's next for shares. Plus: one portfolio manager from Janus Henderson joined the team to talk top tech picks. Also in focus: the latest from the ground at Milken – as the street's top CEOs, leaders, and regulators convene in California. David sat down with Blackstone COO Jon Gray in a wide-ranging deep dive covering all things AI demand to Private Credit. Squawk on the Street Disclaimer

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely talk with Sean Marston, who takes us through his incredible journey from military service to law enforcement, and ultimately into the helicopter air ambulance segment.Sean reflects on his early aspirations and the impactful experiences that shaped his career—as a deputy sheriff, and beyond. We'll discuss a new unit establishment he was a part of within the Harford County Sheriff's Office in Maryland. Sean offers a firsthand account of the challenges, including political opposition and the eventual shutdown of the unit, alongside valuable lessons about proving the worth of such programs.Sean talks about becoming the chief pilot at the Martin County Sheriff's Office, and the challenges and experiences as the chief pilot, and his insight on leadership development. We also have an opportunity to discuss the transition from law enforcement aviation to the helicopter air ambulance industry, as Sean was able to successfully make the transition after retiring from law enforcement in 2021 after over 27 years of service.Before we jump into the conversation, we'd like to ask for your support! If you enjoy The Hangar Z Podcast, please take a moment to leave us a rating and review. Your feedback not only helps us improve the show, but also helps others discover our podcast. We greatly appreciate your support!Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!The Hangar Z Podcast has extensively talked about the two primary challenges facing public safety aviation: Politics, and funding. We have dedicated considerable time to discussing the political aspects of this equation.In this two-part series, host Jon Gray discusses the challenges and solutions related to funding aircraft and mission equipment for law enforcement agencies. Joined by experts Ed Van Winkle and D.C. Greer, the conversation delves into the intricacies of aircraft financing, the importance of education for new aviation leaders, and creative solutions for acquiring necessary equipmentD.C. Greer is a senior vice president of Government Capital Corporation, a nationwide public finance company, headquartered in Southlake, Texas. With over 30 years in public finance, his efforts have been focused largely in the public safety sector. D.C. served three years in the U.S. Army and is a graduate of Northwestern State University, in Natchitoches, Louisiana.During our conversation, Ed Vanwinkle reflects on his over 20 years of service at the Gainesville Police Department in Florida, where he retired as captain. His diverse roles included aviation, narcotics, detectives, patrol, S.W.A.T., and training. He served as the Narcotics Unit commander, S.W.A.T. commander, and unit commander of the Joint Aviation Unit with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office. After retiring, Ed spent nine years as the law enforcement sales manager at Airbus Helicopters and is now the vice president of law enforcement and OEM projects for CNC Technologies. He is also an active commercial helicopter pilot, flight instructor (CFII), and fixed-wing pilot.This conversation also delves into the advancements in aviation technology, particularly focusing on the integration of CNC live systems and the bi-directional flow of information that enhances operational efficiency for air crews.This is an important episode for anyone in public safety aviation, but especially for those in a position seeking funding solutions to purchase new aircraft or mission equipment.Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Garmin and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!The Hangar Z Podcast has extensively talked about the two primary challenges facing public safety aviation: Politics, and funding. We have dedicated considerable time to discussing the political aspects of this equation.In this two-part series, host Jon Gray discusses the challenges and solutions related to funding aircraft and mission equipment for law enforcement agencies. Joined by experts Ed Van Winkle and D.C. Greer, the conversation delves into the intricacies of aircraft financing, the importance of education for new aviation leaders, and creative solutions for acquiring necessary equipmentD.C. Greer is a senior vice president of Government Capital Corporation, a nationwide public finance company, headquartered in Southlake, Texas. With over 30 years in public finance, his efforts have been focused largely in the public safety sector. D.C. served three years in the U.S. Army and is a graduate of Northwestern State University, in Natchitoches, Louisiana.During our conversation, Ed Vanwinkle reflects on his over 20 years of service at the Gainesville Police Department in Florida, where he retired as captain. His diverse roles included aviation, narcotics, detectives, patrol, S.W.A.T., and training. He served as the Narcotics Unit commander, S.W.A.T. commander, and unit commander of the Joint Aviation Unit with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office. After retiring, Ed spent nine years as the law enforcement sales manager at Airbus Helicopters and is now the vice president of law enforcement and OEM projects for CNC Technologies. He is also an active commercial helicopter pilot, flight instructor (CFII), and fixed-wing pilot.This conversation also delves into the advancements in aviation technology, particularly focusing on the integration of CNC live systems and the bi-directional flow of information that enhances operational efficiency for air crews.This is an important episode for anyone in public safety aviation, but especially for those in a position seeking funding solutions to purchase new aircraft or mission equipment.Thank you to our sponsors, CNC Technologies, Vertical Valor and Vertical MRO.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Helicopter Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely sit down in the recording booth of Vertical Magazine at VAI Verticon in Dallas, Texas, with one of our favorite people in law enforcement aviation.Pilot Tony Weber has 42 years of experience on the job with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, 32 of which were spent working air support. Tony has been a guest and co-host on The Hangar Z Podcast, but this time, there is a fantastic bonus.Tony's wife Wendy joins us to discuss the journey of a spouse in law enforcement. You do not want to miss Wendy's perspective on the good times, the bad times, the loss of friends, the SWAT call-outs, the wildfires, the celebrations, and even the retirement. Wendy's insight provides a great path to a successful marriage in a law enforcement family.Tony will discuss his amazing career from the academy as a 20-year-old, to his jail tour, patrol duty, SWAT, and his 32 years in aviation. He has seen firsthand a great deal of change over those years in a variety of airframes, technology, safety, CRM, and unit culture.This was a wonderful conversation with two amazing people and there might even be a few surprises, including a first on The Hangar Z — a “Game Show.”Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, SHOTOVER and Summit Aviation.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Helicopter Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely sit down in the recording booth of Vertical Magazine at VAI Verticon in Dallas, Texas, with one of our favorite people in law enforcement aviation.Pilot Tony Weber has 42 years of experience on the job with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, 32 of which were spent working air support. Tony has been a guest and co-host on The Hangar Z Podcast, but this time, there is a fantastic bonus.Tony's wife Wendy joins us to discuss the journey of a spouse in law enforcement. You do not want to miss Wendy's perspective on the good times, the bad times, the loss of friends, the SWAT call-outs, the wildfires, the celebrations, and even the retirement. Wendy's insight provides a great path to a successful marriage in a law enforcement family.Tony will discuss his amazing career from the academy as a 20-year-old, to his jail tour, patrol duty, SWAT, and his 32 years in aviation. He has seen firsthand a great deal of change over those years in a variety of airframes, technology, safety, CRM, and unit culture.This was a wonderful conversation with two amazing people and there might even be a few surprises, including a first on The Hangar Z — a “Game Show.”Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Metro Aviation and Trakka Systems.

Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, your host Halsey Schider welcomes the legendary Jon Gray and Jack Schonely, from The Hangar Z Podcast, for an in-depth discussion on law enforcement aviation! They dive into recent highlights from Hangar Z, including Halsey's unforgettable ride-along with the LAPD helicopter unit. The conversation explores the critical role of tactical flight officers (TFOs), the impact of advanced technology in police aviation, and the communication challenges of operating in busy airspace. Halsey, Jon, and Jack, also examine the importance of teamwork, culture, and career pathways in law enforcement aviation. Tune into this episode of The Helicopter Podcast for an inside look at the challenges and rewards of aviation law enforcement, with an emphasis on the importance of collaboration and teamwork in the industry.Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, Robinson Helicopter and Hillsboro Heli Academy.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Helicopter Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!

Welcome to another episode of the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!On today's episode, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are thrilled to welcome Dave Ellis.  Dave is a pivotal figure in the development of Spokane County Sheriff's aviation program.Dave takes us through the journey of building the program from the ground up, sharing insights into the political and financial challenges, the role of data tracking, and the power of community engagement. He opens up about his background and his diverse career. We discuss law enforcement and coaching, including his recent incredible success coaching a high school soccer team.We dive into the vital role of communication and education in ensuring the aviation program's growth and sustainability. The conversation also explores how youth sports teach life lessons, the unique perspective of referees, and the challenges of law enforcement in Spokane County.You'll hear about the evolution of Spokane County's aviation unit, including decisions around aircraft selection, advancements in aviation technology, and how real-time situational awareness is enhancing public safety. Dave shares his insights on UAS technology, drone integration, and the growing role of AI in emergency response.Throughout the episode, we touch on Dave's journey toward agency accreditation, innovations in training, his roles with the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA), and his involvement in shaping active shooter response curricula.We truly appreciate our followers. If you are enjoying Hangar Z, please help us spread the word—and don't forget to subscribe, like, and share.Thank you to our sponsors Night Flight Concepts, Robinson Helicopter and Trakka Systems USA.

Welcome to another episode of the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor magazine.On today's episode, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely are thrilled to welcome Dave Ellis.  Dave is a pivotal figure in the development of Spokane County Sheriff's aviation program.Dave takes us through the journey of building the program from the ground up, sharing insights into the political and financial challenges, the role of data tracking, and the power of community engagement. He opens up about his background and his diverse career. We discuss law enforcement and coaching, including his recent incredible success coaching a high school soccer team.We dive into the vital role of communication and education in ensuring the aviation program's growth and sustainability. The conversation also explores how youth sports teach life lessons, the unique perspective of referees, and the challenges of law enforcement in Spokane County.You'll hear about the evolution of Spokane County's aviation unit, including decisions around aircraft selection, advancements in aviation technology, and how real-time situational awareness is enhancing public safety. Dave shares his insights on UAS technology, drone integration, and the growing role of AI in emergency response.Throughout the episode, we touch on Dave's journey toward agency accreditation, innovations in training, his roles with the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA), and his involvement in shaping active shooter response curricula.We truly appreciate our followers. If you are enjoying Hangar Z, please help us spread the word—and don't forget to subscribe, like, and share.Thank you to our sponsors Canyon AeroConnect, SHOTOVER and Summit Aviation. 

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.This two-part series was recorded at APSCON 2024 In Houston, Texas. In this series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely sit down with Sgt Cody Robinson and CFI Jeff Serpas from the Houston Police Department Air Support Unit. In this episode, we engage with Houston PD's finest, who share their insights, experiences, and challenges in the field. We'll explore the critical role of mentorship and how training methods have evolved over time, alongside the significance of in-house training programs in preparing personnel for the demands of their roles.Join us as we explore our guests' personal journeys through aviation and law enforcement, revealing the vital importance of safety, preparedness, and integrity within flight operations. They emphasize the significance of saying no in aviation, especially under pressure.We'll also discuss the operational dynamics of air support units, effective training, and the crucial selection process for tactical flight officers (TFOs).Our guests discuss Houston PD's unit's structure, aircraft fleet, and the significance of maintenance and reliability in operations. The conversation also covers the challenges of navigating Houston's airspace, the impact of weather on operations, particularly during hurricane season, and the importance of community and teamwork in addressing these challenges.Don't forget to mark your calendars for this year's APSCON, which will take place July 14-18 in Phoenix, Arizona. Another conference to get ready for is the ECHO or Every Coast Helicopter Operations Public Safety Aviation Conference is Louisville, Kentucky, Sept. 28 through Oct. 1, 2025.This year at the ECHO conference, Jack Schonely and Clay Lacey will join forces to present their renowned and impactful course together on the same stage for the very first time. This unique collaboration and course will be titled "Airborne Tactical Solutions." This is a course you won't want to miss! For more details, visit the ECHO webpage at ECHOflightCrew.org.Thank you to our sponsors Night Flight Concepts, Precision Aviation Group and Robinson Helicopter.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.This two-part series was recorded at APSCON 2024 In Houston, Texas. In this series, hosts Jon Gray, and Jack Schonely sit down with Sgt Cody Robinson and CFI Jeff Serpas from the Houston Police Department Air Support Unit. In this episode, we engage with Houston PD's finest, who share their insights, experiences, and challenges in the field. We'll explore the critical role of mentorship and how training methods have evolved over time, alongside the significance of in-house training programs in preparing personnel for the demands of their roles.Join us as we explore our guests' personal journeys through aviation and law enforcement, revealing the vital importance of safety, preparedness, and integrity within flight operations. They emphasize the significance of saying no in aviation, especially under pressure.We'll also discuss the operational dynamics of air support units, effective training, and the crucial selection process for tactical flight officers (TFOs).Our guests discuss Houston PD's unit's structure, aircraft fleet, and the significance of maintenance and reliability in operations. The conversation also covers the challenges of navigating Houston's airspace, the impact of weather on operations, particularly during hurricane season, and the importance of community and teamwork in addressing these challenges.Don't forget to mark your calendars for this year's APSCON, which will take place July 14-18 in Phoenix, Arizona. Another conference to get ready for is the ECHO or Every Coast Helicopter Operations Public Safety Aviation Conference is Louisville, Kentucky, Sept. 28 through Oct. 1, 2025.This year at the ECHO conference, Jack Schonely and Clay Lacey will join forces to present their renowned and impactful course together on the same stage for the very first time. This unique collaboration and course will be titled "Airborne Tactical Solutions." This is a course you won't want to miss! For more details, visit the ECHO webpage at ECHOflightCrew.org.Thank you to our sponsors Canyon AeroConnect, CNC Technologies and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.In this two-part series, host Jon Gray welcomes members of the Maryland State Police at the 2024 ECHO Public Safety Aviation Conference in Richmond, Virginia. During the conversation, we discuss the importance of networking and education in public safety, and personal journeys into aviation and law enforcement.The guests share insights into their roles as trooper paramedics, the challenges of maintaining proficiency in a large unit, and the unique considerations involved in transporting and caring for K-9s. The discussion highlights the significance of collaboration among agencies during emergencies and the value of training and experience in the field. This conversation explores the various aspects of public safety enforcement aviation, focusing on canine transportation missions, recruitment and retention challenges, paramedic training, multi-agency responses, and DUI enforcement experiences. The speakers also share insights from their military backgrounds and discuss the complexities of operations involving the Coast Guard and other agencies.Thank you to our sponsors BLR Aerospace, Metro Aviation and Robinson Helicopter.

Welcome to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, and in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine.In this two-part series, host Jon Gray welcomes members of the Maryland State Police at the 2024 ECHO Public Safety Aviation Conference in Richmond, Virginia. During the conversation, we discuss the importance of networking and education in public safety, and personal journeys into aviation and law enforcement.The guests share insights into their roles as trooper paramedics, the challenges of maintaining proficiency in a large unit, and the unique considerations involved in transporting and caring for K-9s. The discussion highlights the significance of collaboration among agencies during emergencies and the value of training and experience in the field. This conversation explores the various aspects of public safety enforcement aviation, focusing on canine transportation missions, recruitment and retention challenges, paramedic training, multi-agency responses, and DUI enforcement experiences. The speakers also share insights from their military backgrounds and discuss the complexities of operations involving the Coast Guard and other agencies.Thank you to our sponsors Precision Aviation Group, Robinson Helicopter and Wysong Enterprises.

Death, taxes and Royce Lewis getting hurt (4:50). ... Tyler Stephenson has an oblique injury and will start on the IL (7:35). ... Cody Bradford and Jon Gray got hurt this weekend (10:30). ... News (16:28): Spencer Strider is going to pitch on Monday. ... Kodai Senga's velocity was down on Friday (32:43). ... The vibes are off with Luis Castillo (38:00). ... Alan Roden and Cam Smith continue to make noise this spring (40:16). ... Let's take a look at Chris' Tout Wars team from the 12-team H2H points auction (49:27). ... We wrap up by looking at Frank's Tout Wars team from the 15-team Roto auction (1:01:30).

No surprise but Royce Lewis suffered a hamstring injury Sunday and will start on the injured list. Tyler Stephenson will also start on the IL with an oblique injury. The Rangers suffered injuries to both Cody Bradford and Jon Gray.